Are you new to pétanque and want to choose the boules that will help you make rapid progress on a budget? Discover our complete guide to selecting petanque boules adapted to your morphology and playing style.
1. Materials for choosing pétanque boules
Petanque boules are generally made of carbon steel, bronze or stainless steel. Carbon steel boules are the most widely used, and are ideal for beginners thanks to their excellent value for money. They offer a good balance between hardness, wear resistance and rebound capacity. Stainless steel balls, on the other hand, are more expensive but have the advantage of being corrosion-resistant and longer-lasting.
Petanque boules are available in different diameters, from 71 to 80 mm, and in different weights, from 650 to 800 grams. It’s essential to choose a boule suited to your hand size and strength for better control and accuracy.
To determine the ball size that’s right for you, measure the distance between the base of your thumb and the tip of your middle finger as you hold out your hand. Then add 2 cm to this measurement to obtain your ideal ball diameter. As for weight, opt for a ball weighing around 10% of your body weight. Indicative title
The striating and punching of pétanque boules influence their grip and ability to grip the ground. Striated boules feature grooves on their surface, which improve their grip and adherence to the ground. Smooth boules, on the other hand, offer better glide and are generally preferred by shooters.
Punching refers to the patterns engraved on the ball’s surface. There are different types of punching (diamonds, squares, circles, etc.), which also influence the ball’s grip. Don’t hesitate to try out different types of striations and punchings to find the one that suits you best.
Numerous brands offer quality pétanque boules for beginners and advanced players alike. Among the best-known brands are Obut, Boulenciel, La Boule Bleue, Toropetank, MS Pétanque and KTK. Take the time to compare the different models and read user reviews to make the best choice for your needs and budget.
Before you buy your pétanque boules, it’s essential to try them out and check that they suit your body shape and playing style. Visit a specialized store or pétanque club to try out different models and make sure the boules you choose are comfortable and easy to handle.