Why do players use a bump set more frequently than an overhead set in beach volleyball?

Question

Why do players use a bump set more frequently than an overhead set in beach volleyball?

Answer 1

The primary reason for utilizing a bump set more frequently in beach volleyball is because the hand setting is much more strict than in indoor volleyball.  There is a high standard for setting, and if you really have to move for the ball, you're more likely to commit an error.  Conversely in indoor volleyball, I believe there is specific verbiage stating that leniency should be used and play should continue if a player makes a particularly athletic set, but there is a slight degree of double contact.

When I'm on the beach, I'm not discouraged by the sand and sweat nearly as much my crappy beach hands.  At the Olympic level, commentators continue to repeat that the sand, sweat, and humidity are the reasons behind ball handling errors.  I think these are all minor mitigating factors, and you'll never hear a commentator second guess the ref's judgment, or that the player just plain screwed up the set.  Balls are also wiped prior to every play as well.

Answer 2

less errors with bump sets.

Answer 3

Because of the sweat and sand they is less of a margin for error when bump setting.  

Answer 4

While those things mentioned are contributing factors (just the wind really).  In beach volleyball overhead setting is called extremely tight.  If the ball has ANY spin on it you are likely to be called for a double contact.  In exchange for this, carrying the set is tollerated more compared to indoor.

Next time you are setting try to consistently set the ball with near zero spin.  

Setting in beach can be very difficult and it isn't seen by players consistently until you reach a very high level of play.  Even then, the offensive players are still often reluctant to hand set.  

Answer 5

Because with the sand, sweat, spin on the ball plus the wind it is very difficult to get clean contact on the ball for an overhead set.