Soccer Ball vs Futsal Ball: 7 Key Differences Explained

Quick Answer: A futsal ball (Size 4: 62-64cm, 400-440g) is smaller and heavier than a soccer ball (Size 5: 68-70cm, 410-450g) with 60-70% less bounce (50-65cm vs 100-150cm). The futsal ball’s internal foam padding creates low bounce for hard court control, while soccer balls are designed for grass fields with higher bounce and longer flight.

Complete Comparison: Soccer Ball vs Futsal Ball

Understanding the differences between soccer and futsal balls helps players choose the right equipment and explains why each sport plays so differently.

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Futsal Ball (Size 4)	Soccer Ball (Size 5)
Circumference	62-64 cm (24.4-25.2″)	68-70 cm (26.8-27.6″)
Weight	400-440 g (14.1-15.5 oz)	410-450 g (14.5-15.9 oz)
Bounce (from 2m)	50-65 cm (low)	100-150 cm (high)
Diameter	~20 cm (7.9″)	~22 cm (8.7″)
Pressure	55-62 kPa (8-9 psi)	60-110 kPa (8.5-15.6 psi)
Surface	Hard courts (wood, concrete)	Grass, artificial turf
Construction	Extra internal foam padding	Standard bladder and lining
Feel	Heavier, stays low	Lighter feel, travels farther
Primary Use	Indoor futsal courts	Outdoor soccer fields
Age Group	12+ years (adult standard)	12+ years (adult standard)

The 7 Key Differences Between Soccer and Futsal Balls

1. Size and Circumference

Futsal Ball (Size 4):

• Circumference: 62-64 cm (24.4-25.2 inches)
• Diameter: Approximately 20 cm (7.9 inches)
• Noticeably smaller when held side-by-side with soccer ball
• Easier to control in tight spaces
• Proportional to smaller futsal court size

Soccer Ball (Size 5):

• Circumference: 68-70 cm (26.8-27.6 inches)
• Diameter: Approximately 22 cm (8.7 inches)
• Standard adult outdoor ball
• Designed for larger field dimensions
• About 6-8 cm larger in circumference

Why Size Differs:

The smaller futsal ball matches the sport’s playing environment:

• Futsal courts: 40m x 20m (smaller than soccer fields)
• Tight spaces: Less room for long passes or runs
• Quick play: Faster exchanges in confined areas
• Close control: Smaller ball easier to manipulate quickly

Impact on Play: The size difference is immediately noticeable. Futsal players develop superior close control because the smaller ball demands more precise touches. When futsal-trained players transition to outdoor soccer, the larger ball often feels easier to manage.

2. Weight and Density

Futsal Ball Weight:

• Range: 400-440 grams (14.1-15.5 oz)
• Average: ~420 grams
• Feels heavier relative to its size
• Denser construction due to internal padding

Soccer Ball Weight:

• Range: 410-450 grams (14.5-15.9 oz)
• Average: ~430 grams
• Similar absolute weight despite being larger
• Less dense than futsal ball

The Weight Paradox:

While soccer and futsal balls have similar absolute weights, the futsal ball feels significantly heavier because:

• Smaller size = higher density
• Internal foam padding adds weight
• More mass concentrated in smaller volume
• Requires more force to kick long distances

Performance Impact:

Futsal Ball: ✓ “Sticks” to feet during dribbling ✓ Rewards technical skill over power ✓ Stays on ground during play ✓ Requires precise ball striking ✓ Less affected by spin

Soccer Ball: ✓ Travels farther with less effort ✓ More responsive to power ✓ Can be driven long distances ✓ More affected by wind (outdoor) ✓ Spin has greater impact on flight

3. Bounce: The Critical Difference

This is the most significant difference between soccer and futsal balls.

Bounce Test (Dropped from 2 meters):

Futsal Ball:

• Bounces: 50-65 cm (20-26 inches)
• 60-70% less bounce than soccer ball
• Stays close to ground
• Minimal unpredictable movement
• Controlled, predictable behavior

Soccer Ball:

• Bounces: 100-150 cm (39-59 inches)
• High, lively bounce
• Can bounce chest-high or higher
• More aerial play naturally
• Greater unpredictability

Why the Massive Bounce Difference?

Internal Construction:

Soccer Ball:

• Rubber or latex bladder
• Thin internal lining
• Air pressure creates bounce
• Simple design

Futsal Ball:

• Rubber or latex bladder
• Additional foam, textile, or cotton padding layer
• Padding absorbs impact energy
• Dramatically reduces bounce
• More complex construction

The Secret: The internal foam padding layer is what makes a futsal ball unique. It’s specifically engineered to dampen bounce while maintaining shape and durability.

Gameplay Impact:

Low Bounce (Futsal): ✓ Forces ground-based play ✓ Demands immediate ball control ✓ Can’t wait for ball to settle ✓ Rewards first touch quality ✓ Keeps play fast and technical

High Bounce (Soccer): ✓ Allows aerial play ✓ Creates headers and volleys ✓ Ball can travel over players ✓ More forgiving of poor touches ✓ Different skill set required

4. Material and Construction

Both balls use similar outer materials but different internal designs.

Outer Casing Materials:

Both Ball Types Use:

• Genuine leather: Premium models, excellent touch (expensive)
• Synthetic leather (PU): Most common, durable, affordable
• Microfiber: Modern synthetic, good balance
• Textured polymers: Enhanced grip

Panel Construction:

• Typically 32 panels arranged in geometric pattern
• Hand-stitched (premium), machine-stitched (standard), or thermally bonded (molded)
• Similar appearance from outside

Internal Construction Differences:

Futsal Ball:

1. Outer casing – Synthetic or leather
2. Internal lining – Multiple layers
3. Foam/textile padding – THE KEY DIFFERENCE
4. Bladder – Rubber or latex

Soccer Ball:

1. Outer casing – Synthetic or leather
2. Internal lining – Fewer/thinner layers
3. NO foam padding layer
4. Bladder – Rubber or latex

Why It Matters: The internal foam padding in futsal balls is not just about bounce reduction—it also affects:

• How the ball feels on contact
• Sound when kicked (more muted)
• Response to strikes
• Durability on hard surfaces
• Safety (less impact force)

5. Pressure and Inflation

Proper inflation affects performance differently for each ball type.

Futsal Ball Pressure:

• Recommended: 55-62 kPa (8-9 psi)
• Lower range than soccer balls
• Over-inflation defeats low-bounce purpose
• Narrower acceptable range

Soccer Ball Pressure:

• Recommended: 60-110 kPa (8.5-15.6 psi)
• Higher and wider range
• More variance acceptable
• Higher pressure = more bounce and distance

Effects of Improper Inflation:

Futsal Ball:

• Under-inflated: Even deader feel, too soft
• Over-inflated: Loses low-bounce characteristic, too hard, defeats purpose

Soccer Ball:

• Under-inflated: Won’t travel, feels sluggish
• Over-inflated: Painful to kick/head, too bouncy

Key Insight: Futsal balls must be inflated precisely within their narrow range to maintain the characteristic low bounce. Soccer balls have more tolerance.

6. Playing Surface Adaptation

Each ball is optimized for its typical playing surface.

Futsal Ball – Hard Indoor Courts:

Surfaces:

• Hardwood gymnasium floors
• Polished concrete
• Sport court tiles
• Rubber flooring
• Any hard, smooth indoor surface

Design Adaptations: ✓ Low bounce for hard surface control ✓ Durable outer casing resists abrasion ✓ Non-marking materials (won’t scuff floors) ✓ Softer touch for player safety on hard courts ✓ Optimized for fast, controlled indoor play

Soccer Ball – Grass and Turf:

Surfaces:

• Natural grass fields
• Artificial turf (3G, 4G)
• Outdoor playing fields
• Various weather conditions

Design Adaptations: ✓ High bounce for grass play ✓ Weather-resistant materials ✓ Can handle wet conditions ✓ Durable for outdoor elements ✓ Visible in various lighting

Cross-Surface Performance:

Using Futsal Ball on Grass: ❌ Won’t bounce enough (too dead) ❌ Difficult to play aerial balls ❌ Feels strange on soft surface ❌ Not designed for this use

Using Soccer Ball on Hard Courts: ❌ Bounces excessively (uncontrollable) ❌ Hard on feet and shins ❌ Wears down quickly ❌ May damage indoor floors ❌ Defeats purpose of indoor play

7. Skill Development Impact

The balls develop different skills due to their unique characteristics.

Futsal Ball Develops:

Technical Skills: ✓ Superior first touch – Must control immediately ✓ Close ball control – Small spaces demand precision ✓ Quick decision-making – Less time to think ✓ Accurate passing – Low bounce punishes poor passes ✓ Shooting placement – Can’t rely on power alone

Mental Skills: ✓ Faster processing – Game moves quickly ✓ Creativity – Limited space requires solutions ✓ Awareness – Tight quarters demand constant scanning ✓ Confidence – Rewards technical ability

Soccer Ball Develops:

Physical and Tactical Skills: ✓ Power striking – Longer passes and shots ✓ Aerial ability – Headers and volleys ✓ Long-range vision – Seeing across large fields ✓ Endurance – Covering greater distances ✓ Positional play – Using space tactically

Why Futsal Ball is Superior for Skill Development:

Many of the world’s greatest players (Pelé, Ronaldinho, Messi, Neymar, Iniesta) credit futsal with accelerating their development:

1. More touches – Smaller court = more ball contact
2. Tighter spaces – Demands better control
3. Faster decisions – Improves processing speed
4. Less forgiveness – Must execute precisely
5. Creativity required – Can’t rely on athleticism alone

The Transfer Effect: Skills developed with a futsal ball transfer exceptionally well to outdoor soccer. The reverse is less true—outdoor soccer skills don’t transfer as completely to futsal because the technical demands are higher.

Size Variations: Youth and Development

Both soccer and futsal come in multiple sizes for different age groups.

Futsal Ball Sizes

Size	Circumference	Weight	Age Group	Use
Size 2	50-55 cm	280-320 g	Under 8	Introductory
Size 3	59-61 cm	350-380 g	Ages 8-12	Youth development
Size 4	62-64 cm	400-440 g	Ages 12+	Official standard

Soccer Ball Sizes

Size	Circumference	Weight	Age Group	Use
Size 3	58-60 cm	300-320 g	Under 8	Youth training
Size 4	63-66 cm	350-390 g	Ages 8-12	Junior matches
Size 5	68-70 cm	410-450 g	Ages 12+	Official standard

Important Note: A Size 4 futsal ball is NOT the same as a Size 4 soccer ball:

• Futsal Size 4: 62-64 cm (official adult size)
• Soccer Size 4: 63-66 cm (youth size)
• Different weights and bounce characteristics
• Designed for different purposes

Can You Use a Soccer Ball for Futsal (or Vice Versa)?

Using Soccer Ball for Futsal

Short Answer: Not recommended.

Why It Doesn’t Work: ❌ Excessive bounce – Bounces 100-150cm vs futsal’s 50-65cm ❌ Poor control – Too bouncy for hard courts ❌ Wrong size – Larger ball harder to control in tight spaces ❌ Defeats the purpose – Futsal’s technical benefits lost ❌ Gameplay suffers – Constant uncontrolled bouncing ❌ Safety concerns – Harder impacts on hard surfaces

When It’s Barely Acceptable:

• Casual backyard futsal with friends
• No futsal ball available
• Just for fun, not serious play
• Understanding it won’t feel right

Bottom Line: If playing actual futsal, always use a proper futsal ball.

Using Futsal Ball for Soccer

Short Answer: Better than reverse, but still not ideal.

Why It’s Problematic: ❌ Insufficient bounce – Won’t bounce enough on grass ❌ Too heavy – Difficult aerial play ❌ Wears quickly – Not designed for outdoor elements ❌ Flight characteristics – Different trajectory ❌ Player confusion – Doesn’t behave like soccer ball

When It’s More Acceptable: ✓ Training drill for ball control ✓ Rondo/possession exercises ✓ Developing first touch on grass ✓ Technical warm-ups ✓ Skill development sessions

As Training Tool: Many soccer coaches use futsal balls during training to force better technique, then switch to soccer balls for matches.

Bottom Line: Futsal balls can be valuable soccer training tools but shouldn’t replace soccer balls for actual matches.

How Training with Futsal Balls Improves Soccer Players

The futsal ball’s unique characteristics make it an exceptional training tool for soccer development.

Technical Skill Enhancement

1. Superior First Touch

How Futsal Ball Helps:

• Low bounce demands immediate control
• Can’t let ball bounce first (won’t settle)
• Forces “soft feet” technique
• Punishes poor touches instantly

Soccer Transfer: When players return to soccer balls, their first touch feels effortless because they’ve trained with more demanding equipment.

2. Close Control Mastery

How Futsal Ball Helps:

• Heavier ball requires better technique
• Tight spaces force precision
• Can’t muscle the ball
• Small touches more effective

Soccer Transfer: Players become comfortable in crowded areas, navigate pressure better, and maintain possession in traffic.

3. Faster Decision-Making

How Futsal Ball Helps:

• Faster game pace
• Less time between touches
• Opponents always close
• Must think ahead

Soccer Transfer: Players process information faster, anticipate better, and make quicker tactical decisions.

4. Passing Precision

How Futsal Ball Helps:

• Low bounce punishes inaccurate passes
• Receivers must control difficult balls
• Weight and pace critical
• Technical execution essential

Soccer Transfer: Passing accuracy and vision improve dramatically, leading to better possession play.

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5. Shooting Technique

How Futsal Ball Helps:

• Heavier ball demands proper striking form
• Can’t rely on power alone
• Placement essential (smaller goals)
• Technique over strength

Soccer Transfer: Improved shooting mechanics and placement ability carry over perfectly to outdoor soccer.

Professional Player Testimonials

Lionel Messi: “I developed my skills playing futsal. It’s a great tool for young players to learn ball control and quick thinking.”

Cristiano Ronaldo: “Futsal was important in my development. It taught me to think faster and improved my technique in tight spaces.”

Ronaldinho: “Futsal helped me develop my creativity and close control. The small spaces force you to find solutions quickly.”

Andrés Iniesta: “Growing up playing futsal taught me how to move in small spaces and keep the ball under pressure.”

Recommended Training Approach

For Youth Players (Under 12):

• 70% futsal ball training for technical development
• 30% soccer ball for familiarity
• Focus on individual skill mastery
• Lots of small-sided games

For Teen Players (12-16):

• 50% futsal ball during technical sessions
• 50% soccer ball during team training
• Balance skill refinement with tactical development
• Maintain futsal’s technical benefits

For Adult Players:

• 30% futsal ball for skill maintenance
• 70% soccer ball for match preparation
• Use futsal ball for warm-ups and skill work
• Keep technical edge sharp

Choosing the Right Ball: Buying Guide

Best Futsal Balls (2025)

Premium Options ($50-120):

• Mikasa FSC62 – Official FIFA/UEFA ball
• Select Futsal Master – Professional hand-stitched
• Mizuno Morelia Sala Elite – Premium quality

Mid-Range ($25-50):

• Nike React Futsal Pro – Excellent value
• Adidas Uniforia Futsal – Tournament quality
• Joma Top Flex Futsal – Great performance

Budget Options ($15-25):

• Kipsta FS500 (Decathlon) – Best value
• Mitre Futsal Tempest – Beginner friendly
• Adidas Team Sala – Entry-level quality

Best Soccer Balls (2025)

Premium Options ($50-150):

• Adidas Al Rihla (World Cup ball)
• Nike Flight Official Match – Professional quality
• Select Brillant Super – Hand-stitched excellence

Mid-Range ($20-50):

• Adidas Tiro League – Excellent training ball
• Nike Academy Team – Great value
• Puma Orbita – Good all-around option

Budget Options ($10-20):

• Adidas Tiro Club – Basic training
• Nike Pitch Team – Entry-level
• Mikasa SVL – Affordable quality

What to Look For

Futsal Balls: ✓ “Designed for futsal” or “official futsal ball” label ✓ Size 4 (adult) or appropriate size for age ✓ Reputable brand (Mikasa, Select, Nike, Adidas, Joma) ✓ Proper weight specification (400-440g for Size 4) ✓ Low-bounce characteristic ✓ Non-marking if playing indoors

Soccer Balls: ✓ FIFA Quality or FIFA Basic certification (for match balls) ✓ Size 5 (adult) or appropriate size for age ✓ Reputable brand ✓ Appropriate for surface (match vs training) ✓ Durability for usage level ✓ Weather resistance for outdoor use

Care and Maintenance

Both ball types benefit from proper care, but have different considerations.

Futsal Ball Maintenance

After Each Use:

• Wipe down with dry cloth
• Check for damage on hard courts
• Remove dust/dirt (abrasive over time)
• Store at room temperature

Regular Care:

• Inflate to 55-62 kPa (check weekly)
• Clean with mild soap and water
• Avoid excessive water exposure
• Don’t leave in hot car

Storage:

• Store indoors at room temperature
• Avoid direct sunlight
• Use in ball bag when transporting
• Don’t over-inflate for long-term storage

Lifespan:

• Premium balls: 1-2 years with regular use (2-3x/week)
• Mid-range: 6-12 months
• Budget: 3-6 months

Soccer Ball Maintenance

After Each Use:

• Remove mud/grass
• Wipe down exterior
• Check for punctures or damage
• Air dry if wet

Regular Care:

• Maintain proper pressure (60-110 kPa)
• Clean thoroughly after muddy games
• Condition leather balls periodically
• Rotate between multiple balls if possible

Storage:

• Store in cool, dry place
• Away from direct sunlight and heat
• Ball bag for protection
• Slightly deflate for long-term storage

Lifespan:

• Premium balls: 1-2 years (depends on surface)
• Mid-range: 6-12 months
• Budget: 3-6 months
• Grass/turf: longer life than concrete/hard surfaces

When to Replace

Replace When: ❌ Won’t hold air pressure ❌ Visible damage (cuts, punctures) ❌ Seams separating ❌ Lost bounce characteristics ❌ Deformed shape ❌ Surface severely worn

Conclusion: Understanding the Two Balls

Soccer balls and futsal balls may look similar at first glance, but their differences fundamentally shape how each sport is played and how players develop their skills.

Key Takeaways:

✓ Futsal balls (62-64cm, 400-440g) are smaller, heavier, and bounce 60-70% less than soccer balls ✓ Soccer balls (68-70cm, 410-450g) are larger, lighter-feeling, with high bounce for grass play ✓ Internal foam padding in futsal balls is the secret to low bounce and technical gameplay ✓ Each ball is optimized for its surface: futsal for hard courts, soccer for grass ✓ Futsal balls are superior for technical skill development at all ages ✓ Don’t substitute – use proper balls for each sport for best results ✓ Cross-training benefits – futsal ball training significantly improves soccer skills

Whether you’re a player looking to improve, a coach developing talent, or a parent choosing equipment for your child, understanding these differences helps you make informed decisions. The futsal ball’s unique low-bounce characteristic isn’t just a technical specification—it’s the foundation of a sport that has produced some of soccer’s greatest technical players.

Invest in quality balls appropriate for your sport, maintain them properly, and appreciate how these carefully engineered spheres shape the beautiful game in its various forms. From Pelé to Messi, the greatest players have benefited from training with both soccer and futsal balls—and you can too.

FAQs: Soccer Ball vs. Futsal Ball

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By understanding the differences between soccer balls and futsal balls, you can optimize your training and gameplay. Be sure to check out our guides on the best futsal shoes and best indoor soccer shoes for more tips on how to elevate your performance. Additionally, learn more about futsal positions, key futsal tournaments, and the impact of futsal players on the global stage