Soccer ball dimensions can vary by league and purpose. Discover the differences and be sure you use the right ball size for your specific soccer style.
When it comes to soccer balls, not all are created equal. Sure, there are countless colors and a multitude of materials available, but one of the largest areas of difference among soccer balls is sizing. This variation serves a purpose, though, as it allows more individuals to experience the game with the same amount of fun and excitement. A six-year-old child will most likely find more enjoyment playing soccer with a ball proportionate to his or her size rather than with an adult-sized ball.
There are four different soccer ball sizes, with 1 being the smallest and 5 being the largest. Each have their own dimensions, as seen in the graphic below, and each are used best for a specific drill, age group or league.
Size 5 soccer balls will be best suited for any players ages 12 and older, including adults and professionals. They have a circumference of 27"-28" and weigh approximately 410-450 grams. For match play, the best soccer balls of this size category will carry the “FIFA Inspected” or “FIFA Approved” stamp, meaning that they have undergone proper testing for circumference, roundness, rebound, weight, water absorption, loss of pressure, shape and size retention. These “FIFA Inspected” soccer balls can be a higher price point, so some may consider using them for match play only.
SIZE 4
A size 4 soccer ball is used primarily by youth players in the 8-12 age range. The dimensions of a size 4 ball are 25"-26" in circumference and 350-390 grams in weight. This decrease in size is beneficial for this age group as it allows players to get accustomed to their skill set. For example, players of this age might find difficulty in practicing their dribbling skills or ball control if they choose to use a size 5 ball, as it may be too large and too heavy for efficient training.
SIZE 3
A size 3 soccer ball is typically best suited for children ages 8 or younger. Measuring 23"-24" in circumference and weighing roughly 300-320 grams, this soccer ball size is the smallest that you’ll see in competitive play. This small youth ball is a great option because it encourages proper ball handling for youngsters and is properly proportioned to most kids at this age group.
SIZE 1
Also referred to as “minis,” size 1 soccer balls have a circumference of 18"-20". While some may benefit from skill training with these sized soccer balls, their main purpose is for general entertainment and collection. Many souvenir balls with player logos or club designs will be size 1 for their ease and collectability.
Finding the right soccer ball size based on age group can be beneficial, but remember that size can also vary by league standards. Make sure to check with your coach or league official to be sure that you’re purchasing the right ball.
Size two soccer balls are rarely used because they are so close in circumference to size one. If you're looking for a ball for someone younger than four years old, a size one ball will do the trick. Size 5 soccer balls are the standard soccer ball size for ages 12 and older all the way up to professionals.
Size 5 balls have a circumference of 27 to 28 inches and weigh approximately 410 to 450 grams, or approximately 14 to 16 ounces. This ball is not recommended for younger players due to its size and weight, which could lead to frustration and even injuries.
The Nike Pitch Training Soccer Ball is a durable design built for training sessions and improving your footwork. High-contrast graphics make it easier to see the ball in the air or on the ground. Smooth, durable casing has a consistent feel. High-contrast graphics make it easy to track the ball.
Soccer has introduced the following policy and field marking change in 7v7 play. The use of a Build Out LINE for the U8, U9 & U10 levels is now required. The installation and use of the build out lines will be used to promote playing the ball out of the back (defensive) area in an unpressured situation.
Although there are no official guidelines, soccer coaches generally recommend that children aged 3-5 years old use a size 2 soccer ball, and children aged 3 and under play with a size 1 soccer ball.
The FA guidelines for youth football recommend the following ball sizes for each age group below: Size 2 football – Under 5. Size 3 football – Under 7, Under 8, Under 9 and Under 10. Size 4 football – Under 11, Under 12, Under 13 and Under 14.
Although a soccer ball can be put together in many different ways, there is one design so ubiquitous that it has become iconic. This standard soccer ball is stitched or glued together from 32 polygons, 12 of them five-sided and 20 six-sided, arranged in such a way that every pentagon is surrounded by hexagons.
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