How to Pick a Soccer Ball Size
As in other sports, selecting properly sized soccer gear is critical. That includes the ball, since they are available in three sizes. Whether you're coaching your child's soccer team or joining an intramural team for some friendly competition, you'll need at least one ball to practice with. In addition to researching what type of stitching, material and brand you should look for, familiarize yourself with size recommendations before purchasing a soccer ball.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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1
Check with your league or your child's coach to find out whether there is a regulation about what size ball you (or your child) must use. While there are size and age standards, intramural or school teams may have specific guidelines you must adhere to.
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2
Visit a soccer specialty store or a sporting goods store when you are ready to buy a ball. They offer a variety of sizes, styles and prices and a knowledgeable sales staff to help with questions.
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3
Pick a size 3 ball if you are buying for a child 8 years old or under. It weighs roughly 11 to 12 ounces and is 23 to 24 inches around. This smaller type of ball is ideal for beginning youth leagues, ages preschool to first or second grade, since the ball is light and easier for kids to control.
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4
Buy a size 4 ball for youth soccer players aged 8 to 12. Weighing 12 to 13 ounces with a circumference of 25 to 26 inches, this mid-size ball is a good option for older elementary children (second through sixth grade).
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5
Pick a size 5 soccer ball if you're buying for 13-year-olds through adults. As the international league standard, a size 5 ranges from 14 to 16 ounces and 27 to 28 inches around.
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6
Buy a small ball (size 2 or 3) for older children and adults to practice their skills. Learning to turn, dribble and juggle with a smaller ball increases agility, allowing skills to translate easily to a larger ball during a game.
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Tips & Warnings
Buy a soccer ball that has been inspected or approved by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association, or FIFA. This international governing body for soccer tests balls for standards of quality, durability and design.
Don't pick a large ball for your child to "grow into," as she may be unable to control the ball properly or may injure herself while using it. Conversely, if a player is practicing with a ball that is too small, it will be difficult to manage a larger one later on during a game.
