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Soccer balls are different, it takes the professionals weeks of training to get used to a type of soccer ball. Before a World Cup, the team uses the new ball in training to adapt.
Soccer balls vary in weight and feel to touch. There have been many debates with top professionals when a new soccer ball is used. Soccer balls used in training differ from those used in games for most players, apart from the pros.
In this article, we’ll go into more detail about what makes the difference between the balls.
Soccer training ball vs. match ball?
The surface material, quality, durability, and cost. Training balls are used more often and take more damage, and game balls are for precision.
There are benefits to each type of ball, so it’s important to adapt to the type of ball and how it bounces. You may need to adapt your game to get the best from the ball.
Before we take a look at training balls and match balls, we need to look at each material construct of a soccer ball so that you know each part.
This is important when looking at the manufacturer’s specs when you buy a soccer ball.
Soccer Ball Materials – Training Ball vs. Match Ball Details
Outer Coating
The outer coating of a soccer ball normally consists of two materials, PU polyurethane and PVC polyvinyl carbonate.
PU balls are made stronger to withstand knocks of a harder playing condition, and the PVC balls have a softer touch. Therefore, they’re less durable.
Panels
The panels recommended by FIFA contain 32 segments – this allows the ball to be more spherical and more accurate when hitting the ball.
Other balls can contain 26 or 18 panels, but they’re more rigid and generally of lesser quality.
Bladders
The most common types of the bladder – the rubber inner that holds the ball’s air- are made of latex or butyl. Most professionals prefer latex as they’re softer to the touch.
The butyl bladder’s advantage is that it holds the air for much longer and doesn’t need to be inflated as much.
Best Balls for Soccer | Specs |
Coating | PU |
Panels | 32 |
Bladder | Latex |
Training Soccer Balls – what is a training soccer ball
Training balls are made to be stronger match balls—the outer materials, whether PVC or PU. If you’re looking for a ball that’s going to last a long time, then one made of PVC is best.
If you’re playing on concrete indoors, the ball will take more impact by hitting the solid floor and metal fencing around the field.
So if you want the ball to last for a long time, then a training ball is the best option. But a match ball is best if you want a great ball that strikes well, and money is not an issue.
- The Nike Pitch Training Soccer Ball features high-contrast...
- Visual acuity graphics improve tracking on the pitch.
- Durable and smooth casing for lasting play.
- Rubber bladder improves air and shape retention.
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Match Soccer Balls
Most match balls are made with PU outer, which gives the ball a soft touch. When you pick up one of these balls, you’ll notice how your finger sinks slightly into the cushioning.
When you notice that the outer is soft to the hand, it’s the same for your foot. You’ll be able to hit the ball with more precision.
If you’re trying to curl or swerve the ball, this is more easily done with a match ball.
- adidas mens soccer ball
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Turf Balls
Turf balls sometimes have a slight pattern on the outside that allows the ball to be controlled in wet conditions.
Indoor Soccer Balls
Balls made for the indoors are specifically made so that there is less of a rebound when the ball hits the boardings on either side of the goal.
Otherwise, the ball can bound too much when it hits the walls and lands on the ground.
Futsal Soccer Balls
The Futsal ball is made not to bounce and is different from the other balls mentioned. Only buy a futsal ball if that’s what you intend to play.
There is very little bounce with these balls – they’re made for a game focused on passing and control, with the ball on the ground.
- Highest quality: a futsal ball of the highest quality for...
- Hand-sewn craftmanship: hand sewn 32-panel-technology...
- Strong, durable cover: a unique shiny 1.9 mm pu synthetic...
- Please note: ball ships deflated. A ball pump is required to...
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Soccer Ball Sizes for All Ages
Depending on your age, it will mean that you have a different size soccer ball. Heavy large adult balls are no fun for kids.
Make sure you get a size for your age if you’re a youth.
Here are the standard size soccer balls that pros use;
Age | Ball Size | Measurements |
All ages | Size 1 – Mini | 18-20 inches |
3-6 | Size 2 – Midi | 21-22 inches |
6-9 | Size 3 | 23-24 inches |
9-11 | Size 4 | 25-26 inches |
12+ | Size 5 | 27-28 inches |
These are the size balls used for different ages. The size one mini ball is used for all ages and is great for improving ball control.
The Professional Soccer Match Balls: Elite Standards
Professional soccer players use match balls when training and playing a match. They’ve got the resources to have the best equipment.
Playing at the highest level, you want the same effect when you hit the ball all week long in training as you do when you play a match.
The recommended details for a match ball from FIFA are;
- Pressure equal to 0.6 – 1.1 atmosphere (600 – 1,100g/cm2) at sea level (8.5 lbs/sq in – 15.6 lbs/sq in)
- Weight Between 410 g (14 oz) and 450 g (16 oz) in weight at the start of the match
- Circumference of between 68 cm (27 ins) and 70 cm (28 ins)
FIFA marks matchday balls with a symbol. All of their approved balls are marked with the first two;
- “FIFA Approved”
- “FIFA Inspected”
- “International Matchball Standard”
This detailed article will look at the most expensive soccer balls in the game and why you need to get one.
Related Questions
What is a glider soccer ball?
A Glider soccer ball contains a bladder that’s made from butyl. This bladder keeps the air pressure in longer and needs to be pumped up on a lesser basis.
What is a heavy soccer ball?
A heavy soccer ball within the recommendations of FIFA weighs 450g.
What is a premium soccer ball?
The best premium soccer balls will contain all of the FIFA-approved logos listed.
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Joel is a seasoned soccer journalist and analyst with many years of experience in the field. Joel specializes in game analysis, player profiles, transfer news, and has a keen eye for the tactical nuances of the game. He played at various levels in the game and coached teams - he is happy to share his insight with you.