The Most Popular Type of Volleyball, Ranked

Choose the type you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on May 4, 2024 06:52
Choosing the right type of volleyball can significantly enhance both the enjoyment and the effectiveness of the game. With several variations available, each tailored to different styles of play and environments, it can be a challenge to identify which one is favored by the majority. This ranking helps clarify which types are currently resonating with enthusiasts around the globe. By participating in the voting process, you contribute to a clearer understanding of popular preferences and ensure that your favorites get the recognition they deserve. The dynamic nature of this ranking reflects the latest trends and shifts in player inclinations, offering a current snapshot of the volleyball community's top choices.

What Is the Most Popular Type of Volleyball?

  1. 1
    55
    votes

    Indoor Volleyball

    William G. Morgan
    This is the most popular type of volleyball played worldwide, both at the amateur and professional levels. It is played on a court with six players on each team, with the aim of hitting the ball over the net and into the opposing team's court. The game requires a lot of skill, strategy, and teamwork, making it a thrilling sport to watch and play.
    Indoor Volleyball is a team sport played on a rectangular court, primarily indoors, between two teams of six players each. The objective is to score points by grounding the ball in the opponent's court, while preventing it from being grounded in their own court.
    • Court Dimensions: 18 m long, 9 m wide
    • Net Height: 2.43 m for men, 2.24 m for women
    • Ball Circumference: 65-67 cm
    • Team Size: 6 players per team
    • Scoring System: Rally Point System - teams can score points on every rally
  2. 2
    24
    votes

    Beach Volleyball

    William G. Morgan
    This is another popular variation of volleyball that is played on sand courts with two players on each team. Beach volleyball is a more relaxed and casual version of the game, but it still requires a lot of athleticism and skill. It is a popular sport in many coastal regions and is often played recreationally or professionally.
    Beach volleyball is a popular summer activity that involves two teams consisting of two or more players each, playing against each other on a sandy court. The objective is to score points by grounding the ball on the opponent's side of the net without committing a fault.
    • Number of Players: Two or more players per team
    • Court Dimensions: 16 meters long and 8 meters wide
    • Net Height: 2.43 meters for men and 2.24 meters for women
    • Ball: Official size and weight beach volleyball
    • Scoring System: Rally point system (points awarded on every play)
    Beach Volleyball in other rankings
  3. 3
    11
    votes
    This type of volleyball is played by people with disabilities, particularly those who use wheelchairs. The game is played on a smaller court with a lower net, and players must remain seated while playing. Sitting volleyball is a popular Paralympic sport and is played in many countries around the world.
    Sitting Volleyball is a type of volleyball that is played by athletes with disabilities, specifically those who have difficulty standing or moving on the court. It allows players to remain seated throughout the game, using their upper body strength, agility, and coordination to play the sport.
    • Court Size: 10 meters x 6 meters
    • Net Height: 1.15 meters for men, 1.05 meters for women
    • Team Composition: 6 players per team, with a maximum of 3 non-disabled players
    • Seating Position: Players must keep their buttocks in contact with the ground whenever making contact with the ball
    • Serve: The serve must be sent diagonally over the net
  4. 4
    20
    votes
    This is a simplified version of volleyball that is played by young children or beginners. The game is played on a smaller court with a lower net, and the rules are simplified to make it easier for players to learn. Mini volleyball is a great way to introduce children to the sport and develop their skills.
    Mini Volleyball is a modified version of traditional volleyball that is played with a smaller and lighter ball and is tailored for young children. It is designed to introduce the fundamentals of volleyball in a more accessible and enjoyable way for kids.
    • Ball Size: Size 2
    • Weight: 200-220 grams
    • Circumference: 46-48 cm
    • Material: Soft leather or synthetic
    • Net Height: 2-2.2 meters
  5. 5
    12
    votes
    Grass Volleyball
    Christophe95 · CC BY-SA 4.0
    This is a type of volleyball that is played on grass courts, similar to lawn tennis. Grass volleyball is particularly popular in Europe and is often played recreationally in parks and gardens. The game requires a lot of skill and athleticism, as the grass surface can be slippery and unpredictable.
    Grass Volleyball is a popular type of volleyball that is played on a grass surface instead of an indoor court. It is a recreational and competitive sport that is enjoyed by players of all skill levels.
    • Playing Surface: Grass
    • Court Dimensions: 18 meters long and 9 meters wide
    • Net Height: 2.43 meters for men and 2.24 meters for women
    • Team Size: Two teams of 2-6 players per team
    • Scoring System: Usually rally scoring with matches typically played in best-of-three sets
  6. 6
    13
    votes
    This is a popular variation of beach volleyball that was developed in Brazil. Footvolley is played with two or more players on each team, with the aim of hitting the ball over the net using only the feet and head. The game requires a lot of skill and agility, making it a popular sport among soccer players.
    Footvolley is a popular variation of volleyball played with a combination of football (soccer) and beach volleyball rules. It is played on a sandy court divided by a net, using only the feet, head, chest, and shoulder to touch the ball. The objective is to score points by getting the ball over the net and into the opponent's half without it touching the ground. Footvolley is known for its dynamic and acrobatic moves performed by players.
    • Court: The court dimensions are similar to beach volleyball, measuring 16m x 8m.
    • Net: The net is set at a height of 2.2 meters for men and 2.05 meters for women.
    • Ball: A standard volleyball is used, but participants play without using their hands.
    • Team Size: Typically played with two teams consisting of two players each.
    • Touches: Players are allowed to touch the ball up to three times before returning it over the net.
  7. 7
    8
    votes
    Snow Volleyball
    Quarion86 · CC BY-SA 4.0
    This is a relatively new type of volleyball that is played on snow courts, typically in mountainous regions. Snow volleyball is played with three players on each team, and the rules are similar to beach volleyball. The game requires a lot of stamina and skill, as the snow surface can be challenging to navigate.
    Snow Volleyball is a unique variation of the traditional indoor and beach volleyball, adapted to be played on snow-covered surfaces. It involves two teams of six players each, competing on a snow court with modified rules and equipment.
    • Court size: 16m x 8m
    • Net height: 2.43m for men, 2.24m for women
    • Ball size: Official snow volleyball ball is slightly larger than standard indoor volleyball.
    • Teams: Two teams of six players each.
    • Game format: Best of three sets, first to 15 points (with a two-point advantage) wins each set.
  8. 8
    2
    votes
    This is a type of volleyball that is played in swimming pools or other bodies of water. Water volleyball is often played for recreation and requires a lot of skill and coordination to play effectively. The game is played with two or more players on each team, and the rules are similar to indoor or beach volleyball.
    Water Volleyball is a pool toy designed for playing a modified version of volleyball in water. It consists of a sturdy inflatable ball, usually made of waterproof materials, that is slightly larger than a standard volleyball. The ball is specifically designed to float on water, making it perfect for aquatic games. Players form teams and try to score points by hitting the ball over the net without it touching the water. It provides hours of fun and entertainment for both children and adults.
    • Ball Size: Slightly larger than a standard volleyball
    • Material: Waterproof and durable materials
    • Floatability: Designed to float on water
    • Net: Standard volleyball net or special water-resistant net
    • Team Size: Usually played in teams of 2 to 6 players per side
  9. 9
    7
    votes

    Newcomb Ball

    Clara Baer
    This is a variation of volleyball that was developed in the United States. Newcomb ball is played with two or more players on each team, with the aim of hitting the ball over the net and into the opposing team's court. The game is typically played with a softer ball than traditional volleyball and is popular among children and beginners.
    Newcomb Ball is a type of volleyball game that was invented by Clara Baer in 1895. It is similar to traditional volleyball but with a few key differences. The game is played with a softer ball, usually made of rubber, and is typically played on grass or a soft surface. The aim of the game is to throw the ball over the net to the opposing team and prevent them from catching it. The game emphasizes both teamwork and individual agility.
    • Ball Type: Soft rubber ball
    • Playing Surface: Grass or soft surface
    • Team Size: 2 teams with any number of players
    • Net Height: Approximately 7 feet
    • Court Dimensions: Approximately 30 feet by 60 feet
  10. 10
    5
    votes
    Sepak Takraw
    Siren-Com · Public domain
    This is a traditional sport that is popular in Southeast Asia. Sepak takraw is played with two or more players on each team, with the aim of hitting a rattan ball over a high net using only the feet, knees, chest, and head. The game requires a lot of skill and agility, making it a popular sport among martial artists.
    Sepak Takraw is a popular sport that originated in Southeast Asia. It is played with a rattan ball, similar to a traditional Asian footbag. The objective of the game is to kick the ball over a net without letting it touch the ground on your side of the court. Players must use their feet, knees, chest, and head to control and strike the ball.
    • Number of players: 3 per team
    • Court size: 13.4m x 6.1m
    • Net height: 1.52m for men, 1.42m for women
    • Ball weight: About 170-180g
    • Duration: Best of three sets, each set played to 21 points
    Sepak Takraw in other rankings

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Ranking factors for popular type

  1. Global participation
    The popularity of a type of volleyball can be determined by looking at how many countries globally participate in that particular type of game.
  2. Professional leagues
    The existence of professional leagues where players can make a career out of playing that type of volleyball is a good indicator of its popularity.
  3. Television viewership
    The number of people who watch that type of volleyball on television or online platforms is an important factor in determining its popularity.
  4. Regional/fan interest
    Regional interest also plays an important role, as some types of volleyball may be more popular in certain areas or with certain demographic groups.
  5. Olympic and international competitions
    The popularity of volleyball types can also be determined by the level of representation in major competitions like the Olympics and world championships.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular type of Volleyball. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or type is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1328 views
  • 152 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each type once every 24 hours. The rank of each type is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular type of volleyball

Volleyball is a popular sport played around the world, with millions of players and fans. It originated in the United States in the late 19th century as a variation of basketball, and quickly became a popular game for both men and women. Today, volleyball is played in schools, colleges, clubs, and even at the professional level. There are various types of volleyball, each with its own unique rules and gameplay. The most popular types of volleyball include indoor volleyball, beach volleyball, and sitting volleyball. Indoor volleyball is played on a court with six players on each team, while beach volleyball is played on sand with two players on each team. Sitting volleyball is played by athletes with disabilities and is adapted to be played while sitting on the ground. When it comes to popularity, indoor volleyball is the most widely played type of volleyball. It is played in many countries around the world and is a popular sport in schools and colleges. Beach volleyball is also gaining popularity, especially during the summer months when it is played outdoors on beaches and in parks. Sitting volleyball is still a relatively niche sport, but it is growing in popularity as more athletes with disabilities are given opportunities to compete. Overall, volleyball is a fun and exciting sport that can be enjoyed by players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you prefer indoor, beach, or sitting volleyball, there is a type of volleyball for everyone to enjoy.

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