The grip when I first got it was absolutely amazing. I could move the ball as if I was going to shoot and it wouldn''t fall out of my hand. I practice passing and shooting against a wall outside of my house. Since this wall is rough it lost some grip and it became a very dull yellow. ( I practiced with it hard for 20 minutes two to three times a day for 2 weeks) I''m not sure why it''s so dull. I have tried to wash it lightly and it hasn''t come out. This ball though is very good and once this ball loses almost all of its grip I''ll purchase another Baden water polo ball from here. I''ve enjoyed it very much.

son practices with it.  seems sturdy.