Buyer’s Guide
We understand that choosing a real soccer ball can sometimes be overwhelming. There is just so much choice on the market now that even a professional will be confused. Should you buy that beautiful blue ball with a neon sticker, or should you go for the electric green soccer ball? The yellow one looks particularly nice. Oh, what about the blue and white? It’s always going to be a dilemma. Here is a quick guide for you to zero in on the one that is just right for you.
How to choose the best soccer ball
Since you have been with us so far, here is our exclusive guide on Soccer Cleats.
Brand:
The best names in soccer ball manufacturers are all the time competing for the top slot. Adidas, Nike, and Puma are top-notch amongst all. They are consistently bettering their balls with constant research and development. And it shows! If you were to put in a few extra dollars and buy one of good quality, then, it will have to be one of these only.
Size:
Normal soccer ball size is determined usually in relation with age of the player. For example, No. 3 is used for children up to 6 years of age, and No. 4 is used for the middle schoolers. No. 5 is the adult size and can be used by anyone who is above 12 years of age. The champions league soccer balls are all size 5. Mini ones that belong to size 1 and 2 are sometimes manufactured for sports souvenirs and keepsakes.
Materials:
Nowadays they are made from synthetic leather that is strengthened with a cloth. The material used is similar across the ranges. It is either PU or PVC and usually machine stitched for longevity.
Bladder:
Bladder is the top portion that has a valve in it where the air needs to be inflated. The most durable bladder is one form butyl or any other rubber-like material. Most of them now sport bladders made out of latex, which is also a great substitute.
Panels:
A standard one has 32 panels. Twenty out of the 32 are hexagonal, and the remaining 12 are pentagons. This is a great trivia. If all the panels are hexagonal, there is going to be difficulty in evenly rolling it. It will stop abruptly.
Linings:
Most professional ones have a minimum of four layers where polyester and cotton are blended and laminated with artificial leather. The lining gives it its bounce and strength. The practice ones may have a lining or two less. Some may have a foam layer inside additionally for more control and cushioning.
Price:
Prices may vary according to the quality of the ball. For instance, you could procure a practice ball for as little as $11, and some of them that can double up as match balls can go up to a whopping $48 too. A lot depends on the soccer ball manufacturer, materials used, and size.
The Best Soccer Balls types
Do you sometimes feel it would have been great if you could have a soccer balls package? But of course, you will have to choose what you like from the mind boggling choice out there. Let us get you through all of them one by one.
Premium Match Soccer Balls
A premium match ball is one that complies with all the standard rules of the Internal Governing Body of FIFA World Cup. It means it has passed all the rigorous tests concerning its shape, air retention, performance, water absorption, and flight. All of them are size 5 in size.
Official Match Soccer Balls:
Official match balls are of high quality and quite similar to premium ones, they are NCAA and NFHS certified to match worthy. The construction may be slightly different from the premium ones. They are typically size no. 5.
Turf Soccer Balls
These are extremely durable. They are usually harder and heavier than the match and the premium match ones. The reason for this is that they last longer, even if used rigorously. They are versatile and can be used on any surface. They are used for training and practicing skills.
Indoor Soccer Balls
The indoor ball is designed such that it sticks closer to the ground and has reduced bounce back. This is because the indoor tufts are usually hard ground, and a very bouncy ball can injure the players. Sometimes, felt and suede-like material is added to the surface to reduce the bounce and to have greater control over it. This also helps in the quicker passing.
Futsal Soccer Balls
This is a special type of soccer ball. It is mostly size 4 and much harder and heavier. It also has a reduced bounce back. Futsal is played on hard surfaces, and that is why suede and felt is used in making them for the players to be able to have greater friction with them. It is a great idea to protect your knees by wearing knee support for running on harder grounds.
Beach Soccer Balls
A beach ball is similar to turf one in only that they have softer materials used for construction. The material is more synthetic, so that it is easy on the foot. It is also water-resistant and typically adult size that is size no. 5.
Professional Soccer Balls
They come in size no 5 only. They are typically played by the professionals who use them to play in the Champion’s leagues or other serious matches. Top professional clubs develop them to maximize their player’s abilities. They pass all the rigorous tests by FIFA. They are bound to be the most expensive as they can be played on any surface, soft or hard. Check out brooks best running shoes here.
Our Recommendation for 2019:
Hope we were helpful with our detailed soccer ball reviews.
The best soccer ball 2019, after due research, is unequivocally bagged by Wilson! What better ball than the traditional one with black and white patches? The synthetic leather cover ages well and even resists scratches and tears even after months of rough play. The butyl rubber bladder holds air perfectly well to keep going matches after matches. We particularly like the silver accents on the ball. It performs excellently well. Best of all, you need to not break the bank!
Is there a soccer ball that you used and would like the world to know? Write to us at gym-expert. What is the best soccer balls 2019 from your perspective?