How can you prevent swinging too hard in golf. What techniques improve golf swing smoothness. Why is proper tempo crucial for an effective golf swing. How do professional golfers optimize power and control.
Understanding the Complexities of Golf Swing Mechanics
The golf swing is a intricate dance of moving parts, each playing a crucial role in generating effortless power. When these elements work in harmony, the results can be spectacular. However, when they’re out of sync, a myriad of issues can arise. Let’s delve into the key components and explore how to fine-tune your swing for optimal performance.
The Three Phases of a Golf Swing
A golf swing can be broken down into three distinct phases:
- Backswing
- Transition
- Downswing
When these phases are executed with proper timing and coordination, your ball-striking ability can improve dramatically. However, issues in any of these areas can lead to inconsistency and frustration on the course.
The Myth of Swinging Harder for Greater Distance
Many golfers fall into the trap of believing that swinging harder is the key to increased distance. While it’s true that speed contributes to distance, the timing of that speed is critical. Legendary golfer Tiger Woods addressed this common misconception in his book “How I Play Golf.”
Woods explains, “A problem almost every golfer encounters is rushing the downswing — letting loose with everything you have the moment the backswing is complete. When you do that, however, nothing works in proper sequence. The shoulders outrace the arms, the arms outrace the hands, and the hands outrace the club. All that speed is expended too soon and the clubhead is actually losing speed as it strikes the ball when it should be accelerating.”
This insight from one of the game’s greatest players highlights the importance of proper sequencing in the golf swing. It’s not about how hard you swing, but rather how efficiently you transfer energy from your body to the club and ultimately to the ball.
Optimizing Your Downswing for Maximum Power
To harness the full potential of your swing, it’s crucial to focus on the first move of the downswing. Tiger Woods recommends, “I like to start the downswing by shifting my weight easily back to my left side and then letting my arms fall downward in front of my chest.”
This approach allows for a smooth transition and helps ensure that the clubhead is accelerating at the moment of impact, rather than decelerating. By mastering this technique, you can generate more power without feeling like you’re swinging out of your shoes.
The Role of Weight Transfer in Power Generation
Proper weight transfer is a key element in creating an efficient, powerful golf swing. As you initiate the downswing, focus on smoothly shifting your weight to your lead foot. This movement should feel natural and unhurried, setting the stage for the arms and club to follow in sequence.
Practical Drills to Improve Swing Tempo and Control
Developing a smooth, controlled swing takes practice and patience. Here are some effective drills to help you refine your technique:
The Half-Swing Drill
Head to the driving range and focus on making relaxed, quality shots with a 50% swing. Don’t concern yourself with distance or shot shape; instead, concentrate on the feel of your swing. Gradually increase to 70% power, paying attention to the sensations at the top of your backswing, during the transition, and at impact.
This drill helps you develop a better awareness of your swing mechanics and can lead to more consistent ball-striking.
The Tempo Training Drill
- Set up to hit a ball as you normally would
- Take your club back to waist height in your backswing
- Pause for a count of one
- Complete your backswing
- Pause again for a count of one
- Execute your downswing and follow through
This drill helps ingrain a smooth, rhythmic tempo into your swing, reducing the tendency to rush or overswing.
The Importance of Club Selection in Swing Control
One often overlooked factor in maintaining swing control is proper club selection. Many golfers find themselves overswinging when they’ve chosen a club that doesn’t quite have the distance they need. This attempt to squeeze out extra yards often leads to poor contact and reduced accuracy.
Instead of trying to hit a club beyond its capabilities, it’s far more effective to select a longer club and swing at 80-90% of your maximum effort. This approach allows you to maintain better balance and control throughout your swing.
Knowing Your Distances: A Key to Smart Club Selection
To make informed decisions about club selection, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of your carry distances for each club in your bag. Without this knowledge, you’re more likely to find yourself in situations where you feel compelled to overswing.
One of the most effective ways to gather this data is by using a portable launch monitor during your practice sessions. These devices have become increasingly affordable and can provide valuable insights into your swing and ball flight characteristics.
Leveraging Technology to Refine Your Golf Swing
In the modern era of golf, technology has become an invaluable tool for players looking to improve their game. Launch monitors, in particular, offer a wealth of data that can help you optimize your swing and track your progress over time.
Benefits of Using a Launch Monitor
- Accurate measurement of carry distances for each club
- Analysis of club head speed, ball speed, and spin rates
- Ability to track improvements as you work on your swing
- Instant feedback to help you understand the effects of swing changes
By incorporating a launch monitor into your practice routine, you can make each range session more productive and gain a deeper understanding of your swing mechanics.
The Role of Physical Fitness in Golf Swing Efficiency
While technique is crucial, the physical condition of the golfer also plays a significant role in swing efficiency and power generation. A well-designed golf-specific fitness program can help you develop the strength, flexibility, and stability needed for an optimal swing.
Key Areas to Focus on in Golf Fitness
- Core strength and stability
- Hip and shoulder mobility
- Rotational power
- Balance and proprioception
By improving these aspects of your physical fitness, you can enhance your ability to generate power efficiently, reducing the need to overswing or strain for extra distance.
Mental Strategies for Maintaining Swing Control
The mental aspect of golf is just as important as the physical when it comes to maintaining control over your swing. Developing a strong mental game can help you resist the urge to overswing, even in pressure situations.
Visualization Techniques
Before each shot, take a moment to visualize the perfect swing and the desired ball flight. This mental rehearsal can help reinforce proper technique and tempo, even when you’re feeling pressure to hit the ball harder.
Pre-Shot Routine
Establish a consistent pre-shot routine that includes deep breaths and a focus on rhythm. This can help you maintain a calm, controlled state of mind, reducing the likelihood of overswinging.
Analyzing Your Swing: The Power of Video Analysis
In addition to launch monitors, video analysis can be an incredibly powerful tool for improving your golf swing. By recording your swings and reviewing them in slow motion, you can gain valuable insights into your technique and identify areas for improvement.
Key Elements to Look for in Swing Analysis
- Posture and alignment at address
- Backswing length and position at the top
- Transition move and weight shift
- Impact position and follow-through
Many smartphone apps now offer advanced swing analysis features, making it easier than ever to get professional-level insights into your technique.
The Impact of Equipment on Swing Efficiency
While technique and physical conditioning are crucial, the equipment you use can also play a significant role in your ability to generate power efficiently. Modern club technology has made it easier than ever to achieve optimal launch conditions without overswinging.
Factors to Consider in Club Fitting
- Shaft flex and weight
- Club head loft and design
- Grip size and material
- Overall club length
A professional club fitting can help ensure that your equipment is optimized for your swing characteristics, allowing you to generate maximum power with a smooth, controlled swing.
Learning from the Pros: Swing Tempo Insights
While every golfer’s swing is unique, there’s much to be learned from studying the techniques of professional players. Many top golfers emphasize the importance of maintaining a consistent tempo throughout the swing.
Notable Pro Swing Tempos
- Ernie Els: Known for his smooth, languid swing tempo
- Adam Scott: Exemplifies a balanced, rhythmic swing
- Fred Couples: Famous for his seemingly effortless power generation
Observing these players can provide valuable insights into how to generate power without sacrificing control or tempo.
The Role of Practice in Developing Optimal Swing Tempo
Like any skill in golf, developing and maintaining an efficient swing tempo requires consistent practice. However, it’s not just about hitting balls; the quality of your practice sessions is crucial.
Structured Practice Techniques
- Use alignment sticks to ensure proper setup and swing path
- Incorporate tempo training aids, such as metronomes or swing tempo apps
- Practice with a purpose, focusing on specific aspects of your swing in each session
- Alternate between technical practice and on-course simulation
By approaching your practice with intention and structure, you can more effectively ingrain the feeling of a smooth, powerful swing.
Adapting Your Swing for Different Situations
While maintaining a consistent swing tempo is important, golf also requires the ability to adapt to various on-course situations. Learning to make subtle adjustments without losing your fundamental rhythm is a key skill for any golfer.
Situational Swing Adaptations
- Uphill and downhill lies
- Windy conditions
- Shots from the rough or sand
- Partial swing shots
Practice these situations regularly to develop the ability to maintain your tempo and control, even when faced with challenging course conditions.
The Connection Between Breathing and Swing Tempo
Often overlooked, proper breathing techniques can have a significant impact on your ability to maintain a smooth, controlled golf swing. Conscious breathing can help regulate your heart rate, reduce tension, and promote a more relaxed, fluid motion.
Breathing Techniques for Golf
- Deep diaphragmatic breathing during pre-shot routine
- Synchronized breathing with swing tempo (e.g., inhale on backswing, exhale on downswing)
- Post-shot breath focus for mental reset
Incorporating these breathing techniques into your golf routine can help you maintain composure and swing efficiency, even under pressure.
The Long-Term Benefits of Optimal Swing Tempo
Developing and maintaining an efficient, well-timed golf swing offers benefits that extend far beyond just improved performance on the course. A smooth, controlled swing can contribute to:
- Reduced risk of injury
- Increased enjoyment of the game
- Greater consistency in ball-striking
- Improved overall scoring
By focusing on swing efficiency rather than raw power, you can set yourself up for long-term success and enjoyment in your golfing journey.
Integrating Swing Tempo Improvements into Your Game
As you work on refining your swing tempo and efficiency, it’s important to have a strategy for integrating these improvements into your on-course performance. Here are some tips to help you make the transition:
- Start by implementing your new tempo on the driving range
- Gradually introduce the changes during practice rounds
- Use on-course drills to reinforce proper tempo
- Be patient and allow time for the new movements to become habitual
Remember, lasting change takes time and consistent effort. Stay committed to your improved swing tempo, and you’ll likely see significant improvements in your overall game.
How to Prevent Swinging Too Hard in Golf
If you’re like a lot of golfers, you’ve probably asked yourself questions like… “Why do I swing so hard in golf?” Or, “How do I make my golf swing smoother?”
They’re good questions because if your golf swing is too fast, a lot can go wrong. But so many amateur golfers don’t understand the difference between a hard swing, bad timing, proper tempo, and other factors.
Swinging hard is 100% arbitrary as every golfer is different. What’s important is that you understand the proper tempo and timing during all parts of your swing.
For example, some people might feel like they’re swinging too quickly when in reality, their backswing is too slow, which results in a rushed transition. While others might use way too much upper body on the downswing and feel quick as well.
The key is to understand how power is created in your swing and keep a close eye on it over time. Keep reading to learn more great drills, apps, swing thoughts, and other tricks for a more effective golf swing.
The golf swing is so complicated because there are so many moving parts. Each one plays a role in helping you create effortless power. And unfortunately, there are a lot of ways the swing can go wrong.
Let’s break down the swing into three parts; backswing, transition, and downswing. When they all work together, your ball striking will be 10X better. When they aren’t synced up properly, all kinds of misses occur.
Here are the best tips to help you hit each club as far as possible without feeling like you’re trying to kill it.
Accelerate At the Right Time
Let’s face it, everyone wants extra distance.
Thanks to Bryson’s incredible transformation in 2020, the golf world is all about power and distance. Which makes sense because hitting it longer off the tee means shorter approach shots and more birdie attempts.
Swinging harder isn’t always the solution to added distance though. Yes, speed does create distance. But you need to make sure you have optimal speed at the right time.
As Tiger Woods said in his book, How I Play Golf,
“A problem almost every golfer encounters is rushing the downswing — letting loose with everything you have the moment the backswing is complete. When you do that , however, nothing works in proper sequence.
The shoulders outrace the arms, the arms outrace the hands, and the hands outrace the club. All that speed is expended too soon and the clubhead is actually losing speed as it strikes the ball when it should be accelerating.”
This is absolute wisdom from the GOAT. The first move down is key to hit the golf ball with maximum force and a pure strike.
He elaborated saying, “I like to start the downswing by shifting my weight easily back to my left side and then letting my arms fall downward in front of my chest.”
This will help you accelerate at the golf ball properly and actually improve speed without swinging faster.
Practice Half Swings on the Range
Another way to slow things down is to go to the range and focus on hitting each ball with a relaxed, quality shot mentality.
Don’t think about distance or shot shape. This will help you slow down your takeaway and feel the difference.
Focus on intentionally slowing down and seeing how the ball reacts.
Put all the gear and gadgets away, simply swing at 50%. Then, work your way to up to 70% speed. Notice how it feels at the top of your swing, transition, and at impact.
You will likely hit more straight shots too.
Take Enough Club
Another huge reason that golfers lose balance and control is from not taking enough club.
If you don’t think the club you chose will get there, you’ll probably try to swing out of your shoes. This leads to bad timing which can throw off the entire swing.
Instead, don’t force anything by trying to hit a club extra hard. You would be much better off if you took more club and swung at 80 or 90% speed.
To make sure you take enough club, you need to know your distances for every club in the bag. Without knowing these numbers, it’s very easy to swing too hard and hit some bad shots.
This is why you need to practice and track your carry distances.
The easiest way to do this is with a portable launch monitor. Luckily, they’re cheaper than ever, can fit in your pocket, and tell you more about your swing than you ever thought possible. With a launch monitor, you can make each session on the range 10X more effective.
For example, if you start a golf workout program or start speed training, a launch monitor will help you track your progress. Just make sure to log your carry distances regularly so when you’re on the golf course, you always know what club to pull.
Click here to learn more about launch monitors.
Measure Your Swing
Speaking of launch monitors, before assuming you’re swinging too hard, measure your club head speed too. With a launch monitor, you can get a baseline for your swing and compare it over time.
Then, take some videos so you can look back on them as well. While you don’t need to upload them to YouTube or anything, having them saved in your phone is a great way to monitor your progress over time.
Having clear swing numbers and other data will make it easier to evaluate and analyze your swing.
Maintain Proper Balance
One common issue that leads to over swinging is a lack of balance. If you move around too much during the swing, it’s easy to over swing and lose control completely.
For example, a lot of golfers sway to a point that it affects the entire move forward toward the ball. If you move laterally on the way back, it’s nearly impossible to get your weight back to your lead foot.
Ideally, you want to maintain consistent balance throughout your swing. That starts from address position, is maintained throughout the swing, and how you follow through.
Read our full article on how to maintain balance in the golf swing.
Use Your Lower Body To Generate Power
Power comes from the ground up.
But if you watch a lot of amateurs on the driving range, you’ll see they try to hit it hard with a lot of upper body movement.
The key is to use your legs to push off the ground (known as ground force) to create effortless power.
One of the best examples of this move is Rory McIlroy.
He’s by no means the biggest player on the PGA Tour but consistently one of the longest and straightest drivers. Pound for pound, he’s one of the longest players in professional golf (Justin Thomas is right up there too).
His power does not come from his upper body but instead, how he uses all 155 pounds in his swing. Watch this slow motion video to see how Rory pushes off the turf to create incredible distance off the tee.
If you’re swinging too hard, record a video of yourself and see if it’s from excess upper body movement. If it is, then work on getting your legs more active in the golf swing.
Don’t forget, your lower body should start the downswing. Then, the hands, arms, and club follow behind.
Understand Tempo
If you’re like most avid golfers, when you think of perfect tempo you probably think of Fred Couples.
The guy has such a pure swing it’s genuinely hard to believe how easy he makes golf look. When I think of having a good tempo, I always think of Freddy.
Tempo is the key to having a controlled, powerful swing. But good tempo doesn’t mean you have to swing a certain speed on your downswing or backswing.
Instead, you need to have the right tempo – a 3:1 tempo. This is one of the few metrics that pretty much all elite players share.
A 3:1 tempo means that your backswing is 3X as long (in terms of seconds) as your downswing. This ensures that you accelerate at the impact zone and get the most out of every swing. To learn even more about tempo, read our full guide here.
One great way to check your tempo is with the deWiz golf watch. This incredible training aid makes it easy to see if you rush your backswing, transition, or downswing.
Click here to learn more about the deWiz golf watch now.
Speed Up Your Backswing
Sometimes you actually need to swing harder.
You might be thinking, “How will speeding up my backswing prevent me from swinging too hard?”
I thought the same thing myself until a lesson with a PGA Tour coach changed my perspective. I was always taught “Low and slow” on the way back.
But sometimes I would feel like I would “get quick” on my downswing. Then, I would slow my backswing even more in hopes of having a more fluid golf swing.
In reality, swinging slower was actually making things worse.
As Boyd Summerhays told me, “If you’re feeling quick during transition, speed up your backswing.” Which if you think about it, actually makes a ton of sense.
When you’re slow, slow, slow on the way back, eventually you’ll have to speed up to hit the ball. But this makes it easy to lead to a rushed transition and downswing.
Conversely, if you’re more fluid and faster on the way back, it’s easier to not rush the transition. It’s easier to set the club at the top and then make a solid downswing that starts with the legs.
The results were almost immediate and my timing never felt better. Not to mention, it almost instantly added distance as well.
If you need help feeling a faster backswing, download the Tour Tempo app on your phone or read our full Tour Tempo article here.
This is a great tool to help you synchronize your backswing to downswing. It has auditory cues to help you feel a faster swing which in turn, will actually yield a smoother swing.
Watch Your Grip Pressure
If you’re losing control and swinging harder than you want, another part of the swing to check is your grip pressure. A lot of people think to hit the ball hard, they need a firm grip on the club. But in reality, too much grip pressure can actually lead to big misses and a loss of distance.
This happens because too much grip pressure leads to tension in your forearms. Which can translate to the rest of your muscles being too tight and not working correctly (this also happens with putting).
To create a powerful swing and increase club head speed, loosen up your grip pressure – especially with the driver.
This will allow you to start hitting bombs and hopefully, each miss a little better.
Always Pause at The Top of Your Golf Swing
If you are struggling with tempo/timing, check your transition. Specifically, make sure there is a slight pause to separate your backswing from your downswing.
The golf club has to be set before your forward swing.
Even if it’s for a split second, there needs to be a pause for optimal ball striking. This pause allows your weight to shift to your left foot, allows for the club to re-route (or shallow), and keeps your lower body synced with your upper body.
Without a pause, it’s nearly impossible to hit the golf ball cleanly.
If there’s one player to replicate here, it’s Hideki Matysuama. He has the most deliberate pause of all time.
While you don’t need to “wait” at the top like him, this should help you see what a deliberate pause looks like.
On the range, practice getting to the top and counting one before starting your backswing to slow down.
Hit Knockdown Shots on the Driving Range
For more consistency, skip a hard swing and head to the range for some knockdown shots.
Since you don’t have a full swing with a knockdown, it’s a good way for golfers to feel the club head more and get your timing right. With each ball, make it your intention to not swing hard and instead, focus on contact above all else.
Start with short to middle irons, then fairway woods, then driver. It should translate to a smoother rhythm on the course and works great for your pre-round warm up.
Keep Your Backswing Parallel
As mentioned in the previous section, you can only accelerate at one point in the golf swing.
A good way to make sure you stop swinging so hard is to shorten your backswing. While a super long backswing might work for a golfer like John Daly, it’s definitely not for everyone.
The average golfer should strive for a parallel or slightly less than parallel swing.
So many players think longer is better but it’s not necessarily the case. When you have a long backswing, it can throw off the sequence of your forward swing.
The key is to make sure you maintain a firm hold on the club with your left hand (if you’re a right handed golfer).
Increase Flexibility So You Can Swing Harder
Another reason that your timing and tempo might be off is that your body doesn’t allow it.
As I mentioned, a lot of players use the upper body instead of the lower body to try and generate power. That often comes from the lower back and legs being too tight and not flexible enough to turn properly.
Make stretching and flexibility a priority so you can generate maximum power without swinging out of your shoes. While it’s not the most fun thing to do, it can have a massive impact on your golf swing.
See if a local massage place has services for golfers specifically or make sure to foam roll and stretch at home.
Want more information about improving flexibility?
Click here to learn more about golf stretching.
Think Smooth on the First Hole
There is one shot that everyone wants to hit perfectly – the first tee shot. Of all the tee shots, so many golfers get extra nervous, tense, and swing faster than normal on the first hole.
When in reality, the first golf shot is just like any other golf shot you’ll hit that day. It is only one shot and swinging hard for max club head speed isn’t the answer.
Instead, you want to have one golf swing thought – smooth. Not swing hard, rip it 300+ yards, or even worse “Don’t top it.”
Click here to learn more about first tee jitters.
Use SuperSpeed Sticks At The Right Time
Speed training is all the talk these days.
Why?
Because it works extremely well to help you add more distance. SuperSpeed sticks can help you start swinging faster but still maintain proper tempo to hit the ball further than ever.
I love SuperSpeed sticks and we’ve written extensively about them on the Left Rough (read our superspeed review here) because they are so effective.
While they’re not an overnight fix to more distance, they’re a great tool to help you increase swing speed over time.
But I’ve found that if you use them right before a round, they might accidentally lead to swinging too hard. Especially if you are swinging Bryson hard with the blue or red sticks (the red is the heaviest). While a few warm up swings with the green one will help you loosen up, avoid the others before a round of golf.
Instead, use them on your off days or after a round or practice session. This way you won’t unintentionally throw off your tempo and timing during the round.
Final Thoughts on Swinging Hard and Swing Speed
Swinging too hard can happen to all of us from time to time.
But for most amateurs, it’s about understanding where speed is generated from. Then, making sure it’s correct in all three parts of the swing so you’re a more consistent ball striker.
Keep working, tracking your progress, and remember, quality contact is better than swinging out of your shoes.
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Soccer ball
Ball – used for various sports: football, basketball, volleyball, handball, rugby, water polo.
The ball is usually made from a flexible material that is inflated with air, making it lightweight and allowing it to be moved or moved fairly easily.
The ball is the only necessary element for playing football. According to expert opinions and comparative tests, depending on age, situation or conditions, you should use a certain size to avoid accidents with a mouthguard and shin guard during matches.
What types of soccer balls are there?
We can distinguish soccer balls by size. We will give you the opportunity to review the various options below so that you can make the best choice.
- The ball has a circumference of 57 to 60 cm. They are suitable for children under the age of 7 due to their small stature.
- The ball has a length of 62 to 66 cm in circumference. They are suitable for children aged 7 to 13.
- The last category is a ball from 68 to 71 cm in circumference. They are suitable for everyone from the age of 14.
Soccer ball criteria
In order for the ball to meet your needs, you must consider some criteria. It is very important to find the right ball, depending on the age of the athlete, the playing field, the way you want to practice or the type of use, whether professional, amateur or hobby.
Soccer ball size
International organizations set the official size of the balloon. It is determined by the size and weight of the ball, as well as the age of the player for whom it is best. Below you will find out which size to choose in order to choose the right choice of soccer ball. You must comply with these specifications if using the ball as part of an official competition.
- 58-61 cm, 311 g, 6-8 years old
- 62-64 cm, 368 gr., 9-11 years old
- 68-70 cm, 410-450 gr., age 12+ – adults
According to experts and comparison tests, the characteristics of the ball will depend on the choice of field you choose to play.
For example, natural turf and synthetic turf allow you to choose a ball with a wider, softer, and lighter range. With it, you increase your accuracy and the game becomes easier. However, on hard or aggressive surfaces, you will need a ball of great hardness. Unfortunately, this will have a negative impact on technical performance.
In 1996, FIFA (International Federation of Football Associations) introduced a football quality program. The goal is to adapt the ball to the requirements of the sport over the years. Only balls that have passed rigorous tests receive quality marks.
The Laws of the Game require that in any official competition by FIFA or its confederations, balls must bear one of the markings recognized by the world’s leading football institution. Ces marques sont : FIFA Quality PRO, FIFA Quality, IMS International Match Standard.
According to comparative tests, as a rule, people buy copies of original balls, especially those used in prestigious international or national championships.
The main reason is the affordable price. Also, there is no need to have a high class ball when it is not an official or professional competition.
If you want a ball exclusively for the recreation of a child who will play with his friends on the street or in the park, you do not need to “bother” much. According to the tests, you just need to bet on a hard, very durable ball that won’t get hurt by gravel or tarmac. The trajectory won’t necessarily be optimal, but the demands of street play don’t require that kind of accuracy either. What matters most is that the ball will last as long as possible and withstand particularly adverse circumstances.
What is the origin of the soccer ball?
The ball originated in China in the 4th century BC. They were hard roots, crushed to form a kind of sphere, and then covered with skin. The first bouncing rubber balls were made by the Aztecs. We have this information from the Spaniards who arrived in America in the sixteenth century.
As for the soccer ball, it appeared with the advent of this sport in England in the nineteenth century. But it was in Argentina in the 30s that a ball was invented without a leather cord covering the air intake, which is dangerous for the players.
How are soccer balls made?
Leather has been the material used in the last decades to make professional soccer balls. The problem is that it absorbed water and became very heavy. They are now made of synthetic leather made from polyurethane or similar materials. The ball consists of 20 hexagons and 12 pentagons, sewn, glued or vulcanized. According to tests, high-quality balls are stitched by hand. The inner tube is made of latex or butyl, the same materials used to make the air valve. And between the cover and the chamber there are layers of polyester or cotton.
How to inflate a soccer ball?
A well-inflated ball is essential for playing or training. If it has little pressure, it won’t go in a straight line or go very far.
Too much pressure is not good either. Here are three simple steps to get the ball to the ideal weight and how to prolong its life: buy or purchase a pump with a needle to inflate the ball, if possible, with a built-in pressure gauge. Use glycerin or silicone oil to lubricate the needle and valve. This avoids the risk of damage to a vital part of the ball. Find the correct cylinder pressure depending on the manufacturer. Insert the needle into the valve and inflate slowly, checking with the counter for the ideal pressure.
How to store a soccer ball?
To extend the life of your soccer ball, you just need to follow the logic. The main thing is not to expose him to extreme situations. You can’t step on it with your whole body weight on it, or sit on it, even if that’s something you often see. This pressure can cause rupture or deformation of the seams. You should play on soft surfaces, avoiding rocks, asphalt or sand. Also avoid hitting the ball hard against the walls.
The valve must be carefully maintained, especially when inserting the inflation needle. Manufacturers recommend depressurizing the ball at the end of each use, but increasing it again before reuse.
Where can I fix a soccer ball?
We recommend that you contact a professional to repair your soccer ball. These days, your best bet is to go to a sporting goods store, especially if the problem occurs in a place as delicate as a valve. You will also avoid headaches by trusting them to fix punctures or scratches. But if you rely on your ability, then you can find aerosol products or liquids on the market to solve this problem. In the case of liquid, you must slowly inject it through the valve, which then needs to be cleared so that it does not enter the mouth. You must continue this process until air bubbles appear from the hole you want to repair.
Which ball brands are best known?
Undoubtedly, the most famous brands of soccer balls are the big giants of the clothing and sports equipment companies.
The German brand Adidas is at the top of the charts, especially because it enjoys the blessing of the organizations that govern international football. These organizations use Adidas soccer balls in world championships and continental competitions. The other major competitor is Nike, an American company that manufactures the La Liga Santander ball, among other things. Other brands with very interesting products are also English Umbro, German Puma, Uhlsport (second goalkeeping specialist), Japanese Mikasa or Spanish Joma.
How to choose the right ball: football, volleyball, basketball and handball?
Do you want to buy a quality ball, and you are wondering which ball is better to buy? We have prepared an article that will help you choose and buy a quality, original ball that will last a long time. Moreover, you will immediately be able to order the best ball after reading this article.
How to choose a soccer ball?
A soccer ball should be chosen based on the surface on which football will be played – on natural turf (grass), artificial turf, asphalt, gravel, crushed stone, snow, beach or indoors.
There are specially designed types of soccer ball for each of these surfaces, but at the same time, there are also universal balls that are well suited for playing on different types of surface.
If you only use the ball to play on the appropriate surface, you will get, firstly, better playing characteristics, and, secondly, extend the life of the soccer ball.
Ball material
Today, the ball cover is usually made by well-known manufacturers from synthetic materials such as polyurethane or polyvinyl chloride, and not from natural leather, as it used to be, since natural leather absorbs moisture and the ball, over time, becomes heavy and loses its shape. In addition, genuine leather is quite expensive to manufacture and loses to synthetic leather in strength and other game characteristics.
Polyurethane (PU) is a type of synthetic leather that is quite strong and durable, looks and feels very similar to natural leather. The higher the cost of the ball, the better the quality of the material and the greater the thickness of the polyurethane from which the outer layer of the ball is made.
Most professional balls use polyurethane.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a more budgetary, but no less practical synthetic leather. It is also, like polyurethane, quite strong and durable. But loses in game characteristics. PVC feels more like plastic to the touch. Therefore, especially in the cold season, a soccer ball made of such material is less comfortable to handle. PVC material is used to produce cheaper balls.
When comparing polyurethane (PU) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) balls, PU balls are softer. In addition, PU makes the surface of the ball very similar to natural. This is what prompts many players to choose soccer balls made from polyurethane.
Number of lining layers
To increase the elasticity, sphericity, weight of the ball, manufacturers usually add lining material between the outer tire and the tube. The lining material consists of several layers: foam, fabric, non-woven material. Unfortunately, many manufacturers skimp on the thickness and quality of the outer tire, while increasing the number of lining layers to match the soccer ball according to FIFA criteria.
Foam and fabric add softness to the ball, but at the same time absorb and retain moisture well, which affects the balance and weight of the ball. For example, for this reason, Select moved away from using cheap materials in the lining that spoil gaming performance in favor of a non-woven material.
Chamber
Don’t forget about the chamber when choosing a soccer ball. The chamber holds the air and gives the ball the right shape. There are 2 main materials for cameras: latex and butyl.
Professional players prefer latex bladder balls because they are softer and have a more stable flight path. Latex chambers are porous, so they let air through a little over time. By the end of the week, the ball will already need pumping.
Butyl bladders have excellent air retention but are slightly stiffer than latex bladders. Because of this, the ball is not as pleasant to play as balls with a latex bladder. But on the other hand, the ball does not need to be pumped up more often than once a month.
Most balls with a butyl chamber have a laminated surface instead of a matte finish.
Most balls, whether they are latex or butyl bladders, use butyl valves for better air retention.
Tip: If you are looking for a budget option, you can choose a soccer ball with a latex bladder and a PVC cover. It won’t play as well as a PU-coated one, but the latex tube will give it a decent ball performance and still keep the ball soft. Polyurethane balls are good in combination with both butyl and latex bladders, which allows the manufacturer to vary the playing characteristics of the balls widely, offering us a larger selection of football ball models suitable for different needs. But keep in mind that polyurethane balls will be a little more expensive.
Types of soccer balls:
Professional soccer balls (Professional Soccer Balls):
Professional clubs and teams only use professional balls such as Adidas OMB, Nike Ordem, etc.
- All of these balls are approved for use in international championships and are FIFA certified.
- The best materials are used, the highest quality of production, and exact compliance with the specified characteristics;
- Only suitable for natural and artificial grass surfaces;
- Softer and more pleasant to play than other balls, but less durable.
Match Soccer Balls:
- These balls have many different variations and are suitable for different ages and different levels of play;
- Accurately matches the size, weight and shape of professional balls;
- More affordable materials are used, resulting in excellent quality game balls at a more affordable price.
Training Soccer Balls:
- Harder balls with high wear resistance;
- They are made of materials that allow you to play on different types of surfaces, including hard ones, such as asphalt and gravel;
- These balls are primarily used for regular training by people of all age groups and levels of play.
Futsal Soccer Balls:
The main difference between a futsal ball and a normal soccer ball is that futsal balls have a low bounce, making the ball suitable for indoor or small pitches.
The standard size of futsal balls is size 4.
Soccer ball size:
Size 5 – for children over 12 and adults;
Size 4 – 8-12 years old; All futsal balls are also 4 sizes, although they are played by adults.
Size 3 – for children up to 8 years;
Size 1 and 2 – for children 3-4 years old or promotional soccer balls.
FIFA recommends :
When choosing a soccer ball, pay attention to whether the ball is certified by FIFA (International Football Federation). By choosing a ball with a FIFA certificate, you can be sure of the quality of the ball, because this model has passed all tests and tests and guarantees its quality:
The FIFA Quality Pro certificate confirms that the ball has successfully passed the circumference tests; sphericity; level of moisture absorption; maintaining balance; rebound force; preservation of shape and size (after 2000 impacts on a steel plate).
The IMS certificate confirms that the ball has successfully passed the circumference tests; sphericity; level of moisture absorption; maintaining balance; rebound force /
P.
S.: The attitude of the seller to the products he sells is also important. All balls come from production in a deflated state, after which they are directly stored and sold to the final buyer.
We consider this to be bad manners, so all balls sold in our store must be inflated and checked for defects. According to our statistics, every tenth ball, regardless of the manufacturer, has one of the following defects: a nipple that has moved out or a nipple that allows air to pass through, thread ends sticking out and even linings, asphericity, a color defect, or mechanical damage to the surface of the ball.
Be sure that when you buy a ball from us, you will receive an inflated to the required pressure, tested, guaranteed, original ball, ready for use.
You can choose a quality soccer ball here: Soccer balls. Be sure to use our ball characteristics filter.
How to choose a basketball?
The first place to start when choosing a basketball is to decide where it will be used.
All basketballs are divided into two types: for indoor use (indoor use only) and for use both indoors and outdoors (indoor/outdoor). If you buy a ball exclusively for training in the gym, then you should prefer the first option in order not to overpay extra money. Yes, and in the hand such a ball will hold differently. The outdoor ball is made from tougher leathers with a rubber coating for extended wear.
The second thing you should pay attention to is the size of the ball. So, the ball for men’s teams weighs 567-650 grams, with a circumference of 750-780 cm. Balls for women’s teams are slightly smaller.
And the last thing that is important not only for how to choose a ball, but also for a comfortable game is its quality. To do this, ask the seller to inflate the ball properly, make a few hits on the floor. The ball, released from shoulder level, should bounce approximately to the waist. Also, check the nipple. To do this, you can slightly moisten it with water, characteristic bubbles appear during marriage.
Check the seams carefully. They must be stitched with high quality, without eye-catching threads.
You can choose a quality basketball here: Basketballs. Be sure to use our ball characteristics filter.
How to choose a volleyball?
Volleyballs are divided into two large groups – professional and amateur. Professional balls are designed for sports competitions and the prices for balls of this class are quite high. Amateur balls can be much cheaper.
According to the production technology, the balls are divided into sewn and glued. As a rule, embroidered ones are usually made of genuine leather, but synthetic ones are also found. And the production of glued balls implies a more complex technology. First, a reinforced thread frame is wound around the camera, then a layer of natural or synthetic leather is applied to it. Therefore, these balls are more durable. But at the same time they are afraid of humidity and high temperature.
The choice of the ball depends on the age of the players, as well as the place of the game.
So, a small, light ball made of genuine leather is suitable for children. At first, such a ball may be too hard, but over time it will become soft and pleasant to the touch. For indoor play, it is better to choose a hard ball with a dense coating, for example, made of synthetic leather with polyurethane. And for the street, choose a ball with a water-repellent layer. Typically, balls for classic volleyball are used in sports halls with parquet flooring, as well as with synthetic materials. It is better not to play such balls on street playgrounds, on asphalt or gravel, as their life will be reduced by two to three times.
There is a separate class of balls for beach volleyball. They are made of synthetic leather, since the natural coating will absorb moisture. Choose a waterproof, dense yet soft microfiber ball that will cover the synthetic leather. For beach volleyball, stitched balls are most suitable, as they are less prone to deformation when wet.
Usually, when choosing the color of the ball, bright shades are chosen.
