Here's some advice on how to choose your football.
We tell you how to pick the right ball for your age and needs.
THERE ARE A FEW THINGS YOU NEED TO TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION WHEN CHOOSING A FOOTBALL. Read our tips below and make your choice.
The first thing to bear in mind when choosing an official football is the age of the players.
For players under the age of 9, which is the U-6/U-7 and U-8/U-9 age groups at club level, you should choose a size 3 ball.
For players aged 9 to 12, in other words the U-10/U-11 and U-12/U-13 age groups at club level, a size 4 ball is the right choice.
And for players over the age of 12, namely U-14s and over, you should go for a size 5 ball.
Your choice will then come down to what you're looking for: a ball for beginners, a ball that's comfortable and hard-wearing, or an ultra-reliable ball offering great feel and trajectory.
Machine-stitched balls are the best for beginners (the panels are stitched together and the seams visible). These balls are easier to use and hard-wearing. They're ideal for getting into the game.
Hybrid balls (the panels are machine-stitched and the seams concealed) are both hard-wearing and comfortable to use.
Thermobonded balls are the best bet for players looking for great feel and perfect, stable flight through the air. These seamless balls are perfectly spherical and have 12 panels that are heat-bonded onto the bladder.
I'm passionate about the game and I've been playing football for my club and for fun for many years now. An attacking midfielder, I always try to play the final ball on the pitch and with my clients!