Handballs – understand the most important features
Handballs – understand the most important features
Handball is an intense and fast-paced team sport where the quality and characteristics of the ball significantly affect the enjoyment of the game. A good handball should fit well in the hand, provide a secure grip, and be balanced in terms of weight, size, and bounce. Whether you play at club level, in school sports, or just for fun, the choice of ball can influence both the joy of the game and your performance.
In this article, you’ll get an overview of what to consider when choosing a handball, as well as an introduction to the different types and brands that dominate the market.
The article presents a selection of handballs representing different sizes, materials, and price ranges. The aim is to provide an informative overview of the most important features and differences so that you can more easily find a ball that suits your level and needs. The information is based on publicly available product descriptions from manufacturers and retailers.
Factors to consider when buying a handball
When choosing a handball, it’s important to consider size, material, grip, and intended use. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind.
1. Size and weight
Handballs come in different sizes depending on the player’s age and gender. Sizes 0 and 1 are generally intended for children and young players, size 2 for women and boys aged 12–16, while size 3 is used in men’s handball. Choosing the right size is essential to ensure proper technique and control.
2. Material and surface
Most handballs are made of synthetic leather or PU material, which offers a good combination of durability and grip. Some models have a rougher surface that provides better control without glue, while others are smoother and best suited for use with glue.
3. Grip and comfort
A good grip is crucial for the accuracy of passes and throws. If you play in a hall where glue is not allowed, you can choose a ball designed to provide extra friction. Comfort also depends on the softness of the ball and how well it fits in the hand.
4. Bounce and air pressure
A consistent and controlled bounce is important for the rhythm of the game. Make sure the ball maintains stable air pressure over time and that the valve is of good quality. A ball that loses air quickly can affect both the game and technique.
5. Price and durability
Handball prices range from affordable models to professional match balls. For training, a durable and inexpensive model is often sufficient, while match play requires a ball with better quality and grip characteristics.
Products in focus
The Select Soft Rubber Handball for Children has been developed for the youngest players who are learning the basic techniques of handball. The ball is made from soft and durable rubber material, making it comfortable to grip and throw, even for small hands.
Thanks to its surface, it provides a secure grip without the use of glue, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use in schools, clubs, and leisure activities. The soft structure reduces the risk of impact injuries and makes the ball suitable for children developing their ball-handling skills.
The bright blue colour gives a fresh look, and the ball is adapted to children's size, making it easy to handle during play and training.
- Soft rubber material: Provides a pleasant feel and good grip without glue.
- Child-friendly size: Easy to grip and throw for younger players.
- Durable construction: Withstands repeated use both at school and in clubs.
- Suitable for training: Ideal for learning the basic techniques of handball.
- Colour: Blue
Pros and cons
- Soft and safe for children to play with
- Good grip without the use of glue
- Durable rubber material
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
- Not intended for high-level games
- May feel too light for older players
Pros and cons
Pros
- Soft and safe for children to play with
- Good grip without the use of glue
- Durable rubber material
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Not intended for high-level games
- May feel too light for older players
Pros
- Soft and safe for children to play with
- Good grip without the use of glue
- Durable rubber material
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Not intended for high-level games
- May feel too light for older players
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: Soft Rubber Handball for Children
- Colour: Blue
- Material: Soft rubber
- Use: Training and play for children
- Size: Children's size (typically size 0 or 1)
The Hummel Kids HB Handball Children is designed for young players who are learning and developing their handball technique. The ball's surface is 100% synthetic leather with air-touch foam, which provides a soft and pleasant feel in the hand.
The internal latex bladder is equipped with an air-trap valve that helps maintain air pressure and reduce impacts during play. The combination of materials makes the ball easy to grip and throw, which is ideal for children during training or matches.
The ball is not suitable for use with resin, making it best suited for indoor training. The classic Hummel design with logo and chevrons gives it a recognisable and sporty look.
- Air-touch foam: Provides a soft and comfortable surface.
- Synthetic leather material: Durable and easy to clean.
- Latex bladder with air-trap valve: Maintains air pressure and reduces impacts.
- Not suitable for use with resin: Designed for training without resin.
- Classic Hummel design: With printed logo and chevrons.
Pros and cons
- Soft and lightweight ball that is easy for children to grip
- Durable synthetic leather surface
- Good air retention thanks to the air-trap valve
- Suitable for training and beginners
- Not suitable for use with resin
- Mainly intended for indoor use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Soft and lightweight ball that is easy for children to grip
- Durable synthetic leather surface
- Good air retention thanks to the air-trap valve
- Suitable for training and beginners
Cons
- Not suitable for use with resin
- Mainly intended for indoor use
Pros
- Soft and lightweight ball that is easy for children to grip
- Durable synthetic leather surface
- Good air retention thanks to the air-trap valve
- Suitable for training and beginners
Cons
- Not suitable for use with resin
- Mainly intended for indoor use
Specifications
- Brand: Hummel
- Model: Kids HB Handball Children
- Product number: 11-212552_A009297214
- Colour: 6132 Green / White
- Material: 100% synthetic leather with air-touch foam
- Bladder: Latex with air-trap valve
- Features: Not suitable for use with resin, printed logo and chevrons
The Select HB Solera Handball is designed as a training ball that combines softness and durability. It is made of synthetic leather, which provides a pleasant surface and good grip during play.
The ball has a new structure that improves both grip and feel, making it suitable for training at different levels. The patented Zero-Wing bladder inside the ball ensures that it retains its round shape and stable balance for a long time.
Thanks to the choice of materials and construction, the ball fits well in the hand, regardless of whether you play with or without resin.
- Training ball: Developed for regular use in training.
- Synthetic leather: Offers a combination of softness and durability.
- Zero-Wing bladder: Retains the ball’s shape and ensures stability.
- Improved grip: New structure provides better control during play.
- Comfortable in hand: Can be used both with and without resin.
Pros and cons
- Durable synthetic leather material
- Good balance and shape stability
- Suitable for training at multiple levels
- Pleasant grip with or without resin
- Primarily intended for training rather than match play
- Available only in size 2 in this model
Pros and cons
Pros
- Durable synthetic leather material
- Good balance and shape stability
- Suitable for training at multiple levels
- Pleasant grip with or without resin
Cons
- Primarily intended for training rather than match play
- Available only in size 2 in this model
Pros
- Durable synthetic leather material
- Good balance and shape stability
- Suitable for training at multiple levels
- Pleasant grip with or without resin
Cons
- Primarily intended for training rather than match play
- Available only in size 2 in this model
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: HB Solera
- Product number: 20-210018_A005332186
- Colour: yellow/green
- Size: 2
- Material: Synthetic leather
- Bladder: Patented Zero-Wing bladder
- Use: Training handball
The Select Soft Rubber Handball for Children in orange is designed for young players who are learning and developing ball control. The ball is made from particularly soft and durable synthetic leather that feels pleasant in the hand and is suitable for both training and leisure games.
The 4 mm foam layer structure improves grip and makes the surface softer, making it easier for children to handle the ball. The patented Zero-Wing structure ensures optimal roundness so that the ball retains its shape and flies steadily during play.
The ball is hand-stitched and EHF-approved, highlighting its quality and suitability for organised training. It can be used with or without glue, depending on the players' level and preferences.
- Soft synthetic leather: Provides a pleasant and controlled ball feel.
- 4 mm foam layer: Improves grip and comfort during play.
- Zero-Wing structure: Ensures optimal roundness and stability.
- Hand-stitched structure: Adds durability and quality.
- EHF-approved: Meets the requirements for training and tournament use.
Pros and cons
- Soft and easy to grip for children
- Durable hand-stitched structure
- Can be used with or without glue
- Good roundness and stability thanks to the Zero-Wing structure
- Not intended for adult players or rough play
- The soft surface may wear out faster with outdoor use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Soft and easy to grip for children
- Durable hand-stitched structure
- Can be used with or without glue
- Good roundness and stability thanks to the Zero-Wing structure
Cons
- Not intended for adult players or rough play
- The soft surface may wear out faster with outdoor use
Pros
- Soft and easy to grip for children
- Durable hand-stitched structure
- Can be used with or without glue
- Good roundness and stability thanks to the Zero-Wing structure
Cons
- Not intended for adult players or rough play
- The soft surface may wear out faster with outdoor use
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: Solera V24 (Soft Rubber Handball for Children)
- Colour: Orange
- Material: Synthetic leather with 4 mm foam layer
- Structure: Patented Zero-Wing structure
- Hand-stitched
- Approval: EHF-approved
- Available sizes: 0, 1, 2, 3
- Product number: 20-210033_A009612909
Product descriptions
The Select Soft Rubber Handball for Children has been developed for the youngest players who are learning the basic techniques of handball. The ball is made from soft and durable rubber material, making it comfortable to grip and throw, even for small hands.
Thanks to its surface, it provides a secure grip without the use of glue, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use in schools, clubs, and leisure activities. The soft structure reduces the risk of impact injuries and makes the ball suitable for children developing their ball-handling skills.
The bright blue colour gives a fresh look, and the ball is adapted to children's size, making it easy to handle during play and training.
- Soft rubber material: Provides a pleasant feel and good grip without glue.
- Child-friendly size: Easy to grip and throw for younger players.
- Durable construction: Withstands repeated use both at school and in clubs.
- Suitable for training: Ideal for learning the basic techniques of handball.
- Colour: Blue
Pros and cons
- Soft and safe for children to play with
- Good grip without the use of glue
- Durable rubber material
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
- Not intended for high-level games
- May feel too light for older players
Pros and cons
Pros
- Soft and safe for children to play with
- Good grip without the use of glue
- Durable rubber material
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Not intended for high-level games
- May feel too light for older players
Pros
- Soft and safe for children to play with
- Good grip without the use of glue
- Durable rubber material
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Not intended for high-level games
- May feel too light for older players
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: Soft Rubber Handball for Children
- Colour: Blue
- Material: Soft rubber
- Use: Training and play for children
- Size: Children's size (typically size 0 or 1)
The Hummel Kids HB Handball Children is designed for young players who are learning and developing their handball technique. The ball's surface is 100% synthetic leather with air-touch foam, which provides a soft and pleasant feel in the hand.
The internal latex bladder is equipped with an air-trap valve that helps maintain air pressure and reduce impacts during play. The combination of materials makes the ball easy to grip and throw, which is ideal for children during training or matches.
The ball is not suitable for use with resin, making it best suited for indoor training. The classic Hummel design with logo and chevrons gives it a recognisable and sporty look.
- Air-touch foam: Provides a soft and comfortable surface.
- Synthetic leather material: Durable and easy to clean.
- Latex bladder with air-trap valve: Maintains air pressure and reduces impacts.
- Not suitable for use with resin: Designed for training without resin.
- Classic Hummel design: With printed logo and chevrons.
Pros and cons
- Soft and lightweight ball that is easy for children to grip
- Durable synthetic leather surface
- Good air retention thanks to the air-trap valve
- Suitable for training and beginners
- Not suitable for use with resin
- Mainly intended for indoor use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Soft and lightweight ball that is easy for children to grip
- Durable synthetic leather surface
- Good air retention thanks to the air-trap valve
- Suitable for training and beginners
Cons
- Not suitable for use with resin
- Mainly intended for indoor use
Pros
- Soft and lightweight ball that is easy for children to grip
- Durable synthetic leather surface
- Good air retention thanks to the air-trap valve
- Suitable for training and beginners
Cons
- Not suitable for use with resin
- Mainly intended for indoor use
Specifications
- Brand: Hummel
- Model: Kids HB Handball Children
- Product number: 11-212552_A009297214
- Colour: 6132 Green / White
- Material: 100% synthetic leather with air-touch foam
- Bladder: Latex with air-trap valve
- Features: Not suitable for use with resin, printed logo and chevrons
The Select HB Solera Handball is designed as a training ball that combines softness and durability. It is made of synthetic leather, which provides a pleasant surface and good grip during play.
The ball has a new structure that improves both grip and feel, making it suitable for training at different levels. The patented Zero-Wing bladder inside the ball ensures that it retains its round shape and stable balance for a long time.
Thanks to the choice of materials and construction, the ball fits well in the hand, regardless of whether you play with or without resin.
- Training ball: Developed for regular use in training.
- Synthetic leather: Offers a combination of softness and durability.
- Zero-Wing bladder: Retains the ball’s shape and ensures stability.
- Improved grip: New structure provides better control during play.
- Comfortable in hand: Can be used both with and without resin.
Pros and cons
- Durable synthetic leather material
- Good balance and shape stability
- Suitable for training at multiple levels
- Pleasant grip with or without resin
- Primarily intended for training rather than match play
- Available only in size 2 in this model
Pros and cons
Pros
- Durable synthetic leather material
- Good balance and shape stability
- Suitable for training at multiple levels
- Pleasant grip with or without resin
Cons
- Primarily intended for training rather than match play
- Available only in size 2 in this model
Pros
- Durable synthetic leather material
- Good balance and shape stability
- Suitable for training at multiple levels
- Pleasant grip with or without resin
Cons
- Primarily intended for training rather than match play
- Available only in size 2 in this model
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: HB Solera
- Product number: 20-210018_A005332186
- Colour: yellow/green
- Size: 2
- Material: Synthetic leather
- Bladder: Patented Zero-Wing bladder
- Use: Training handball
The Select Soft Rubber Handball for Children in orange is designed for young players who are learning and developing ball control. The ball is made from particularly soft and durable synthetic leather that feels pleasant in the hand and is suitable for both training and leisure games.
The 4 mm foam layer structure improves grip and makes the surface softer, making it easier for children to handle the ball. The patented Zero-Wing structure ensures optimal roundness so that the ball retains its shape and flies steadily during play.
The ball is hand-stitched and EHF-approved, highlighting its quality and suitability for organised training. It can be used with or without glue, depending on the players' level and preferences.
- Soft synthetic leather: Provides a pleasant and controlled ball feel.
- 4 mm foam layer: Improves grip and comfort during play.
- Zero-Wing structure: Ensures optimal roundness and stability.
- Hand-stitched structure: Adds durability and quality.
- EHF-approved: Meets the requirements for training and tournament use.
Pros and cons
- Soft and easy to grip for children
- Durable hand-stitched structure
- Can be used with or without glue
- Good roundness and stability thanks to the Zero-Wing structure
- Not intended for adult players or rough play
- The soft surface may wear out faster with outdoor use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Soft and easy to grip for children
- Durable hand-stitched structure
- Can be used with or without glue
- Good roundness and stability thanks to the Zero-Wing structure
Cons
- Not intended for adult players or rough play
- The soft surface may wear out faster with outdoor use
Pros
- Soft and easy to grip for children
- Durable hand-stitched structure
- Can be used with or without glue
- Good roundness and stability thanks to the Zero-Wing structure
Cons
- Not intended for adult players or rough play
- The soft surface may wear out faster with outdoor use
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: Solera V24 (Soft Rubber Handball for Children)
- Colour: Orange
- Material: Synthetic leather with 4 mm foam layer
- Structure: Patented Zero-Wing structure
- Hand-stitched
- Approval: EHF-approved
- Available sizes: 0, 1, 2, 3
- Product number: 20-210033_A009612909
Other products
The Select Solera Handball (grey/blue) is designed as a training ball focusing on comfort and control. It is made of particularly soft and durable synthetic leather, providing a pleasant surface and good grip during play.
The ball is built around an inner bladder based on the patented Zero-wing construction, ensuring it retains its round shape and stable bounce. This structure promotes consistent ball feel and accuracy in throws and catches.
The Solera model is available in sizes 0–3, making it suitable for both younger players and adults. The grey/blue colour gives a neutral and modern look that fits the equipment of many clubs.
- Soft synthetic leather: Provides a pleasant surface and good grip.
- Zero-wing bladder: Retains the ball’s round shape and ensures a stable bounce.
- Suitable for training: Developed for use both with and without resin.
- Multiple sizes: Available in sizes 0–3, making it suitable for different age groups.
- Durable design: Made from robust materials for long-lasting use.
Pros and cons
- Good grip both with and without resin
- Stable shape thanks to the Zero-wing bladder
- Durable synthetic leather suitable for frequent training
- Available in multiple sizes for different players
- This version (size 3) may occasionally be sold out
- Primarily intended for training, not match use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Good grip both with and without resin
- Stable shape thanks to the Zero-wing bladder
- Durable synthetic leather suitable for frequent training
- Available in multiple sizes for different players
Cons
- This version (size 3) may occasionally be sold out
- Primarily intended for training, not match use
Pros
- Good grip both with and without resin
- Stable shape thanks to the Zero-wing bladder
- Durable synthetic leather suitable for frequent training
- Available in multiple sizes for different players
Cons
- This version (size 3) may occasionally be sold out
- Primarily intended for training, not match use
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: Solera
- Colour: grey/blue
- Material: Synthetic leather
- Bladder: Patented Zero-wing bladder
- Size: 3 (adult)
- Use: Training handball
- Product number: 20-210021_A006096134
The Select Solera V24 Handball has been developed as a popular training ball that combines softness and durability. It is made from synthetic leather material that provides a pleasant surface and long lifespan, even with frequent use.
The ball features a new structure with a 4 mm foam layer that improves grip and gives a softer feel in the hand. The patented Zero-Wing construction ensures optimal roundness, promoting stable flight and precise ball control.
The Solera V24 is hand-stitched and can be used both with and without resin. It is also EHF-approved, meaning it meets the official high-level handball standards.
- 4 mm foam layer: Improves grip and provides a softer ball feel.
- Zero-Wing construction: Ensures optimal roundness and stability in the air.
- Hand-stitched construction: Increases durability and provides a classic ball feel.
- EHF approved: Meets the requirements for official handball matches.
- Suitable for training: Designed for both youth and adult use.
Pros and cons
- Good balance between grip and softness
- Durable synthetic leather construction
- Can be used with or without resin
- EHF-approved quality
- As a training ball, it may feel slightly softer than match balls
- Requires correct air pressure to maintain optimal roundness
Pros and cons
Pros
- Good balance between grip and softness
- Durable synthetic leather construction
- Can be used with or without resin
- EHF-approved quality
Cons
- As a training ball, it may feel slightly softer than match balls
- Requires correct air pressure to maintain optimal roundness
Pros
- Good balance between grip and softness
- Durable synthetic leather construction
- Can be used with or without resin
- EHF-approved quality
Cons
- As a training ball, it may feel slightly softer than match balls
- Requires correct air pressure to maintain optimal roundness
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: Solera V24
- Colour: Orange
- Available sizes: 0, 1, 2, 3
- Material: Synthetic leather with 4 mm foam layer
- Construction: Patented Zero-Wing construction
- Hand-stitched
- Approval: EHF approved
- Product number: 20-210033_A009612907
Different types of handballs
There are several different types of handballs that vary in material, intended use, and playing feel. The choice depends on where and how the ball will be used.
1. Training balls
Training balls are designed for frequent use and usually have a more durable construction. They may be slightly harder than match balls but last longer and withstand intensive daily use.
2. Match balls
Match balls are made with a focus on grip, balance, and accuracy. They are used in official matches and often have a softer surface and better control. Many match balls are approved by the IHF (International Handball Federation).
3. Glue-free balls
In many halls, the use of glue is not allowed, so glue-free balls have become popular. They have a special surface that provides extra grip without glue. These balls are ideal for youth teams and schools.
4. Outdoor handballs
There are special balls for beach handball and outdoor play with a rubber surface that withstands moisture and sand. They are lighter and have a softer grip, making them comfortable to play with without glue.
Different handball brands
The handball market is dominated by a few well-known manufacturers, each with its own strengths and specialities.
Select
Select is a Danish brand with a long tradition in handball. It is known for its high quality, good balance, and wide range of balls for both training and matches. Many professional leagues use Select as their official ball supplier.
Molten
Molten produces handballs with a focus on precision and durability. Their balls often have a lightly textured surface that provides a secure grip and stable bounce, making them popular in both clubs and schools.
Hummel
Hummel combines classic design with modern technology. Its handballs are often lightweight and comfortable to play with, offering models for both beginners and experienced players.
Kempa
Kempa specialises in handball equipment and is known for balls with excellent grip and control. The brand is aimed particularly at players who want high quality and a professional feel.
Erima
Erima offers handballs in many price and size categories. They are popular in clubs and schools where durability and ease of use are valued.
Frequently asked questions
What size handball should I choose?
The size depends on age and gender. Children usually use size 0 or 1, women and young boys size 2, and men size 3. Club coaches can often help you choose the right size.
Can I use the same ball for both training and matches?
Yes, but many choose a separate match ball to maintain grip and shape as well as possible. Training balls wear out faster, while match balls often have a better surface and balance.
How do I maintain my handball?
Store the ball in a dry place at room temperature and avoid direct sunlight. Inflate it to the correct air pressure and clean the surface with a damp cloth after use.
What does it mean when a ball is IHF-approved?
An IHF-approved ball meets international standards for size, weight, grip, and bounce. It is a mark of quality that ensures the ball can be used in official tournaments.
What is the difference between glue balls and glue-free balls?
Glue is used to improve grip, but many halls ban it for cleaning reasons. Glue-free balls have a special surface that provides similar grip without glue.
Læs også:
