Soccer Ball Size by Age: U8, U10, U12, U14 & Adults
Soccer balls come in different sizes for different age groups. Here is the simple answer for choosing the right ball for youth and adult players.
Soccer Ball Size by Age
The easiest way to choose a soccer ball is by the player's age group. Younger players use smaller balls, while older youth and adults use the full-size Size 5 ball.
| Age Group | Soccer Ball Size | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| U6–U8 | Size 3 | Young youth players learning basic control and technique |
| U10 | Size 4 | Youth training and matches |
| U12 | Size 4 | Youth training and matches |
| U14+ | Size 5 | Older youth soccer |
| Adults | Size 5 | Adult training and competition |
Ball-size requirements can vary by league, tournament or governing organization. Check your competition rules when purchasing a game ball.
What Size Soccer Ball Does U8 Use?
U8 players generally use a Size 3 soccer ball. Its smaller size makes it easier for young players to learn passing, dribbling and ball control.
What Size Soccer Ball Does U10 Use?
U10 players generally use a Size 4 soccer ball. Size 4 is the standard step between the smaller youth Size 3 and the full-size Size 5 ball.
What Size Soccer Ball Does U12 Use?
U12 players also generally use a Size 4 soccer ball. It is sized for developing youth players before they transition to a full-size ball.
What Size Soccer Ball Does U14 Use?
U14 players generally use a Size 5 soccer ball. This is the same standard ball size used by adult players.
Size 4 vs Size 5 Soccer Ball
The main difference is simple: Size 4 is intended primarily for younger players, while Size 5 is the full-size soccer ball used by older youth and adults.
| Size 4 | Size 5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Age | U10–U12 | U14 and adults |
| Relative Size | Smaller | Full size |
| Typical Purpose | Youth development | Older youth and adult play |
Choosing a Kickova Soccer Ball
Once you know the correct size, choose the ball based on how it will be used. A team training several times per week may prioritize durability, while a match ball places more emphasis on touch, flight and game performance.
Magnus
A match-focused option for teams, schools and players looking for higher-level performance.
View Magnus →What Size Soccer Ball Do Adults Use?
Adult players use a Size 5 soccer ball. Size 5 is the standard full-size ball used for adult soccer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size soccer ball should a 10-year-old use?
A 10-year-old playing U10 soccer generally uses a Size 4 soccer ball.
What size soccer ball should a 12-year-old use?
U12 players generally use a Size 4 soccer ball.
When do players start using a Size 5 soccer ball?
Players generally move to a Size 5 around the U14 age group and continue using it through adult soccer.
Is Size 4 or Size 5 better for youth soccer?
Neither is universally better. The correct choice depends on the player's age group. U10 and U12 typically use Size 4, while older youth generally use Size 5.
Find the right soccer ball
Explore Kickova soccer balls for youth, training and match play.
