If you are a parent who wants your child to learn soccer, you need to make sure you get the right ball. The reason is that there are a lot of differences when it comes to the best soccer ball sizes. Depending on what you select will determine whether your child will experience high levels of excitement and fun playing this beautiful game.
If you don’t select the best soccer ball sizes, it increases the chances of ankle and foot injuries. Similarly, if you get one which isn’t appropriate for your child, there is a high chance your little one won’t develop the right shooting, passing, and dribbling skills.
The primary factor which determines which is the best soccer ball sizes for your child is the young one’s age. Given below is a list of sizes you will find in the market, which will help you pick the right one for your kid:
Size 1
Known as “minis,” the best soccer ball sizes which fall into this category have a circumference of 17″ – 20″. You can get this for your child if his/her age is three years old or younger. With this ball, your young one can enjoy kicking it around and having the time of his/her life.
Older players can also use the best soccer ball sizes in this category, as it helps them hone their ball control, touch, and technique. If you are into collecting souvenirs, most of the clubs sell their merchandise in this size.
Size 2
If your child is under the age of five, you should get the best soccer ball sizes in this category. Its circumference doesn’t go beyond 22″ and weighs less than 280 grams (10 ounces). The primary use case for balls of this size is for promotional purposes. However, this ball is excellent for professionals and young children to master ball control and handling.
Size 3
Children who are eight years old or younger should play with size 3 soccer ball. It is the official ball size for players who play in the under eight category. The best ball size in this one has a circumference of 23″ – 24″ and weighs around 10 – 12 ounces (283 – 340 grams).
Due to the weight of this best soccer ball sizes, make sure that children of the appropriate age play with it. Coaches will also make sure they only use balls in this classification, as it is easier for young ones to learn the game of football. The advantage is that it helps them hone their skills, and feel confident about their abilities.
Size 4
Best soccer ball sizes in this classification have a diameter of 25″ – 26″, with an average weight of 12 – 13 ounces (283 – 368 grams). Children who fall under the age groups of 8 – 12 can use this ball for regular practice. It helps them improve their personal skills, as it isn’t difficult to get the ball under control. Children of this age shouldn’t use the size 5 ball, as it is heavy and large, making it an uphill task to improve their ball control and dribbling skills.
Size 5
All players who are above the age of 12 must play with the best soccer ball sizes which fall in this category. It weighs 14 – 16 ounces (410 – 450 grams) and a circumference of 27″ – 28″. These soccer balls are the heaviest and largest in all categories, making it excellent for regular practice and official matches.
If you want to pick the best one for your child, make sure you check for the “FIFA inspected” sign on the best soccer ball sizes. The organization makes sure that the ball has excellent shape retention, size, roundness, pressure, circumference, weight, water absorption, and rebound. However, you will have to shell out a little extra to obtain these types of best soccer ball sizes?
Why should you choose the best soccer ball sizes?
The major reason why you must go for the best soccer ball sizes is the impact it has on the development of the player. The design of every size is for specific age groups, which give them the opportunity to improve their skills. Keep in mind that buying a size five ball and hoping the player will feel comfortable with it in the future won’t work.
Safety is of the utmost importance when learning about this sport, which is why you should choose the best soccer ball sizes. If you choose one which is not for your kid’s age group, he/she can get hurt, if it hits him/her. Similarly, it can injure the tendons and ligaments of your child, which isn’t good in the long run.
Always make sure you select the best soccer ball sizes, depending on the age of your child. Try to go for official balls from certified manufacturers, to ensure they meet the industry standards!
