Best Youth Soccer Balls to Buy in 2025

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Having one, if not multiple, of the best youth soccer balls is important for helping young players develop their skills and enjoy the game. A high-quality ball, that is the right size and weight for the age group, makes it easier for players to practice dribbling, passing, and shooting and it helps them prepare for the next sized ball.

One of the reasons why soccer has become so popular amongst youth players in the United States is because it is a very simple sport to start playing and enjoying and it does not require a lot of training gear and equipment.

The only thing you really need to play this game is the soccer ball itself and your bare feet. You don’t even need soccer cleats or shin guards unless you plan to play in a structured environment.

From the grassroots level to the professional level there are many different types of soccer balls for different ages, playing styles, and variations of the game. That is why in this blog post I will be going over the best youth soccer balls to buy right now.

Top Picks for Best Youth Soccer Balls

One important thing to mention before I go over the best soccer balls under $50 is that when you order a soccer ball online it is very likely that the ball will come deflated to lower shipping costs and to make sure that the ball fits in the packaging.

That is why it is important to have a soccer ball pump, and carry it around in your soccer bag, to help you inflate the ball anytime it gets flat. If you do not have a ball pump you may be able to use common household items, but those tricks should only be used if you absolutely have to.

Best Overall soccer ball: Adidas MLS League NFHS Soccer Ball

The Adidas MLS League NFHS Soccer Ball stands out as the best overall option for players who want a high-quality ball at a reasonable price. Designed for both training and recreational play, this ball offers a soft yet durable cover that maintains its shape and feel even after hours of use.

Its reliable construction provides consistent flight and touch, making it ideal for drills, scrimmages, and casual games. If you’re looking for a versatile, well-made soccer ball that performs like a premium product without breaking the bank, the Adidas MLS League NFHS is a top choice.

Best Budget soccer ball: Nike Park – Team Soccer Ball

The Nike Park Team Soccer Ball is the best budget option for youth players who need a reliable ball without spending too much. Despite its low price, it holds up well in regular use and performs consistently across different surfaces, making it ideal for school, practice, or backyard games. It’s also available in fun colors like red, orange, green, and classic white.

Best Durable Soccer Ball: Select Club DB Soccer Ball

If durability is your main concern when it comes to soccer balls then the Select Club DB is the right choice for you. This premium quality ball is made up of double-bonded panels that are machine stitched and seam-sealed.

The ball also includes a TPU cover with Foam backing to increase softness and feel with the famous “True flight quality” from SELECT.

Best Practice Soccer Ball: Wilson Vantage Soccer Ball

The Wilson Vantage Soccer Ball is an excellent choice for players who need a reliable, no-nonsense ball for daily training sessions. Designed with durability in mind, it features a soft-touch cover and a sustainable sugar cane liner, providing a great balance between performance and eco-friendliness.

Its consistent flight and feel make it ideal for repetitive drills, shooting practice, and small-sided games without worrying about wear and tear. If you’re looking for a high-quality practice ball at a budget-friendly price, the Wilson Vantage is one of the best options available.

Best Indoor Soccer Ball: Senda Athletics Futsal Ball

Moving on to the indoor version of the game, if you’re looking for a smaller and harder ball to use for futsal, indoor soccer, or pickup games on hard surfaces, then by far the best choice on the market is anything from Senda Athletics.

Best Smart Soccer Ball: SENSE Soccer Ball

When soccer meets technology you get smart soccer balls. Out of all the smart soccer balls on the market, the SENSE soccer ball stands out as one of the cheapest and most useful balls that is used by elite academies around the world such as Sevilla’s youth academy in Spain,

Factors to Consider When Buying a Soccer Ball

Choosing the right soccer ball is important for players of all ages and levels. Here are some tips to help you choose the right soccer ball for you:

Purpose and Playing Surface:

The first thing to consider when choosing a soccer ball is the purpose of the ball. If you are going to play on natural grass or artificial turf fields it is best to choose a ball with a more rigid outer layer for better control, but if you are going to be playing indoor soccer or futsal it is best to use a smaller and heavier indoor soccer ball to limit its bounce.

Soccer Ball Size:

Soccer ball sizes vary depending on the age group and level of play and it is very important to get the right size ball for you. The size of the ball is also going to determine its weight.
Size 5 is the standard size for adults
Size 4 is for youth players aged 8-12
Size 3 is for younger players aged 4-8.
Size 2 and size 1 soccer balls are for players younger than 4 years old.

Materials:

Soccer balls are made of different materials so find the one that works for you. There are also five main parts of a soccer ball which include:
The ball’s cover, or the casing, which surrounds the ball
The ball’s inner linings
The bladder, which is the inside of the ball that holds air.
The stitching
The valve

Brand:

Choose a reputable brand that produces high-quality soccer balls, such as Adidas, Nike, and Puma.

Summary

To summarize, having the right soccer ball is crucial for any player, and this is especially true for youth players. Youth players must train with the right sized soccer ball to develop their skills properly and get ready to move on to the larger training balls.

Once players are old enough to play with a size 5 soccer ball, then they could always go back and train with smaller balls to improve their touch even more, since once they are older smaller soccer balls will be harder to juggle than bigger soccer balls.

In this blog, I covered everything you need to know about youth soccer balls, including tips to find the right ball and options to choose from.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important equipment for youth soccer players?

Having the right equipment for youth soccer players is key to their success. The best equipment that youth players will need includes soccer balls, cleats, indoor shoes, shin guards, and a soccer bag to carry everything around.

How can you tell if a soccer ball is high quality?

High-quality soccer balls often have certifications, reputable brands, and features such as durable construction, optimal air retention, and suitable design for various playing surfaces.

What is the perfect shape and air pressure for a soccer ball?

Maintaining the right shape and air pressure is key for a soccer ball’s performance. A soccer ball must have a spherical shape, as specified by FIFA, which ensures fair play with consistent rolling and bouncing. When it comes to air pressure, stick to the manufacturer’s guidelines, usually ranging from 8.5 to 15.6 psi.