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What size soccer ball for kids should you buy? If your child has moved up an age group and the coach says, “Bring a ball to practice,” choosing the right size can feel confusing. The wrong ball may be harder to control, so this simple age-by-age guide will help you choose between sizes 3, 4, and 5 before your next practice or game.
Soccer Ball Size Chart by Age
| Size | Typical Age | Circumference |
|---|---|---|
| Size 3 | Under 8 (U4 to U8) | 23 to 24 in |
| Size 4 | Ages 8 to 12 (U9 to U12) | 25 to 26 in |
| Size 5 | Ages 13 and up (U13+), adults | 27 to 28 in |
When in doubt, check with your coach or league. Some clubs move kids up a size a little earlier or later, but the chart above is the standard in most U.S. youth leagues.
Size 3 Soccer Ball: Ages 7 and Under
Little feet need a lighter, smaller ball so they can actually kick it. Size 3 is what most rec leagues use for the youngest players. Look for a soft-touch ball that is easy to control.
Size 3 pick:Size 3 Soccer Ball
Size 4 Soccer Ball: Ages 8–12
This is the big middle stretch, and where most soccer parents are shopping. Size 4 is the right fit for U9 through U12 and is easier on growing legs while kids build technique. This is the one I would buy for practice at home, too.
Our pick: The adidas Starlancer Club Soccer Ball (Size 4) is a solid, durable everyday ball that holds up through practices, driveway games, and tournament weekends.
Size 5 Soccer Ball: Ages 13 and Older
Once your player hits U13, it is full-size. Size 5 is also the ball for high school, club, and adult play. If your kid is on a competitive team, check what the team uses so they train with the same ball.
Size 5 pick: Size 5 Soccer Ball
How to Choose the Right Soccer Ball for Your Child
- Buy for age, not for size of your kid. A tall 10-year-old still plays a size 4.
- Check the ball is inflated. A flat ball feels heavy. Keep a small pump in the gear bag.
- Label it. Every team has twenty identical balls. A permanent marker saves arguments.
- Don't forget the rest of the kit. Shin guards are required almost everywhere. We like the adidas Tiro Club Shin Guards, and a 40 oz Owala FreeSip water bottle keeps them hydrated through the second half.
Heading to a Tournament?
Check out our tournament guides for what to pack, what to eat, and how to survive a full weekend on the sidelines.
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