We select and review products independently. When you purchase through our links we may earn a commission. Learn more.
X

The Best Footballs for Game Day

a man in athletic clothing holding a Wilson NFL football
Wilson

If you’re a professional or college football player, you need a lot of equipment for game days, such as a helmet, pads, and of course, a football. If you’re a lover of the game but just want to play catch on the beach, flag football in the backyard, or touch football at the park with some friends, then you really only need a quality football. There are numerous types of footballs to choose from, but here are some of our favorites.

Choosing the Right Football

Here’s what you should look into:

  • Type of Football: The first thing you want to consider is your skill level and where you will be using your new ball. If you’re playing at the youth level, then you’re going to need a specific size. An official size football is great for any pick-up game or backyard Thanksgiving special. Consider a foam football for the beach.
  • The Material: Foam footballs are perfect for little kids learning to catch and throw. They’re soft, and most are waterproof, making them ideal for the beach. The majority of your professional footballs are made from leather, whether real or composite. Composite has the same look and feel but requires less upkeep than real leather; plus, it’s better in the rain and snow.

Let’s take a look at some of the best footballs on the market!

Top Pick: Wilson NFL Super Grip Football

An official size Wilson NFL football.
Wilson

Wilson’s super grip football is arguably the best choice when choosing a professional football for your next game day. Made of composite leather, this official size football is also available in a junior size and can be purchased in black or brown. The super grip cover offers a premium feel, and its high-performance composite material provides the ideal blend of durability and grip. It’s also branded with the NFL logo.

Top Pick

Wilson NFL Super Grip Composite Football - Official Size, Brown

Available in different colors and sizes, this super grip football is great for any pick-up game.

Best Team Ball: NFL Game Time Football

A football with the Kansas City Chiefs logo on it.
NFL

If you’re looking to prominently feature your team pride, then this team football comes highly recommended. Every team from the NFL is available, and each ball features a team logo on one side with the team’s conference and division on the other side. Although it’s ideal for display since it comes inflated and with a stand, this ball is easy to throw and catch as well since it’s made with synthetic pebbled material for enhanced grip.

Best Team Ball

NFL Game Time Full Regulation-Size Football, Kansas City Chiefs

If you are looking for a proper team ball to display, this is your best bet.

Best NFL Ball: Wilson “The Duke” Official NFL Game Football

A football player holding a football to the field before the play starts
Wilson

Another fabulous ball from Wilson, “The Duke” NFL football is the official ball of the NFL, featuring the world-famous blue, red, and silver shield. Wilson and the NFL have been in partnership since 1941, and their game-day balls have only gotten better throughout time. For those looking for the real deal, this is it. Since it’s the official football of the sport, it’s a little higher in price and only comes in one size.

Best NFL Ball

WILSON "The Duke" Official NFL Game Football - New 2020 Version , Brown

If you're searching for the same ball that the pros use, look no further.

Best Junior-Size Ball: Wilson NFL MVP Junior Football

A football on a tee with a pump by its side.
Wilson

Designed for recreational play, this youth-size NFL MVP football also comes from Wilson. It comes complete with a pump so that you can keep the ball at optimal inflation for your best performance and a tee to work towards those 50-yard game-winners. It’s made of composite leather which will offer all-weather durability and long-lasting play.

Best Junior-Size Ball

Wilson NFL MVP Football with Pump and Tee - Brown, Junior Size

Perfect for any little league game, this football also stands out because it comes with a tee and a pump.

Best for the Beach: Wave Runner Waterproof Football

A blue and black foam football.
Wave Runner

For the best football to take with you to the beach, the lake, or the pool, we recommend this waterproof football from Wave Runner. It’s a perfect size for adults and kids alike, with its innovative design allowing for the ultimate grip. The double-lace patterns and the high-quality materials put this ball in a league of its own. It has insane aerodynamics, is great for any weather condition, and is designed in America.

Best for the Beach

Wave Runner Grip It Waterproof Football- Size 9.25 Inches with Sure-Grip Technology | Let's Play Football in The Water! (Random Color)

If you're always going to the beach or by the swimming pool, then this waterproof ball is a great choice.

Omid Khanzadeh Omid Khanzadeh
Omid is a freelance writer for LifeSavvy. He studied psychology and creative writing at Virginia Commonwealth University, and his work has been featured in publications such as Allied Forces Press and various STEM textbooks. He enjoys playing soccer and watching old kung-fu movies. Read Full Bio »
LifeSavvy is focused on one thing: making your life outside of work even better. Want to know more?