The different types of balls for Soccer, Futsal & the balls which are available

Footballs/Soccer balls come in a variety of different qualities, configurations, size and bounce.

All good soccer balls need to fit within the parameters set out by FIFA. Read more about FIFA's soccer ball testing, requirements and protocol in the below document.

FIFA Testing Manual

What are the biggest differences between soccer balls? Outdoor balls and Indoor (Futsal) balls.

Has the ball been constructed for indoor or outdoor use?

The biggest differences are found when you compare the outdoor Vs indoor soccer balls. The indoor – also known as Futsal - ball uses a different bladder to create a low bounce ball. No other ball uses this type of bladder, making the two games quite different. The ground and netting can also be abrasive, meaning a tougher outer is sometimes used.

SUMMIT Sport Futsal ball is to be used for indoor futsal games
Indoor SUMMIT Futsal ball ideal for indoor games on hard surfaces

Has the ball been constructed for synthetic turf or grass?

Artificial turf, also known as a synthetic turf/pitch, can use a standard style of football but usually with a few slight differences. Artificial pitches are usually a bit harder, faster and can have sand or water added to them. This means that they can be quite demanding on the materials of the ball.

“Think about falling on synthetic materials Vs grass. I know which one I would rather fall on… Grass. Of-course this is dependent on the type of ground, as some grass pitches are hard or dead – ouch."

The synthetic grass football will be a bit more durable and usually not as fast or bouncy as other balls. This can be subjective so balls can be tailored to suit the needs of a club. SUMMIT has specific balls that are designed for synthetic football pitches.

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