Question Number: 27400

Law 2 - The Ball 5/6/2013

RE: Under 14

Angel of Columbus, OH United States asks...

Are there any regulations on the weight of a soccer ball? because I've felt different kinds of soccer balls and many of them has different weight which confuses me a bit.

Answer provided by Referee Jason Wright

Hi Angel,

This is covered in the Laws of the Game.

Law 2 states that the ball must be between 410 and 450g at the start of the match.

However, it also allows for local competitions to use a smaller ball for youth competitions.

Answer provided by Referee Joe McHugh

Hi Angel
Yes this covered in the Laws of the Game. The ball must have a circumference of not more than 28 ins and not less than 27 ins and it must not weigh more than 16 oz and not less than 14 oz in weight at the start of the match.
Now there is a difference between replica balls and FIFA Approved soccer balls. Generally the difference is in the construction method and the material used which impacts on the weight and playability
Now from experience even approved makes of balls have different playing characteristics mainly due to the material used and how they are constructed. Some of the modern balls are thermally molded which can change the ball's flight. These seem to fly easier and appear lighter. I know for instance that many players do not like Adidas or Nike footballs in the competitions that I officiate on for that reason and are more comfortable with the more traditional stitched ball. Then there are balls at the cheaper end of the scale that have panels glued together onto the lining which provide a harder feel with less pliable material
Here is what FIFA has to say on the subject
http://footballs.fifa.com/

For me I look for the FIFA approved logo and just ensure that it inflated to the correct pressure. I rely on the manufacturer's quality control to ensure the circumference is correct and that the weight is correct also.