The X-Ite, pronounced excite, ($15) is a unique 14 panel ball featuring a padded cover.  The graphics are solidly screened and the ball is both playable and light.  This machine stitched training ball is provides a good balance of style and feel.

Our black/silver example of the F50+ X-Ite weighed in as the lightest size 5 ball we have tested by nearly an ounce.  This is a great ball for training younger players (U-12).  The lighter weight and soft skin provide confidence when striking and heading.  They also allow more repetitions.

The ball is made from a series of ovals and triangles instead of the standard 32 panel pattern.  This allows for larger panels and greater surface area in the seems.  The machine stitching is uniform and solid.  The thermoplastic urethane (TPU) is similar to that used on the outsole of the F50 Tunit boots.  This accounts for the greatest weight savings.  The butyl rubber bladder retains air well. 

Over all, the ball performs above average for this price point.  The biggest drawback is the color combination.  Since most players practice at night, the mostly black ball can be very difficult to see.  The younger players that would most benefit from the balls soft cover and light weight will be the same players who have a difficult time judging the speed and distance of a ball.  Add the difficult color combination and it becomes even more difficult.

Statistics:

• Weight: 14.2 oz / 403 grams
• Suggested Pressure: 7-10 psi
• Tested Pressure: 8.2 psi

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