Goal!: The Best Soccer Balls
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Nike Premier League Strike Soccer Ball -
Adidas Team Top Replique Soccer Ball -
GlowCity Glow in The Dark Soccer Ball -
Puma Shock Soccer Ball -
Buyer's Guide
Soccer balls have come a long way since the days of Pele and Chinaglia. You won't find the traditional black and white hexagonal patterns much anymore, as equipment companies are now looking to define their balls with exclusive visuals and technologies meant for superior function. But one thing remains consistent; all you need to play the game is a ball. No matter if you're on a league team or if you're playing three a side, a soccer ball is the only necessity to getting outside and having fun. Yet, with all of the new developments in manufacturing, there are now a wide variety of materials and various methods of construction used in every ball, and it can get confusing trying to make sense of all the variables that exist. It's not as simple as just walking into your local sporting goods store and grabbing one off the shelf these days. But fear not; no matter what the age and skill level of the players or intended area of use, there is an option that will fit your needs.
This list reflects the best soccer balls in 2022 on the market right now, based upon a variety of specific criteria. First, the construction of these ball is important, with elements such as the number of panels that have been used to create each ball (18, 26, and 32 are the most common) playing a vital role in how they perform. Touch is a big part of deciding which ball is the most dynamic on the field and this brings us to two other points of criteria, the balls outer material and bladder. These best soccer balls are made of synthetic leather and contain latex bladders. Synthetic leather offers the best bounce and cuts down on water absorption, while latex is preferred because of the way it plays and responds on the field. Other bladders such as butyl are often too hard once they're inflated, adversely affecting both touch and response. Finally, the graphics along the exterior of these selections may seem like simple aesthetics placed there for panache, but major companies are now using the bold and colorful visuals to improve the game for the players by way of greater visibility. If these ball are easier to see, it's easier to engage them to make the game faster and more exciting as the scoring increases. Finally, these balls have each been certified and approved by the governing bodies of FIFA and/or NFHS.
Here are the best soccer balls of 2022
Nike Premier League Strike Soccer Ball - Best Soccer Ball Overall
Predicated on the notion that a higher-visibility ball results in better player performance on the pitch, the Ordem 3 has been given Nike's Visual Power Graphic, an aesthetic design that incorporates bold bright colors such as orange, magenta, bright red, and neon green players can quickly catch sight of the ball. The exterior TPU cover of the ball is comprised of 12 triple-layer synthetic leather panels that have been fuse-welded to keep the ball as perfectly round as possible, while special AerowTrac grooves help make it fly farther and more consistently across the pitch with every kick. This ball has some terrific swerve and the enhanced control of the micro-textured grip along the surface gives it superb aerodynamic response. On the inside, you get a six-wing carbon latex bladder that provides for accurate rebound characteristics, excellent air retention, and explosive acceleration. Nike knows their ball is pretty awesome too, so they're backing the Ordem 3 with a two-year limited guarantee to cover the stitching and to make sure the ball retains its near flawless spherical shape.
Adidas Team Top Replique Soccer Ball - Runner Up
The Conext15 takes its place alongside those previous balls that Adidas has researched, developed and built specifically for use in soccer events that took place on the world stage. The 2014 version took two and a half years to test and refine, with players from Messi to Alves to Zidane all offering their input on the best and worst aspects of the company's design, this newest version took those innovations and fine-tuned them for a ball that reflects the elements of nature, earth, wind, and fire. These can be found in the black, green, and red graphics emblazoned across the exterior, however, it's what Adidas put into the ball that really impresses. Their unique panel and construction design of six X-shaped premium polyurethane panels that have been thermally bonded for a seamless surface resulting in better aerodynamics, a more dependable trajectory and minimal water absorption. The entire surface of the ball uses a beaded texture for improved touch and grip and the ball is incredibly lightweight. The interior latex bladder offers stronger rebound support and since it's the official FIFA ball for the tournament it complies with every governing regulation with respect to circumference, weight and all other aspects of the ball.
GlowCity Glow in The Dark Soccer Ball - Popular With Consumers
The moment you hit or move this soccer ball, it bursts into a dazzling red-orange light and will remain lit for around 40 seconds. The light enables you to view the ground clearly at night. This glow-in-the-dark product doesn't require constant exposure to a light source or electricity to charge. The GlowCity LED soccer ball is built to withstand the light and rough play from pro and recreational players alike. Since these balls are water-resistant, you can play with them in the rain as well. Moreover, this soccer ball is manufactured of high-quality materials and built to last, making it a good investment. They are ideal for use in recreational games, especially when the sun is setting. A battery-changing tool is included in your package. The only thing you need to do is inflate the ball, and you are good to go. Bounce the ball once it's full, and it'll light up!
Puma Shock Soccer Ball - Also Consider
Puma has been making some terrific soccer equipment and apparel as of late, so it's not much of a surprise to discover their latest ball, the evoPOWER1, is getting the job done on the field as well. The company has combined high-quality materials, dimpled texturing, and fewer outer seams to offer a ball you might expect would list at twice the price of its retail cost. Twenty cover panels have been high-frequency molded for reliable touch, shape, and durability, while also limiting the water intake that might be experienced in wet conditions. Those panels have been infused with two separate golf ball style dimple sizes to provide for true aerodynamic movement and accurate trajectory upon release. Puma has given it a rubber bladder and added theirPUMA Air Lock (PAL) Valve, and Perimeter Balance Technology (PBT) to keep the structural integrity of the ball intact so it rolls, spins, and flies with consistency throughout the duration of the game.
Buyer's Guide
Whether you call it soccer or football, you cannot deny the popularity of this fun sport worldwide. Soccer balls are the most important element of the sport and buying the right one can make it even more fun and exciting. Telling a good ball apart from average ones can be tough. With the right buyer’s guide to help you look out for the key factors, you can pick the one that’s best for you. When it comes to soccer balls, the devil is in the details. Let’s take a look at the best soccer balls in 2021 buyer’s guide.
Size and Weight
No matter what people tell you, size and weight do matter. There are five size categories for soccer balls depending on what age and level the players are on. Picking the right one and slowly upgrading is the best way to go.
Size One
These are the smallest soccer balls available that are used to improve footwork and eye coordination. They are also referred to as mini-soccer balls and can be used for fun games as well.
Size Two
People rarely use size two soccer balls as they do not have specific uses for their size. Most companies do not even make them in this size.
Size Three
Size three soccer balls are the smallest size balls that are officially used in junior soccer games. They are perfect for young children aged 7 or less. These small soccer balls help children learn the sport and get a hang of different moves.
Four
These soccer balls are usually referred to as futsal balls. Originally intended for ages 7-11, they are also used by older teens or adults in futsal matches. These balls are constructed to be heavier so that they can be maneuvered better.
Size Five
This is the standard size of a soccer ball that many adults and older teens use for the actual sport of soccer. It has the largest circumference and is preferred by players of all ages. Their standard weight is between 500 grams to a kilogram.
Material Casings
The material casing of a soccer ball is a very important factor that decides its durability and build. Soccer balls are either made of polyvinyl carbonate, polyurethane, or synthetic leather.
PVC Casing
PVC casings are relatively hard and unresponsive. They are very durable and harder on the outside as compared to other casings. Beginners and young children often pick this type of soccer ball since it lasts them longer.
PU Casing
PU casings are more responsive due to being softer and flexible. They are durable and higher in quality. These soccer balls are usually used in intermediate-level matches between city teams etc.
Synthetic Leather Casing
Synthetic leather casings are the most expensive kinds for soccer balls. These are the ones you usually see in international matches as well as many league tournaments. They are flexible, responsible, and easy to control.
Bladder
The component inside a soccer ball that contains the air is the bladder. Two materials are popularly used to make bladders for soccer balls i.e. butyl or latex. Latex bladders are soft and have to be inflated often. Many professionals pick this type of soccer ball due to its increased responsiveness.
Butyl bladders on the other hand retain air for much longer and do not have to be inflated as frequently. However, they do make the ball harder which makes it less responsive. This type of football is preferred by beginners and young players.
Durability
Durability is one of the most important factors when buying a soccer ball. Generally durable and long-lasting soccer balls are made of inexpensive materials and can have an increased life due to how hard they are. However, high-quality materials and softer balls are also durable in their aspects.
The most important thing to look out for is that whether the ball is made from PVC, PU, or synthetic leather, the quality of either material has to be of high quality. For example, PVC balls made from good quality PVC will last longer than those made from sub-standard PVC.
Panels
Interestingly enough, the panels on a soccer ball have importance too. The FIFA regulated design contains 32 octagonal-shaped quilts on the ball. Soccer balls also come in other variations of panels such as 26 and 18.
In some areas, hexagons or pentagons are the preferred shape of the panels. Although it is a matter of design, certain soccer enthusiasts are picky about this factor.
Production Details
Soccer balls are difficult to make and are often outsourced to be produced in factories located in developing countries. Certain people prefer to buy from brands that ensure they were made in environments that are human-right-friendly. As soccer ball production is a popular business in child labor mafias, certain people are very conscious of production details.
Best Soccer Ball in 2021 - FAQs
Although one might assume buying a soccer ball is as easy as walking into a shop and picking one out, the reality is quite different. From budget to foot size, many questions pop up in a buyer’s mind. Here are the most commonly asked FAQs for the best soccer ball in 2021.
What size soccer ball do I pick if I am an adult with small feet?
A size 5 soccer ball is perfectly suitable for adults even if they have small feet. Since players will play with it regardless of the varying foot size of all the players, it’s best to get used to it. The best option is to buy a good quality ball that can be controlled.
Are futsal soccer balls the same as regular size 4 soccer balls?
Futsal soccer balls are the same size as regular size 4 balls but have the weight of a size 5 soccer ball.
Does the shape on the panel pattern affect ball performance?
The shape on the panel of a soccer ball is a matter of design and preference, it does not affect ball performance drastically.
How often does a soccer ball have to be inflated again?
Soccer balls have to be inflated again depending on the type of bladder and casing they have. On average they have to be inflated every week or so.
