Why Gertie Balls are Right for Your Athletic and PE Program
Coaches, athletic directors, and physical education teachers know that the biggest hurdle for a beginner is the "fear of the ball." Standard rubber or plastic balls can be intimidating, slippery, and painful upon impact. Gertie Balls are the definitive solution to this problem. Known for their unique, slightly tacky "skin" and soft, squishy texture, these balls are designed to be caught easily—even by small hands or those with limited grip strength. By removing the "sting" and making success easier to achieve, you help your students and athletes focus on the mechanics of throwing and catching, building the foundational confidence they need to transition to traditional sports equipment.
Top-Tier Features of the Original Gertie Ball
We stock the most reliable and highly searched sensory balls on the market to ensure your facility is equipped with tools that actually work.
- The "Grippy" Advantage: The secret to the Gertie Ball is its textured, non-slip surface. Unlike smooth vinyl balls, the Gertie Ball "hugs" the hand upon contact, drastically reducing drops and helping athletes develop better hand-eye coordination.
- Customizable Firmness: Every Gertie Ball can be easily inflated or deflated to suit the specific needs of your drill. Inflate it fully for a lively bounce, or leave it slightly soft for a "dead-stop" catch that is perfect for students with sensory processing needs or those in early-stage rehabilitation.
- Unmatched Portability: For coaches on the move or facilities with limited storage, Gertie Balls are a lifesaver. They can be deflated to a completely flat state in seconds, allowing you to fit a dozen balls into a standard backpack or small equipment bag.
Why Buy Your Sensory Gear From Morley Athletic
Since 1931, Morley Athletic has been a trusted family tradition and a leading supplier of premium athletic gear for schools, universities, and community sports organizations. We deeply understand the administrative processes and budget requirements of educational institutions, which is why we proudly accept school purchase orders and offer customized quotes for bulk equipment refreshes. When you shop with Morley Athletic, you are partnering with nearly a century of industry expertise, exceptional customer service, and a steadfast dedication to helping your athletes play safely and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you inflate a Gertie Ball?
Unlike traditional sports balls that require a needle and pump, Gertie Balls are usually inflated using a small straw (included). Simply insert the straw into the air valve, blow to your desired firmness, and quickly insert the plug. This allows for instant adjustments in the middle of a class or therapy session.
2. Are Gertie Balls safe for children with latex allergies?
Most Gertie Balls are made from a high-quality PVC material and are typically latex-free. However, because safety is our priority, we always recommend checking the specific product specifications on the page or contacting our customer service team if you have a student with a severe allergy.
3. What makes a Gertie Ball better for physical therapy than a standard ball?
In a therapeutic setting, tactile feedback is crucial. The slightly "tacky" surface of the Gertie Ball provides more sensory input than a smooth ball, helping patients with grip issues or neurological conditions feel more secure during throwing and catching exercises.
4. Can Gertie Balls be used for "lead-up" sports like volleyball?
Absolutely. Their soft nature makes them an excellent "lead-up" tool for volleyball (for practicing bumps and sets without bruising the forearms) or even "soft-touch" soccer drills. They are perfect for teaching the movement of the sport without the impact of a heavy ball.
5. How do I clean and sanitize these balls?
Gertie Balls are moisture-resistant. You can easily wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap or use standard athletic disinfectant wipes. Because they are non-porous, they won't absorb sweat or cleaning solutions, making them a hygienic choice for high-traffic PE programs.
6. Do you accept school purchase orders for bulk sets?
Yes. Morley Athletic has worked directly with schools and universities for over 90 years. We happily accept school purchase orders. Athletic directors and physical education teachers can easily submit a formal PO to purchase bulk "rainbow" sets for their entire department.
Are you looking for these primarily for a general physical education curriculum, or are you outfitting a more specialized sensory/rehabilitation space?
