Differences between bocce, boccia and boccia: a clear guide to understanding each sport

bochas, petanca and boccia belong to the same family of precision games.

All use balls and a target small as a reference. However, each has its own rules, surfaces and materials.

If you're a fan or looking to get started in any of these sports, understanding what makes them different will help you choose the one that's right for you.

What are bocce balls?

Bocce is a widespread Italian sport in Argentina, Uruguay and other South American countries. The aim is to bring the bochas as close as possible to the bochín, a small ball.

Relevant data:

• The Pan American Bowls Confederation estimates more than 500,000 active players in the region.
• The standard courts measure between 24 and 28 metres long by 4 metres wide.

Key features:

• The game is played by rolling the ball.
• The surface is either clay or synthetic and has edges that can be used for bouncing.
• The balls are large, smooth and heavy.

What is pétanque?

Petanque was born in the Provence region of France. It is played outdoors on gravel or sand. The aim is to bring the metal ball close to the bowling o cochonnet.

• The Fédération Internationale de Pétanque et Jeu Provençal brings together over 100 countries affiliates.
• A standard game is played at 13 points.

Characteristics:

• The ball is thrown into the air from a fixed circle.
• The balls are metallic and smaller than bocce balls.
• The style is based on placing the ball or hitting the opponent's balls.

What is boccia?

Boccia is an adapted sport, designed for people with severe motor disabilities. It has been Paralympic since 1984, according to the International Paralympic Committee.

• Today it is present in more than 50 countries.
• It is played indoors to ensure a level playing field.

Characteristics:

• The balls are soft, with different levels of hardness.
• Players can throw with hands, feet or using assisted ramps.
• The aim is also to get the ball close to the target, as in the other modalities.

Main differences between bocce, pétanque and boccia

Key differences explained

Ball size and weight

• Bowls: 90-110 mm; from 900 g.
• Petanque: 70-80 mm; 650-800 g.
• Boccia: much lighter and softer, adapted to the strength of each player.

Playing surface

• Bowls: stable surface, with walls that allow for rebound tactics.
• Petanque: uneven terrain requiring precision and ground reading.
• Boccia: controlled floor without irregularities to ensure fairness.

Launching style

• Bocce uses rolling pitches to maintain direction.
• Petanque requires high throws with a fall close to the target.
• Boccia uses different techniques depending on the player or assistant.

Public and accessibility

• Bowls and petanque are sports open to everyone.
• Boccia is designed to ensure competitive participation for people with severe motor limitations.

Which one to choose?

• Choose bowls if you like a technical game with bearing control.
• Choose pétanque if you prefer to play outdoors and with aerial throws.
• Choose boccia if you are looking for an adapted, accessible and very tactical sport.

Frequently asked questions about bocce, bocce and boccia