Are you in a hurry and need to know how to effectively shop for the best ball in the world?
There are a couple of factors that influence what balls you buy. Some of these include what is your purpose for buying the ball?
There are various types of balls on the market, and they all have specific targeted purposes. Once you know the reason you are getting the ball, then you can get the one you need.
Understand the different sizes that are balls come in. It will help you buy the right one. Also, consider the brand and seek to know how reputable the company is in the business of making balls. You want to get a ball that can withstand the harsh conditions of being kicked around.
We have scoured the internet and found some of the best soccer balls on the market today. Our favourite pick is the Adidas Glider Soccer Ball – check price here.
This size 5 synthetic ball, is a hard-wearing ball that keeps bouncing back. It has a rubber bladder for best air retention and it is machine stitched for high durability
Introduction
Are you looking for the best soccer ball in the world today? Surely with so many options, it should be easy right? On the contrary, being spoilt for choice does not always go so well. It can be a pretty head-spinning experience. Especially when you have no experience shopping for soccer balls.
- Are you looking to start off a career in soccer and you want the best soccer balls?
- Are you looking to fully equip your child as they start off on their new journey as a soccer player?
- Or perhaps you want to refurbish your soccer balls, you last did that years ago, and your current ball is old and tired.
In the game of soccer or football as some call it in some parts of the world, different facets need to come together in order to get the perfect mix. You need skill, discipline, and the right gear.
As a kid, going out into the street for a game of soccer, there was only one thing you would need, aside from the crazy excitement that is.
The one thing you would need was a great ball.
We have reviewed our top 5 balls below, then go into a little details on what you should look for when deciding on the best soccer balls.
Table of Contents
Our Top Pick Goalie Gloves For Youth
2. Adidas Capitano Soccer Ball
3. Wilson Traditional Soccer Ball
4. Under Armour DESAFIO 395 Soccer Ball
5. Nike 2018 Strike Soccer Ball
*Click To Check Price
Our Reviews Of The Best Soccer Balls In The World
Adidas Glider Soccer Ball
The Glider is one of Adidas’ flagship soccer balls. It has been around for a while now. This is always a good sign. The longer a ball is around the more we test it and hear of other people’s experiences with it as well.
This gives us a more rounded opinion of it beyond our own views. It bears the same shiny look that we have all seen on the various ball, expensive and cheap alike. Once you have the ball in hand you can start to feel what separates it from the others. It comes down to quality and good workmanship.
The outer TPU layer of the ball is entirely synthetic. It carries a large Adidas logo on the centre. You will also notice the incredible consistency of the stitching. They are evidently well done.
This is the work of a machine, not a man or a woman. It shows promise of being highly durable. There is no indication that these stitches may come off easily.
For pressure retention, Adidas has used a rubber bladder. This is not an unusual method by any means. Rubber bladders provide a mixture of elasticity and good pressure retention. Your ball will usually require inflation when you receive it. There isn’t a pump included with the purchase.
It does use the common one, so it should not be difficult to get one for a low price. The usual bike pump will do the job. Inflating it does not take much time either. There are a lot of colours and designs that you can choose from.
Pros
- Everyone loves to have a lot of options for colour and design.
- The stitching is very strong and consistent.
- The exterior is very tough. It shows little sign of wear and tear after use.
- Air pressure retention was good during testing.
- It is reasonably priced.
Cons
- Some users view it as being too far removed from the traditional balls.
- Its flight is too far for some players.
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Adidas Capitano Soccer Ball
The Capitano bears a cross-like design, with the white part being the area around the cross and the colourful portion being the cross. This is probably not what they meant to do in the design phase.
It is probably something that Adidas may not have even noticed. Anyhow, that is neither here nor there. The first thing that will catch your attention when you have the ball in your hand is how soft yet sturdy is actually is.
The shapes that make up the stitched parts of the ball are of different dimensions. This helps the stitching hold up better. Speaking of the stitching, the ball is entirely machine stitched. They are highly durable.
To make sure that the ball does not become deflated too quickly Adidas have employed the services of the Butyl bladder. We have nothing but great experiences with it.
This is a size 5 soccer ball. It is the professional level size. As for the surfaces on which you can use it. The Capitano performs very well on both artificial turfs and on grass surfaces. Surfaces that are harder than this will usually lead to wear and tear at a much quicker rate than is expected.
The ball is also fused welded to reduce the speed at which water can penetrate the exterior.
Pros
- There is low uptake over water.
- The exterior part of the ball is very strong.
- The stitching holds up well.
- Pressure retention was good during testing.
- There are several colours to choose from.
Cons
- The images do not always match with the real thing.
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Wilson Traditional Soccer Ball
If you want to go back to the basics. Back to the way we have always known footballs to look. The closest we can get to that original authenticity is the Wilson Traditional Soccer Ball.
It comes in black and white as traditional balls were known to. The patches are all of the same sizes. There are a few islands of black surrounded by the white ones.
These are the traditional panel graphics paired with silver accents. There is hardly a more iconic look that one can find. As with the balls of olden days, this one can take a lot of punishment without showing any signs of falling apart. They just don’t make them like this anymore.
Straying a little distance from the traditional design, Wilson has introduced the modern Butyl rubber bladder to this one. This stands to reason. One of the most prevalent issues that these balls struggled with was that of losing pressure.
You would often see balls having to be changing in the middle of the game due to deflation. The Butyl bladder comes in to resolve this issue.
Before you get too excited. This ball is designed solely for recreational use. It cannot be used in official tournaments or other events of a similar magnitude. Your ball will usually need to be inflated when you receive it. The recommended level is 8 to 10 PSI. It is sold in sizes 3, 4 and 5.
Pros
- Provides great value for money.
- The ball is incredibly durable.
- It does a good job of retaining pressure.
- The look is iconic.
- We love Wilson!
Cons
- There is no quality control from one batch to another.
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Under Armour DESAFIO 395 Soccer Ball
If you are feeling more adventurous the Under Armour DESAFIO 395 could be a good pick for you. I have never known any top brand to carry a soccer ball in camouflage.
Under Armour dared to, and we commend them for their service. This ball is available in 5 other intriguing colours that you may like. The first thing that we noticed was that the panel layout was similar to the icon design that The Wilson Traditional ball has.
This is not a novel approach. There are a lot of manufacturers that have similar ball panels. What we do acknowledge is that this design is one for the ages. It has been tried and tested over the years.
Another key thing to take note of is how soft the ball’s cover is. So much such that Under Armour has named it “touchskin”. The softness makes it more beginner and child-friendly than other balls. The stitching looks to be well done as well.
There are no immediate red flags raised in the name of durability. No matter what your taste is there is a colour or design that you will fancy in this range.
Pros
- This ball is beginner and child-friendly.
- It has a soft outer cover.
- No one could criticise the pricing.
- The designs are all endearing.
- It retains air pressure.
Cons
- It feels somewhat hard when fully pumped.
- Some durability concerns have been raised.
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Nike 2018 Strike Soccer Ball
The list could not possibly be complete without a Nike. In this case, we have chosen to go with the 2018 Strike. The first thing that you will notice when taking a close look at the ball or when holding it in your hands is just how textured it feels.
It features Nike’s aerowtrac grooves. The surface of the ball has a total of 12 panels. The main advantage of this design is its effects on the overall aerodynamics of the ball. It delivers better flight, which results in the ball flying faster and further when struck well.
There has always been a division when it comes to how the players feel about balls when the aerodynamics come into play. We shan’t bother getting into that.
To ensure that the ball does not easily lose pressure, Nike has used a reinforced rubber bladder. It is the same feature that ensures that the ball retains its shape when put through gruelling trials.
Beyond the aerodynamics, having a good texture will also mean that the feel of the ball and the resulting touch is better. You will not find a single player who does not appreciate this.
From an aesthetic point of view, this is not a slouch either. The 2018 Strike is available in 4 high contrast graphics designs. This makes it easier to find when out.
It will stand out among other balls, making it easier for you to pick yours out if the need was to ever arise. There are 3 sizes that you can choose yours from. These are size 3, 4 and 5.
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What Makes A Good Soccer Ball?
A lot of times, you will find children using a make-shift ball, much like what was used when the game of soccer first started. In times past, soccer was played with a pig bladder or with a skull. Today the ball still has a bladder, but it is less graphic! A good ball today, whether for training or for matches, has a rubber bladder. Which is a far cry from the rumours floating around, that human skulls were once used for the game? Today the game is more civil and has rules governing it. It is a multi-billion dollar empire that has changed the lives of some.
There are two main elements of the soccer ball. One is the inner bladder, the second is the outer covering. Sometimes the whole soccer ball is made under one roof. The 32 panels are sewn together by hand. The stitcher inserts the bladder and sews the final seams. In order to ensure that the bladder has not been punctured by a needle during stitching, a worker pumps up the ball. Then, the finished ball is deflated again and packed for shipping.
Most of the bladders in the pro balls you see have imprinted bladders with logos on them. They are then hand-stitched elsewhere. Balls that are stitched are more durable than balls that are glued together. The covering of the ball generally has 32 hexagonal panels. The hand stitching may be hard to do, but the product is worth every minute spent. One fun fact you may not realize is that over 60 per cent of the balls you see today, are manufactured in Pakistan.
A good soccer ball will not magically turn you into a great player, but it will help you get there. Regardless of how far you want to take your game level, you still need the appropriate tools, and in soccer, it all starts with a great ball!
Today various manufacturers make soccer balls. If you do not know what you are looking for, it is easy to reach out for the shiny one, like a moth to a flame.
Best Soccer Balls In The World – Buyers Guide
It is probably not as easy as you would have imagined huh? Surely it ought to be about just finding the right colour and going with it. This is the sort of thing that my parents would have said when shopping for balls for me. Fortunately, you are savvier. Researching a product allows you to know what most people do not know before committing to a purchase. We have taken the time to do most of the heavy lifting so you would not have to.
Think about a couple of things before you buy the soccer ball you have in mind. There are several different factors involved. If you are buying the ball for an amateur player, you consider different factors compared to the ball you would buy for a professional player.
How Old is the User
There are different sizes perfect for different players of various ages. Make sure that the ball you are buying, is compatible with the intended player. The foot size to ball ratio has to balance, especially if you want to be playing an impressive game.
Types of soccer balls?
There are many types of soccer balls and each one has its own unique features that can help bring out the best in your game. The faster you can fish these out, the better. It will be beneficial to you, to know what you will want to use the ball for. If it is for training then there are certain features to look for. If it is for a match, then there are other features to prioritize. Here are some of the variations you can get on the market today.
Indoor soccer ball
The name of this soccer ball says it all. It is a ball that can be played indoors. It has less bounce so you will not be smashing down furniture or windows. Indoor balls have a really strong cover, a cover that is stronger than other ball types. It can be played on hard surfaces and it can withstand impact with walls.
Turf Ball
These balls play best on artificial surfaces that mimic grass. They are pretty affordable but they do not fare very well on natural turf.
Training Ball
Training balls can go the long haul with you. They are specifically designed for extensive use. They are extremely durable. One of the great things about these balls is that they are versatile and can virtually be used on any turf and on any field. They encourage basic skill development and they can be used by players at any level. So if you are a soccer coach, it is a no brainer, this has to be part of your collection.
Match Ball
These balls are relatively pricier than turf and training balls, but the quality speaks for itself. You will understand why they are such a big deal when grabbing hold of one. The outer casing is either leather or made of approved synthetic material. These balls will normally be water-resistant. So you know you can play them even on rainy days.
Premium Match Ball
Now, these are the real McCoy. The real deal when it comes to soccer balls that are perfect for professional games. These balls are normally on the higher end of the spectrum when it comes to pricing. But this is to be expected. These balls are of extremely high quality. They are FIFA approved so you know they will meet the world standards. This ball has superior water-resistant qualities. It performs on a top-notch level and has great air retention. You will find this ball in a lot of professional soccer settings. It is undoubtedly the best type of soccer ball on the market.
Quality
Think about the quality of the ball you are getting. Read the specifications and know what the warranty on the ball you want to get.
Ball Sizing
Soccer balls come in different sizes. Knowing these sizes, and which one to use when will help you make the right choice. Here are the sizes.
Size 1. This is the smallest size you will get and it is used to sharpen the footwork skills of the player. This is the size you will find in a lot of shops and it is not marketed as a professional ball size.
Size 2. This ball is about half the size of a regular ball. It is great for playing within a small space. It is mostly used in children’s games, mainly the U4 level.
Size 3. This ball size is for much younger children and its ratio of the player’s foot to its size is the same as an adult.
Size 4. Balls this size, are aimed at children U12 and below. It is not the size of a regular ball but it is close and it helps young players. sharpen their skills.
Size 5. This ball is a regular sized ball for adults (both men and women) This is the ball you will find at a professional level.
Durability
If you are looking for the best balls on the market, then you want to make sure that you are happy with your choice and that it is durable. There is no point in hunting for the perfect soccer balls and have to replace them in no time.
How is the ball joint together?
Soccer balls are joint using different means. The most durable type of joining a ball is by sewing it. Some manufacturers bond or glue the patches together, but this is not the strongest option
Read the label
The label will let you know about the features that come with the ball. Read these carefully so that you know its specifications, and if they will work for you.
What is it made of
Soccer balls are made up of two parts which are the casing and the bladder. The casing is what covers the ball, whilst the bladder is the compartment inside the ball. Each of theses components can be made from different materials.
The ball is made up of different panels, which are octagon shaped and stitched together. The FIFA approved standard ball, has 32 of the panels.
The casings are made of either PVC (polyvinyl carbonate), PU (polyurethane), a combination of both PVC/PU or synthetic leather. PVC balls are usually cheaper, harder on the outside and very durable. PU balls are typically higher in quality, softer to the touch and more responsive than PVC balls. Synthetic leather balls are designed for the highest level of playing, or professional matches because it delivers increased control. Glossy finishes are often added to all kinds of balls to help reduce water damage, as well as scuffing.
The Bladders are comprised of either latex or butyl. Latex bladders are softer and preferred by many professionals. Butyl bladders have much higher air retention and need to be inflated less often than balls with latex bladders. The average inflation for soccer balls falls in the range of 9-10.5 pounds of air.
Final Thoughts
Going shopping for soccer ball seems like a very simple task, a fun task. But it is not all it is cracked up to be when you realise the myriad of options available to you. If you are new to soccer ball shopping, then your head may just be spinning. A good soccer ball will allow you to be able to practice your craft and hopefully perfect it to a professional level. Soccer balls do not just vary in terms of design and aesthetics, they also vary in size, and other features that make them special.
Remember that the best soccer balls and not always the most expensive. You want to get soccer balls that will suit your needs and help you give great performances out on the pitch. There are many options on the market for soccer balls. Shopping for soccer balls has come a long way in the years. Now you need to sift through the options and make the decision that will help improve your game. We certainly hope that our top picks help you improve your game with the best ball in the game. Ultimately remember it is not just about the equipment but also about your individual skill. The rule of thumb with any sporting discipline is practice practice practice. Happy shopping!