The soccer ball should be size 5 in adult football. A match quality soccer ball is spherical, made of leather or other suitable material, and has a circumference of between 68 and 70 cm (27-28 inches). The weight should be between 410g and 450g at the start of the match, and the pressure 0.6-1.1 atm.
Younger children should use a size 3 or 4 football rather than a full-size (5) ball. The correct pressure is to inflate the ball so that it has a slight give. Don't over-inflate, so that the ball is skin tight. Apart from tending to crack the ball, it will also make the ball too bouncy. Match quality balls are expensive, and it isn't necessary to practise with them. A leather ball is better, though, than the plastic variety.
Care of the ball is easy: Wipe the mud off with a damp cloth after use. Let the ball dry naturally if it is wet. Drying it with a heater will crack the leather. Don't over-inflate it, and if you are storing the ball for some time, partly deflate it first.
Size 5 with circumference of 68-70cm
Weight: 410-450 g
Pressure: 0.6-1.1 atm (8.5-15.6 lb/sq.in)
