Cover Photo by Pedram Raz on Unsplash
Soccer earned its moniker, The Beautiful Game, from its simplicity. All you need is a ball, but which ball is best for you? adidas separates their soccer balls into different tiers to meet players wherever they are. So whether you’re getting ready for your first-ever practice or you want to use the same equipment as the pros, adidas makes the decision simple.
Club
Perfect for beginners, adidas’ club line provides a good, consistent product that comes in all sizes. The stitched exterior panels and a butyl bladder make for a ball that holds up in all conditions but its modest appearance will leave a little to be desired for more advanced players.
Price Range: $19.99-29.99
Training
For a slight step up from Club, the Training tier offers a similar feel with some added panel texturing. The ball uses the same butyl bladder and stitched exterior panels as the former, but the cosmetic and surface improvements are what take this ball to the next level.
Price Range: $29.99-39.99
League
Moving away from stitching, adidas has its first of three tiers that use thermal bonding for a seamless construction. Thermal bonding prevents the ball from absorbing any unwanted moisture, as well as helping to retain its shape long-term. League balls are FIFA-approved and can be used in official matches, for a similar feel to the top match balls, but also cost-efficient thanks to the 100% thermoplastic polyurethane exterior panels.
Price Range: $39.99-49.99
Competition
Competition match balls feature the same panel design as the Pro and are reminiscent of a more classic match ball feel. Despite not having the enhanced texturing or the same surface material as the top-level ball, Competition balls are FIFA Quality Pro certified and NFHS-approved (National Federation of State High School Associations).
Price Range: $59.99
Pro
Looking for the elite match ball experience? adidas is the pinnacle when it comes to response, predictability, and overall quality. Their Pro balls feature enhanced texturing as well as a 100% thermoplastic polyurethane exterior and thermally bonded seamless construction. Adidas match balls are used in leagues and tournaments worldwide including the FIFA World Cup, Uefa Champions League, and MLS.
Price Range: $119.99-169.99
