PU-covered balls are generally softer, livelier, and have a better feel to them, and are what most people seek when looking for a optimal performing soccer ball. Soccer balls come in three kinds of panel designs: 18, 26, and 32-panel. Each can be used for soccer games, though 32-panel soccer balls are the most common.

Most professional soccer balls are the 32-panel design. More panels mean a rounder and stabler ball, and a more accurate flight. Stitching Panels are attached in one of three ways: gluing, molding, and stitching using five-ply polyester thread. The most expensive balls of course are hand-stitched. Low-end practice balls have glued or molded panels.

Soccer ball casings are rarely leather anymore, since leather tends to absorb moisture making the ball heavier and not perform as well. The number of panels or sections of the outer casing varies according to design. Most professional soccer balls are the 32-panel design. More panels mean a rounder and stabler ball, and a more accurate flight.

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