The fun Italian game of Bocce Ball has entertained people for centuries. We have had so much fun selecting the very best sets available on the market, ensuring we keep the spirit of this classic Italian game alive in your own back yard. The game was first played centuries ago by Roman statesmen and more than likely also on the sprawling lawns of Mafia bosses of more recent times.
If you have grown tired of the same repetitive games and are looking for something that involves a little challenge for the whole family, look no further. If we have learned anything from the Italians, they sure know how to have a good time!
The game is fun, easy to grasp and can be played by people of all ages. Once you have your set, any patch of grass, gravel or beach sand can become your playing field. Turn a lazy Sunday afternoon on your front lawn into a memorable family event.
We’ve reviewed the very best Bocce Ball sets based on style, quality, durability and most of all FUN!
Vintage Set with Carrying Case
Number one on our review list is the Trademark Games Bocce Ball Set.
We love the excellent price and classic look of the dark green and red balls with the 2 different scoring patterns. Trademark Games have also included branded balls in their range which include a “Bud Light”, “Budweiser” and “Coca Cola” Sets, very cool and fun if you are looking for something different.
The set includes the 8 standard balls, 3.5″ in diameter, and 1 small target ball called a Pallino which is 1.5″ in diameter. The balls are made of Poly-resin and come neatly packed in a heavy duty carry bag.
It can be a bit difficult to get balls back in the bag after playing. This is easily remedied by leaving the box that they come packed in, inside the bag. Simply cut off the top flaps. This also gives the bag support, distributes the weight evenly on the straps and helps keep the bag rigid and in shape.
This set is ideal as a fun and engaging family game that can be played anywhere, by both young and old. It is a great addition to any picnic or garden entertainment. It is easy to pack in the car to take with you on holiday for something extra to do in your down time. It works very well on varied surfaces like grass, sand and gravel.
Colored Set with Carry Bag
At number 2 we have selected the Park & Fun Game Set for professionals.
This superior Pro set comes with 8, 109 mm top quality poly-resin balls with scoring lines. It comes neatly packed in a sturdy carrier bag which offers protection and easy storage.
The set includes 1 50mm white pallino target, distance marker and 4 pairs of brightly colored Bocce balls. 2 blue, 2 green, 2 red and 2 yellow. This allows up-to 4 players to participate in a game at one time.
They do wear slightly over time changing the original shine to more of a matte finish but this wear and tear is to be expected in any set that is well used.
This is the ideal set for professionals wanting to invest in a quality set. The balls meet regulations so can be used for competition level. This professional set is also suited for families who love and regularly play sports in fun backyard gatherings.
Luxury Beach Petanque Set
Our number three selection is the beautiful looking SeaTurtle Sports Luxury Beach Petanque Set.
This product has been labelled the highest quality set in the world and promises to last a lifetime. Although a lot higher priced that the other sets in this review, it is well worth the investment if budget allows.
These balls aren’t standard regulation size but are smaller and lighter.
They are 74mm diameter Petanque sized. Petanque, pronounced “pay-TONK” is the French version of Bocce.
The set includes 8 brightly, earthy colored balls made of tough synthetic polymers and injection-molded for a lifetime of durability. It comes in a convenient and attractive canvas carrying case.
Since they are not the traditional Bocce regulation size, you will not be playing formal tournaments with this set. Rest assured, as a quality and endlessly entertaining family game, this will not detract from the hours of enjoyment.
This is the perfect give for an outdoor family who loves to add a little sporting challenge to a picnic, beach day visit or camping expedition. The stunning SeaTurtle set will join you on countless outings and look like new for years to come.
Classic Gold and Silver Ball Set
At number four we have included The Gold and Silver Day of Games Set. It is near impossible to look past this eye catching collection of shiny gold and silver. These are actually more Petanque balls (the French version of the game) made of steel and have a really nice weight and feel to them.
The set includes 4 gold and 4 silver balls in a carry case along with the white pallini and a bottle opener. Handy!
Note: The carry case is not very durable so may not last too long. (This shouldn’t stop you from a good game though.)
If you are looking for a more flashy, eye catching finish, then this is the perfect set for you. Anyone looking at this set has to agree, it looks incredible.
Honourable Mention – Rubber Horseshoe Set
Hoershoe is another great game that can be played almost anywhere. We found the tough and easy to set up Champion Sports Rubber Horseshoe set to have the most positive feedback across the board.
The colorful rubber horseshoes are safe, light and perfect for playing both in and outdoors.
Easy for adults and kids alike to play and fine-tune their coordination skills, this fun game is ready to setup as soon as your package arrives.
The set includes 4 rubber horseshoes, 2 rubber mats with yellow pegs and 2 red plastic dowels to secure it when playing on grass.
The only drawback we found is that the set only comes with 4 horseshoes. Fortunately, it is so affordable that picking up a second set is well worth the few extra dollars and added pleasure.
We recommend it for all families who enjoy playing games together outdoors. This is a great addition to any homes game collection.
It will making the garden a lively, fun filled environment, its ideal as a fun birthday party game and will without a doubt keeping the kids entertained.
More About the Game
Here’s a Great Video on How to Play Bocce, the Rules and Strategies
We love this classic Italian pastime. This vintage game has become an increasingly popular sport around the world, presenting an enjoyable competitive game for all skill levels.
Bocce Ball is a great pastime for the whole family. They are strong and durable enough to withstand rough play by kids and they will continue to work and look like new for years.
If you are looking for a perfect father’s day gift or addition to your outdoor game collection, look no further.
True testament to this games versatility is that it can be played at tournament level and purely for fun. It is easy to pack and play so can be brought along to the beach, played in your backyard or taken on camping trips.
How to Build a Court in your Backyard
What is the Difference Between Bocce and Petanque?
Bocce is originally an Italian game and Petanque is French version of the game. The rules of the games are very similar but the way it is played and the ball sizes are slightly different.
Bocce Ball Differences
Bocce balls are larger and heavier that Petanque. They are solid and made out of wood or epoxy resin. The ball is also thrown under-arm but with the palm of the hand facing upwards.
Bocce is traditionally played on Bocce courts which have long, smooth surfaces and more expensive to create and maintain. They have back boards which can be used to bounce balls off of.
For relaxed, recreational enjoyment however the game can be played on any surface, from grass to sand and even gravel driveways.
Petanque Ball Differences
Petanque is played throwing under- arm but with the back of the hand facing up and thrown with a flick of the wrist. The aim of the traditional French game is to throw your set of small, lighter hollow steel balls as close as possible to a smaller wooden target.
Petanque can be played almost anywhere. Gravel parking lots, park paths, sand and even at the beach. Be sure to rinse your Petanque set off if they are steel and you have used them at the beach as the salty environment could cause them to rust.
We hope you have found our review helpful and informative. If you have anything to add or similar games that bring your family hours of entertainment, please let us know in the comments below.
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