When looking for soccer balls, you will definitely notice that there is a huge variation in prices. Many people look at the price difference and then promptly choose the cheapest ball. However, this is not always the best choice.
There are several factors to consider when choosing soccer balls, and price is at the bottom of the list.
1. Choose a ball that is the right size
In general, younger players need a size three, tweens need a size four, and teens and adults need size five soccer balls. However, this varies in different leagues. It’s important to practice with the same size you’ll use during the game so you get used to how the ball plays on your foot and how it moves through the air.
2. Choose an indoor or outdoor ball
Indoor balls are made specifically for indoor soccer conditions and are very different from other types of soccer balls. Choose the ball that suits your normal practice and playing conditions.
3. Choose a ball made of the right material for your needs
If you’re looking for a bargain, rubber balls seem like a good deal. They are not only cheap but also durable. However, they are nothing like the balls used in the soccer league.
Any workout using rubber soccer balls it will be wasted because the feel, texture and movement are much different than other types of balls. PVC is slightly more expensive and has a better feel, although it has a plastic feel that isn’t as good as other materials.
Leather is a more expensive option, but tends to absorb water and become too heavy for play. For this reason, most leagues use a moderately priced polyurethane ball, a synthetic material that is similar to rubber but more durable and water-resistant.
4. Choose a ball with the right valve type
The valve is the inner part of the ball and gives it its shape and movement. Butyl valves are of the type used in cheaper balls. Although they retain air well, they are not as responsive as latex ones.
Latex valves are used in high quality balls and offer the best play. They lose air faster than other types of valves and therefore need to be inflated more often, but are generally the best choice for the price.
5. Choose a ball with the right number of panels and design
The number of boards determines how the ball moves through the air as well as how much control the players have. This can range from 32 panels for an original type ball to a 6 panel indoor soccer ball.
In general, a ball with fewer panels will be more aerodynamic and faster, while a ball with more panels will be more controllable and easier to play and caught in goalie gloves. Major League Soccer in the United States currently uses an 18-panel ball, and this appears to be the case in most other professional leagues.
6. Choose a ball that has the right weight
Generally, the lighter ball is preferred. If the ball is too heavy, it may hurt if you hit it very hard and lose momentum quickly.
7. Choose a ball that is neither too soft nor too firm
A hard ball will hurt your legs and head, while a soft ball will be too bouncy. Choose a happy medium for the best success.
8. Choose a ball that is stitched
There are a wide variety of ways to assemble a ball, but none are as durable or easy to use as a stitched panel ball. The other balls are so fragile that they are almost disposable, so always choose a ball that has been sewn rather than glued or otherwise attached.