What is a Training Soccer Ball?
In your offseason training, you may have heard of a training soccer ball. You might be wondering what it is, how it’s different from a match ball, and if you actually need it.
Simply put, a training ball is a type of soccer ball that is designed for individual or team practice sessions. It is slightly different from a match ball, which is used in official games.
Key Takeaways
- A training soccer ball is a type of ball designed for individual or team practice sessions.
- Training balls are more durable and less expensive than match balls.
- Key features of a training ball include its size, weight, and material.
- Training soccer balls can be slightly heavier than match balls which can help build strength.
While it may look similar to a match ball, there are some key differences that set it apart. For example, training balls are often more durable and can withstand more wear and tear than match balls. They also tend to be less expensive, which makes them a great option for beginners or those families on a budget.
Let’s take a look at why you might want to consider a training ball for soccer.
Understanding a Training Soccer Ball
The major difference between a training and a match ball is the quality of the materials used. Training soccer balls are usually made of synthetic materials that are durable and can withstand rough use. They are designed to be more rigid and rough than match soccer balls, which are soft and more comfortable to kick and head. This is because training balls are used more often and take more damage, so they need to be able to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
A great soccer ball for youth soccer players looking to train on their own. This ball feels like a match ball but fraction of the price. Comes in various sizes and colors.
- Made from quality material
- Feels like a match ball but costs much less
- Comes in really cool designs
One of the key features of a training soccer ball is its durability. These balls are designed to last longer than match balls, which are typically used only for games. Training balls can be used for individual or team training, juggling, kicking against a wall, playing casually in the park, or as the ball you bring with you to soccer practice each day.
Another important feature of a training soccer ball is its price. Training balls are generally less expensive than match balls. This is because they are designed for practice and casual play, rather than competitive matches.
Difference Between a Match and Training Ball
When it comes to soccer balls, there are two main types: match balls and training balls. While they may look similar, there are some key differences that set them apart.
Material
One of the main differences between match balls and training balls is the material they are made of. Match balls are typically made with higher quality materials, such as leather or synthetic leather, to ensure they perform well during games.
Training balls, on the other hand, are often made with cheaper materials, such as PVC or rubber, to make them more durable and able to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
Design
Another difference between match balls and training balls is their design. Match balls are usually designed with specific features, such as a more aerodynamic shape or a textured surface, to help players control the ball better during games.
Training balls, on the other hand, may not have these same features and grooves, as they are meant to be used for practice and not necessarily for performance.
Price
One of the most noticeable differences between match balls and training balls is their price. Match balls are typically more expensive than training balls, due to their higher quality materials and specialized design.
If you’re on a budget, a training ball may be a better option for you, as they are often more affordable and still offer a good level of performance.
You can find a good training ball for under $50 while some match balls are north of $100.
Final Thoughts
While match balls are sexy, training balls do the trick. If you are a parent of a youth soccer player, your child will probably not notice the difference.
Once they get older into high school, they may start developing a preference for a match ball but even for these players, a training ball is more than okay.
Match balls are designed for performance, with higher quality materials and specialized features, while training balls are meant to be more durable and affordable for regular use.
I hope this article helps a bit. You can also check out my favorite collection of soccer balls.
