Beach soccer is a high scoring, fast paced variant played in bare feet.  The Soccadelic Zuma ($35) ball is specifically designed for competition and training on the sand.  The ball does not carry the "FIFA Approved" or "FIFA Inspected" logos, but it does claim to be official size and weight.

Weighing in near 415 grams, our size 5 ball meets the FIFA requirements for weight, pressure and size.  Since the palatial labs of AVID Soccer are no where near a beach, we did the only logical thing... we took the ball to our local sand volleyball pit.  After kicking the ball around for about 30 minutes, it began to show signs of scuffing on the screened graphics; however, the skin remained intact.  The fluorescent orange and silver cover was comfortable on bare feet.  This color combination makes the Zuma easy to see on the sand.  Given that beach soccer originated in Brazil and the Samba boys have won nine of the last eleven World Cups, it seems appropriate.

The Zuma is constructed of a soft polyurethane (PU) cover.  Polyurethane can be become slick when wet, but that should not be an issue for beach games.  The bladder is "of the highest quality" according to Soccadelic.  It is actually a latex with a butyl valve.  This is the best combination for supple feel and air retention.  The cover is not padded, but uses a 4-ply lining.  This creates a supple skin and should be more durable.  The six panels are hand sewn.  Using fewer panels generally enables the ball to have better balance.  Our example proved to be well balanced.

The light weight and bright color gives this ball an alternate use.  We have long held that training headers, especially for younger players, should be done with a lighter weight ball.  As a general practice, the trainers at AVID Soccer use a volley ball or light weight soccer ball such as the adidas X-Ite.  The Soccadelic Zuma also makes a good choice for this.  The bright color, light weight and soft cover help young players get over the fear of heading the ball and concentrate on technique.  NOTE: heading should not be practiced with any ball for more than 5-10 minutes at a time to avoid spinal compression and headaches.

Soccadelic in a combination direct retailer and wholesaler.  Their products are available directly through their web site or through a variety of online and traditional retailers.  In addition to equipment, Soccadelic also produces a line of lifestyle clothing.  Soccadelic also promotes beach soccer through several tournaments each year.

Statistics:

• Weight: 14.6 / 415 grams
• Suggested Pressure: 5.5 - 8 psi
• Tested Pressure: 5.5 psi

Related Articles:

• Balls
• Beach Soccer
• Soccadelic