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How to Choose the Right Soccer Ball

How to Choose the Right Soccer Ball

Jun 7, 2019

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WHAT ARE SOCCER BALLS MADE OUT OF?

When determining how to choose a soccer ball, you’ll want to understand a few things about how they’re constructed. Today’s soccer balls are made of either polyvinyl carbonate (PVC) or polyurethane (PU).

  • PVC balls are affordable and are great for playing indoor or street soccer due to their extra durability.
  • PU balls see a lot of action in elite competitions and tend to provide better responsiveness and control off the foot.

WHAT SIZE SOCCER BALL SHOULD I BUY?

  • All soccer players over the age of 12 use a size five ball.
  • Typically, young players from ages 8 to 12 use a size four ball
  • Children under the age of 7 use a size three.

Keep in mind that league rules concerning ball size can vary based on location. Size one or mini balls are excellent for developing footwork and dribbling skills.

WHAT’S INSIDE A SOCCER BALL?

The inside of the soccer ball contains the bladder, a chamber that’s filled with air to keep the ball inflated. The bladder is usually made of butyl or latex. While butyl soccer ball bladders possess excellent air retention, manufacturers prefer latex bladders for high-end soccer balls due to their soft, and preferred feel by players.

HOW MUCH AIR DOES A SOCCER BALL TYPICALLY NEED?

Most balls need 9 to 10.5 pounds of air. The amount of required inflation is listed beside the valve on the ball. Over- or underinflating a soccer ball can damage the panels and bladder, while having a significant effect on how the ball moves and bounces.

WHAT’S THE PURPOSE OF THE PANELS ON A SOCCER BALL?

  • A majority of soccer balls have 32 individual panels, though 18- and 24-panel constructions also get plenty of play.
  • Thicker, more expensive panels provide extra durability and give the ball a better feel.
  • Fewer panels equal a ball that curves more when kicked because it has less stability.
  • Soccer ball panels are either stitched (hand-sewn in high-quality balls; machine-stitched in mid-priced options) or glued on the lining (harder feel; mostly used in practice balls).

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