Selecting the perfect soccer ball

Walk down any sporting goods store, and you’ll likely be overwhelmed by the vast wall of soccer balls! Maybe I’m a little biased, but the soccer aisle in any sporting goods store is one of my favorite strolls. So, in aisle full of soccer balls, how do you select the best one? 

Start with the size

Have you ever seen really cool shoes, asked for the size, only to find out they don’t have your size in stock? Well, it works a little the same in soccer. You’ll first want to start with the correct size soccer ball you need, because there is nothing worse than seeing an awesome ball, only to find out it’s a size too big or small for you to play with. Soccer balls come in various sizes Size 3 balls are typically used for young children from 5 to 8 year olds, size 4 for older youth players from 8 to 11 year old, and size 5 for older youth players and adults.

Material

The material of a soccer ball is crucial because it directly affects the ball's performance, durability, and suitability for different playing conditions. The outer material determines how well the ball can withstand wear and tear. Balls made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) are highly durable and resistant to abrasions, making them ideal for training and recreational use. PU (polyurethane) and synthetic leather balls offer a balance of durability and performance, suitable for match play.

Construction

The way a ball is constructed affects how well it can withstand the rigors of play. Hand-stitched balls are typically more durable than machine-stitched ones due to the stronger stitching techniques used. Thermally bonded balls, which are seamless, tend to have superior durability and can maintain their shape longer. The construction impacts how the ball behaves during play. Proper construction ensures that the ball retains its shape and air pressure over time. Hand-stitched and thermally bonded balls generally provide better shape retention compared to machine-stitched balls, which might deform more quickly under intense use.

Let’s Go(al)

When your kid is just beginning their soccer journey, a well-constructed, correct size ball with great material and a cool design is the perfect place to start.