How to Buy a Soccer Ball

Today there are even many options in buying a soccer ball! When I was young it was a black and white rubber ball. What should we look for today?

First, consider size. Up through age 8 the recommended size ball is a 3 (although some leagues will start using a size 4 at age 8). Size 4 is generally used through the age 12, then size 5 is used from there. The larger balls are not developmentally correct for small children and should not be used.

Ball of unusual colors or designs are great for telling your soccer ball apart in case they should get mixed up with someone else's ball.

There are different materials for the exterior of soccer balls: PVC, PU, and synthetic. PVC are the cheapest - they are shiny and scuff-resistant and not very soft. They are the most durable and water resistant.

PU (Polyurethane) are less durable, but is softer and feels like leather (although it is a synthetic material.) They are water resistant.

Synthetic balls are the highest quality (very soft) and most expensive. They are not very durable and may have only a year or two of life.

The inside of the ball (the bladder) is made of latex or butyl. Latex is more expensive because it is soft and has a good feel. They don't hold air well and will have to be refilled for each practice. Butyl bladders hold air better.

Which ball should you get? Don't go overboard with size 3 or 4 balls. Your child will probably only use it for 2-3 years at the most. Buy something better than the cheapest ball you can find, but don't get the high end balls.

Once your child is 12 and playing soccer extensively, get them a high quality ball or two to practice with.