Size
Adults and older teenagers typically choose size 5 (you will see this most often in the range).
Where you will play (surface)
Some balls are only suitable for grass (they wear out faster on asphalt/concrete).
Weight
Lightweight balls are suitable for children (easier to control). Selected products are listed as weighing approximately 320 g.
Material/construction
PVC is often used in affordable balls (a durable base for recreational use).
Mini tip: If you are buying a ball for children, don’t worry about the “most expensive” one β focus mainly on the weight and surface on which it will be played (grass vs. hard surface).
Size and length
- Selected shin guards come with recommendations based on height (e.g. XL for approx. 180+ cm).
Construction: simple vs. comfortable
- Simple (plastic/textile) = basic protection, low price.
- Gel padding = better fit and comfort during longer play.
Ankle protection
Mini tip: When it comes to shin guards, how they fit is more important than “what’s written on them”. When they don’t slip or pinch, the player is calmer (and you have fewer breaks to deal with).
1) Correct ball pressure = better control and more comfortable kicking.
The ball should be inflated to the pressure indicated on the valve; for match balls, this is usually between 0.6 and 1.1 (depending on the type). We recommend using a pump with a pressure gauge.
2) Ball size according to age
- Size 3: approx. up to 8 years old
- Size 4: approx. 8β12 years old
- Size 5: 12 years and older and adults
And if anyone is looking for a ball that feels lighter for children, there are also lighter versions available (see below).
3) Lighter ball for children
A lighter ball is easier for children to kick and control, but it may “fly strangely” for older players. At ACRA, we offer, for example, a lightweight ball weighing approx. 320 g (size 5) β typically for smaller children playing on grass.
4) Stitched vs. thermally bonded panels
The method of joining the panels affects durability and behaviour in wet conditions: stitched balls tend to be durable, but the seams can absorb water more easily; bonded (seamless) balls can be an advantage in wet conditions.
5) The surface matters more than people think
- Grass: classic
- Artificial turf: look for balls marked for turf/artificial turf (different bounce behaviour, higher load on the ball surface)
- Indoor/futsal: different balls β they tend to be smaller, heavier and have a lower bounce
- Sand/beach: the “beach” version makes sense.
6) School playground/asphalt/clay
Many people don’t just play on grass. If you often play on harder surfaces, consider the material β a rubber ball can usually withstand more.
7) Shin guards: 2 things that matter
- They should fit well and not slip (if they rotate, they are too big/not tightened properly).
- Comfort of the padding: gel/padded ones are more comfortable for longer training sessions.
8) Goalkeeper gloves: the most common mistake is aftercare
Do not leave gloves closed in a bag after a game β let them dry in the shade and store them in a dry place (mould and odour are the most common causes of glove failure).
