Check the color: look for a golden-yellow color starting at the base
Smell the bottom: a ripe pineapple has a sweet, fragrant aroma
Press gently: it should feel firm with a slight give, not hard or mushy
Look at the leaves: the inner leaves should pull out easily when ripe
Check the weight: a ripe pineapple feels heavy for its size
Inspect the skin: it should look plump and fresh, not dry or wrinkled
Avoid green-only fruit: a fully green pineapple is usually underripe
Avoid overly soft spots: soft or leaking areas can mean overripe fruit