When shopping for a soccer ball for your kid, you should first know the sizes. Most people do not realize that soccer balls are different sizes for different ages. Picking the wrong soccer ball size can be dangerous, especially for a kid who is just learning how to play.
But with so many types of soccer balls on the market, it can be confusing as to which size best works for a certain age. You have likely asked yourself: What soccer ball size does my kid need? There are different soccer balls for each type of play: Is it for practice, training, or an official match?
Why does size matter in soccer balls?
Well, it should matter for players of all ages. If you are a beginner and you use a ball that is too big, it will prevent you from developing your skills as a player. Choosing the right soccer ball size by age is also important to prevent unnecessary injuries.
In this article, we are going to break down all the key elements you need to keep in mind when choosing the right soccer ball by age.
Materials
Two parts make soccer balls—the casing and the bladder. The former covers the outside of the soccer ball and its panels, while the latter is the section inside the ball that is responsible for holding the air. And these two parts can be made of various materials.
Casings are made of either Polyurethane (PU) or PolyVinyl Carbonate (PVC), a combination of both PU/PVC and synthetic leather. Although PVC balls are usually cheaper, durable, and harder on the outside, PU balls are generally higher in quality, softer to the touch, and more reactive. Synthetic leather balls are made for the highest level of playing, like professional matches, because it provides increased control. To help reduce water damage as well as scuffing, glossy finishes are usually added to all kinds of soccer balls.
Bladders consist of either butyl or latex. Butyl bladders are superior when it comes to air retention. Thus, the fewer times they need to be reflated than balls with Latex bladders—which are softer and favored by many professionals.
The octagon-shaped quilts that you see on the outside of soccer balls are called Panels. There are 32 panels on FIFA-approved soccer balls. Other variations include 18 and 26 panels.
Soccer Ball Size
You may ask: Why do we need so many sizes? Well, one evident reason for having soccer ball sizing standards is the safety of the players, especially the younger ones. Of course, soccer balls should be smaller when the players are kids. If a 5-year-old is hit by a size five soccer ball, it will hurt more than if it was a size 2 or 3 balls.
Additionally, the size is also vital for learning and practicing how to control the ball. Little kids will have trouble manipulating the ball if it is too big because they have small feet. If they try kicking a size five soccer ball—which is heavier for them, it could cause injuries to their muscles and tendons.
Who are these sizes meant for?
Size 1
The smallest soccer ball size you are going to find in any athlete’s store. It has a circumference of 18-20 inches. This is perfect for children ages three and under.
This size is also used for technical training by some people. With an 18-20 inches circumference, it is easier to improve your touch and control.
Size 1 balls are also often used as souvenirs and gifts by players and soccer clubs with their logos, and a lot of people collect them.
Size 2
This size is recommended for little children ages 3-5. Adult players also use this size to practice their skills, juggling, control, and tricks. And like the size 1, this size is also used for clubs’ promotional balls.
Size 3
Junior soccer teams often start with this soccer ball size. It weighs about 300-320 grams and has a circumference that ranges from 23″-24″; a bit larger and heavier than size 2. This size is best for ages 5-8 years old. It is ideally designed for children to encourage the correct handling and control of the ball.
Size 4
This size weighs 350-390 grams with a 25″-26″ circumference. Ideally for 8-12 years old. In this age group, many youth players are making the transition from being acquainted with soccer and developing their skills.
Size 5
This size is best suited for players ages 12 years and older—including adults. Size 5 is the standard size for professional soccer players. It weighs in at 410-450 grams and has a 27″-28″ circumference. Because it is heavier than the other sizes, this should not be used by young children as it may cause them injuries.
Suppose you are interested in joining competitive or official matches. In that case, it is recommended to look for a size five soccer ball that has a FIFA stamp or IMS (International Match Standard) mark. This means that the ball has been tested in compliance with the technical requirements listed in the Laws of Soccer.
Why Knowing Soccer Ball Size Is Important
It is important to know the appropriate size that corresponds to your child’s age is important. Getting the wrong size could lead to frustration as it affects your child’s training—or worse, it could cause physical injuries. Hopefully, this article has helped you in choosing the right soccer ball for your child.
