If you are a football freak, then choosing the right ball for your matches must be a vexing thing. This article will help you how to select the perfect ball given your player position and other details.
Choosing a football
The most important factor in a football game is its ball – the name itself says so. It is stupid to think of playing football without a ball and your choice of ball complies with the type of game you play. Choosing the right ball, is therefore, an overwhelming task, as it comes in a variety of sizes, shapes, colour and attributes. Your style and location of play would be the key factors for the ball you like.
Choosing based on intended use
Football balls will give you the best performance in games they are specially designed for. Balls for regular training, official matches or occasional fun games must be different. This chart will help you select the right ball for the right match.
Choosing the best material
Footballs are made of a bladder – the inside compartment that holds the air – and a casing which is an outer cover that holds the panels and stitching. Both these can be made of several kinds of materials. The chart below will help you to select the material for your use:
Choosing the correct size
Most manufacturers make the ball in five different sizes. Your suitable size depends on the game you play and your age. It would be good if you check the regulation book for size restrictions.
- Size 1 football balls – used for fun games or to improve footwork fun
- Size 2 football balls – used for ball control drills and for children of age 3 to 6
- Size 3 football balls – it is the smallest official ball used in matches and for children of age 6 to 9
- Size 4 football balls – used in matched for children in the age 9 to 14
- Size 5 football balls – the largest official ball and standard size for all players above age 14
Professional matches and training matches are the popular game types you may face. Professional match balls are designed for the game play in mind and must follow official weight, size and shape regulations. Training match balls are used in a variety of playing environments during practice and recreation. They will be more durable, as they are to be used for an extended period of time.