The "different kicking feel" is proof of evolution. A thorough analysis of SFIDA's "Thermal" futsal ball!
For a long time, it was common knowledge in the industry that hand-stitching was the norm for futsal balls.
However, SFIDA has boldly challenged this conventional wisdom and has adopted a thermal manufacturing method using heat pressing, which is a manufacturing method that is particularly suited to the sport of futsal.
In this article, we will thoroughly analyze the appeal of thermal futsal balls for those who are worried about whether thermal is really good or whether it feels strange compared to hand-sewn balls!
What is thermal manufacturing?
Most of the balls used as match balls in official soccer matches are made using a method called thermal manufacturing, in which panels are pressed together using heat.
POINT 1: Prevents water absorption <br>The panels are attached directly to the tubes inside the ball without using thread, so the gap-free joints prevent water from entering and there is no need to worry about the ball becoming heavy even in the rain.
POINT 2: High sphericity
The panels are pressed together with uniform pressure, resulting in a highly spherical ball, allowing you to kick it with the same feeling no matter where you kick it.
For those of you who thought "something's not right" the moment you kicked it
Some people who have actually kicked a thermally manufactured ball may have felt a sense of discomfort, saying that it feels different from a hand-sewn ball.
That feeling is not wrong.
And that is a unique feature of the thermal manufacturing method.
The difference between thermal and hand-sewn
Based on feedback from people who have actually picked up an SFIDA futsal ball, we will explain in an easy-to-understand manner the difference between a thermal ball and a hand-sewn ball!
Q1. The bounce feels high
■ Response from the manufacturer
The bounce of SFIDA's thermal futsal balls is well within the official regulations (50-65cm) , but it does feel a little higher than a hand-sewn ball.
The reason for this is the thickness of the panels .
SFIDA uses thermal panels that are approximately 4-5mm thick, which is thicker than the 1.0-1.2mm thickness of hand-sewn panels, providing a soft touch and high resilience.
As a result, the rebound resilience when kicked is slightly increased, and the bounce feels a little higher.
Q2. The surface feels soft
■ Response from the manufacturer
Another feature of the thermal manufacturing process is its supple surface .
The thicker panels increase the "ground contact time" of your feet, creating a feeling of the ball sticking to the ground .
This also has a positive effect on the accuracy of the kick, making it easier to control the ball in the intended direction.
Q3. It looks a little small
■ Response from the manufacturer
Some players have commented that the ball feels small. In fact, the circumference is designed to be about 1% smaller , but this also falls within the official regulations (62-64cm) .
The reason behind this is the existence of a "slightly smaller mold" made in China, where the thermal weaving method was first introduced. This mold is still widely used today and has become the standard size for thermal weaving worldwide.
Also, because the ball tends to expand slightly with use, the emphasis on durability means that the balls are initially slightly smaller.
Why does SFIDA choose the "thermal manufacturing method"?
Futsal is a fast-paced sport played on a smooth floor, which is why we believe that a ball that is as close to a perfect sphere as possible, with a stable bounce and feel is essential.
We believe that this thermal manufacturing method will become the standard of the future, and we want players to have a high-grade, special experience.
▼SFIDA Thermal Futsal Ball
Official ball of the Kanto Futsal League, official ball of the Kumamoto Prefecture Futsal League
Official Tokyo Futsal League ball
