You only need three things to play water volleyball: a pool, a net, and a ball. But the quality of those three things — and a few smart accessories — can make the difference between a frustrating setup and a game that runs smoothly all afternoon.
This guide covers every piece of equipment you might need, from the essentials to the nice-to-haves, so you can set up the right game for your pool and your players.
The Essentials: What You Actually Need
Water Volleyball Ball
The ball is the single most important piece of equipment. A regular indoor volleyball will absorb water, get heavy, and sting on contact. You need a ball designed specifically for water play.
Here is what to look for:
- Waterproof construction. The outer layer should be sealed vinyl, rubber, or synthetic leather that does not absorb water. Read more in our guide to water volleyball balls and whether volleyballs are waterproof.
- Soft-touch surface. A cushioned or textured outer layer reduces sting on bare skin and makes the ball easier to grip with wet hands.
- Bright colors. Yellow, orange, or neon green are easier to track against the glare of water and sky. Avoid white balls — they disappear against pool plaster and clouds.
- Proper size and weight. A regulation volleyball is 65–67 cm in circumference and weighs 260–280 grams. Most recreational water volleyballs are slightly lighter (200–260 grams) for easier play.
How many balls do you need? At least two. Balls end up in bushes, over fences, and under deck furniture. Having a backup keeps the game moving. For league or tournament play, have three or four on hand.
For specific product recommendations, check out our best water volleyball sets guide.
Water Volleyball Net
The net defines the game. A saggy rope strung across the pool works in a pinch, but a proper net system makes the game dramatically better. Our step-by-step net setup guide walks you through the full installation process.
There are three main types of pool volleyball nets:
Weighted-base nets sit on the pool floor and are held in place by water-filled or sand-filled bases. These work well in in-ground pools and require no permanent installation. Most popular sets like the GoSports Splash Net PRO use this design. See our GoSports vs. Dunn-Rite comparison for a head-to-head breakdown.
Deck-mounted nets bolt or clamp to the pool deck or coping. These are more stable than weighted-base systems and sit at a more consistent height. The Dunn-Rite WaterVolly is the most popular deck-mount option.
Floating nets are fully inflatable and sit on the water surface. They are the easiest to set up and the least stable. Best for casual play with kids or at pool parties.
What net height should you use? Official water volleyball nets sit about 1 meter (3 feet) above the water surface. For recreational play, adjust to your group — lower for kids, higher for competitive adult games. Net width should span 24 feet for regulation or the full width of your pool for residential play.
Browse our full reviews of the best pool volleyball nets to find the right system for your pool.
The Pool Itself
Not every pool works equally well for water volleyball. Here is what matters:
- Depth. The ideal depth is 3.5 to 4.5 feet (waist to chest height for most adults). Too shallow and you cannot move freely. Too deep and shorter players struggle to stand. Read our full breakdown on water volleyball pool depth.
- Width. You need at least 20 feet of width for a playable court. Standard residential pools (12–16 feet wide) are tight but workable for 2v2 or 3v3.
- Length. At least 30 feet gives each team enough room. Shorter pools mean smaller courts and smaller teams.
- Shape. Rectangular pools are ideal. Kidney-shaped or freeform pools work but may require creative boundary placement.
For detailed measurements, see our guide to water volleyball court sizes and dimensions.
Accessories That Improve the Game
These are not strictly required, but each one makes a noticeable difference.
Boundary Markers
Without visible boundaries, every close call turns into an argument. Options include:
- Floating rope lines with small buoys (like lane dividers) work well in larger pools and lakes.
- Weighted cones or discs on the pool floor mark corners in clear water.
- Colored tape on the pool deck marks the out-of-bounds line from above.
- Pool noodle segments anchored at the corners float on the surface and are easy to see.
Scoreboard
Even a simple dry-erase board on the pool deck keeps the game organized. Flip scoreboards designed for outdoor use are inexpensive and hold up to splashing. This matters more than you think once games get competitive. Familiarize yourself with water volleyball scoring systems before you start.
Pump
Most water volleyball balls and inflatable nets need inflation. Keep a hand pump or electric pump poolside. Under-inflated balls feel dead. Over-inflated balls sting. Check inflation before every session.
Waterproof Phone Case or Speaker
Music makes pool volleyball better. A waterproof Bluetooth speaker on the deck keeps the energy up. A waterproof phone case lets you keep your phone nearby for scoring apps or music control without risk.
Sun Protection
Extended water volleyball sessions mean extended sun exposure, and water reflects UV rays, increasing your burn risk. Have sunscreen (SPF 50+, water-resistant), sunglasses for spectators, and a shade structure or umbrella nearby for breaks.
Water Shoes
If your pool has a rough bottom or you are playing in a lake, water shoes protect your feet and improve traction. They also help on hot pool decks between games.
Equipment for Different Settings
Backyard Pool (Casual)
- Weighted-base or floating net
- 1–2 soft-touch water volleyballs
- Pool noodle boundary markers
- Dry-erase scoreboard
- Deck-mounted or heavy weighted-base net
- 3–4 regulation-weight water volleyballs
- Floating rope boundary lines
- Flip scoreboard
- Whistle for the referee
Lake or Open Water
- Anchored net system (posts driven into the lakebed or anchored with sandbags)
- Bright-colored balls (visibility is critical in open water)
- Floating boundary markers with anchors
- Life jackets for weaker swimmers
- First aid kit on shore
Tournament Play
- Regulation deck-mounted net (8 meters wide, 1 meter above water)
- FIVB-approved water volleyballs
- Official boundary lines
- Electronic or flip scoreboard
- Referee stand or elevated platform
- Substitution area markers
Equipment Maintenance Tips
Water volleyball gear lasts much longer with basic care:
- Rinse everything with fresh water after each use. Chlorine and salt degrade rubber, vinyl, and nylon over time.
- Dry nets completely before storing. Mildew forms fast on damp nylon in enclosed spaces.
- Store balls partially deflated. This reduces stress on the seams during storage. Re-inflate before play.
- Check the net tension before each game. A sagging net changes the entire dynamic of play.
- Inspect weighted bases for cracks. Cracked bases leak sand or water and become unstable during play.
- Keep a repair kit handy. A small patch kit fixes minor ball punctures on the spot.
Budget Guide: What Does It All Cost?
| Equipment | Budget Option | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Net system | $30–$50 (floating) | $80–$150 (weighted-base) | $200–$400 (deck-mount) |
| Ball (each) | $10–$15 | $20–$30 | $35–$50 |
| Boundary markers | $5–$10 (DIY noodles) | $20–$40 (floating rope) | $50+ (official lane lines) |
| Scoreboard | $5 (dry-erase) | $15–$25 (flip board) | $50+ (electronic) |
| Total starter kit | $50–$80 | $120–$250 | $300–$500+ |
Most people spend $80–$150 on a good net-and-ball set and are playing within 30 minutes of opening the box. That is one of the best things about this sport — the barrier to entry is low.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular volleyball in the water?
You can, but it is not recommended. Standard indoor volleyballs have a leather or composite leather cover that absorbs water, making the ball heavy, hard to control, and painful on contact. A purpose-built water volleyball with a sealed vinyl or rubber surface is a much better experience.
What is the best water volleyball set for a home pool?
For most residential in-ground pools, a weighted-base set like the GoSports Splash Net PRO is the best balance of stability, quality, and ease of setup. For above-ground pools, look for bracket-mount systems designed to attach to the pool rail.
Do I need to anchor the net in a lake?
Yes. Without anchoring, the net drifts with wind and current. Use sandbag bases, stake the posts into the lakebed if the water is shallow, or tie off to fixed points on shore.
How long does water volleyball equipment last?
With proper care (rinsing after use, drying before storage), a good net system lasts 3–5 seasons and balls last 1–2 seasons of regular use. Deck-mounted systems last longer than weighted-base or inflatable options.
What equipment do I need for kids?
Lower the net to about 2 feet above the water, use a lighter soft-touch ball, and keep the court small. Foam balls or beach balls work well for very young kids. See our guide to adapting water volleyball for all ages for more tips.