Getting ahold of the right accessories is vital when you are going to play any sport. When it comes to soccer, there are a number of items to take into account. Chief among them is the ball. How heavy should this be to comply with the rules while also being easy to use?
The truth is that there are different weights that you need to know about. Since this is an area that is closely regulated by authorities such as FIFA, there are some specific details we can use.
Different Sizes
It stands to reason that the size of the ball is one of the main factors that determine its weight. Bigger models tend to be heavier as they contain more materials. This isn’t always the case but for official matches this is something that can’t simply be left to chance.
Therefore, understanding the different sizes that are used is a great first step. In this respect, soccer balls are rated on a scale that runs from 1 to 5. At the upper end of the scale, a size 5 ball is the largest and it is used in all professional competitions.
A size 5 ball needs to have a circumference that measures between 27 and 28 inches (68 to 70 cm). This is the type of soccer ball that is used in FIFA competitions such as the World Cup, as well as by professional and amateur leagues all over the world.
Smaller models are typically only used by youngsters under the age of 13. A size 1 ball is the smallest and it can be used by anyone of any age to improve their skills and footwork. In a similar vein, a size 2 ball is aimed at kids who want to play in more restricted areas rather than on a big pitch.
If you have ever seen or played futsal then you will have noticed that the ball they use is smaller than the typical size 5. In fact, this sport uses a different set of sizes and the ball most commonly used is somewhere between a size 4 and a size 5 from the FIFA regulations.
Weight Regulations
FIFA rules state that a size 5 ball must weigh between 420g (14 oz) and 450g (16 oz). Of course, this is the weight it needs to have at the start of a match. It may get slightly heavier later on if the game is played in wet or muddy conditions.
Size 4 is for use by players from 8 to 12 years old and should weigh between 350g (12 oz) and 390g (just under 14oz).
Size 3 is for players under the age of 8. In this case, the required weight is set at 310g (11oz) – 340g (12oz).
A size 2 ball weighs about 250g (9 oz) and is designed for kids who want to play in a smaller space.
A size 1 ball is used for skills training and weighs 200g (7 oz) or so.
Since a size 5 ball is used in official matches, it is more important that you are fully confident that the balls for sale are of exactly the right weight.
Why Does This Matter?
You might wonder why the weight of a soccer ball is such an important issue. After all, surely a few ounces more or less wouldn’t make much of a difference?
Well, even a relatively small difference can affect the flight of the ball or how hard a player can hit it. Considering how many hours these athletes spend practicing with a ball over the years, they need to know exactly how it will react in any given situation.
By having a standardized set of sizes and weight, it is easier to get to grips with the game of soccer. Just imagine what would happen if a player tried to take a penalty in a World Cup final only to find that the ball was heavier or lighter than they had expected it to be.
In terms of younger players, the smaller size of ball that they use makes it easier for them to come to grips with the sport and master the basic skills. It also means that they are less at risk of being injured by being hit by the ball.
Conclusion
The size and weight of a soccer ball are important for ensuring consistency and for allowing soccer players to show their skills. Any match involving players over the age of 12 should use a size 5 ball with a weight of between 420g (14 oz) and 450g (16 oz).
