Soccer Ball Weight and Pressure: Official FIFA Standards Explained
An official FIFA-approved match ball must weigh between 410 and 450 grams and be inflated to a pressure of 0.6 to 1.1 atmospheres (8.5 to 16 psi) at sea level, as set out in the Laws of the Game.
An official match ball must weigh between 410 g and 450 g and be inflated to a pressure of 0.6 to 1.1 atmospheres (approximately 8.5 to 16 psi). These specifications are set in Law 2 of the Laws of the Game, maintained by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) and adopted by FIFA for all sanctioned competitions.
The Governing Document: Law 2
The Laws of the Game, published and maintained by IFAB, cover every aspect of how football is played — including the ball itself. Law 2 specifies:
- The ball must be spherical
- Made of leather or another suitable material
- Circumference between 68 cm and 70 cm (27 in to 28 in)
- Weight at the start of the match: between 410 g and 450 g (14 oz to 16 oz)
- Pressure: 0.6 to 1.1 atmospheres at sea level (60–110 kPa / 8.5–16 psi)
These rules apply at the start of the match. During play, especially in rain, the ball can absorb water and change weight, which is one reason modern ball technology places heavy emphasis on waterproofing.
Official Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 410 g (14 oz) | 450 g (16 oz) |
| Circumference | 68 cm (27 in) | 70 cm (28 in) |
| Pressure (atm) | 0.6 atm | 1.1 atm |
| Pressure (psi) | approx. 8.5 psi | approx. 16 psi |
| Pressure (kPa) | 60 kPa | 110 kPa |
Why Pressure Matters
Pressure determines how the ball feels and behaves. A ball inflated at the lower end of the range will feel softer, deform more on contact, and travel shorter distances when struck. A ball at the higher end will feel harder, return to shape faster, and travel further.
Professional match referees check ball pressure before every match using a calibrated gauge. Most professional matches use balls inflated toward the middle-to-upper range of the permitted window, as players generally prefer a firmer feel for accuracy in passing and shooting.
Altitude Adjustments
At significant altitude — for example, in cities like La Paz, Bolivia (over 3,600 m above sea level) — the air is less dense, meaning a ball travels further and faster for the same inflation level. IFAB rules specify pressure at sea level, so clubs and referees at altitude must adjust accordingly to achieve the same playing feel. This is a genuine competitive factor in high-altitude international matches.
How Waterlogging Affects the Ball
Traditional leather footballs absorbed large amounts of water, sometimes adding 10–20% to their weight during a wet match. This is why older players often complain about “heavy balls” in winter conditions.
Modern match balls use synthetic panels with moisture-resistant coatings that dramatically reduce water uptake. The outer surface is treated to repel water, and the internal bladder (usually butyl or latex) contains the air without letting it escape significantly during normal play.
Size Categories for Different Ages
The official adult match ball is a Size 5. For younger age groups, smaller balls are mandated to suit physical development:
| Ball Size | Typical Age Group | Circumference |
|---|---|---|
| Size 3 | Under 8 / mini football | 58–60 cm |
| Size 4 | Under 8 to Under 12 | 63–66 cm |
| Size 5 | Under 12 upwards / adult | 68–70 cm |
Using the correct size for an age group is important for developing proper technique — trying to control a Size 5 ball at age 6 creates poor habits and reduces enjoyment.
FIFA Quality Labels
FIFA operates a quality mark system for balls:
- FIFA Quality – meets a basic set of performance tests
- FIFA Quality Pro – the higher standard required for top professional competitions
Testing covers shape retention, water absorption, pressure loss, rebound, and circumference — ensuring balls perform consistently throughout a match and across a full competition.
Quick summary: A legal soccer match ball weighs 410–450 g and is inflated to 0.6–1.1 atmospheres (8.5–16 psi) at sea level, with a circumference of 68–70 cm. These standards are set in Law 2 of the Laws of the Game by IFAB. At altitude, pressure must be adjusted. Modern balls use moisture-resistant coatings to prevent the waterlogging that plagued older leather balls.
Frequently asked questions
What is the official weight of a soccer ball?+
According to the Laws of the Game (Law 2), an official match ball must weigh between 410 g and 450 g (14 oz to 16 oz) at the start of a match.
What pressure should a football be inflated to?+
The Laws of the Game specify a pressure of 0.6 to 1.1 atmospheres (atm) at sea level, equivalent to approximately 8.5 to 16 psi or 60 to 110 kPa.
Does a wet ball weigh more than a dry ball?+
Yes. A waterlogged ball absorbs moisture and can exceed its starting weight during a match played in heavy rain. This is why modern match balls use panels and coatings designed to minimise water absorption.