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10 Best Junior Football For Kids 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Wilson NFL Super Grip Composite Football - Junior Size, Black/Gold

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,377
Durability
Grip and Texture

Most important from
28017 reviews

Durability
Despite showing surface scratches, the ball holds up really well and is perfect for backyard football.
Grip and Texture
The composite material grips great, making it easier to catch, throw, and kick with more accuracy.

The Wilson NFL Super Grip Composite Football in Junior Size is designed for kids aged 9-12, making it ideal for older elementary through middle school players. This football is made from a composite material that is durable and suitable for all-weather play. Weighing just over 15 ounces, it's lightweight and easy for young players to handle.

The soft touch composite cover and raised pebbled laces provide a good grip and feel, aiding in accurate throws and control. Given its strong construction and enhanced lining, the football is built to last through rigorous use. As the official football of the NFL, it comes with a sense of authenticity that fans may appreciate.

However, some users might find the black and gold color less traditional compared to the classic brown footballs. Additionally, while the grip is excellent for handling, the texture might be slightly different from traditional leather footballs, which could require some adjustment time for the players. With high customer satisfaction ratings and a strong market presence, this football is a solid choice for young athletes looking to improve their game.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,377
Durability
Grip and Texture

Most important from
28017 reviews

Durability
Despite showing surface scratches, the ball holds up really well and is perfect for backyard football.
Grip and Texture
The composite material grips great, making it easier to catch, throw, and kick with more accuracy.
#2

Wilson GST Leather Game Football - Brown, Junior Size

Rating
9.4
Size
Material
Weight

Most important from
981 reviews

Size
The ball is perfectly sized for kids, with a nice tacky leather that improves grip even without wearing in.
Material
The leather material is a standout, providing a soft touch that enhances control and grip for young players.
Weight
The ball's lightweight design makes it easy for junior players to throw and catch, enhancing their playing experience.
Durability
The quality of the build and attention to detail are impressive, ensuring the ball's durability and performance over time.
Grip and Texture
The sewn-on stripes and Accurate Control Lacing significantly improve the football's grip, making it easier to handle in all weather conditions.

The Wilson GST Leather Game Football in junior size offers a solid option for young football enthusiasts aged 9 to 12 years. The size is appropriate for kids within this age range, making it easier for them to handle and play effectively. The leather material is a standout feature, providing a soft touch that enhances control, thanks to Wilson's Light Leather Formula. This soft leather is designed to be comfortable for young fingers, which can help improve their grip and accuracy during play.

The patented sewn-on stripes and Accurate Control Lacing contribute significantly to the football's grip, offering 82% more grip through its textured surface compared to painted stripes. This can be especially beneficial in all weather conditions, helping young players maintain control and accuracy. The football’s weight, around 0.3 kilograms, is manageable for junior players, ensuring they can throw and catch it without much difficulty.

In terms of durability, the stitched construction promises robustness. The grip and texture, enhanced by the pebbled lacing and composite stripes, are well thought out for young players aiming to improve their game. The football is ranked #14 in footballs on Amazon, indicating it's a popular choice but not necessarily the top performer according to customer preferences. This junior football provides good control, grip, and comfort for young players, while some concerns about long-term durability might be worth considering.

Rating
9.4
Size
Material
Weight

Most important from
981 reviews

Size
The ball is perfectly sized for kids, with a nice tacky leather that improves grip even without wearing in.
Material
The leather material is a standout, providing a soft touch that enhances control and grip for young players.
Weight
The ball's lightweight design makes it easy for junior players to throw and catch, enhancing their playing experience.
Durability
The quality of the build and attention to detail are impressive, ensuring the ball's durability and performance over time.
Grip and Texture
The sewn-on stripes and Accurate Control Lacing significantly improve the football's grip, making it easier to handle in all weather conditions.
#3

Wilson NFL MVP Football - Brown, Junior Size

Rating
8.8
Grip and Texture
Durability
Material

Most important from
20663 reviews

Grip and Texture
The football offers a comfortable grip and well-made laces, making it easy for kids to handle and throw.
Durability
It holds air well but may need occasional refilling after about a year, which is simple to do.
Material
Its vibrant color and rubber surface enhance visibility and handling, adding to the fun.

The Wilson NFL MVP Junior Football is designed specifically for kids aged 9 to 12, making it a good fit for junior football players just starting to develop their skills. Its size is tailored for this age group, which means it’s easier for smaller hands to grip and throw compared to full-sized footballs. The ball is made from soft composite leather, which gives it a comfortable feel and helps with catching and handling — great for beginners who might struggle with harder, traditional footballs.

It features a Pressure Lock Bladder that helps keep the ball inflated longer, reducing the need for frequent pumping, allowing kids to spend more time playing. The texture and grip are well thought out, providing a secure hold without being too rough on the hands. Durability should be solid for casual and practice use thanks to the composite leather, though it might not withstand very rough or prolonged outdoor play as well as some premium leather balls.

This football is suitable for young players who want a reliable, easy-to-handle ball that feels authentic but is tailored for their size and skill level.

Rating
8.8
Grip and Texture
Durability
Material

Most important from
20663 reviews

Grip and Texture
The football offers a comfortable grip and well-made laces, making it easy for kids to handle and throw.
Durability
It holds air well but may need occasional refilling after about a year, which is simple to do.
Material
Its vibrant color and rubber surface enhance visibility and handling, adding to the fun.

Buying Guide for the Best Junior Football For Kids

Choosing the right football for your child is crucial to ensure they enjoy the game and develop their skills effectively. When selecting a junior football, it's important to consider several key specifications that will impact their playing experience. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and pick the best football for your child's needs.
SizeThe size of the football is one of the most important factors to consider. Footballs come in different sizes, typically ranging from size 1 to size 5. For junior players, sizes 3 and 4 are most common. Size 3 is suitable for children aged 8 and under, while size 4 is ideal for kids aged 8 to 12. Choosing the right size ensures that the ball is manageable for your child, helping them to control and kick it more effectively.
MaterialFootballs are made from various materials, including synthetic leather, rubber, and PVC. Synthetic leather is often preferred for its durability and better feel, making it suitable for both training and matches. Rubber and PVC balls are more affordable and durable, making them great for practice and recreational play. Consider where and how often the ball will be used to determine the best material for your child's football.
WeightThe weight of the football can affect how easily your child can handle and kick the ball. Lighter balls are easier for younger children to control and are less likely to cause injury. As your child grows and gains more strength, they can transition to heavier balls that are closer to regulation weight. Ensuring the ball is not too heavy for your child will help them develop their skills without frustration.
DurabilityDurability is an important factor, especially if the football will be used frequently or on rough surfaces. Look for balls with reinforced stitching and high-quality materials that can withstand regular use. A durable ball will last longer and provide better value, ensuring your child can enjoy playing without the ball quickly wearing out.
Grip and TextureThe grip and texture of the football can influence how well your child can control it. Balls with a textured surface provide better grip, making it easier to handle and kick accurately. This is particularly important for younger players who are still developing their coordination and ball-handling skills. Choose a ball with a good grip to help your child improve their control and confidence on the field.

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