Different players, teams, and agencies like and require different
things when it comes to soccer balls. So what makes a good soccer ball? With
scores of brands, wildly varying price points, and literally countless
variations it is understandable that soccer players in every age group are left
with their head spinning when trying to find the best soccer ball for
them.
We're here to help! Here are 5 things that will
help you find a good soccer ball to fit your needs:
1. Know your soccer ball size
Soccer balls range
in size from 1 to 5. Each size differs in circumference and the age group that
it is suitable for. Size 1 is the smallest size and is designed for the
youngest players. Size 1 is also commonly used for promotional purposes, or as
a skill development ball for players of any age group. Size 5 is the
largest soccer ball size and is designed for older youth and adult soccer
players. Here is a chart outlining each size, measurements, and general
age group. You can click the rows below to view our selection of soccer
balls in each size.
Soccer Balls
|
Size |
Circumference |
Ages Used |
|
5 |
27
- 28 in |
12
and up |
|
4 |
25
- 26 in |
8
to 12 |
|
3 |
23
- 24 in |
8
and under |
|
1 |
18
- 20 in |
Small
children |
Futsal Balls
|
Size |
Circumference |
Ages Used |
|
Senior
(size 4) |
25
- 26 in |
13
and up |
|
Junior
(size 3) |
23
- 24 in |
12
and under |
IMPORTANT NOTE: Be sure to check with your school or
club to make sure the size you buy is the correct one for you.
2. Soccer Ball Cover Construction
To find a good soccer ball you want to consider the cover
construction, which involves the outer layer material, the number of panels,
and whether or not the panels are hand-stitched.
The outer layer of each soccer ball is made using a
synthetic leather of polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Soccer
balls with PU covers are usually better quality. Some lower-end training balls
are made using PVC.
The most common panel construction is 32-panels, although
some modern soccer balls have an 18 or 26 panel design. 32 panel soccer balls
offer a more true flight whereas other options can
create more "swerve" when kicked with force.
Soccer balls of the highest quality, like those used in
professional soccer and with elite soccer players, have their panels hand-stitched.
Machine stitching is usually found on middle-quality balls. Low-end balls
used for training, recreation, or promotion often have their panels glued or
molded which creates a harder feel.
3. Soccer Ball Lining
There are usually many layers of lining between the soccer
ball cover and the bladder of the ball, which creates strength. On high quality
soccer balls, a foam layer is often included to add softness. This feature
often differentiates the high quality ball from the low quality ball.
4. Soccer Ball Bladder
There are two main types of bladders used in the
construction of soccer balls:
- Latex:
Gives the soccer ball a proper bounce, and is softer.
- Butyl:
Excellent for air retention.
Latex bladders will naturally lose air faster than butyl
bladders. Whereas a butyl bladder can retain air for a couple of weeks, a latex
bladder needs to be topped off at least weekly.
Futsal bladders are filled with foam to dampen their
bouncing characteristics.
5. Soccer Ball Standards
There are three standards, or approvals, you should be
aware of when purchasing a soccer ball. Your ball might need to meet
specifications for use in a league or competition.
NFHS (National Federation of High School Associations)
Soccer balls used in American high school competitions must
be NFHS approved.
FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association)
We've all heard of FIFA in terms of professional soccer and
the World Cup. But did you know there are three levels of FIFA approved soccer
balls? Basic, Quality, and Quality Pro. Only the highest quality soccer balls are
FIFA approved.
IMS (International Matchball Standard)
IMS is an old standard which was replaced by FIFA Basic and FIFA Quality certifications. Soccer
balls that pass a less stringent testing process than FIFA can be IMS
approved. We see many moderate to high quality balls bear the IMS logo.
Now that you know what makes a good soccer ball, you're ready to shop!