How to choose your football

Size 3, 4 or 5? Machine-stitched or thermobonded? Your choice depends on your age and skill level. Follow our guide to find the perfect ball for your game.

You can't play without a ball, but which one fits your game? From size based on age to construction methods like hybrid or thermobonded for precision, the right choice boosts your performance. Here is how to pick the ideal football.

The first thing to do is choose the size for your age, because there are three ball sizes:

- size 3 for under 8s

- size 4 for ages 8 to 12

- size 5 for 12 and above

The next step involves assessing your skill level to choose the ball best suited to you.

There are three types of ball design: machine-stitched, hybrid, thermobonded.

The advantages of each is listed below:

If you're stepping on to the pitch for the first time, you'll want a hard-wearing ball with a weight and size that complies with national association standards. Choose a machine-stitched ball suited to your size.

If you've mastered most of the game's technical skills, then you'll need a more durable ball with a softer feel so you can play for longer. Your best choice is a hybrid model, which are harder-wearing thanks to the sealed seams, which don't come into contact with the ground, and offer more comfort thanks to the foam inserts in the outer cover.

Expert players looking for precise flight and better ball control should go for a thermobonded ball, as they are perfectly spherical.

Balls with a laminated bladder (fabric bonded to the bladder) are designed to be optimally spherical.

Balls with a wound bladder (2km of thread around the bladder) stay inflated for longer and are more spherical.

Size 3, 4 or 5? Match the size to your age and the construction to your skill level. Remember to check the pressure regularly. You are now ready for kick-off!

Martin

Your football expert

All our balls differ in terms of their durability, ability to retain pressure, and the precision of their flight.

You should check the pressure of your ball to ensure greater durability and comfort when playing.