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With the advancement in the game of soccer, the top-rated soccer balls have also evolved over the span of time. The rules and regulations have changed a big deal such that it has brought a change in the strategies to be adopted. Not to forget is that the changes in the game are also a result of the alterations made to the soccer ball so as to make it a quality soccer ball.
Like American football, the very first soccer balls had stitches and seams which later undergone a makeover to a black and white soccer ball. But now, it has metamorphosed to the one with multi-panels and is framed even more technologically to allow a harder kick while avoiding any risk of injury. The reason being its increased softness, which when kicked even with medium strength leads to quicker movement.
Owing to the brisk movement it makes, a myriad of strategies have to be evolved making the game even more exciting. This has also resulted in the evolution of a variety of soccer balls to be used for various purposes, may it be, training, matches, world cup, the type of ground, etc.
Today we are going to discuss all soccer balls. All the details regarding the best soccer balls in the world are given here in this article.
Let’s start with the list of soccer balls.
1.Overall the best soccer ball – Adidas Glider Soccer Ball
Adidas Glider Soccer Ball considered one of the best soccer balls owing to its durability, smooth stitching, superb air retention and availability in different sizes, and of course the brand name.
Who should buy?
People who like a ball for all types of weather can buy Adidas Glider Soccer Ball. The ball comes with air retention and the body is made up of machine-stitched TPU which is wound with nylon. The ball is durable and people can play with it for a long time.
Features
- The ball is made up of machine-stitched TPU and wound with nylon.
- It is durable and people can play with it for a long time.
- The butyl bladder retains air for a long time.
- The ball is available in many sizes and people can buy it for various age groups.
- It is deflated when shipped.
Specifications
Size: 3, 4, 5
Weight: 1 pound
Material : Polyurethane
Air retaining: Yes
Outdoor: Yes
Review
Soccer ball reviews reflect that people like it due to the good quality material used to craft it and is durability. People can play with it on the streets and on the soccer field. The ball is available in various sizes so children and adult both can enjoy playing with it. The ball when shipped is deflated but it can be inflated quickly.
The ball is available at an affordable price and people can buy it for themselves and for children. Safe for children as it is made up of polyester. The features and specifications of the ball have made it a favorite among the children.
Pros
- The ball is made up of machine-stitched TPU and wound with nylon.
- It is durable and people can play with it for a long time.
- The butyl bladder retains air for a long time.
- The ball is available in many sizes and people can buy it for various age groups.
- It is deflated when shipped.
- It comes in an attractive design.
- The ball is available for all age groups.
Cons
- Rough usage cannot be done with this ball.
- Cannot be played on concrete
2.Best Premium match ball -Adidas Performance Euro 16 Official Match Soccer Ball
It is considered the best soccer ball in the world. It is made up of polyurethane. It belongs to the collection of 2016 and professional soccer players use it on the field. The ball absorbs very less water and comes with seamless surface technology. The ball is available in size 5 only and is shipped deflated. The ball was used in Euro 2016 and UEFA European championships.
Who should buy?
People who play soccer or want to practice it can buy this ball. The ball comes with international specifications, which include size, weight, and rebounding properties. The ball has met the requirements of the soccer players and can handle the pressure. This makes it a perfect choice for regular usage.
Features
- Euro 2016 and UEFA European championships have used this ball.
- The ball comes with a smooth and sleek surface.
- The trajectory is enhanced by the presence of the TSBE technology of Adidas. This results in less water absorption and improved touch.
- The performance is enhanced by bladder and cover, which are made up of the best materials.
- The making of the ball is with the best material.
Specifications
Weight: 1.4 pounds
Material: Polyurethane
Size: 5
Air retain: Yes
Review
The ball is made with polyurethane due to which the absorption of water has been reduced and players can play with it for a long time. The ball can be easily handled and people can play with it for a long time as it is soft to touch and can retain air for a long time. People will not get exhausted while playing as the ball is lightweight.
The ball comes with international specifications, which include size, weight, and rebounding properties. It has met with the requirement of the soccer players and can handle the pressure. As a result of which, the ball can be used for high-level matches.
The ball is available in size 5 only and is shipped deflated. It belongs to the collection of 2016 and professional soccer players use it on the field.
The dimensions of the ball are certified by FIFA.
Pros
- The ball retains air for a long time.
- The trajectory is enhanced by the presence of TSBE technology of Adidas. This results in less water absorption and improved touch.
- The performance is enhanced by bladder
- It has strong seams.
- The ball comes with a smooth and sleek surface.
Cons
- Not good for all weather conditions
- Difficult to inflate
3.Best Training ball –Adidas Top Training Soccer Ball
This is considered as the top soccer ball as it is made by using polyurethane and special TPU to have a long life. The TPU material protects the ball from abrasion and increases its life. The ball is available in different sizes so people of every age can play with this ball. The ball is inflated for a long time because of the presence of butyl bladder.
Who should buy?
The ball is available in every size and is the best soccer ball to buy. As the name suggests it is a training ball so the people who want to practice soccer can buy this ball. The ball is made up of high-quality material, which increases its life as the material protects it from abrasion.
Features
- The ball is approved by FIFA.
- Water absorption is less.
- Air retention is long
- The ball has the high-quality performance.
- The absorption of water is minimum due to the presence of a TPU surface.
- The ball can be used in all the weather.
Specifications
Size: 1, 3, 4, 5
Weight: 1.4 pounds
Material used: Polyurethane, special TPU is used for the exterior
Air retaining: Yes
Outdoor: Yes
Review
The ball comes with very good features as discussed earlier, due to which the ball has a long life. People who want to be trained to play soccer can buy this ball. The ball is abrasion-proof due to the presence of TPU on its surface. People can use it outdoors.
Since the ball is available in different sizes, so people of all age groups can play with it. There is no need to fill the ball with air as the butyl bladder helps to retain air for a long time.
Owing to its positive features, it has become the favourite of many people. Weight, air retention, less absorption of water, etc. are some of the features, which have increased the life of the ball.
Pros
- The ball has a thermoplastic urethane cover
- The ball is approved by FIFA
- Water absorption is less
- The ball has high-quality performance
- The absorption of water is minimum due to the presence of TPU surface
- The ball can be used in all weathers
- It is beautiful
- The panels of the ball are stitched by machine
- The butyl bladder retains the air for a long time.
Cons
- The ball is not suitable for beach r concrete grounds.
- It cannot be used as a street soccer ball.
4.Best Match soccer ball – Adidas Soccer MLS Official Match Ball
Polyurethane is used for manufacturing these quality soccer balls and the covering is made with TPU. To have better touch and reduce water absorption. The bladder used to refill air is of high quality that retains the air for a long time. The ball has been rated by FIFA, which tells that it has gone through various kinds of tests before being brought to the market.
Who should buy?
The ball has been developed with high-quality material and people who want to practice or play a match can use this ball. People who want to train themselves in playing soccer can also buy the ball. The ball is free from abrasion because of TPU so it can be used in all kinds of fields and weather.
Features
- The ball comes with a polyurethane cover.
- Butyl bladder is resent to retain air.
- The ball is shipped in deflated form and users have to inflate it to play.
- The TPU cover helps in predicting the trajectory.
Specifications
Weight: 1.4 pounds
Dimension: 2x2x2 inches
Outdoor: yes
Review
This is a new ball launched by Adidas and the company has made some modifications in order to make it the best ball to be played on the field. The surface texture has been improved to make the touch good. The performance of the ball is improved by the presence of a six-panel configuration.
The material used to make the ball is a recycled one, which was extracted from sugarcane.
The ball manufactured by Adidas is of very good quality and people can use to play in all kinds of fields and use it in extreme weather conditions. The materials used to manufacture the ball have increased its life and after buying one, people can be free from buying the new one again for a long time.
Pros
- The ball is available in various sizes.
- The ball is lightweight so handling is easy.
- The butyl bladder helps in retention of air.
- The ball comes with a polyurethane cover.
- The ball is shipped in deflated form and users have to inflate it to play.
- The TPU cover helps in predicting the trajectory.
Cons
- It is very bulky.
- Panel formation is not good.
5.Best Futsal soccer ball – Senda Rio Training Futsal Ball, Fair Trade Certified
This is a low bounce ball, which comes with a special kind of foam in order to provide soft touch. That is the reason for including it in top-rated soccer balls. The cover used in the ball is durable and it can be easily used in hard soccer courts. In order to retain air in the ball, the reinforced bladder has been used. The ball is deflated when shipped and people have to inflate the ball themselves.
Who should buy?
People who want a low bounce ball, which can be easily used on hard soccer courts, can buy this ball. People who want to use the ball in small spaces can purchase it as the ball can be easily controlled in smaller areas. People who are budget-friendly can buy the ball as it is available at an affordable price.
Features
- The ball has a low bounce
- Its size is small.
- It can be played in small spaces.
- The ball is manufactured by machine stitching.
- The materials used to make the ball increased its durability.
Specifications
Size: small
Indoor: yes
Material: Foam & Rubber
Weight: 430g
Circumference: 70cm
Review
This low bounce ball is good for playing on smaller grounds as it can be controlled easily. This durable ball has a reinforced bladder that retains air for a long time. The production of the ball is economic so it is available to the customers at an affordable cost.
No child labour is involved in the production of the ball so the buyers are satisfied with the company’s policy which builds a better trust.
The cover used in the ball is durable and it can be easily used in hard soccer courts. The ball is deflated when shipped and people have to inflate the ball to play.
The bouncing capacity of the ball is low and it can be controlled easily. The air retention property, weight, durability, and other features have made this ball a favourite for the players.
Pros
- It is a low bounce ball.
- It can be controlled in small courts.
- Air retention is long.
- The ball is durable and its life is long.
Cons
- Deflates quickly
- Bulky body
6.Best soccer ball for Kids – Soft Kick Soccer Ball
The ball is manufactured by a foam-backed fabric and people can use it for all kinds of playing and recreational activities. The ball has been designed to train the children to play soccer. The ball is manufactured by stitching it through a machine and the foam gives it a soft touch.
Who should buy?
People who want to train their children to play soccer can buy this ball. The foam used in the ball is soft to touch. Children can play with it easily as it is not hard so they will not get hurt.
Features
- The ball is machine stitched.
- It is good for children as the foam is used to make it.
- While playing to training the children will not get hurt.
Specifications
Circumference: 68.10cm
Material: PVC & foam
Air retention: Yes
Weight: 430g
Review
The ball is very soft and many parents have given a positive review regarding it. They have told that the ball is soft to touch and children can hit it easily. Children and adults can easily control and play with this Soft Kick Soccer Ball.
The ball can be bought for children of all ages and they can play with it on the streets and in playgrounds and has been made with a soft material so it is not harmful to the kids. The ball can be used to train the kids to play soccer.
Pros
- The ball is soft to touch
- Children and adults can play with it easily.
- The ball is light in weight.
- The ball is machine stitched, hence durable.
Cons
- Quality is not good.
- Not fit for adults
7.Best Turf soccer ball – Select Numero 10 Soccer Ball
The ball is available at an affordable price and is approved by NCAA and NFHS. The ball is manufactured by using FPUS leather and its cover is sewn with PU whose depth is 1.5mm. The cover of the ball makes the ball bounces well. People have to inflate this ball with the help of a ball pump.
Who should buy?
The ball should be bought by the people in high school and college as it will best suit them when they play with it on the ground. The ball is available in orange and yellow colour so that it can be easily visible. The ball is balanced due to the presence of zero wing bladder.
Features
- The ball is stitched and can be used by students of high school and college.
- The ball is available in nine different colors.
- The air retaining capacity is less so it has to be inflated regularly.
- A permanent marker can be used on the ball to recognize it.
Specifications
Weight: 1 Pound
Material : FPUS leather, NFHS, PU
Size: 4, 5
Review
The ball is best for high school and college students. It is safe for them and they can play it on their college ground. The ball is coloured with orange and yellow which makes it easier to see. There are other colour options available and people have the choice to one for them.
The ball is available in nine colours though people mostly prefer orange and yellow combination as it makes them see the ball easily. The ball is made up of leather and it is bouncy because of 1.5mm PU cover.
Pros
- The ball has a good bounce.
- The 1.5mm PU cover has increased the bounce.
- The zero-wing bladder helps to balance the ball.
- The ball is available in nine different colors.
- A permanent marker can be used on the ball to recognize it.
Cons
- The ball needs to be inflated at regular intervals.
- Size 4 is not approved.
8.Best Street soccer ball – American Challenge All Terrain Outdoor Rubber Street Soccer Ball
The ball is included in the list of durable soccer balls as it has been made through tough rubber and so it is suitable for rough grounds. The ball comes with four layers of cotton along with a butyl bladder to retain the air inside. A polyester thread is used to sew the ball and can be used for playing on various types of grounds.
Who should buy ?
People who love to play soccer on any type of ground can buy this ball. The ball is available in back colour and is made up of rubber tire. The polyester tire is used to sew the cover, which has increased its bouncing property. The ball should be used with care as there can be chances of an external puncture.
Features
- The ball has been manufactured with a rubber tire.
- The ball can be used on any type of ground.
- It is a streetball and also used for all types of games besides soccer.
- The ball is defalcated when shipped so it has to be inflated.
Specifications
Circumference: 21”
Material: Four layers of cotton lining, rubber bladder
Weight: 0.75 to 1 LBS
Review
This all-purpose streetball has been made for those persons who can play soccer or other such game. The ball has been manufactured with rubber tire. The ball is deflated when shipped so it has to be inflated. Being made up of sung rigid rubber, it is very bouncy. In order to reduce the bounce, less air should be filled. Available in size 2,3,4 and 5.
Pros
- The ball is suitable for rough terrain.
- The life of the ball is very long as it is durable due to the materials used to manufacture it.
- The ball can be used in any type of ground.
- It is a streetball and can be used for all types of games besides soccer.
Cons
- A padded layer is missing, resulting in toes getting hurt.
9.Best indoor soccer ball – Mikasa SX50 Indoor Soccer Ball
It is a traditional indoor soccer ball and is considered the best soccer ball for the money. The ball is hand-stitched and is available only in size 5. The ball is available at a reasonable price.
Who should buy?
People who love to play soccer with a hand-stitched ball can buy it. The ball has a good bounce and people can kick it with ease. People can hit it against the hard boards without worrying about its wear and tear.
Features
- The ball is available in size 5.
- People can hit it on the hard boards
- Kicking the ball is easy.
Specifications
Dimensions: 9x9x9 inches
Weight: 1 Pound
Material : Synthetic
Review
This hand stitched ball can be used for playing, kicking, hitting on hard boards etc. The ball is hand-stitched and has been made with high-quality material. The ball is deflated so people have to inflate it through the ball pump.
The bladder retains the air for a long time so regular inflation is not needed. This bulky ball is good for playing soccer and people can use it on the ground or in the soccer court.
Pros
- The weight of the ball is low.
- The stitching is durable.
- Many types of soccer players can use the ball.
- Butyl bladder retains the air for a long time.
- People can hit it on the hard boards
- Kicking the ball is easy.
Cons
- It is very bulky
- It is very hard.
10.Best Beach soccer ball – Senda Playa Beach Soccer Ball
This soccer ball belongs to the best soccer ball brand and is good for beach soccer. The ball consists of six panels and a TPU cover, which helps in kicking the ball easily on the beach without hurting their foot. The machine has been used to stitch the ball and the foam of 5mm has been included for its softness.
Who Should Buy ?
People who like to play beach soccer can purchase this ball. The 5mm foam inside will protect the foot from hurting. The large panels in the ball help to play it barefoot. The ball can be easily played on sand.
Features
- The ball can be easily played on sand.
- The foam provides a soft touch to the ball.
- The coating on the ball protects it from abrasion.
- The panels help the players to play barefooted.
- The ball can be easily controlled on small grounds.
Specifications
Weight: 13.6 ounces
Size : 4, 5
Material: TPU
Review
The ball is suitable for playing beach soccer as the foam present in it makes it soft and people can play barefooted. The coating on the ball prevents it from abrasion. The bladder is unable to retain air.
Pros
- The ball can be easily played on sand.
- The foam provides a soft touch to the ball.
- The coating on the ball protects it from abrasion.
- The panels help the players to play barefooted.
- The ball can be easily controlled on small grounds.
- It can bear rough circumstances.
Cons
- Needs to be inflated regularly.
- Bladder unable to retain air
11. Adidas Brazuca Mini World Cup Soccer Ball
The ball is stitched by a machine it is durable. The soft-touch of the ball does not hurt the players while playing. Air retention is the responsibility of the butyl bladder, which lets the ball full of air for a long time. The ball is available in size one and the color options are white and multicolor.
Who should buy?
This is a mini ball and people who like to play soccer can buy it. The ball can also be used for practising soccer.
Features
- The cover of the ball is made from high-quality material.
- The bladder is capable of retaining air for a long time.
- The outer layer of the ball is made with TPU.
Specifications
Size: 5
Dimensions: 50x50x50cm
Review
The ball is very soft and can be used indoor and outdoor. The outer layer of the ball is made with TPU. People can buy it to practice sessions. The high-quality material for the cover of the ball protects it from abrasion. The multi-glued panel ball is available in multicolour.
Pros
- The touch is soft.
- The ball can be used indoors and outdoors.
- The ball is available in multiple colours.
- The bladder is capable of retaining air for a long time.
Cons
- The panels have the chance to fall.
- Deflates easily
Now that we know which ones are the best soccer balls, we shall now proceed towards some more details of it. Here we go:
1. Choosing the best soccer ball.
All soccer balls look alike, but all are not the same. We need to consider many factors before buying the best soccer ball. There are many brands, shapes and sizes, quality of material used to make the best one. Here are some tips to choose the best soccer ball.
Look for a good material soccer ball. Sometimes we buy a soccer made of cheap quality plastic which is not lasting and also relatively cheaper.
Price matters. Buy a soccer ball which is of the best quality as well as pocket-friendly.
Check if there is any warranty on the product as if any problem occurs later we can easily replace it.
Take a piece of advice about the good quality soccer balls from people using one or from a coach. It may be a little time consuming but they will guide you to the best soccer ball.
2. Types of a soccer ball.
Soccer balls have a wide variety of different shapes and sizes and different brands. Mainly there are 6 types of soccer balls.
Premium match balls – these balls are FIFA approved balls. The best soccer balls to play with. These balls have passed through many testing requirements which include their shape, air retention performance, water absorption and flight. These are the official match balls for all the big matches conducted. Size 5 is their standard size.
Match ball – It is similar to a premium match ball. It is of high quality but the construction of the differs with the premium ones. This ball is used by the high school and college teams. These balls are also of size 5.
Training ball – This ball is specially designed for training purposes. These are very long lasting. As these balls are used for rigorous training so they should be extremely durable. Training balls start from size 3 to size 5.
Futsal ball – These type of balls are used for playing on hard surfaces. This ball is a little small in size. It provides better friction.
Street balls – These balls are specially made to play on cemented streets with good durability. These balls are made with the material having grips which allow easy control over it.
Indoor ball – These all those common balls which are there in every household who has kids. The surface of the ball is usually smooth, making it easier to play between kids.
3. Features of a soccer ball
Stitching- The best balls are machine stitched for soft touch which in turn, enhances durability.
Presence of butyl bladder – Professional balls are provided with a butyl bladder for best air retention.
No. Of panels- The number of surface panels on a soccer ball are 32. But some new models have 14 or 8 panels. This happens generally in ball size 5,6 and 7. These balls are used in the World Cup and Olympic games.
Aerodynamic – This determines the flight path of the ball.
4. Sizes of the soccer ball
In soccer balls size 5 is the standard size for players over the age of 12 years. Size 5 soccer balls are used by professional soccer players. However smaller sizes are also available for the younger players under the age of 12. They use size 3 soccer balls.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
- What is the size of the soccer ball?
The size of the soccer ball is size 5.
- Which ball is suitable for playing in a garden which has small rocks in it?
A Futsal ball is good to play on rough surfaces.
- Which is the best soccer ball brand?
Nike and Adidas are the best soccer ball brand available.
- Where to buy the best soccer balls?
Online www.amazon.com is the best place to buy soccer balls.
- Do soccer balls come with a pin?
Yes. It does come with a pin.
- What are the best soccer balls made of
Soccer balls are made using two main types of materials.
a) PVC (Polyvinyl carbonate)
b) PU (polyurethane)
Soccer balls made of PVC are usually more affordable. These soccer balls are used for training purposes or indoors.
Soccer balls made of PU are usually premium match balls. Soccer balls made of PU are softer than a PVC soccer ball. All PU and PVC soccer balls are not the same they differ in quality and their usage. PVC and PU soccer balls are constructed using different techniques.
- How to take care of the soccer balls
Everything needs to be taken care of and so is the soccer ball. Soccer balls to need looking after. Taking care of your best soccer ball is not difficult. Here are some tips to keep your soccer ball clean.
Always clean your ball after playing. Wipe it with a damp cotton cloth and if there are tuff mud stains use a mild soap on it to get rid of the stains. Keep your ball clean. Do not use a rough or hard cloth to wipe your ball it may remove all the coatings from the surface of the ball.
Choose the right surface to play with. The ball used on hard surfaces or surfaces with lots of stones will quickly get cuts and will damage your ball very rough. The grass is the ideal place to play with soccer balls. If you are playing on rough surfaces use futsal balls which are specially designed for that.
Air pressure in the ball should be proper. Most balls take between 0.6 and 0.8 bar gauge pressure. Always measure the air pressure by a gauge.
Do not stand or sit on the ball. It will damage your ball.
Avoid penetrating any sharp object in the ball. It may harm your ball severely.
Do not kick your ball against a wall too hard, the ball may go out of shape.
- What brand of a soccer ball used in the world cup?
Adidas Telstar 18 has replaced the Telstar Mechta ball in the World Cup, 2018.
- From where can you buy the best Soccer balls?
Amazon.com is a trusted source to buy the best quality soccer balls.
- Can it be used to play in streets or hard surfaces?
The longevity of the soccer ball depends on the type of ground it is played on. Generally, it is played on grass, but it can be used to play in streets or on hard surfaces. Consequently, the longevity has reduced.
Final Verdict
On the basis of reviews given above, it can be easily extracted which ball/s is/are the wise purchase, such that there is value for money spent.
Accordingly, the Adidas Top Training Soccer Ball is one of the best balls discussed so far. The reason being, its durability, air retention, and its suitability to all weather. As it does not absorb much water it can be used in any weather. Its availability in various sizes makes it suitable for various age groups. Moreover, it is the best training ball owing to the variety of sizes available, as a result, of which it can be used for training children also.
Next in line is Senda Rio Training Futsal Ball, Fair Trade Certified which is the best Futsal soccer ball. This ball is excellently crafted, such that it has low bounce and is easily controllable in the courts. Most suitable for hard courts and people undergoing soccer training can opt for this ball.
And last but not the least, American Challenge All-Terrain Outdoor Rubber Street Soccer Ball is in fact, the best street soccer ball. As the name suggests, it works best on all types of grounds. As the ball is constructed with four linings and a rubber tire tread, it becomes suitable for all types of grounds. Due to a well-built butyl bladder, it can’t retain air for more than 2 months. Consequently, it is a low maintenance ball yet the performance is high.