There are a lot of styles and sizes of bocce sets out there, and they each have their own purpose – whether cheap and portable for easy games with kids, or modern heavy metal balls that express your own sense of style on the backyard bocce court.
But if you want to take your bocce game to the next level or play in serious competitions, you need the right bocce equipment. That includes using regulation-size balls to meet the standard rules of international sports organizations, such as the United States Bocce Federation.
The best regulation bocce ball set is the St. Pierre Sports Professional Bocce Set. I love how premium these bocce balls feel in my hand, they have a really solid and balanced weight thanks to their solid resin build. The set also includes a rulebook and a carry bag for your convenience.
But everyone has their own preferred style so in this article I’ll cover a few different options so you can choose the best professional bocce ball set for your needs.
Below, we will show our top picks in detail to help you make a comparison. We will also walk you through key features to consider when shopping for the best regulation-size bocce ball set.
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5 Best Regulation-Size Bocce Ball Sets
Below are the best regulation bocce ball sets available today. Each meets the standard size and weight set by international bocce federations.
1. St. Pierre Sports Professional Bocce Set – Best Regulation Set
Starting off this list of the best regulation bocce ball set is our top pick, the St. Pierre Sports Professional Bocce Set.
It comes with eight bocce balls, a single pallino or jack ball, an official rulebook, and a handy carry bag.
The bocce balls have a diameter of 107 mm to meet the international standards of the game. They are available in two colors, green and red, to easily divide players into teams. These regulation bocce balls also use a high-quality resin build. The material offers consistent balance and durability across different bocce court surfaces.
The pallino or jack ball features a 60mm diameter. Like the bocce balls, this target ball can also meet bocce tournament-grade standards.
The St. Pierre official bocce ball set even has an informative rulebook. It gives you a refresher on the basic rules of bocce.
Finally, the included carry case allows you to bring the bocce balls and the rulebook anywhere you like. It has a durable 600D nylon construction to handle the hefty weight of the bocce ball equipment. However, some users were disappointed with its low-quality zipper.
Pros:
- Eight bocce balls meet the official regulation size and weight
- The all-resin material has consistent balance and durability
- A handy official rulebook
- The nylon bag offers convenient storage
Cons:
- The professional bocce set does not come with a measuring device
- Included bag has a weak zipper pull
2. Perfetta Club Pro Solid Bocce Set – Runner-Up
The Perfetta Club Pro Solid Bocce Set is a great alternative for those who want to play bocce like a pro.
Made in Italy, the set features eight regulation-size balls made of a unique proprietary blend. The phenolic material offers stronger bocce balls that can withstand cracks and splits.
These Perfetta bocce balls also use laser engraving for their white grooves. They will not fade quickly, even when you use them on rough playing surfaces.
Plus, the regulation bocce set includes a two-inch white pallino and a sturdy nylon bag. These items make it convenient to play bocce ball in different areas.
Based on our research, some users had trouble with the shipping. Fortunately, Perfetta offers a ten-year warranty against ball breakage. So even if your package was accidentally dropped, you can contact customer service and request a replacement.
Pros:
- Durable bocce balls meet the standard size and weight
- Laser-engraved balls prevent color fading
- A nylon carry bag for travel
- Extensive warranty coverage
Cons:
- Minor shipping issues
- Product is on the expensive side
3. St. Pierre Tournament Bocce Set in Wood Box
Consider the St. Pierre Tournament Bocce Set in Wood Box if you prefer something that looks more traditional. I really like the wooden box that comes with this set.
This professional set features 107mm bocce balls that meet official rules and regulations. They use a composite resin material to resist damage from everyday play. The construction also withstands different playing surfaces, including concrete, clay, and sand.
These regulation-size bocce balls even have two colors with striped patterns. The contrasting designs help you divide players into two- or four-person teams.
What’s more, the St. Pierre Tournament Regulation Bocce Set comes with a 57mm yellow jack ball. The distinct color allows players to hit the ball from afar with ease.
Finally, the professional bocce ball set provides a high-quality wooden box. This unique carrying case features a mahogany-stained pine material and a built-in handle that looks sharp from all angles.
However, the measuring device is notably missing from an otherwise complete official regulation bocce ball set.
Pros:
- Durable composite resin bocce balls
- Two distinct colors for two- or four-player teams
- Wooden aesthetic gives you a more traditional look
- Distinct mahogany box with a built-in handle
Cons:
- The most expensive regulation bocce ball set on this list
- It does not include a measuring tape
4. A11N 107mm Bocce Ball Set
The A11N 107mm Bocce Ball Set is an affordable option, though it is not particularly durable.
This best regulation bocce ball set comes with eight 107mm balls. They meet the international standard size for professional games. These make them ideal for those who want to enter bocce competitions and leagues.
The bocce balls are made of resin. They are built to withstand more cracks and damage than wooden balls. However, the material is susceptible to scuffs.
The professional bocce ball set also includes a single pallino or jack ball. It follows the regulation size of 60mm for target balls.
There is even a measuring tape in the package. This tool comes in handy if you want to determine the winner between close ball tosses.
On top of these inclusions, the A11N 107mm Bocce Ball Set has a portable carry case. It offers convenience if you need to play in official tournaments. However, we found that the material could be more durable.
Pros:
- 107mm bocce balls suit professional games
- Resin material is tougher than rubber or wooden bocce balls
- The measuring tape comes in handy during close matches
- The portable carrying case is ideal for traveling
Cons:
- Bocce balls easily got scuffs
- Less durable storage bag
5. VSSAL 107mm Official Bocce Ball Set
The VSSAL 107mm Official Bocce Ball Set is a more expensive and premium option for those looking to play bocce tournaments.
It has eight balls, each with a 107mm diameter to follow international bocce rules. But unlike other products on this list, the VSSAL set offers four different ball colors—two green, two blue, two red, and two yellow. Each shade has a unique pattern to allow two to eight players to enjoy the game.
This professional bocce ball set uses a high-quality polyresin construction. The waterproof and crack-resistant material lets you play bocce on different court surfaces.
Meanwhile, the pallino or jack ball has a 40mm diameter. It is smaller than the standard regulation size, but still a great target ball.
What’s more, the package comes with a measuring rope. It can help you determine the winning ball in close matches.
Finally, this official bocce ball set provides a free carrying bag. It is ideal for bocce players who often travel to tournaments.
The only downsides are its higher price tag and heavier balls. However, professionals will like the heft on them because they give more consistent balance.
Pros:
- High-quality polyresin material
- 107mm bocce balls in four different colors
- A measuring rope helps determine a winner
- Free carry bag for travel
Cons:
- More expensive
- Heavy bocce balls are not suitable for beginners
How to Choose the Best Regulation Bocce Ball Set
If you want to play professionally, you will want a bocce ball set that follows the international standard ball size and weight.
But how do you ensure it meets the strict tournament guidelines?
We will teach you the features to consider when shopping for the best regulation bocce ball set.
Ball Diameter
You will find balls of different sizes or diameters when shopping for bocce ball sets. But if you want to play in leagues, choose bocce balls ranging from 100mm to 115mm in diameter. These are called tournament-grade balls and are suitable for most bocce competitions and leagues.
Some organizations, including the United States Bocce Federation, recommend the international standard bocce ball size must be 107mm.
Weight
Bocce balls must also follow the recommended weight for professional bocce games. The reason is to promote consistent balance and fair play.
So if you are shopping for an official bocce set, ensure that each ball weighs 920 grams or around two pounds.
Avoid using a lighter or heavier bocce ball because it can affect your balance. It can also change the way you toss the ball and your overall gameplay.
Material
The ball construction material is another important consideration when shopping for professional bocce ball sets.
Bocce balls made of wood or stone were popular in the past. However, they are more susceptible to impacts and weather damage.
Metal bocce balls are also available if you want long-lasting balls while training. But they are obviously heavier, making them difficult to toss accurately.
Polymer or hard plastic bocce balls can withstand wear and tear. At the same time, these types of balls are lighter than metal. The only downside is their high price because they are less common.
Finally, resin is the standard material in bocce tournaments. Resin bocce balls are durable and slightly heavy to give players more control. However, their colors tend to fade when exposed to the sun for long periods.
Carrying Case
Although it is not required in professional bocce leagues, a free carry case is nice to have in a regulation bocce ball set.
This storage bag allows you to pack and transport the bocce balls anywhere. So whether you are joining a competition or playing in a public park, you can bring the bocce set conveniently.
Premium or professional bocce ball sets include a durable wooden box or crate. In contrast, lower-end playing sets only come with a canvas or nylon bag. Either one does its job properly. However, the wooden box will last you longer, making it ideal if you travel often.
Price
The last factor to consider is the price of the regulation-size bocce ball set.
Most tournament-grade bocce ball sets range from $50 to $100. High-end sets with premium balls and carry cases can cost $150 and more.
Ask yourself if you are willing to spend more to get all the features you want. Or maybe, you like to get the most value from your money. Regardless of your budget, you can find a great set of bocce balls that meet the official regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the regulation size for bocce balls?
Bocce balls must follow a specific size and weight to be eligible for official bocce leagues and tournaments.
These regulation bocce balls must have a 107mm diameter and weigh 920 grams (2.03 pounds). However, the official size and weight have a variance of 2mm for diameter and 20 grams for weight.
What is the difference between regulation bocce ball sets and standard ones?
Regulation bocce ball sets meet the official size and weight specifications set by official bocce federations. These balls are the standard in professional competitions and tournaments. They must adhere to these regulations to ensure fair play.
On the other hand, standard bocce ball sets do not follow the required size and weight for leagues. They usually include smaller or lighter bocce balls. These make them suitable for casual use in your backyard or public park.
The main differences between the two sets are the ball size, weight, and location they are played.
How to play bocce?
The main objective of bocce is to toss or roll your balls closest to the target, known as the pallino or jack ball.
Bocce ball accepts two or more players divided into teams.
Start the game by tossing a coin to determine which player or team gets to throw first.
The first group will serve the pallino across the half-court line. Next, they will toss the larger bocce ball, aiming to get as close as possible to the jack ball.
Then, teams will take alternate turns rolling the bocce balls.
Once all eight balls are in play, a scorer will give one point to each team with the ball closest to the pallino.
The first group to reach a predetermined number of points (usually 13 or 15) wins the game.
Can you throw a bocce ball overhead?
Most bocce ball variations prohibit overhead throws in play. They only allow you to toss the bocce ball underhand, with your palm facing downward. This motion enables the ball to roll along the ground rather than be thrown through the air.
However, an alternative form of the game known as bocce volo permits you to throw the ball overhead. The rules and equipment required are slightly different. For one, it uses metal bocce balls instead of plastic or resin ones.
But no matter what version of bocce you are playing, you must follow the game’s rules to ensure fair play.
What is the best material for bocce ball sets?
Bocce ball sets come in different materials, each with pros and cons. The best bocce ball material will depend on several factors, such as your budget and specific playing style. That means what works for others might not be the best for you.
That said, most professional bocce players use a resin set. This material offers durability that can withstand most cracks and damage. It also adds weighted balance to the balls, which gives players more control.
Once you find your perfect bocce ball set, why not upgrade and grab a bocce bag for better portability and style?
Conclusion
Our recommended bocce ball sets above meet the regulation size and weight set by international standards. Each product has great user reviews and features, so we are confident you will find one that suits your needs.
Our top pick is the St. Pierre Sports Professional Bocce Set for its elegant design and solid build that feels premium on the hand. However, we also recommend the Perfetta Club Pro Solid Bocce Set because of its excellent quality, extensive warranty coverage and unique blend of materials.
Save time by checking out any of our top recommendations, then return to the bocce court to play!