Am I using the correct soccer ball size? Sizes by ages

Soccer is a game that everyone can play, but are all the balls the same size? No. (obvious!)

Soccer balls can be divided into 5 sizes and are classified according to the player's age and skill level. Some balls are ideal for amateurs, while others are intended for professional levels. Some are better for small children, others for adults, etc.

If you find it difficult to become a soccer star, you're in luck: you're probably not as bad as you think, you're just using the wrong ball. Remember that using the wrong ball size can not only complicate your game, but can also cause injury. (Trust me, I learned this the hard way...)

With so many options available, choosing the right soccer ball size for your age can be difficult. But don't worry, because we have already done the research for you to create this simple and complete guide. Let's learn all about ball sizes!

What size soccer ball should you buy based on your age and skill level?

Size 1: FTX Soccer Ball

Age: 3 years or less.

A size 1 mini soccer ball has a circumference of about 17 inches. This is without a doubt the smallest and lightest of all the ball sizes.

Also called a "mini", this is used primarily for recreational purposes. Children under 3 years old can play with it indoors without worrying their parents too much. Interestingly, it is also sometimes used by professionals to hone a particular mini soccer ball skill.

Fun fact: these soccer balls are also used as souvenirs (the kind you get at official soccer matches!)

Size 2: Kids Soccer Ball

Age: 3-5 years.

With a circumference of around 55cm, this ball is the perfect size for children aged 3-5.

It is also recommended for beginners who want to hone their mini soccer ball skills and learn all those fancy soccer tricks our favorite players do.

They are not much bigger than the size 1, but the difference when using it is quite noticeable.

Size 3: a children's ball... "a little less children."

Age: 5-8 years.

This one has a circumference of about 60 cm and weighs about 310 grams. It's the smallest ball ever used in real matches, and it's the first ball to give a young player a taste of reality.

Younger soccer players may use this ball for a couple of years, but the learning lingers for a long time. (If you ask every pro player, they'll tell you they had this soccer ball when they were little. It's worth the deal, right?)

Size 4: Transition to adult soccer ball.

Age: 8-11 years.

A size 4 ball is a crucial step for any developing soccer player. It has a circumference of approximately 63 or 66 cm, weighs between 350-370 grams and is perfect for children between 8 and 11 years old.

Some coaches or parents make their kids skip this size ball, giving them the last soccer ball (size 5) right away. However, this transition may be too difficult for them, as they are not given time to adjust to the strength of their body.

A size 4 ball helps children get a real playing experience, but according to their own body. Children in this age range are not as robust as adults. Therefore, to ensure that they train without hurting themselves, these balls are the best option. And they are worth it.

Size 5: Official size of the professional soccer ball.

Age: + 12 years

Finally, here we have the biggest soccer ball. This is the ball you'll find on any soccer field, and it's readily available at every sports store.

The size of this professional soccer ball has a circumference of 69 to 71 cm and is the one you should choose if you want to play 'serious' matches. (This means that keeping your young children away from these balls is a good idea.)

It also weighs a lot more than the previous ones (410-450 grams), which will give you the necessary adrenaline when shooting on goal. It can be handled very well and it is really exciting to play with it if you have the right coordination in your feet.

Even if you're still not as good a soccer player as you'd like to be, keep in mind that you won't be able to escape a size 5 soccer ball in the end, if you're serious about soccer.