An all new, state-of-the-art and eco-friendly beach volleyball is in town on the Beach Pro Tour – promising faster and more exciting gameplay for players and fans around the world.

The new ball, officially titled the MIKASA Beach Pro BV550C, will make its debut at the Beach Pro Tour Finals in Doha, with the first serve set for 26 January. The ball will become the exclusive game ball to be used on the Beach Pro Tour, at the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships in Mexico in October and the Paris Olympics in 2024.

Through decades of extensive research and development, MIKASA have used feedback from the world’s best players and coaches to develop a ball that incorporates cutting-edge technology. For the first time, it is made of recycled nylon and no longer uses solvent-based inks. With unique dimpled design, the ball also offers the beach elite improved fingertip control which will make for faster play and enhance the game at the top level.

“MIKASA say ‘better ball, better game’ and with this new ball, we are looking forward to seeing more breathtaking play on the sand across the Beach Pro Tour for seasons to come,” says Volleyball World CEO Finn Taylor.

“Beach volleyball is synonymous with MIKASA and we’re proud to be associated with a brand who share similar values when it comes to sustainability, performance, design and fun. This ball has the lot.

“While the ball will be held in the hands of some of the world’s greatest professional athletes, it is also one which will be served and spiked by millions of players across the globe who play for fun.

“With a design that promises better gameplay, we can’t wait to see it flying over the new on the Beach Pro Tour through 2023 and beyond.”

FIVB President Dr Ary S. Graça F° said: “MIKASA has supplied equipment to the FIVB since the Olympic Games in Tokyo in 1964, and we are proud of this over half-a-century-long partnership, which is centered on non-stop innovation and a shared love for volleyball.

“I am looking forward to seeing the new official game ball in elite action for the first time at the Beach Pro Tour Finals where it will perfectly compliment the sporting excellence of our athletes.”

Mr. Hidekazu Iizuka, Director and Head of Sporting Goods, MIKASA, added: “We are proud to incorporate MIKASA’s outstanding technology into the best ball and are confident that we provide you with this ball and it will bring out your best performance on the sand under the flaming sun.”