The key to selecting the right soccer ball is to consider the player’s requirements and the size of the ball. In most cases, the ball will be smaller for younger players. The cost of the soccer ball is also important. The most expensive soccer balls are synthetic-leather, while basic rubber-type balls are the cheapest. Because leather absorbs moisture more than synthetic soccer balls, it is no longer a popular choice for soccer ball covers. A wet ball of leather becomes heavier and slower over time.
There are three main types of soccer balls. The match soccer balls used in international professional matches comply with all Federation Internationale de Football Association requirements. They are also imprinted with the logo of the organization. These are the most expensive types of soccer balls. The competition balls that are used in high school and college competition fall in the middle of the range. The cheapest are training and recreational balls.
Many soccer balls are made from a mixture of polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride and common rubber. The most expensive and best PU balls feel almost like leather. wap spbo live score They are extremely durable, water-resistant, and firm. PVC balls are very durable, but they are not as responsive and soft as the PU-blend ones. Nylon and common rubber balls are a good value as they last longer and cost less. The rubber and nylon soccer balls are great for training and practice.
All soccer balls can be clearly marked in one size. The smaller the number, the smaller it is. All soccer balls are available in sizes 3, 4, or 5. For beginners aged 8 and under, size 3 soccer balls measure 23 inches in circumference and weigh 12 ounces. The size 4 soccer balls are for players aged 8-12 years old. They weigh approximately the same as the smaller balls at 12 ounces, but have a larger circumference of just over 25 inches. Size 5 soccer balls can be used by players aged 13 or older. They are made to international standards and conform to all competitions. Size 5 soccer balls are approximately 15-ounces in weight and measure 28 inches in circumference.
The inner bladder and lining are also important factors in soccer ball construction. The ball’s shape and feel is controlled by the lining beneath the outer cover. The bladder holds the air in the ball, and contributes to its shape and responsiveness during play. Match soccer balls usually have four layers of a combined cotton/polyester-blend lining. The mid-range ball has two layers made of cotton, two layers of polyester and one layer of lining. The most expensive balls only have two layers.
There are two types of soccer ball bladders: latex or butyl. Latex bladders are the most popular type of ball construction. However, they don’t retain air as well as bladders made from butyl and require proper inflation. Butyl-blend or butyl-blend bladders are more responsive but hold air longer. A mixture of 80% rubber and 80% butyl is the most common bladder in mid-priced balls.
A soccer ball’s number of panels can affect its flight characteristics and the level of control a player has in play. International soccer competitions use a 32-panel ball. Major League Soccer uses an 18-panel ball in the United States, while most indoor soccer leagues use 6-panel boards. High-end soccer balls have panels that are hand-stitched using synthetic thread. The same high-quality thread is used on mid-priced soccer ball panels, but they are machine-stitched to lower costs. Panels that are glued together will be found on low-cost training and practice balls.