Soccer ball guides
Everything about footballs: how they are made, how they are graded, and how to pick the right one.
How Soccer Balls Are Made
Cover, backing, foam and bladder: the anatomy of a modern football and the five steps from sheet to ball.
ConstructionHand-Stitched vs Machine-Stitched vs Thermally Bonded
The four ways panels are joined, and which one is right for your game and budget.
CertificationFIFA Quality Pro, FIFA Quality and FIFA Basic Explained
What each FIFA mark means, how balls are tested, and how to spot a fake certification.
SizingSoccer Ball Size Guide: 1, 3, 4 and 5
Which size ball for which age, plus futsal, beach and indoor balls.
Buying guideHow to Choose a Soccer Ball
Match the ball to the player, the surface and the budget. A pro ball is overkill for most players.
OriginsWhere Soccer Balls Are Made: Sialkot, China, India and Beyond
Sialkot makes most of the world's footballs. Here is how the global supply chain fits together.
MaterialsLatex vs Butyl Bladders
Why match balls feel livelier and training balls stay pumped.
CareBall Care and Inflation
Make your ball last: pressure, pumping, cleaning and storage.
TeamsBuying Balls for Your Club or School
Quantities, timing and budgets for coaches, clubs, schools and federations.