How is Soccer Ball and Kickball Different?

Soccer balls and kickballs may look similar at first glance, but they’re actually quite different in how they’re built and how they play.

Both are meant to be kicked, but soccer balls are designed for precision, control, and fast-paced team play on large fields.

Kickballs, on the other hand, are simpler, softer, and made for playground games like kickball and dodgeball.

In this post, we’ll explore those differences covering size, weight, material, bounce, and how each ball is used in its game.

Size and Shape

One of the first things you’ll notice is that soccer balls and kickballs are not the same size.

Soccer balls come in standard sizes, with Size 5 being used by older kids and adults. A Size 5 soccer ball has a circumference of 27–28 inches and a diameter of about 8.6–9 inches.

This size makes the ball easy to control with your feet over a large field.

Kids in younger age groups use smaller soccer balls:

Size 4: 25–26 inches in circumference, for ages 8–12
Size 3: 23–24 inches, for ages 5–8

Kickballs are measured by diameter rather than circumference. Common playground kickballs are 8.5 inches across—about the same diameter as a soccer ball. But you’ll also find larger models, like 10 inches or even 18 inches, for bigger players or group games.

The round shape is similar, but the measurement method is different.

Weight and Inflation

Soccer balls and kickballs also feel different when you pick them up or kick them.

A regulation Size 5 soccer ball weighs between 14 and 16 ounces (410–450 grams).

It’s inflated firmly—usually to 8.5–15.6 pounds per square inch (psi)—so it keeps its shape and flies predictably through the air.

That firm inflation gives soccer players the consistent bounces and flight paths they need to pass, dribble, and shoot accurately.

Kickballs, by contrast, are much softer. They’re inflated to about 2–4 psi, so they give under your foot when you kick and bounce in a forgiving way.

An adult kickball might weigh around 1 pound, while youth kickballs can be lighter. The low air pressure and rubber material make kickballs safer for young children, since a hard kick won’t hurt as much.

Material and Construction

The materials used to make each ball show how they are meant to be played.

Soccer balls have multiple layers:

An inner bladder of butyl or latex that holds the air.
Several layers of foam or other materials that add shape and touch.
An outer cover of synthetic leather (like polyurethane or PVC) that’s stitched or thermally bonded in panels.

High-quality match balls even have special textures and bonding techniques to improve aerodynamics and control.

This complex build helps soccer balls withstand hard kicks, slide tackles, and occasional rough weather on grass or turf.

Kickballs are simpler. They are made from a single piece of thick rubber with a built-in bladder. Some kickballs have a nylon winding under the rubber for extra strength, but there’s no stitching pattern or layered foam.

That makes kickballs more durable in playground settings and cheaper to produce, since they don’t need the precision manufacturing of a soccer ball.

Bounce and Flight

When you drop or kick each ball, you’ll notice they react differently.

A soccer ball is firm and bounces fairly high and predictably. Its bounce height and the way it rolls help players control dribbles and passes.

When you kick a soccer ball, it holds its shape, and you can direct it with spin or power to get the shot you want.

A kickball bounces less consistently. Because it’s softer, the bounce height can vary depending on how hard it hits the ground and the surface it’s on.

This makes kickball more unpredictable in playground games, which is part of the fun—players must react quickly to where the ball goes, rather than rely on precise control.

Game Use and Rules

The way each ball is used reflects its design.

Soccer is a team sport played on a large field, often 100 yards long. Eleven players on each team pass, dribble, and shoot with the goal of scoring.

Players wear cleats, shin guards, and often play in all kinds of weather. Because soccer is fast and competitive, the ball needs to be tough, precise, and suited for skillful play.

Kickball is more like a foot-powered version of baseball. Teams take turns kicking a ball and running bases to score runs.

Kickball fields are usually smaller—often a softball diamond or open playground. It’s a common PE class or backyard game, and rules are more casual.

The soft rubber ball is safer for children running into bases or being hit by a stray kick.

Who Plays Each Ball?

Soccer and kickball attract different players and age groups.

Soccer balls are used by players of all ages, from young kids in community leagues to professionals in stadiums. Skill levels can range from beginner to world-class.
Kickballs are most popular with younger children in elementary schools and casual adult recreation leagues. Because kickball requires less skill to get started, many schools use it to teach teamwork and basic athletic movement.

Some adults still play kickball in local leagues, but its main audience is children aged 5–12 who enjoy the simpler, more forgiving game.

Cost and Accessibility

Buying each ball shows another difference.

A mid-range soccer ball costs around $20–$50 for training models, and premium match balls can run $100 or more.

The materials and manufacturing needed to create durable, high-performance soccer balls drive up the cost.

A kickball can be bought for $5–$20, depending on size and quality. Since kickballs are essentially molded rubber, they’re very affordable—perfect for schools, camps, and families on a budget.

Why the Differences Matter

These differences make each ball perfect for its own game.

Soccer balls need to fly straight, bounce predictably, and survive wear and tear in competitive play.
Kickballs need to be soft, safe, and fun for games where precision is less important than quick kicks and lots of running.

If you used a soccer ball for kickball, it might hurt too much and bounce too high for little kids. If you used a kickball for soccer, you’d lose control and power on your passes and shots.

That’s why each ball’s unique design makes sense for how it’s played.

Tips for Choosing the Right Ball

When you pick a ball for your game day, think about these points:

Age and Skill: For organized soccer, choose the right soccer ball size for age. For playground kickball, pick a soft rubber ball that’s the right diameter (8.5–10 inches).
Playing Surface: If you play soccer on grass or turf, use a firm ball with proper inflation. For kickball on a sandy or hard playground, a low-pressure rubber ball works best.
Budget: If you need durable, long-lasting gear, invest in a quality soccer ball. If you want a simple, fun ball for backyard games, a kickball is perfect and cheap.

Which Sport Came First?

Soccer evolved from various folk games in England hundreds of years ago. Kickball is much younger.

It started in the early 1900s as a fun playground game for children and was often called “kicking baseball.” Its simpler rules and softer ball made it safe and easy for schools to adopt in physical education classes.