As with every trade, using improper tools can lead to poor results in soccer as well. One of the main tools at players’ disposal is the ball they play with.

For professionals, this isn’t an issue, as they are given access to top-of-the-line soccer balls, and they come at no expense. Amateurs, on the other hand, need to invest their own money in order to have a decent ball to kick around.

This is where Adidas Glider Soccer Balls come into play.

Glider Soccer Ball is the name for Adidas’ most popular soccer ball. What sets these soccer balls is the fact that they come at a much lower price point than professional soccer balls, while sacrificing very little on durability and performance.

These soccer balls are highly praised and appreciated by soccer players around the world, as they provide an excellent price-to-quality ratio.

Adidas came out with its Glider series and revolutionized the amateur soccer scene; compared to the professional match quality soccer balls, Glider Soccer Balls are designed in a much simpler way, using cheaper materials, and simpler construction methods.

This also means that they are much cheaper than the soccer balls pros are kicking around, yet they are more than enough to satisfy an average players’ needs. Let’s take a look at the most popular Adidas Glider models:

Adidas Glider Soccer Ball Review

The first model of the Adidas Glider Soccer Ball was available for sale in mid-September of 2017.

This soccer ball is characterized by a dynamic graphic pattern that serves the purpose of making the ball more visible while spinning. Here are the main specifications of the original Glider Soccer Ball:

• 100% TPU cover
• Rubber bladder
• Machine-stitched surface
• Adidas Logo
• Multiple color options

The original Glider Soccer Ball comes with a hard-wearing TPU cover that is machine-stitched to improve durability. A soft touch, as well as improved control and response, are insured by a rubber bladder.

The product was aimed at those looking for a decent training session and kickabout ball, but they ended up getting so much more.

Coming in 3 different sizes (3, 4, 5), the Glider Soccer Ball is made for all ages; even children under the age of 8. However, it is not uncommon for soccer players to notice a slight size irregularity with this model as if it were half a size too small.

Those over the age of 12 should go with the largest option. Also, note that the ball comes deflated most of the time, so have an air pump ready if ordering this model online.

Once inflated, the rubber bladder ensures that the ball holds air for a long time.

Players can be skeptical at first regarding this model, especially when they see the price.

However, it behaves marvelously. Even though it feels nearly slippery at first glance, the Glider Soccer Ball works more than okay in rain and on wet grass, staying easy to handle and control.

Due to the slickness, it’s not the ball to go with for the players who are used to old-school, rougher balls. For newcomers to the game of soccer, as well as casual players, look no further than the Adidas Glider. The wide color pallet ensures that most players will find the right fit for them.

Adidas Glider 2 Soccer Ball Review

The new edition of the Adidas Glider was first available in early 2019. The soccer ball has met the users’ expectations, and maybe even exceeded them.

The Glider 2 is characterized by bold new graphics, and a durable build; everything that the first model had, but improved. Here are some of the main characteristics of the newer Glider Soccer Ball model:

• 100% TPU cover
• Rubber bladder
• Machine-stitched surface
• Adidas Logo
• Multiple color options

The Glider 2 Soccer Ball is marketed to those who are aiming to improve their skills, without breaking the bank.

The tough TPU cover with machine stitching ensures that the ball lasts longer, while the rubber bladder is there to provide the player with a soft touch and response for a more controlled play. It will also ensure air retention.

The new Glider model also comes in 3 sizes (3, 4, 5), ensuring that everyone from the age of 6 and higher can use this ball to improve their soccer skills.

This time around, no size mismatch complaints. Typically, smaller sizes will come inflated in the box, while you might need the pump for bigger ones.

Compared to version one of the Glider Soccer Ball, the new model overcame the previous model’s first impression drawback; the impression of too much slickness is gone.

The Adidas Glider 2 feels like a much more expensive product. The quality is obviously there, with apparent durability. At the first kick, the ball feels responsive, with the just right amount of sponginess.

Once again, casual players and beginners will be more than satisfied with the newer Glider model. Some users do complain about air retention, which was not an issue for the ball we had tested.

Another drawback might be the color choices; while multiple colors are available, not all of them might be appealing to those who prefer traditional soccer ball designs.

Adidas Unisex Glider Soccer Ball Review

The unisex model of the popular Glider Soccer Ball came out in 2017, together with the first version of the ball in question.

With more traditional graphics, this soccer ball is understated, which some players appreciate more over the bold designs of the other Glider models. Some of the selling points for this ball include:

• 100% TPU cover
• Rubber bladder
• Machine-stitched surface
• Adidas logo
• Multiple color options

The Adidas Unisex Glider Soccer Ball is marketed towards male and female soccer players who are looking for diversity and personality in their soccer balls while looking to improve their skills.

Having the same features that characterize the Glider and Glider 2 models, the Unisex Glider is durable, responsive controllable, and easy to maintain as the air tends to stay within the ball due to the rubber bladder.

Available in more sizes than ever (mini, 3, 4, 5), the unisex model of the famous Glider Soccer Ball series can accommodate every soccer player.

The ball seems to be true to size, and, once again, you will probably need an air pump to get started kicking it around the pitch.

As with the first Glider Soccer Ball listed in this article, the slickness is noticeable. However, it does not affect performance in a way that a casual player or a beginner might notice.

Some excessive skipping across a wet surface is present, but the ball still remains controllable and goes where you want it to.

Those who want a less slick surface should skip this model and go for the Adidas Glider 2 Soccer Ball instead.

Players such as the writer of this text, who are just looking to have fun while improving their game, will be perfectly happy with this model, especially when the color options are considered.

From traditional soccer ball designs to the bright and flashy ones, with more than a dozen different colors and patterns, the Adidas Unisex Glider Soccer Ball has a design option for every taste.

Which Adidas Glider Model to Choose?

To summarize everything said in the article, here’s which of these models you should choose:

• Go for the Glider model if you’re looking for a basic soccer ball that holds air, lasts a long time, and provides decent performance.
• Go for the Glider 2 model if you’re looking for more control, less sickness, and if you don’t care about your soccer ball being red or pink, as these are the most commonly available options.
• Go for the Unisex Glider model if you’re looking for a durable, slick, and controllable soccer ball. Choose this model if design options are a major factor for you. Also buy this ball for children under the age of 6, as the mini version is only available with this model.

 Conclusion

Have you noticed how even the most basic of tasks can become a scrupulous activity that requires a ton of research and effort?

For example, walking into a supermarket you can see dozens of options for the same product. Which bread should you get?

Even the simplest decisions in our day-to-day lives are overcomplicated due to the excess of products that belong in the same category. The same applies to soccer equipment.

The market is flooded with soccer balls, causing even experienced players and connoisseurs of the game headaches when it comes to choosing the right one.

What chance can a newcomer have to choose the right one?

Well, the Adidas Glider, Glider 2, and the Unisex Glider are there to remove any doubt. Affordability, durability, and performance are the key features for these soccer balls, and they are, without a trace of doubt, the best starting point one can have in their soccer career.