Mikasa v200w volleyball review
The Mikasa V200W is currently one of the best volleyballs of all time. There is a good reason why it is used in the Olympics. It replaced the previous version of this ball (the MVA200) in 2019.
Mikasa v200w design review
The v200w is very similar to the mva200 in terms of its look, weight, and overall feel.
The most notable difference is the evolution from the eight panel design to now in 18 panel design.
By the way, If you are looking for a good deal, the lowest price can usually be found on amazon: Mikasa v200w.
Mikasa v200w functional review
In the functional review, we will take a closer look at some specific features/attributes of the Mikasa v200w.
Serve receive
For Serve receive, the v200w felt like it had more of a true trajectory. Also, the Mikasa v200w didn’t float nearly as much as the mva200, but it still floats much more than the average volleyball.
Defense
For defense, the ball felt easier to absorb force, like it sat in the palm of my hand for a split second longer. It actually felt softer on contact compared to the mva200, which almost reminded me of some of the original volleyball designs.
The V200W is easier to control with digging without worrying that you’re going to wildly shake the ball over the net or to the side.
Setting
For setting, the grooves of the new panel design made it easier for my fingers to grip the ball, which made it easier to set. The ball also feels softer at impact, which not only makes it easier to execute a cleaner set, but it gives you that softer touch as a setter, which I miss about some of the older volleyballs.
Spiking
For spiking, it was still difficult to have clean contact on the ball compared to other balls like the Molten Flistatec, but not nearly as difficult as the NBA 200, which was very easy to waffle or spatch the ball. In general, it was hard to generate that satisfying flap sound when you make that perfect contact.
Serving
For serving, the ball generally went where I intended it for it to go for both float serves and jump serves, just like setting and digging. It felt softer at the point of contact, which is just easier on the wrist and elbow in general.
Mikasa v200w vs mva200
At first sight, it might seem like Mikasa did a quick and simple redesign of the mva200 for commercial reasons. However, after playing a couple of hours with this newer ball from Mikasa, it actually becomes clear that this is, in fact, a different ball.
There are still similarities, mainly in the main design, but it’s definitely different enough to be called a different ball.
So yes, the v200w is a nice improvement on the mva200
The ball was less slippery, had a softer touch, easier to control. And more consistent ball trajectory.
Should you buy the Mikasa v200w?
So, the Mikasa v200w is definitely a great ball. In fact, it’s one of the best volleyballs currently out there. However, it is also a pretty costly ball.
Therefore, it wouldn’t really make sense to buy this ball if you are a beginner.
I mainly recommend buying the ball that is being used in your league, so you get used to that specific ball.
However, if you are simply wondering whether the ball is really better than a cheaper alternative, the answer would be yes. Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of good volleyballs in the budget section, but they can’t be compared to the Mikasa v200w.
Mikasa v200w review – conclusion
The conclusion is rather simple, the Mikasa v200w is a high quality allround solid volleyball. One that I can highly recommend.
However, it does come with a price tag. Meaning, it’s not the right choice for everyone. For example, if you are a beginner, I would recommend a more budget-friendly volleyball, simply because you won’t be able to get the full advantage of the benefits of the high quality ball. Also, if you are always playing with a different ball in your league, it’s recommended to get used as good as you can to that specific ball.
Additionally, for outdoor usage, especially concrete, a cheaper ball is usually recommended. The v200w is a durable ball, but it’s not made for outdoor usage, so you can expect to see damages after a couple of weeks and the ball might be unusable after 6 months or so. Instead, take a look at the best outdoor volleyballs.
However, for those of you who are looking for a new and high quality product, the Mikasa v200w might be absolutely perfect. As you probably know, it’s one of the most trusted volleyball brands and the v200w is simply a great product.
