10 Best Junior Footballs 2025 in the United States

The Wilson NFL Super Grip Composite Junior Football is designed specifically for kids aged 9 to 12, making it a solid choice for elementary to middle school players. Its junior size is a good fit for younger players who want a ball that’s easier to handle than a full-sized one. The football uses a composite cover, which combines durability with a soft touch, giving a nice grip and feel. The sewn construction adds to its toughness and helps it hold up well in different weather conditions. Weighing about 15 ounces, it’s light enough for kids to throw comfortably without sacrificing a realistic playing experience.

The raised, pebbled laces improve grip and control, helping young throwers achieve better accuracy and smoother spirals. The black and gold design is attractive and sporty, reflecting its NFL branding, which might inspire young players. While the composite material, though durable and soft, won’t offer quite the same natural grip as leather, some might find the price a bit higher compared to basic junior footballs. It is mainly aimed at boys but can be used by any junior player looking for a quality football that balances feel, grip, and durability.

This ball suits kids ready to step up their game with an official-style ball that lasts and performs well during practice or casual games.

The Franklin Sports Youth Football is designed specifically for kids, making it easier for them to grip, throw, and catch thanks to its junior size. It’s made from synthetic leather (PVC) which offers extra grip and durability, suitable for outdoor play in all kinds of weather. The pro-style, hand-sewn laces help young players improve their throwing skills by allowing better control for spirals. Weighing about 16 ounces, it’s light enough for kids to handle comfortably.

The ball comes deflated but includes an air pump and needle, so you can quickly inflate it to the right firmness. While the synthetic material provides good weather resistance, it might not feel as soft as real leather, but that’s common for junior balls designed for regular use and rougher handling. Its construction is stitched, which adds to its durability, but it’s not intended for advanced play or professional training.

This ball serves as a solid choice for kids just starting out or playing casually, especially outdoors, and the included pump is a handy bonus. Those looking for a more authentic feel or a ball for older youth players might want to explore higher-end options.

The Wilson NCAA Composite Football is a junior-sized ball designed for kids aged 9 to 12, weighing 12 ounces. It’s made from a durable composite material with sewn construction, which helps the ball hold up well during rough play and in various weather conditions. The brown color and NCAA red accents give it a classic football look that many young players will appreciate. It features double white grip stripes that improve finger control, making it easier for kids to throw a tight spiral. Inside, the ball uses a butyl rubber bladder that keeps it inflated longer, so you won’t have to pump it up often. With dimensions around 12 x 6 x 6 inches, it’s sized well for small hands to handle comfortably.

While the composite cover is sturdy, it may not feel as soft or natural as genuine leather, which might matter to those looking for a premium feel. This football represents a solid choice for junior players who want a reliable, well-sized ball for practice and games without worrying too much about maintenance.