WHAT IS IN A BOCCIA SET?
A standard set contains 13 balls: six red, six blue and one white jack. The coloured balls belong to the two opposing sides. The jack is the target.
How does a boccia ball feel?
Boccia uses soft, pliable balls rather than the rigid balls found in some other bowls sports. Different products can feel firmer or softer and behave differently on the floor. A product labelled as a general garden bowls set is not necessarily a boccia set.
If your group is learning, being able to handle and control the ball comfortably matters. Try suitable equipment during a session before making a substantial purchase where possible.
Questions to ask before buying
- Purpose: is the set for casual introduction, regular practice or a sanctioned competition?
- Users: can the participants grip, release or otherwise propel the ball using their planned method?
- Surface: how does it behave on the floor you actually use?
- Care: what does the supplier recommend for cleaning, storage and inspection?
- Competition: if relevant, does the exact product meet the event’s current licensing and equipment requirements?
A supplier’s photograph does not answer all of these questions. Ask about the actual model, its intended use and the support available if the equipment is damaged.
You will need more than the balls
Plan the playing area, suitable seating, a way to mark boundaries and a method of checking close distances. Think about where equipment is stored during play and how balls are collected without people walking into an active court.
For school and community use, keep sets together and check their condition before each session. Follow the maker’s care instructions rather than assuming any cleaning product is suitable.
What about a boccia ramp?
A ramp can provide another way for a player to propel the ball. It needs to be matched to the person and how they will direct the shot. Do not assume any improvised slope will offer appropriate support or meet competition rules.
If someone in your group may need a ramp, discuss this before booking. Confirm availability, suitability, positioning and who will support the participant. A standard set of balls does not automatically include assistive equipment.
Do I need to buy a set before a programme?
For a programme enquiry, tell us what equipment you already have. Playing equipment is coordinated within the proposed session, and the final list is confirmed with your quotation. This website is an enquiry site, not an online equipment shop.
If you want to understand the sport before investing, a boccia workshop can help your group see what it will actually use.