KAP7 vs. Mikasa vs. Delfina: Which Water Polo Ball Reigns Supreme?

When it comes to water polo balls, grip, durability, and performance separate the best from the rest. Among the top brands—KAP7, Mikasa, and Delfina—one ball clearly stands above the competition.

In this comparison, we break down why KAP7 is the #1 choice for serious players, coaches, and teams, and why Mikasa and Delfina fall short in key areas like grip retention and durability.

KAP7 vs. Mikasa: Grip and Durability Matter

For years, Mikasa was the standard in water polo, but many players have noticed a decline in quality, grip longevity, and durability.

Grip Comparison: KAP7 Lasts 30% Longer

Grip is one of the most important features of a water polo ball. Without reliable grip, passes and shots become inconsistent, affecting overall gameplay.

• Mikasa balls start off with decent tackiness, but they lose their grip quickly, often within 10 games or less.
• KAP7 balls feature hand-buffed grip technology, lasting 30% longer than Mikasa, ensuring consistent performance over time.

Durability Issues with Mikasa

• Mikasa’s rubber hardens over time, making the ball slick and harder to control.
• Seams wear down faster, leading to air leaks and warping.
• Many teams report replacing Mikasa balls far more often due to these durability issues.

Here is a video from the 2024 Olympics of multiple athletes losing control of the ball and the Head coach of Team USA complaining about the ball

KAP7 balls, in contrast, are built to maintain their shape, grip, and feel longer, providing better value over time.

KAP7 vs. Delfina: The Grip Problem

Delfina has attempted to enter the water polo ball market, but its grip and consistency fall short.

Slippery When Wet

• Delfina balls lack the textured hand-buffed grip found in KAP7 and Mikasa balls.
• Players often report that Delfina balls feel slippery, leading to inconsistent passing and shooting.

Quality Concerns

• Delfina’s rubber material feels lower quality, impacting control.
• Grip varies from ball to ball, meaning teams often experience inconsistent play.

In comparison, KAP7 ensures uniform quality and grip across every ball, making it the most reliable option for serious athletes.

KAP7: Engineered for Champions

What makes KAP7 truly unique is that our balls are manufactured by the same elite factory that produces the Wilson NBA basketball—the official ball of the NBA.

What Does This Mean for You?

• Unmatched quality and craftsmanship, ensuring each ball meets pro-level standards.
• Premium natural rubber, delivering the perfect balance of grip, durability, and consistency.
• Designed for high-performance athletes, just like the Wilson NBA basketball is for elite basketball players.

This level of engineering and attention to detail is why KAP7 is trusted by top teams, leagues, and organizations worldwide.

"KAP7 balls are by far the best ball in the sport. Ask anyone on my team which ball is their favorite and I guarantee they will also say KAP7."
-Dylan Woodhead, 2x Olympian and National Champion (Stanford)

Why KAP7 is the #1 Choice for Water Polo

✅ Superior Grip Technology

• Hand-buffed grip for consistent texture and feel.
• Retains 30% longer grip life than Mikasa and far outperforms Delfina.

✅ Unmatched Durability

• High-quality natural rubber ensures long-lasting shape and performance.
• Used by USA Water Polo, NCAA, and NFHS for official competition play.

✅ Trusted by Champions

• Manufactured in the same elite facility as the Wilson NBA basketball for pro-level quality.
• Designed by water polo athletes, for water polo athletes to meet the highest performance standards.

The Verdict: KAP7 Wins

If you want a ball that grips better, lasts longer, and provides elite performance, KAP7 is the clear winner.

Mikasa struggles with grip loss and durability.
Delfina has poor grip and inconsistent quality.
KAP7 outperforms both, providing the best water polo experience possible.

💦 Upgrade your game today with KAP7! 💦

👉 Shop now at KAP7.com and experience the difference.