Your Guide to Sports Balls
Every time someone mentions the word ball to us, we think of a colorful round leather piece, which, upon each landing in the net, lifts thousands of fans to their feet and brings joy to them—whether in the stadium, in sports halls, or in front of small television screens. A ball is something more than just a flying bubble. It is a source of joy, passion, and the heart of the game around which the whole world revolves.
That is precisely why, in our online store, we offer customers a wide range of balls intended for different sports. Let us mention only the main ones:
- Football (Soccer)
- Basketball
- Indoor Football (Futsal)
- Handball
- Volleyball
- American Football
»I will buy a ball« is a sentence that we often say or hear. But is the purchase really that simple? The offer of balls is diverse, and choosing the right one is not always easy. How to choose the appropriate size according to age? Which ball do we recommend for serious training and which for playing in the backyard? How to maintain it properly so that it will last longer?
That is precisely why we are here – to help you with the choice and guide you to the right purchase.
In the continuation, we will present to you the key characteristics of balls for football (soccer), futsal, basketball, volleyball, handball, and American football. With this guide, you will more easily choose a ball that will suit your needs, wishes, and sporting goals.
1. FOOTBALL (SOCCER) BALLS
Football is a team game with a ball and one of the most popular sports in the world, which is why it is often called »the most popular secondary thing in the world.«
1.1. Price Range and Quality of Balls
The price range among football (soccer) balls is very wide. You can buy a ball for as little as 15,00 EUR, while for the most expensive ones you will have to pay up to 150,00 EUR.
Balls costing more than 100,00 EUR are intended for the highest competitions, such as World Cups, European Championships, and national championships. These balls carry one of the official markings: FIFA Quality PRO, FIFA Quality, or FIFA Basic.
For training and recreational leagues, balls usually cost between 30,00 and 50,00 EUR. They are made of durable materials, provide a soft touch upon contact, precise flight, and lower water absorption. Even in this price range, we often find balls with one of the above-mentioned FIFA markings.
Balls that do not fall into either of these two categories are intended for backyard play and leisure time.
1.2. Velikost nogometnih žog
When buying, it is important to choose the appropriate ball size:
- Size 4 - suitable for children aged 7 to 10 years who already play regularly with the ball (circumference: 62–65 cm, weight: 340–368 g)
- Size 5 - used at the age of 11 and above, including in adult categories (circumference: 68–70 cm, weight: 395–450 g)
1.3. Playing Surface
It is also important on what kind of surface you will be playing. More expensive balls, made of more elastic materials, are more suitable for grassy surfaces (natural and artificial grass) and halls with parquet floors.
However, if you play on hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt, we recommend balls that contain an additional layer of natural rubber, as they are more resistant to rough surfaces and wear out more slowly.
1.4. Ball Inflation
Football (soccer) balls of sizes 4 and 5 are usually inflated to a pressure of 0.5 up to a maximum of 1.0 bar. We recommend using a pressure gauge for precise inflation and ball oil to maintain the flexibility of the valve.
Instructions for inflating the ball can be found written on the ball near the inflation valve.
1.5. Materials
- TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane)is a group of thermoplastic elastomers that exhibit a high degree of elasticity and are incredibly resistant to stresses such as abrasions and stains. The combination of TPU leather and a foam layer makes the football softer, which helps players have better control over the ball.
- PU (polyurethane) is a thermosetting plastic that has excellent properties such as wear resistance, tear resistance, good elasticity, and resistance to low temperatures. It gives footballers the right touch feeling and better retains its shape during play. Footballs made from this material are usually glossy. A PU football is usually manufactured with thermal bonding or hand stitching.
2. BASKETBALLS
There is a wide selection of high-quality basketballs from reputable manufacturers.
Basketball is a sport played both outdoors and indoors. When choosing a ball, it is crucial to know what kind of surface you will be playing on – will it be parquet or concrete?
2.1. Playing Surface
- Concrete (outdoor use)– we recommend rubber balls, as they are more resistant to wear.
- Parquet (indoor use) – choose balls made of composite leather or genuine leather, which provide better grip and feel.
- Indoor/Outdoor – multipurpose balls suitable for both surfaces.
2.2. Price Range and Quality
More affordable balls are usually made of rubber and are suitable for outdoor play. The mid-range consists of balls intended for both outdoor and indoor use (indoor/outdoor). Most of them have a mixed composition of rubber and leather.
More expensive balls are intended for indoor use (indoor) and are made of composite or synthetic leather. Balls intended for competitions usually carry the FIBA Approved label and are characterized by:
- soft grip,
- deeper channels,
- anti-slip surface,
- better control during play.
2.3. Basketball Sizes
- Size 3– for children aged 4–6 years
- Size 5– for children aged 7–10 years
- Size 6– for women in all age categories (circumference: 72.4–73.7 cm, weight: 510–567 g)
- Size 7– for men in all age categories (circumference: 74.9–78.0 cm, weight: 567–650 g)
2.4. Ball Inflation
Basketballs are inflated to a pressure between 0.5 and 0.6 bar. We recommend using a pressure gauge for precise inflation and ball oil to maintain the flexibility of the valve.
Instructions for inflating the ball can be found written on the ball near the inflation valve.
2.5. Materials
- Rubber is durable and suitable for rough outdoor surfaces.
- Composite or synthetic leather is versatile, similar to genuine leather in feel.
- Premium composite leather is top quality for competition balls, with excellent grip and control.
3. FUTSAL BALLS
Futsal is the indoor version of football (soccer), played on a smaller field with fewer players. Due to the specific conditions of the game, the balls are also specially adapted.
3.1. Price Range and Quality
For quality training and recreational competitions, balls in the price range of approximately 40,00 EUR up to 60,00 EUR or more are used.
The quality of the balls can be noticed in extremely low bounce, easier control, maintaining shape after each strike, etc. Most balls in the mentioned price range carry one of the FIFA markings.
3.2. Characteristics of Futsal Balls
- Lower bounce – the core of the ball is designed to provide a lower bounce and better control on hard surfaces.
- Compact structure – allows precise passes and better control in limited space.
- Reduced size – usually size 4 is used, but with a lower weight than classic football (soccer) balls.
3.3. Size and Weight
Size 4
- Circumference: 62–64 cm
- Weight: 400–440 g
3.4. Playing Surface
Futsal balls are designed for playing on indoor hard surfaces such as parquet, sports PVC floors, or rubberized surfaces. Outdoor use – smooth asphalt.
3.5. Ball Inflation
The recommended pressure for futsal balls is between 0.4 and 0.6 bar. It is important to check the pressure regularly, as too low pressure reduces accuracy and accelerates ball wear. We recommend using a pressure gauge for precise inflation and ball oil to maintain the flexibility of the valve.
Instructions for inflating the ball can be found written on the ball near the inflation valve.
3.6. Materials
- PU (polyurethane) provides good grip and control, suitable for indoor surfaces.
- Microfiber is a more advanced material for better touch and passing accuracy.
4. HANDBALLS
Handball is a dynamic and fast-paced indoor sport where ball control is crucial. For this reason, choosing the right handball is extremely important.
4.1. Price Range and Quality
- Competition balls are the most expensive and provide top quality, grip, and durability.
- Training and recreational balls are more affordable, yet still allow good control and feel during play.
4.2. Size and Weight
- Size 00: children aged 6–7 years (circumference: 41–43 cm)
- Size 0: children aged 7–8 years (circumference: 46–48 cm)
- Size 1: young boys aged 8–12 years and girls aged 8–14 years (circumference: 50–52 cm)
- Size 2: women and juniors – women from 14 years onward, men aged 12–16 years (circumference: 54–56 cm, weight: 325–375 g)
- Size 3: men and older boys – from 16 years onward (circumference: 58–60 cm, weight: 425–475 g)
For the youngest, we recommend softer (foam) children’s balls, which allow safe play and better grip when learning basic handball skills.
4.3. Ball Inflation
Handballs are recommended to be inflated up to 0.5 bar. We recommend using a pressure gauge for precise inflation and ball oil to maintain the flexibility of the valve.
5. VOLLEYBALLS
Volleyball is a popular sport that is played both indoors and on sand. Therefore, the balls differ depending on the environment in which they are used.
5.1. Quality
Balls for playing on sand are somewhat more durable than indoor ones. Higher-quality models are resistant to dirt, moisture, and wind, while at the same time allowing better control during hits and passes. Their exterior is designed to maintain its properties even in more demanding weather conditions.
Indoor volleyballs differ in quality. Better models are made of more advanced materials that provide greater durability as well as better feel and control in play. For beginners, we recommend softer balls, often made of EVA foam, as they are more pleasant to the touch and allow more comfortable learning of basic techniques.
5.1.1. Quality Certificate
Higher-quality balls carry the official marking FIVB APPROVED, which means that they meet the standards of the International Volleyball Federation. Such balls are also used in top-level competitions.
5.2. Ball Inflation
The method of inflation depends on the ball model. We recommend using a pressure gauge for precise inflation and ball oil to maintain the flexibility of the valve.
Instructions for inflating the ball can be found written on the ball near the inflation valve.
5.3. Materials
- EVA foamis durable and extremely soft to the touch.
- PU (polyurethane) provides durability, strength, minimal water absorption, and a straight flight.
- Synthetic leather is an artificial type of material that feels similar to leather. The materials are also more versatile and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
- Premium and exclusive composite leather is high-quality composite leather that ensures top grip, control, and durability. Both materials are used for the highest quality competition balls.
6. AMERICAN FOOTBALLS
Fans of American football will also find what they are looking for with us! In our offer, you will find top-quality balls from the renowned brand Wilson, known for quality and tradition – both among professional players and recreational ones.
6.1. Quality
The Wilson »The Duke« ball is the right choice for serious players. It is the official NFL game ball, made from the highest-quality materials. With its exceptional craftsmanship and grip, it is ideal for play at the highest level. It stands out in price, but justifiably so.
In our offer, we also have more affordable models, which are a perfect choice for club training, schools, or recreational play. Despite the lower price, they maintain good grip, stable flight, and durability.
6.2. Ball Inflation
For optimal use, we recommend inflating the ball to 0.8 bar. We recommend using a pressure gauge for precise inflation and ball oil to maintain the flexibility of the valve.
Instructions for inflating the ball can be found written on the ball near the inflation valve.
6.3. Materials
- Composite leather or synthetic leather is an artificial type of material that feels similar to leather. The materials are also more versatile and can be used both indoors and outdoors.
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS
For carefree play, we recommend the use of an air pressure gauge:
With its help, you can accurately read the pressure in the ball.
Do not forget the oil for the ball!
The ball valve is exposed to impacts, moisture, dry air, and temperature changes. If you do not oil it before inflating, it can become inflexible, which increases the risk of air leakage. Two drops of oil before each use of the needle greatly extend the lifespan of the ball.
INSTRUCTIONS for inflating the ball
Most balls have the recommended pressure written next to the valve. The values may be indicated in different units: bar, PSI, or kgf/cm².
Steps for proper inflation:
1. Locate the valve on the ball.
2. Drip 2 drops of ball oil on it to maintain the flexibility of the valve.
3. Gently and fully insert the pump needle into the valve – never by force!
4. Inflate slowly and gradually, especially when using stronger pumps or compressors.
5. Check the pressure continuously with an air pressure gauge.
6. When the recommended pressure is reached, stop inflating.
Most common mistakes when inflating
❌ Using water or saliva to lubricate the valve – saliva is acidic and can damage the material.
❌ Using a needle that is too thick, which can widen or permanently damage the valve.
❌ Forcing the needle – if it is difficult to insert, do not push, to avoid damaging the interior.
❌ Overinflated ball – this can cause the material to tear, the seams to stretch, and deformation.
Important: manufacturers reject complaints due to improper inflation, so strictly follow the instructions.
Pressure unit converter
As already mentioned, manufacturers often state the recommended pressure in balls in different units of measurement:
- bar
- PSI (pounds per square inch)
- kgf/cm² (kilograms-force per square centimeter)
PSI and kgf/cm² are not familiar units of measurement to most people. For easier conversion between them, we recommend using the following online converters:
PSI to bar converter
