However, one thing we can’t do is play soccer without a ball. This is one of the basic tools of the soccer trade, whether you’re a beginner, a recreational player, or a professional soccer player.

Another thing that connects us all is the question that appears every time we need a new ball: which soccer ball should we get?

Searching for soccer balls online can lead to a ton of confusion. So many manufacturers and options to choose from.

To help with the confusion, we’ve decided to dedicate today’s article to one of the best soccer ball manufacturers in the business: Select.

Best Select Soccer Ball in 2021

There’s one product that has made Select famous. This soccer ball could be the only thing they make and they would still remain one of the top soccer ball manufacturers in the world.

Ladies and gentlemen, we present one of the best soccer balls available for purchase, the Select Numero 10:

Select Numero 10 – The Best Soccer Ball on the Market?

Made out of 32 hand-stitched, thick, padded panels, Select Numero 10, found on Amazon through our link, might seem like an old-school soccer ball.

However, the technology behind it is as modern as it gets. The ball comes with a high-quality construction that guarantees performance, alongside durability. 

Along with the latest technological advancements, the Numero 10 is famous and loved for the authentic feeling it provides the players with. 

The ball is also NFHS and NCAA approved and it has been used in high school and college soccer matches since it first appeared in the early 2000s.

Read on to find out more about this and other Select soccer ball models.

10 Best Select Soccer Balls

Manufacturing soccer balls since 1947, Select has perfected the craft, offering us some of the best products on the market. Here’s our more in-depth list of their best products:

10. Select Future Light Soccer Ball – The Best Select Soccer Ball for Kids

Looking for a premium ball for an aspiring soccer player? That’s exactly what you’ll find with the Select Future Light soccer ball, which you can order now through the Amazon link.

Let’s take a brief look through the points that Select lists as the main reasons why the buyers should choose this model:

• Soft and durable TPU cover
• SR-bladder for precise weight and optimum air retention
• Machine-stitched and glued panels for durability and water uptake prevention

For an adult soccer player, this soccer ball will feel too light. That’s because it’s designed with children in mind.

Available in different sizes, all optimized for kids when it comes to weight, there’s no better soccer ball on the market than the Select Future Light.

By remaining controllable and grippy in all conditions, this ball ensures skill improvement in all conditions. The model is more than good enough to be used as a match ball while being durable enough to withstand everyday use in practice.

The technology used in the Select Future Light is impressive, considering the fact that most manufacturers skimp when it comes to soccer balls aimed at youth.

The TPU cover keeps the ball soft to the touch, provides grip, and improves the durability of the product. The bladder keeps the Future Light true to its name; light and easy to control.

The dual bonding takes further care of the durability aspect, without breaking the bank.

The design of this soccer ball is similar to all other Select balls, while the two available color options keep the younger crowd in mind and maintain the appearance interesting. Once again, the manufacturer ensures to keep the shipping effective and safe by delivering the ball deflated.

All in all, this is an excellent choice for children that have already had their first steps in soccer and who’ve shown some affinity for the sport, requiring a better ball to further improve their skills.

9. Select Viking Soccer Ball – The Best Select Value for Money Select Soccer Ball

If you’re looking for a new ball and you are not too serious about soccer, then you’re probably after a quality product that has a reasonable price.

The Select Viking, which you can check out on Amazon through the link, is both of those things and even more. Let’s take a look into some of this soccer ball’s characteristics:

• Premium quality dual-bonded soccer ball
• PU cover with foam lamination for speed and bounce improvement
• SR-bladder for precise weight and air retention

Select Viking works both on real grass and AstroTurf, as well as in any weather conditions

. Soccer Players whose first contact with the sport comes through this ball will definitely be more than happy with it, while more advanced players won’t find it disappointing, as well – it is definitely good enough to be used by all skill levels, mostly as a practice ball.

The technology applied to the Viking model is more enough to impress even professional soccer players: The dual-bonded panels are machine-stitched and sealed with glue to eliminate the risk of water intake and increase the longevity of the ball.

The PU cover seems to work as Select specifies; it ensures that the ball remains suitable for fast-paced soccer, regardless of the weather conditions. Air retention doesn’t seem to be the problem for this model, at least with our test ball.

Select Viking only comes in one color option, a black, white, and orange combo, which might be the only thing we find as a negative side of this soccer ball. The model also ships deflated, so those who decide to order it will have to keep an air pump on hand.

This soccer ball is not only suitable for beginners, amateurs, and even semi-pros, but it is also NFHS-approved and comes with a two-year guarantee.

This is what makes it an excellent choice for individuals, as well as for schools and soccer camps, as the Select Viking soccer balls are also available in 6, 8, and 12-ball packs.

8. Select Campo Soccer Ball – The Best Introductory Select Soccer Ball

For those who are meeting with soccer for the very first time, there’s no better choice than the Select Campo soccer ball, available on Amazon. 

As the name suggests, this soccer ball is designed with youth soccer camps and newcomers to the game of soccer, so here are some of the things that make it stand out:

• PVC-composite cover for improved softness, bounce, and durability
• Butyl bladder for optimal air retention
• Machine-stitched 32-panel construction

Select Campo works decently on all surfaces, with real grass play being what it excels at. However, once water is introduced to the field, this ball fails to retain the control it shows in dry conditions.

This is definitely an introductory ball and more advanced players won’t be happy with it. Beginners will love it though, both for matches and everyday use.

The technology used within this model is also at an introductory level: The PVC cover does help with the bounce, as the manufacturer specifies, but it makes the ball feel slick and cheap.

The industry standard butyl bladder does ensure air retention, but it doesn’t provide the sense of lightness that comes with more advanced models within Select’s range.

Overall, the Select Campo model fades in comparison with the previous model on the list, but that’s expected.

Select Campo, however, offers more design options, coming in three different varieties. As with most inflatable soccer balls, this ball arrives with no air in it, so having an air pump is a must.

Overall, the Select Campo model is designed with soccer beginners in mind, and it shows. This soccer ball is made for buying in bulk, and the 6 and 8-ball packaging attests to this.

Soccer camps and recreational players will be happy with this ball, while those who are more serious about their intentions with soccer should keep looking.

7. Select United Soccer Ball – The Best Select Practice Ball 

Available on Amazon, Select United soccer ball is the best choice for beginners and amateur soccer players who are after a new everyday ball.

Before exploring the performance, let’s take a look at the characteristics that the manufacturer lists as Select United’s strong points:

• 0.6mm PU cover for durability
• Butyl bladder for optimal air retention
• Machine-stitched

This soccer ball behaves decently on all surfaces, regardless of weather conditions. In the rain, it remains stable and controllable while losing some of the bounce that is present when the pitch is dry.

Overall, this is a perfect practice ball, with just the right amount of softness and balance. 

Select United comes with the manufacturer’s True Flight technology which ensures that the ball goes where you want it to.

The PU cover is there to ensure that the ball lasts through years of regular practices while providing the player with a sense of control and balance.

The butyl bladder retains air well enough, although not as well as the more advanced bladders that come with more expensive models.

When it comes to the design, Select United has something for everyone; from the traditional solid white to the easy-to-spot yellow/red combo. Once again, a ball pump is required to get you going with this soccer ball.

In addition to the technical characteristics that make this soccer ball perfect for practice, Select also provides buyers with a one-year warranty for this model.

To conclude the brief review of the Select United soccer ball, we can only repeat that the title says: This is one of the best practice ball options available on the market. 

6. Select Thor Soccer Ball – The Best Select Soccer Ball for Serious Amateurs

Select Thor, which you can check out on Amazon using the link, might be your next ball of choice, especially if you’re more serious about soccer than an average player is.

This model carries the NFHS and NCAA stamp of approval, making it perfect for high school and college soccer players. In addition, it’s also certified for international play, as evident by the IMS badge. Here’s what Select has to say about their Thor model:

• 1mm PU cover for durability
• 7-wing bladder for a predictable bounce
• Hand-stitched 32-panel design for improved flight and minimum water absorption

This soccer ball not only meets, but it exceeds all expectations for a soccer ball that is at this price point.

The Select Thor flies right where you want it, remains controllable even when the rain is pouring, and provides a feeling of balance that not many competitors’ products offer. These all more than justify its popularity among soccer players of all skill levels.

The technology applied to the Thor model is highly impressive: The PU cover makes it seem indestructible, while not sacrificing on the grip with excessive slickness.

Once it bounces off the ground, the ball won’t surprise you by going in a random way; it’s always where the player expects it to land, proving that the 7-wing bladder technology works like a charm.

The hand-stitched design emits a sense of quality and durability that just can’t be matched by any machine-stitched ball.

Select Thor can be found in multiple colors, but the most commonly available one is the model’s traditional combination of white, black, and green. Just like all other soccer balls on this list, Thor ships deflated.

Combining all of the positives listed with the manufacturer’s two-year warranty, Select Thor is a no-brainer for soccer players who are not willing to compromise with their next soccer ball purchase.

5. Select Diamond Soccer Ball – The Best Affordable Select Soccer Ball

Select Diamond, available on Amazon, is another soccer ball for those who want a premium product at a reasonable price.

The IMS badge of approval confirms that this ball is suitable for official matches, as well as casual play and practices. Here are some of the things Select finds to be this model’s selling points:

• TPU fil lamination with 2mm of TPE foam
• Butyl bladder
• Hand-sewn 32 panel technology.

Everything that the manufacturer lists translate brilliantly to the field: Select Diamond is a joy to play with, offering exceptional control and extra soft touch, both on artificial and real surfaces.

Once it rains, the ball tends to bounce a little less predictably, but still remains controllable and balanced. 

Select didn’t only build the Diamond model for performance, but they also built this soccer ball to last, as evident by the TPU cover quality and the hand-stitching.

The signature True Flight technology is once again employed to make sure that the ball goes exactly where the player kicks it.

With just a single color option available, Select Diamond’s design is performance-oriented: The white and blue combination ensures that the ball remains visible, enabling players to react quicker. Note that the ball will arrive deflated.

This should be the go-to soccer ball for every player that doesn’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on a new ball, without sacrificing performance and durability.

Adding to all of its qualities, the Diamond model comes with a two-year warranty from the manufacturer. In addition to the IMS certification, Select Diamond also receives our badge of approval.

4. Select Super Soccer Ball – The Best Select Match Soccer Ball

Available for viewing and orders on Amazon, Select Super is one of the most commonly recommended matchday soccer balls.

This ball represents the crossing of the line between amateur and professional soccer balls that Select makes. Here’s what the manufacturer lists as this model’s strong points:

• Made of high-quality synthetic leather
• Zero-wing bladder for a lively bounce
• Hand-stitched for maximum performance and durability

Providing the player with a light touch, the perfect amount of softness, and an incredible sense of balance and control, Select Super stands up to the very high expectations that come at this level.

All of the listed attributes remain unchanged even in the toughest weather conditions, including rain and wind. The Super does, however, excel on grass, while its performance is slightly hindered by artificial surfaces.

Even though the leather on this model is synthetic, it definitely adds to the element and sense of quality. The technology applied to the Select Super also includes a foam layer that is responsible for the previously mentioned softness and light touch. 

Select Super is designed with professional players in mind, which means that the design was more oriented towards performance and visibility rather than towards being aesthetically pleasing.

Still, three-color patterns are available, which is more than enough options for the average player to choose from. Again, don’t expect the ball to arrive inflated and have a pump ready.

As with most premium soccer balls, be ready to add air more often than with low-maintenance, amateur balls.

As proof of their confidence in the Supermodel, Select provides buyers with a three-year warranty. If this isn’t enough to convince you to make the purchase, this model is also FIFA-approved for professional competitions.

3. Select Royale Soccer Ball – The Choice of Professionals

Ever wondered which soccer ball do the pros choose? You’d be surprised that they don’t always go with the most expensive option.

Like most of us, professional soccer players look for the best mix of performance, durability, and looks. Select Royale, which you can order on Amazon, offers just that, and perhaps even more. These are some of its key characteristics:

• Japanese PU leather for durability
• Latex bladder for a softer touch and improved bounce
• Hand-stitched 32 textured panels for improved control and flight

When testing this ball, it was clear at first kick why it’s the one professional soccer players commonly go for. The Select Royale model performs like a dream on every surface imaginable, with no major shifts between behaviors on grass or AstroTurf, as well as in dry or wet conditions when played in open.

Light and soft to the touch, this ball makes you feel like you’re a much better soccer player than you actually are. This is a ball that can be used for daily skill improvement as a practice ball, and can also serve as a game ball with no issues.

Select Royale comes with a leather exterior that makes it extremely durable. The 1.88mm PU textured cover takes care of the bounce and touch, as the manufacturer suggests, but it also ensures grip and traction in all conditions.

There are 5 color options for the Royale model, from the subtle black and white combination to the louder and more visible white/light green.

Note that a ball pump is once again a must, as the ball is shipped with no air in it. Also note that, as with most premium leather soccer balls, controlling and adding the air is more common than with simpler, cheaper balls.

As evident by the three-year warranty that Select provides its customers, Royal is a safe bet. This ball is also NFHS, NCAA, and IMS approved, as a further testament of its quality.

We definitely recommend it for all levels of play; from local fields that have trees instead of posts to official matches.

2. Select Brillant Super Soccer Ball – The Prestigious One

This is where those who are sparing no expanse come in; we’ve finally reached the high-end of the Select soccer balls. Available through our Amazon link, Select Brillant is not something you commonly see at the local soccer field.

This prestigious soccer ball is there to satisfy the most demanding players, and it offers a lot for its high price:

• Premium Teijin microfiber synthetic leather cover
• Zero-wing latex bladder for improved bounce and touch
• Hand-stitched

More than comfortable softness, stability, and an insanely accurate and predictable bounce are just some of the first things we noticed with this ball.

Select Brillant maintains all of these qualities, along with an extraordinary sense of control and balance, wherever you take it. The ball remains the same even on wet grass.

With this soccer ball, missing the mark due to the lack of grip will quickly become a thing of the past. The exactly right amount of slickness helps with this as well.

The technology used in the build process of this ball is what makes it so brilliant: The premium top cover provides the ball with a lively bounce and a soft touch.

The hand-stitched technology with golf ball textured surface is what gives this ball grip and optimal aerodynamics, and it’s what Select keeps for its top-of-the-line products.

Available in more than half a dozen patterns and color options that enhance visibility, Select Brillant has players that are used to classic Select designs, as well as the ones with more modern soccer ball preferences, in mind.

An air pump is a must for this model, as it needs to be inflated on arrival as well as on a regular basis to ensure optimum performance.

Select Brilliant is one of the best soccer balls available on the market, without a doubt. Its three-year warranty and FIFA badge of approval are a guarantee of quality, and we are more than glad to vouch for its performance.

1. Select Numero 10 Soccer Ball – The Best All-around Select Soccer Ball

Available for order on Amazon, Select Numero 10 soccer ball returns to the list once again, and for a good reason: it is the best all-around soccer ball that Select has to offer.

While its performance might not be directly comparable to the Brillant model, the Numero 10 is a more than capable soccer ball that can hold its own against much more expensive products. Here are some of the main advantages of Select Numero 10:

• PU cover laminated with neoprene foam for softness
• Premium Zero-wing latex bladder for optimal bounce
• Hand-stitched 32 panel design for durability and aerodynamics

As thousands of soccer players around the world can confirm, Numero 10 behaves like a dream on the field. The ball is easy to control, has excellent balance, and bounces and flies in a way that never comes as a negative surprise.

The top cover is soft with just the right balance of grip and slickness, and all of these characteristics are maintained even in the pouring rain.

The technology involved in the build process of Select Numero 10 is no less impressive: Premium materials ensured that we felt impressed from the first contact with the ball.

The feeling of durability and top-notch quality is further supported by the latex bladder and hand-stitching.

The gold ball texture on the outside of the ball ensures grip and leaves the user feeling like they have a much more expensive product on their hands. This ball is more than suitable for everyday use in practice sessions, as well as for matches.

Color options are also plentiful; from visibility-driven designs to the standard pure white, there’s something for everyone. Once ordered, Select Numero 10 arrives deflated, so be ready with an air pump.

This ball, like most high-performance soccer balls, requires topping off the air every few days in order to maintain all of the qualities we love about it.

There’s a reason why this is one of the top-selling soccer balls in the world: The Select Numero 10 is reasonably priced, offers excellent performance, and the build quality of it is exceptional.

In addition, this soccer ball can be used in official matches as it’s NFGS, NCAA, and IMS approved.

In a huge event, Adidas’ marketing team presents the soccer ball that merges the host country’s culture, spirit, and traditions with the latest technology in sports equipment.

Every four years, a new soccer ball emerges, new colors, new technology, new… materials? What are soccer balls made of anyway?

The soccer balls we use nowadays are made of a synthetic leather cover and a rubber bladder. The outer covering is made of pieces of different shapes according to each ball model, and they can be stitched or glued with latex adhesive.

A cloth made of cotton, natural or artificial, helps to stiffen the synthetic leather covering. 

Soccer balls evolved alongside the sport. The first ones were made of animal bladders, mostly pigs, so their size, shape, and quality depended on the animal’s characteristics.

One day, the bladder was covered with leather for more consistency and a better body. Then the irruption of Charles Goodyear and his vulcanized rubber changed the soccer balls’ universe forever. 

What are soccer balls made of?

The high-end soccer balls used in every FIFA tournament are made of synthetic leather, with a latex bladder ball inside. 

Modern soccer balls are made of either synthetic leather, PVC (polyvinyl carbonite), PU (polyurethane), or a combination of PVC and PU, that’s for the outer part. Inside modern soccer balls, there is a rubber bladder with a valve. 

The majority of the standard soccer balls have thirty-two panels, twenty black hexagonal, and twelve white pentagonal shaped.

Balls in World Cups used the thirty-two-panel model from 1970 to 2002.  

For the bladder, the story is a little bit different. First, it would be necessary to say that there are three types of bladders nowadays; the latex bladder ball, the butyl bladder ball, and the synthetic rubber bladder ball.

1. The Latex Bladder Ball. This kind of bladder offers superior responsiveness to the players’ touch. It bounces more and better. And it’s the chosen one for the biggest matches and competitions. Its only defect is that it doesn’t retain the air for long periods and needs to be refilled frequently. 
2. The Butyl Bladder Ball. Soccer balls with butyl bladders can retain the air for weeks. That makes them the favorites for training and regular matches. On the other hand, their bouncing is not that good, and they’re slightly heavier.
3. Synthetic Rubber Bladder Ball. The cost to produce this bladder is low compared to the other two, and its production takes half the time. It retains the air better than the latex bladder but worse than the butyl. 

Between the outer cover and the bladder, soccer balls have the lining. A cloth made of cotton or nylon, is placed there to increase the player’s control over the ball and make it more comfortable to kick. 

High-performance soccer balls have several layers in the liner, while cheap balls have just two or four layers—the fewer liner layers, the hardest it to control it, and the less pleasant it to kick it. 

Lastly, modern balls have air valves. They can be made out of silicone or butyl. Silicone valves are used more often in high-performance soccer balls. They’re soft, and the needle to inflate them goes in smoothly.

Butyl valves are more rigid; they keep the air for more extended periods than the silicone ones. 

Modern soccer balls have less than thirty-two panels; the Adidas Telstar 18 used in Russia’s last World Cup has six. This is because experts believe that when a footballer kicks a joint, the shot loses accuracy. 

So far, Adidas’s improvement to every new ball performed very well, with one exception, the Jabulani ball, created for the World Cup in South Africa in 2010. 

What happened with the Jabulani ball was unpreceded. Players struggle to decipher the secrets of the ball. England goalkeeper David James described the Jabulani as dreadful and horrible. 

It took 43 games of the South African World Cup, more than 64 hours of soccer until a player hit the goal in a free-kick. 

Before that, every single free-kick would hit the clouds, at best. According to the Technological Research Centre of the Sao Paulo University, the absence of stitches and its perfect spheric shape made the air go around and on top of it, not helping it go down at a certain point.   

What machines are used to make a soccer ball?

For the outer covering, two different machines are necessary, but it can be only one. The difference is the method chosen to add the cotton layer to the synthetic leather; it can be done by hand or with the press.

1. The Press. The synthetic leather and the cloth used to stiffen the outer covering go through the press and come up united in the other end, glued with latex adhesive.
2. Die-cutting press machine. This equipment cuts the synthetic leather into hexagons and pentagons. It’s a simple machine equipped with dies shaped as either hexagons or pentagons. The leather is placed on the device that descends upon it and cuts the panels.

The process of making the synthetic rubber (SR) bladder ball, the most common of the bladders, requires more machines than the outer cover. Let’s see.

1. Raw Rubber Cutter. The first step is to prepare the natural rubber to be processed. Big chunks of rubber are cut into smaller ones to ease its processing.
2. Internal Mixer Machine (Kneader Machine). This equipment is a two-roll mill. The rubber goes through the mills and gets mixed.
3. Roller calender. This is a four-roll mill machine, and it turns the rubber into a 30 or 35 cm sheet that rolls into the next device.
4. Automatic Powdering Machine & Slice Cutting. The sheet coming from the previous machine is sprayed with powder and cut into 50 cm long pieces approximately.
5. Inner Bladder Forming Machine. After the valve is applied, this device unites the edges of the bladder and gives it form.
6. Inner Bladder Vulcanized Machine. This machine uses sulfur and heat to make the rubber more resistant and durable.  

But, as we can imagine, it wasn’t always like that. In the middle of the 1800s, people used pig bladders covered in leather. People would blow into the bladder to the desired size, then they would cover it up, and then just play.

However, not all pigs are the same, nor their bladders, so soccer balls back then didn’t share a size pattern. Balls didn’t even follow the same bouncing behavior after being kicked. 

In 1855, Charles Goodyear patented the first vulcanized rubber bladder ball, opening a whole new world of possibilities. Thanks to him, H.J Lindon developed one of the first inflatable rubber bladders for soccer balls a few years later.  

Lindon improved Goodyear’s rubber bladder; he added the valve so balls could be inflatable. It’s been reported that Lindon’s inspiration was his wife’s death.

Apparently, H.J Lindon’s wife died of a lung condition caused by blowing so many pig bladders. 

Soccer balls improved a lot from Lindon’s creation to the first world cup, played in 1930 in Uruguay. 

How much does it cost to make a soccer ball?

The average cost of producing a professional soccer ball is around $20 and $30 in some cases. It’s shallow if compared to the stores’ soccer balls’ prices, between $150 and $200. The reason is that Adidas, Nike, and most of the leader brands decide to manufacture them in Pakistan and China. 

Pakistan is arguably the world capital of soccer balls production. The country exports more than 200 million soccer balls per year. The city of Sialkot has over 2,000 factories dedicated entirely to soccer balls’ output. 

In Pakistan, soccer balls’ factories represent a lot more than an income resource. Many women in Pakistan can’t find a job; still, at least 40% of their workers are females in soccer ball factories.

The production cost of producing a soccer ball is quite a controversial topic. For instance, for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, social dumping made Adidas change its production headquarters from China to Pakistan.

The Brazuca, as the ball it’s called, was sold for nearly $200, more than double the average monthly salary of a Pakistani employee of a soccer ball manufacturing company. 

The German company did not divulge the production cost of the Brazuca. 

How to make a soccer ball step by step

The process of making a soccer ball can be divided into four steps. 

1. Lamination. This is the process where the outer cover is glued to its back up cloth to ensure more resistance and stiffness. It can be done in the press or by hand. 
2. Cutting panels. The rectangle one by one and a half meters panel is cut into hexagons and pentagons. The panels are separated into groups of 32. Twenty hexagons and twelve pentagons. 
3. Printing process. Once they’re cut and separated, each panel group of 32 is painted following each soccer ball design.
4. Hand stitching. When the printing process is over, the panels are stitched together.

The 25 meters long synthetic leather roll is cut into rectangles of one by one and a half meters. These square-shaped sheets are taken into the die-cut press machine. 

It’s common to use two die-cutting machines—one equipped with hexagonal dies, the other with pentagonal shapes. 

After that, the panels are analyzed, and the defective ones are discarded. The hexagonal and pentagonal-shaped dies not only cut the panels but also cut tiny holes along their perimeter, facilitating the stitching process. 

Once the panels passed quality control, they were packed in groups of 32 and handed to the stitchers. The balls are stitched in halves. After each half is completed, they go to the final step of assembly.

A stitcher will unite the two halves, insert the rubber bladder, and close the ball.   

For modern balls, like the Brazuca used in Brazil 2014 or the Telstar 18 used in Russia, the procedure is slightly different.

For starters, these balls have no stitches. They’re glued; they’re regularly and repeatedly tested to ensure high performance. 

Next is the regular procedure of a modern ball production process of a factory in Sialkot, Pakistan.

1. The panels are cut. A machine cuts the panels according to the ball’s design.
2. Painted. Then, the panels are painted.
3. Baked. After painting, the panels go through heat treatment to ensure color’s endurance.  
4. Stamped. After the heating process, each panel gets FIFA’s stamps with different information. Manufacturer, name of the ball, and so forth.
5. Heated again. The panel’s second wave of heat is to ensure the stamp’s durability.
6. Stamped again. The panels go through a final process of stamping to add some details. 
7. Final heat. The panels are exposed to 150°F (almost 66°C).
8. Glued. A machine applies glue to the panel’s edges.
9. Assembled. After receiving the glue, the panels are put together over a circular-shaped mold.
10. Blow-dry. The balls receive the heat from the hair-dryer-looking device so the glue can settle and solidify. 
11. Filled in. Once the bladder is installed inside the ball, it’s inflated.
12. Polished. When the ball is inflated and complete, it gets wiped and polished. 
13. Weigh. After the ball is inflated and polished, they’re put over the scale to certify they match FIFA’s regulations. Then, they’re ready to get tested.

As the process is remarkably precise, that makes the balls differ little to nothing among them. It would be fair to say that the same ball used in an official match is the one we can get at any Adidas or Nike store. 

After the balls are finalized, they get tested. 

A machine would throw them at 45 miles per hour (almost 75 km/h) against a solid metal plate to simulate a player’s kick during a game. To ensure every soccer ball can resist the best strikers’ kicks, this test is repeated five thousand times with each ball. 

Balls are also tested to perform in all weathers. They get water-tested. A machine presses the ball against a tiny pool full of water.

The point of this test is to ensure that water doesn’t go inside the ball, changing its weight, responsiveness, sensitivity to the touch, and of course, it’s bouncing.  

They’re also tested to perform in the heat. To test balls’ resistance to heat, they’re baked for seven days at almost 100°F (almost 38°C).

What is the best material for a soccer ball?

As we mentioned before, most balls are made of synthetic leather, PVC (polyvinyl carbonite), PU (polyurethane), or a combination of PVC and PU. 

Every material offers its pros and cons. 

1. PVC Balls. Balls made of this material are usually more rigid and more durable. They have more significant water resistance and tend to last longer than the others. PVC balls are also the cheapest.
2. PU Balls. Softer than PVC balls, PU balls also have a higher responsiveness to touch. 
3. Synthetic Leather. This kind of soccer ball is used in high-level soccer matches. It’s responsiveness, and general performance is much higher than PVC and PU balls. 

There are a few more factors to be considered when picking a soccer ball. 

1. Stitched or glued. To practice, high-performance soccer is recommended to use stitched balls since the glued ones are usually less predictable, and their responsiveness is not that good.
2. The number of panels. Balls with less amount of panels tend to respond better when players try curved shots. The regular 32-panel soccer ball is more comfortable to control for beginners; it’s harder to perform curved shots with it, but it is still a beginner-friendly ball.  

Apart from the standard 32-panel size 5 ball used in soccer, they’re also a few alternatives.

1. Turf Soccer Balls. It’s the name given to the regular PVC soccer balls we found in supermarkets. They are designed for amateur fun. They’re not meant for the professional practice of the sport. 
2. Indoor Soccer Balls. They are also size 5, but they’re designed to bounce less than the regular soccer balls. 
3. Beach Soccer Balls. A size 5 ball designed exclusively to be kicked with bare feet. They tend to have bright colors to make it easier to identify in the sand. 
4. Futsal Soccer Balls. This size 4 ball is smaller despite its weight being the same as a regular size 5 ball. They are also designed to bounce less. 

Finally, to make a soccer ball last longer, there are a few tips to be followed. 

1. Keep it clean. Even when balls get dirty every time we used them, it’s a good idea to keep them clean and free of filth to prolong their usable life. 
2. Use it inflated. It’s vital to use it fully inflated. Balls perform better at their specified air pressure. Most balls have imprinted in their panels the right amount of recommended pressure. 
3. Don’t sit on it. Apart from being dangerous, balls are not meant to support 150 pounds (70 kg) on top of them. This might deform the ball and make it lose its sphericality.
4. Mind the terrain. Besides this tip is mostly about esthetics, it’s important you consider that soccer balls made for playing in the grass, will lose their stamps and colors if used in concrete, or another rough surface. 

Following these tips will ensure a healthy and long life for any soccer ball.

You might already have found the right soccer field to play on, and you might have enough friends lined up to play with. All you’re missing is a soccer ball. With this basic element of the game, one question rises; which soccer ball should you get?

Choosing a soccer ball can be a difficult task, as there are thousands of choices on the market. They come in various sizes, weights, and material compositions.

Frankly, choosing the right one can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why this article exists – to help you choose the right soccer ball for your needs.

Without going into too many unnecessary details, below you’ll find the list of the 10 best deflatable soccer balls on the market. 

Before jumping into the list, let’s answer one crucial question: What are the benefits of a deflatable soccer ball? The answer has multiple parts:

For one, easy shipping and storage; soccer balls filled with air from the factory can require a lot of unnecessary packaging material. This makes them harder to store at the warehouse, as well as more expensive to deliver, not to mention how ecologically irresponsible this type of packaging can be.

Secondly, a deflatable soccer ball can be blown up to your preference; most soccer players’ softness preferences are different.

Finally, a deflatable soccer ball is easy to transport, store, and maintain by its end-user. Going to the seaside? Just deflate it and stick it in a bag.

Without further ado, let’s take a look at the 10 best deflatable soccer balls for 2021: 

1. Under Armour DESAFIO 395 Soccer Ball

The Under Armour DESAFIO 395 model comes in sizes 3, 4, and 5, meaning that it can accommodate soccer players of all ages. Some of this ball’s main features are:

• Under Armour TOUCHSKIN technology for excellent feel and soft touch
• TPU cover for improved power transfer
• EVA foam layer that improves softness
• High rebound rubber bladder

When it comes to looks, the UA DESAFIO soccer ball has a classic 32-panel design, which doesn’t seem outdated; you can check out the options through our link on Amazon.

With the UA logo, as well as the white/black and white/red variations to choose from, even those who are looking for the aesthetic element first won’t be disappointed. 

The first kick impression for this soccer ball is that it is similar to others in its price range. The UA Desafio is well-built, it holds air, and has an excellent texture.

It has the same bounce on pavement and grass, even though it might be a bit too slick on wet surfaces. This is, undoubtedly, an excellent choice for practice, or even an amateur match, ball.

2. Adidas Glider Soccer Ball

We’ve mentioned the Adidas Glider Soccer Ball before, and we’re mentioning it again for a reason. The reason is simple: it is one of the best choices in its price range.

Available in sizes 3, 4, and 5, this ball is suitable for players of all ages. Here are some of its characteristics:

• 100% TPU cover
• Machine stitched surface
• Rubber bladder

When ordering the Adidas Glider soccer ball, one can’t help but notice the wide array of available colors.

However, the lack of the standard white-on-black option might be considered a negative for some. Those who are into bright and happy colors will love this one.

Moving on to the mechanical characteristics of the ball, the first impression is that the Adidas Glider is a modern, slick soccer ball, and you can see for yourself by ordering it on Amazon. 

Nevertheless, it remains easy to control even in wet conditions. Newcomers and amateurs, as well as casual players, will be more than happy with this ball, both for practicing and games.

Those who are used to playing with a rougher soccer ball should keep looking.

3. Wilson NCAA Forte Fybrid II Soccer Cup Game Ball

The Wilson Forte Fybrid II briefly moves us on to the more serious waters. This is a serious soccer ball, for advanced players and amateurs who want to spare no expense.

One disadvantage might be that it’s not available in sizes smaller than 5. Here are some of its main features:

• Fybrid Fused Technology minimizes moisture to extend durability
• Geometrically optimized for precise strikes
• Micro-Textured Cover improves control
• Performance foam lining for higher energy return
• Advanced carcass and bladder construction maintain the shape

Even though this soccer ball is only available in two colors, the looks should satisfy all tastes. The graphics are optimized for visibility, while the overall design might seem unusual at first glance.

The reason behind this is the fact that Wilson used a 20-panel design that improves striking control.

The Forte Fybrid II is no joke, as the quality is apparent; check it out through our link on Amazon. It has a texture that feels much more solid than the slicker, cheaper soccer balls, and the outer padding is top-notch.

If you have money to spare, definitely go for this one. After all, there’s a reason why it’s the official ball of the NCAA College Cup Championship.

4. Adidas UNIFORIA Club UEFA Soccer Ball

Adidas UNIFORIA is a machine-stitched soccer ball that borrows its design from the official ball graphics of the main European soccer tournament.

This soccer ball comes in sizes 3, 4, and 5, which means that all age groups can find the right fit. Let’s look at its features:

• 100% thermoplastic polyurethane
• Built for scrimmages
• Butyl bladder

Available in half a dozen color variations, Adidas Uniforia definitely caters to those who prefer a bright soccer ball design. Even though it might seem flashy, the ball remains highly visible even when playing in the dark, especially in its Solar Yellow color.

The stitching gives this ball a solid feel, and it remains the same after being put through its paces for a few months. The bounce is excellent on all surfaces while the ball loses some of the control it has naturally on wet grass.

All in all, Adidas has it right; this soccer ball is made for scrimmages and practice, and using it for games might prove to be a struggle.

Due to bright color options, it might be a great way to spark an interest in soccer in children. Order the Adidas Uniforia soccer ball on Amazon now.

5. Mitre Delta Professional Soccer Ball

Mitre Delta might not be one of the first choices to come to mind when picking a new soccer ball, but it definitely could be the right one.

Available in sizes 4 and 5, this soccer ball is meant for players over the age of 12. It should be noted, however, that there might be some size discrepancies, as the size 5 ball might be just a bit smaller than the regular. Here’s a brief list of its attributes:

• FIFA-approved soccer ball
• Hyperseam technology reduces moisture and extends the durability
• Hyperfoam material and unique design ensure speed and agility

Mitre Delta is available on Amazon in 2 colors; a yellow that improves visibility, and a white that caters to the more traditional soccer players. The 14-panel design is a curiosity, but its effects are apparent.

This soccer ball proudly wears its FIFA-approved badge. This mid-level professional soccer ball delivers excellent quality and performance.

Whether you’re playing on grass or Astro, this ball will remain easily controllable, while power delivery is not lost on any surface, dry or wet. Air loss is minimal if any. Mitre Delta is commonly used in semi-pro leagues, so buying one for practice and games won’t lead to disappointment.

6. Wilson Traditional Soccer Ball

Searching for a soccer ball online most commonly leads to this model. That’s why we’ve decided to test the Wilson Traditional Soccer Ball.

This soccer ball is available in sizes 3, 4, and 5. The manufacturer lists these features as its selling points:

• Machine-sewn for improved durability
• Synthetic leather cover for durability
• Butyl rubber bladder for improved air and shape retention

Available in just 2 colors, the traditional black and white pattern and the slightly less traditional black and blue, this Wilson soccer ball is definitely made for soccer purists who are not looking to spend much. 

Getting the soccer ball out of the packaging one can’t help but notice that the manufacturer has tried to save when designing the product.

The materials feel cheap and low-quality, most likely because they are just that. However, once inflated, the ball bounces nicely, and it can be more than useful for practice with young children.

Your pets might also love this ball. The Wilson Traditional Soccer Ball, which you can see on our Amazon link, is great for kicking around casually, but it’s definitely not the right choice for those more serious about soccer.

7. Mitre L30P Soccer Ball

Available in sizes 2, 3, 4, and 5, the Mitre L30P Soccer Ball might be just what you’re after. The size 2 availability makes it the perfect first soccer ball for a toddler. That’s not all it offers, here are some of Mitre L30P’s technical characteristics:

• Machine-stitched TPU ball that offers a balanced soft touch
• Designed for improved visibility
• Developed to get the most out of training

Mitre L30P soccer ball, available on Amazon, comes in 7 different colors, with subtle graphics that are aimed at improving visibility.

The 30-panel construction improves durability, while not making the ball look weird. What does it feel like when kicked around, you might ask?

This is Mitre’s most popular training ball, and it is immediately clear why; regardless of the weather conditions, this soccer ball just works great for practice.

The soft foam lining is there to offer a great first touch, with plenty of grips. The ball works great both on grass and AstroTurf.

This is another soccer ball designed for practice, and it shows. For matches, you might need to look for something lighter and slightly less grippy.

A minor issue with air retention is present, but it’s nothing that a small pump can’t handle. You won’t need to add air more than once a week, depending on your use. 

8. Adidas Glider 2 Soccer Ball

The Adidas Glider 2 is another model we’ve mentioned in previous texts. This soccer ball is available in sizes 3, 4, and 5, so the majority of players won’t have an issue finding their fit. Glider 2 is characterized by the following:

• 100% TPU cover
• Machine-stitched surface
• Rubber bladder

This model comes with a relatively poor choice of colors. This might be a subjective opinion, but a soccer ball that comes in colors named Shock Pink and Power Red is not everyone’s cup of tea.

However, once you get over the colors, the Adidas Glider 2 is a revelation.

The build quality is exceptional for the price, and, overall, this soccer ball looks like it should cost much more than it does. The Glider 2, which you can check out on our Amazon link, is a responsive soccer ball, and it offers the perfect amount of sponginess while not sacrificing precision.

At this price point, there might be no better choice, both for practice and match days. As with the majority of deflatable soccer balls, one drawback might be the occasional air loss.

Pay attention to this before leaving the house for the game or practice.

9. Adidas Capitano Soccer Ball

As with most of the deflatable soccer balls listed so far, the Adidas Capitano comes in sizes 3, 4, and 5, ensuring that soccer players of all ages can enjoy this classic ball.

The list of technical features lists, but is not limited to, the following:

• 100% TPU cover
• Machine-stitched construction
• Butyl bladder for improved air retention

Adidas Capitano is available in almost 20 different colors and patterns, and you can find out more about the pricing by visiting our Amazon link.

This means that all soccer players, from those who like traditional designs to those preferring modern, flashy ones, can find the right one.

The Tricolore design inspired by the ’98 World Cup is the one to go for if you ask me.

This soccer ball confirms one hypothesis we’ve had for a long time; Adidas makes some great soccer balls. In addition to cool designs, the Capitano soccer ball also comes with a great feel, exceptional control, and a sense of precision that not many balls at this price point provide.

Even though it might seem shiny out of the box, there are no grip issues. After months of use, the Capitano soccer ball we tested remained unchanged and unaffected by the surfaces it was used on, which included more than just a grass field.

One thing to keep in mind with this soccer ball is that there are a lot of poorly made copies online, so look for reputable sellers when making a purchase.

10. Nike Pitch Training Soccer Ball

Nike Pitch Training is a soccer ball that is not meant for the youngest soccer crowd, as it’s only available in sizes 4 and 5. Still, the majority of players will be happy with the sizes offered. This soccer ball is characterized by the following:

• Durable and smooth casing
• Rubber bladder for improved air and shape retention
• Graphic design that improves tracking

With just 2 color options available, Racer Blue Silver and Total Orange, Nike Pitch Training soccer ball, available on Amazon through the link, might not be everyone’s first choice.

However, the aesthetic impairment is more than worth the high visibility that these designs provide.

The 12-panel construction ensures that this soccer ball flies right where you want it while keeping it durable through years of kicking around.

Despite being shiny, it still grips and remains controllable even on wet grass. If you haven’t guessed it from the name, the Nike Pitch Training soccer ball is designed for practice.

It could be used as a matchday ball for those who prefer to play with a slightly heavier soccer ball.  Some issues with air leakage might be possible, but it’s nothing that a few pumps of air once a week can’t solve.

When ordering soccer balls online, there’s a common mistake people tend to make: choosing the wrong size. Here’s a simple guide on soccer ball sizes and which one to choose:

• Size 2: This site is meant for skill development in children. Choose it for those under the age of 5.
• Size 3: This size is called a Junior size. Choose it for children aged 8 or younger.
• Size 4: This is a Youth sized soccer ball. Players aged 8-12 should choose this size.
• Size 5: This is an Adult/Professional size. Players aged 12 and above should choose this size.

There are dozens of options for deflatable soccer balls available online.

To help you choose the right one, we took the time to research, order, and test some of the most popular models in order to come up with this list of the 10 best models.

You might be thinking that you could just order the most popular option and be done with it, however, you would be wrong:

When looking for a new soccer ball, some of us pay attention to the color options first. Others look at online reviews to ensure that the ball will last a long time.

The third group goes out of their way to determine how much can this new ball help them improve.

Whether you belong to either of these groups or a mixture of the three, your new soccer ball has been listed above and you won’t regret ordering any of them.

The latter is the topic of this article, precisely its air pressure which automatically ensures its hardness. Many people feel that soccer balls are too hard and wonder how can soccer players hit them with their heads without feeling any pain.

So, why are soccer balls so hard?

Soccer balls are hard because of the precise gauge of air pressure in them. They need to be hard so they can bounce properly, especially when players are heading them.

It’s incredibly important for professionals to use proper tools in their trade, as it ensures maximum efficiency and more often than not (even though this isn’t the case with football), their own safety.

This isn’t the only reason the balls are so hard, and it’s important to know how to properly pump the ball, how they check the air pressure, and how to tell if the ball is properly inflated.

In this article we’ll be answering all of the questions mentioned above, so let’s get started.

Why Are Soccer Balls So Hard?

If the air pressure in the ball is too high – the ball will resemble a balloon, and if it’s too low it will cause pain when the players hit it and it will not bounce off enough.

Take for example a truck transporting its cargo. Every truck has a predetermined amount of weight it can possibly transport.

The reasoning behind this is the same with soccer balls: if the truck is overfilled with cargo it’ll be too difficult to move it and maneuver it properly (not to mention that it’s dangerous for the vehicle itself and for the driver), if the truck is empty – not only is it a waste of money but can easily shuffle to either side, giving the driver little maneuverability over the vehicle.

Soccer balls follow the same pattern: if the air pressure is too high, not only is it vulnerable to bursting (since there’s a special sort of balloon inside with a membrane) then the ball will resemble the behavior of a balloon.

Once kicked, it will not move properly and will easily change direction (which will not happen with a properly inflated ball).

In that case, it can very often fly in the air too much, more often than not without the player wanting to do that.

When the air pressure is too low, the ball follows the opposite pattern. It will take too much force for a player to move it, making it difficult to play forward and relentlessly tiring to move through the air.

It tires the players much faster, often causing pain, especially when the players hit the ball with their heads. Unfortunately, it also brings danger to the pitch.

Players often get hit in the face (or in the head in general) during games, and sometimes, when the ball is hit hard enough and under the proper angle – the player receiving the strike can lose consciousness (because of the concussion).

If the ball is too deflated the strike felt on the players will hurt much more and will cause more damage as the ball bounces less.

When the ball is properly inflated, it moves with appropriate ease and it doesn’t hurt when the players hit it with their heads, no matter how many times they do it in succession.

In the following paragraph, you’ll see a difference between necessary air pressure for different-sized balls.

Air Pressure For Every Soccer Ball Size.

FIFA laws state that the air pressure of a regulation-size soccer ball has to be between 8.5 and 15.6 psi.

It often happens in games, something that we’ve especially witnessed during the 2018 Football World Cup in Russia when the manufacturer of the balls did a poor job, that players kick the balls out because they’re too inflated or deflated.

The referee can do the same, but because of this specific reason, there’s a whole crew of people who check the air pressure on every ball before the game starts.

There are different ball sizes in soccer, mostly because of age differences. Junior teams play with smaller balls, etc. The sizes go as presented: Size 1 (skill ball – all ages, used for developing footwork skills and ball control) – 46-51 centimeters in circumference, Size 3 (U8 and younger) – 58.5-61 centimeters in circumference, Size 4 (U8 through U12, also known as youth ball) – 63.5-66 centimeters in circumference, and finally Size 5 (adult/professional, ages 12 and older) – 68-70 centimeters in circumference. Note that not all soccer fields are the same size too.

All sizes, except for Size 1, require between 8.5 psi and 15.6 psi in order to properly function. Size 1 does not have a balloon with a membrane inside, it is rather bouncy and is often used as a collectible.

How To Check psi In a Soccer Ball?

The best way to measure the pressure in a soccer ball is by using an air pressure gauge.

It’s recommended to use it instantly after inflating the ball, before using it. Simply stick the needle in the blowhole and the indicator on the gauge will turn.

Many (mostly analog) air pressure gauges have already predetermined points for balls of different sizes (not only soccer but basketball and volleyball, as well).

There is no difference in effect between an analog and a digital air pressure gauge.

If you don’t have a gauge there are other ways for you to measure the amount of air pressure. The bounce test is not one of the ways to go, as is commonly misbelieved.

The test tells us nothing, aside from the fact that balls bounce. The only information we can get from this test is whether or not the ball is deflated, since deflated balls barely bounce.

There is no way to tell whether a ball is too inflated or properly inflated with this test.

The squeeze test is much better. If the ball is too difficult to squeeze (the sense of which you’ll gain with experience) then it’s too inflated, deflated balls are much easier to squeeze.

What Are Professional Soccer Balls Inflated With?

Despite the modern myth, I assure you that soccer balls are not, have never been, and most likely will never be inflated with helium.

Believe it or not, there is not a single record in the football history of a ball being inflated with helium.

The thing is – there wouldn’t be any noticeable difference anyway, the surrounding skin on the ball is too heavy for such a small amount of helium to achieve the effect it achieves with balloons (not to mention that for scientific reasons helium could never fit in the pressure range needed for soccer balls).

Soccer balls are inflated with regular air, using a compressed air pump.

How To Tell If a Soccer Ball Is Properly Inflated?

If you’re playing soccer it will be pretty easy to come to the conclusion whether the ball is too inflated or deflated.

Deflated balls will be difficult to move, often causing pain (especially when heading them), and will produce a different sound from properly inflated balls, a sound resembling slapping something hard and immovable, like a wall or a piece of wood.

If the ball is too inflated it will bounce way too much and will fly easily, it will also change direction more easily (especially in-flight, when the ball is too inflated even a soft breeze can move it while it’s in the air).

When hit, the ball will produce a sound similar to slapping an empty plastic bottle.

The best way to check the proper inflation of the ball is by using the method mentioned above, an air pressure gauge.

Soccer players, just as much as any athletes, spend their entire lives developing the skills needed to get to the top of their game and stay there.

The sport has been around for over a century (although, according to some sources; even longer), and it’s still facing no shortage of fans, astonished by its beauty and the movement of the players on the pitch.

The precise movements of the players’ feet determine the path of the ball, and sometimes hitting the ball just 2 millimeters to the right or left can cause it to move by a few meters to either side when it’s hitting the target.

Given the amount of accuracy needed to achieve this, having the ball miss the target because it’s deflated or too inflated would be disappointing for both the fans and the players, and the players would face an overwhelming amount of discouragement.

It’s important to follow the rules of any sport, ensuring fair play, and it’s the duty of staff in match organization to ensure the usage of proper materials in the beautiful game.