Why Is My Soccer Ball Deflating? 

If you play soccer regularly, you understand how frustrating it can be to find a soccer ball deflated.

The frustration can be amplified if that’s your only soccer ball!

So, why does your soccer ball deflate? There are a few reasons why your ball might be losing air, and understanding them can help you maintain the air inside your ball.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the common causes of your soccer ball deflating. You’ll want to keep reading!

Common Causes of Soccer Ball Deflation

If you’re still on the page, let’s cut to the chase and learn what makes a soccer ball deflate. Here are a few reasons why:

Damage to the Ball’s Exterior

If your soccer ball has been punctured or damaged in any way, it can cause air to leak out.

The subtle air leak can happen if the ball is kicked into a sharp object or if it’s simply been used for too long. This can cause it to become worn out.

If you notice any visible damage to your ball, it’s important to repair it (see below) or replace it as soon as possible to prevent further deflation.

Leaky Valve

The valve is the small opening in the ball where you insert the air pump.

If the valve is damaged or not screwed in tightly, air can escape from the ball. Check the valve regularly to make sure it’s in good condition and securely fastened.

Underinflation

If your ball is underinflated, then it is considered deflated so you’ll need to pump more air into it.

Make sure to pump your ball up to the appropriate pressure before use. A ball that’s too soft can also affect its bounce and overall performance on the field.

It’s relatively easy to spot a ball that needs more air. There’s a certain ‘thud’ sound it makes.

As a rule of thumb, the ball should be inflated between 8.5 – 15.6 PSI. 

Overinflation

Conversely, if you pump too much air into your soccer ball, it can become overinflated and reverse itself to deflate quickly. With too much air inside, the air needs to escape somehow so it will seep through the seams.

Check the recommended inflation pressure for your ball and use a pressure gauge to ensure that you’re not exceeding it.

Overinflation can also cause the ball to become misshapen and affect its performance.

For an experienced player, you can trust your gut to ensure the ball is not pumped up too much.

Temperature Change

When the temperature drops, the air molecules inside the ball lose energy and move more slowly, causing the air pressure inside the ball to decrease. This decrease in pressure can cause the ball to deflate or become less firm.

The rubber or plastic material used to make soccer balls can also become stiffer and less elastic in cold temperatures, which can contribute to deflation.

How to Detect a Deflated Soccer Ball

Visually Inspect

The first step in detecting a deflated soccer ball is visually inspecting it.

Take a look at the ball and see if it appears to be fully inflated. A fully inflated ball should be round and firm, with no visible deformities.

If the ball appears to be misshapen or has a flattened appearance, likely, it is not fully inflated.

Another thing to look for during a visual inspection is the position of the valve.

If the valve appears to be pushed in or sunken into the ball, it may be an indication that the ball is not fully inflated.

On the other hand, if the valve appears to be sticking out too far, it may be an indication that the ball is overinflated.

Physical Inspection

If you suspect that your soccer ball is not fully inflated, the next step is to perform a physical inspection.

First, press down on the ball with your hands to see if it feels firm. A fully inflated ball should be firm to the touch and should not have much give.

Next, try dropping the ball from a height of about three feet. A fully inflated ball should bounce back up to almost the same height. If the ball does not bounce back up, it probably needs more air.

Lastly, try kicking the soccer ball. A fully inflated ball should be easy to kick and travel a good distance. A deflated ball will not travel as far and, again, make a noticeable noise.

A visual and physical inspection is probably all you need. As you play more, you’ll just naturally know if a ball is deflated, over-inflated, or just right.

How to Fix a Deflated Soccer Ball

If you have a deflated soccer ball, don’t worry! SoccerNovo to the rescue. You can easily fix it with a few simple steps.

Here are two methods you can use to get your ball back in playing shape:

Replacing the Valve

The valve is the small plastic piece on the soccer ball that allows air to be pumped in and out. If the valve is loose or damaged, it can cause the ball to deflate. Here’s how to replace the valve:

1. Locate the valve on the soccer ball.
2. Using a screwdriver, gently twist the valve counterclockwise to remove it from the ball.
3. Insert the new valve into the hole and twist it clockwise to secure it in place.
4. Pump the ball with air and test it to make sure it’s holding air properly.

Using a Repair Kit

If the valve is not the problem, you can use a repair kit to fix the deflated soccer ball. Here are the steps:

1. Deflate the soccer ball completely.
2. Apply a small amount of glue or sealant to the valve and let it dry for a few minutes.
3. Pump the ball with air and test it to make sure it’s holding air properly.
4. Make sure to follow the instructions on the repair kit carefully to avoid damaging the ball further.

Honestly, most times it’s too much trouble to repair a permanently deflated ball. If you are a soccer player, you probably have access to many soccer balls. You can go to your local school or soccer club and I’m guessing there will be many balls in the woods!

Preventing Soccer Ball Deflation

Proper Inflation

To prevent soccer ball deflation, it is important to inflate the ball to the correct pressure.

Overinflating can cause the ball to burst, while underinflation can cause it to lose its shape and not bounce.

The recommended pressure range is usually printed on the ball or can be found in the manufacturer’s instructions.

Use a pressure gauge to ensure that the ball is inflated to the correct pressure before use.

Storage

How you store your soccer ball can affect the way it maintains its air capacity. When you are not using your ball, it is important to store it properly.

Deflate the ball when storing it for an extended period, such as during the off-season. This will help relieve pressure on the ball and prevent it from losing air.

While actively playing with the soccer ball, store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Maintenance & Care

Proper care of your soccer ball can not only help prevent deflation but can give it a longer life.

Avoid kicking the ball on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt, which can cause damage to the ball’s surface and valve.

Wipe the ball regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap, and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

Conclusion

To wrap up, a soccer ball can deflate for various reasons as mentioned above.

It is important to properly keep your soccer ball inflated at the recommended PSI, stored it in a dry area away from direct sunlight, and be used it on grass or turf only.

I hope this article has been helpful. For more information on soccer balls, head over to How to Deflate a Soccer Ball Without a Pump or What Are Soccer Balls Made Of?