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How To Buy The Right Soccer Ball
One of the fabulous advantages of soccer is that you don't need much equipment to start playing. But it's not easy to play soccer without a ball! So if you have a child who is keen about playing soccer, you will have to purchase a soccer ball. Faced with a whole range of choices, it's not easy to know which ball is the right one for your child. So let's have a look at how to choose the right soccer ball.
The first thing is to go to a store that has a good selection. If there are only one or two choices, how will you possibly know you've purchased the right one? If possible, the store should have several brands in stock, and at least a few choices of ball for each brand. It also helps if the store has knowledgeable salespeople, so it might be a good idea to ask other soccer players for recommendations.
One of the first things to check is whether the ball has been stitched or laminated. A laminated ball has been glued together and will generally be harder. Mostly the better quality balls are stitched, with some of the most expensive balls being hand stitched.
Apart from the "hardness" of the ball, the feel of a soccer ball is affected by the type of bladder. This is inside the ball and contains the air. If the ball has a butyl bladder, it will usually be harder and cheaper. More expensive balls usually have latex bladders.
Some players will prefer the harder type of soccer ball, particularly if they're planning to use the ball in striking practice. However if you're buying a soccer ball for a younger player, it's generally best to buy a softer ball, particularly if it will be used to practice heading. A PVC plastic ball may be a reasonable choice, if it's specifically designed for youth soccer. You can check the hardness of a soccer ball by pressing your thumb into it. Also be aware that the ball may feel harder if used in cold weather.
Another factor to look at is the size of the ball. Generally, 8 and unders use size 3, 8 to 12 year olds use a size 4, and from 13 years of age on a size 5 ball is used. Size 5 is the standard international size soccer ball. Although it may seem a cheaper option to just buy a size 5 ball and not a smaller size, it can be hard for a younger child to swap from one ball size to another, for example if they practice with a team which uses size 3 balls.
The manufacturer's reputation can also help you decide which soccer ball to purchase. Ask the team coach or an experienced player which brand they recommend. Check to see if the ball has the words "FIFA Approved" or "FIFA Inspected" if you're buying an expensive ball.
Finally, have your child test the ball if you possibly can, even if it's just a few gentle taps around the floor of the sports store. They'll soon tell you whether they like it or not.
A few final words of advice. Remember that soccer balls may get lost, so remember to put your child's name on the ball if they're using it at school or soccer practice. And purchase a quality hand pump - it's important to keep soccer balls properly inflated or else they could get damaged.
To find out more about choosing a soccer ball, check out my site http://www.infoaboutsoccer.com
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