Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out in the beautiful game, you need the right soccer ball for your age.
Choosing the right ball size for your age can make a huge difference in your performance. Too small and you’ll miss kick the ball, too big and you don’t get the control you need. The wrong size ball can even injure you!
Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you and put together this super simple guide to soccer ball sizes by age. You’ll find everything from size 3 for kids 8 and under, all the way up to size 5 for adults.
So whatever your age group, there’s a perfect ball just waiting to be kicked around!
And what’s more – we’ve got even more advice on choosing the right soccer ball for each skill level so that no matter how advanced your game is, there’ll always be something new to learn.
So read on to find out which soccer ball size is best suited for you!
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Best Soccer Ball By Age Chart
How to choose the right soccer ball – Soccer balls by age.
Knowing which soccer ball size to use can help players progress in their skills, make them feel more comfortable on the field, and even prevent injuries.
Here’s a super simple guide to help you select the perfect soccer ball size by age.
Size 1: Up to 3 year olds
The smallest size on the market, Size 1 soccer balls are great for young players (under 4 years) just starting out.
They are lightweight and easy to control, making it easier for young players to develop their soccer skills.
Being light and small makes it easy for little footy fans to control and play with.
Size 2: For ages 3-5 years
Slightly larger than Size 1, Size 2 soccer balls are suitable for kids between the ages of 4-6.
They are still lightweight but provide a bit more challenge as young players develop their soccer skills.
They’re also fast and easy to run with, making them ideal for training, developing basic skills, and even small-sided games.
Size 3: For ages 6-8 years
Designed for players between the ages of 6-8, Size 3 soccer balls are larger and heavier, providing more of a challenge as children begin to step up their soccer skills and ability.
It’s the next size for young players that are transitioning from Size 2. They’re good for improving ball handling, dribbling, passing, and shooting techniques. And are a good choice of ball for both games and training.
Size 4: 8-12 year olds
The ball size for players between the ages of 8-12, Size 4 soccer balls are just the right size and weight for the intermediate level players.
They’re easier to control than larger balls, but still provide enough challenge to help players develop their skills.
A size 4 soccer ball still stresses the players’ ball-handling technique, control and passing abilities. It will help to improve ball control, dribbling, and the development of advanced soccer techniques as the youngsters grow.
Size 5: 13 year olds and up +
The standard size for professional and amateur players alike, Size 5 soccer balls are designed for players aged 13 and above.
They’re heavier and larger than other sizes, making it a great size for all adult players.
From the professionals to a weekend kick about, you can have fun with them in training all the way up to high levels of league games.
Watch and learn: How to choose the right size football.
Here’s an awesome video that shows you how to pick the right size football or soccer ball for your game and gives you some top tips on what makes a great ball.
Buyer’s guide: How do I choose the right soccer ball?
Choosing the right soccer ball for your game isn’t just down to age. The type of game you play, your skill level and the surface you play on all come into play when selecting the perfect soccer ball.
Age and size
It goes without saying that age is one of the most important factors to take into account.
Age determines the size of the ball, which affects how easy it is to control and maneuver.
For young players under ten, a size three ball is the right option while for players aged 10-12 will suit a size 4 ball. For teenagers and adults, a standard size five ball is the right option. Start with this rule of thumb and you’ll not wrong.
Type of Game and Surface
The type of game and pitch you will play on can factor in too.
Indoor soccer balls are smaller, lighter and a little softer to prevent damage to the wall and flooring.
Synthetic pitches and flat grass surfaces require a harder and more durable ball to maintain shape and provide excellent bounce.
Traditional leather balls are made for elite level matches and require regular breaking-in before match day.
Training vs Match
Are you looking for a ball for training or matches?
If you want to practice things like dribbling and passing, a smaller ball can help to give you more control and accuracy.
For shooting practice, a heavier ball with a harder surface can help you to get more power and distance.
For match play, it’s recommended that you go with a ball designed specifically for the game.
Brand and budget
When it comes to the best soccer balls, there is a mind boggling variety of brands and prices out there.
High-end brands are known to provide high-quality balls that are best for match play. Nevertheless, they come at a cost.
Lower-end brands may offer a lower price, but they often have less quality. So they’re not a durable and won’t last as long as more expensive balls. We find cheaper balls often deflate faster too.
In other words, choose a ball from reputable brands such as Adidas, Nike, Puma, or Umbro, who are known to deliver cleaner quality soccer balls.
What size soccer ball by age FAQs
What size soccer ball for under 15?
For under 15 players, the recommended size for a soccer ball is a Size 4.
The size four ball is only slightly smaller than the standard size five ball (we often get them mixed up!), making it easier for younger players to handle and control during the game.
The lighter weight of the ball encourages players to develop proper control and ball-handling skills, leading to better performance on the field.
What size soccer ball do under 10s use?
Under 10s typically use a size 3 soccer ball, which is just right for their little feet and growing skills.
It’s important to choose the right size to avoid any injuries (or frustration!).
With the size 3 ball, your little soccer stars will be able to practice their footwork, passing, and shooting with ease.
What is a size 5 football?
A size 5 football is the standard size ball used in soccer around the world. It’s the most popular size among adult players and is used in most professional games.
A size 5 football measures about 27-28 inches in circumference and weighs between 14-16 ounces. It’s specifically designed to meet regulations for professional and amateur play.
Made of synthetic leather or a similar durable material, it can stand up to some serious tackles and kicks!
Do kids use a lighter soccer ball?
Yes. Nowadays, soccer balls have been adapted to fit every player’s needs, including our little ones.
Commonly referred to as mini soccer balls, these Size 1 smaller versions can be a great option for kiddos learning to play the game.
Not only are they lighter and easier to manage, but they’re also less likely to cause injury if a young player accidentally takes one to the face (ouch!)
Plus, with fun and funky designs available, they’ll be sure to stand out on the field.
Do women use a lighter soccer ball?
Women’s soccer has come a long way in recent years, but one thing remains the same: the size and weight of the soccer ball.
Contrary to popular belief, women do not use a lighter soccer ball in their matches.
The regulations set by FIFA, the governing body of international soccer, state that the size, weight, and pressure of the ball must be the same for both men and women’s matches.
So, rest assured that when you watch your favorite female soccer players on the field, they are using the same Size 5 regulation ball as their male counterparts.
Remember, girl power doesn’t need a lighter ball to take over the game!
The final score
So there you have it – the perfect soccer ball fit for your needs.
Whether you’re a kid starting out or an experienced match player, choosing the right size and quality of soccer ball is sure to help you up your game.
With a good-quality ball that’s designed specifically for the game and fits your age range and skill level, you can look forward to improved control, accuracy, and most importantly – more power and distance!
Go get ’em! And don’t forget to practice, practice, practice!
