Go for the reasonably-priced ball if the gift is practical. Give a small hand pump with the ball to keep it inflated. Buy from a sports specialty store with knowledgeable salespeople. Go to a store with a good selection. There should be several brands of balls, with several offerings within each brand.
Laminated balls tend to be harder.
Remember the weather. Balls are harder in the cold. Inc. How things get done. Use of this Web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy .