Picking the right football size is one of the easiest ways to help a young player throw, catch and carry the ball with confidence. A ball that is too big makes throwing a spiral frustrating. One that is too small builds bad habits. This football size guide breaks down every size by age, so you can choose the best youth football for your player or league.
Football Sizes by Age at a Glance
- Pee Wee football (Size 5): roughly ages 6 to 8
- Junior football (Size 6): roughly ages 9 to 12
- Youth football (Size 7): roughly ages 12 to 14
- Official football (Size 9): roughly 14 and up, including high school, college and adult play
Age is a starting point, not a rule. Hand size, strength and league requirements all matter, so always check your league's rulebook before you buy game footballs.
Pee Wee Football (Size 5)
The Pee Wee football is the smallest regulation youth football. It is built for first-time players and young flag football leagues. The smaller shape fits small hands, which makes it easier to grip, throw and tuck away. If your child is just learning how to throw a football, start here.
Junior Football (Size 6)
A Junior size football is the next step up and is a common choice for elementary and middle school football and flag football leagues. It is a good fit for players who have outgrown the Pee Wee ball but are not ready for a full-size youth football yet.
Youth Football (Size 7)
The Youth football (Size 7) is the standard ball for many middle school leagues and for players moving toward high school football. It is bigger and heavier than the Junior ball, so it helps players build arm strength and ball-handling skills before they move to an official size.
Official Football (Size 9)
The official size football, also called a Size 9, is the standard ball for high school, college and adult play. Use it for older players and for any league that requires a full-size game football.
How to Choose the Right Size Football
- Check your league's rules. Many leagues set a required ball size by age group.
- Match the ball to hand size. A player should be able to grip the laces comfortably and throw a tight spiral.
- When in doubt, go smaller. A ball that fits the hand builds better throwing and catching technique.
- Buy by the team. Coaches ordering for a full roster can request a team quote.
What to Look for in a Game Football
- Composite leather cover: a pebbled composite leather football gives reliable grip in rain, heat and cold and holds up through a full season.
- Tight stitching and a true shape: good construction helps the ball spin and fly straight.
- The right size for the age group: see the guide above.
Shop Teys Footballs
Teys Official game footballs come in Pee Wee, Junior, Youth and Official sizes, with a pebbled composite leather cover built for practice and game day. Shop all footballs or see the Teys Official Game Football.
Football Size FAQ
What size football do 10 year olds use?
Most 10 year olds use a Junior football (Size 6), though some leagues have different rules. Check yours first.
What size football do 8 year olds use?
Most 8 year olds use a Pee Wee football (Size 5). A strong player with large hands may be ready for a Junior size ball.
What is the difference between a youth football and an official football?
An official football (Size 9) is the full-size ball used in high school, college and adult play. A youth football is smaller and lighter, so younger players can throw and catch it with proper technique.
Can I use a youth football for flag football?
Yes. Many flag football leagues use Pee Wee or Junior size footballs. Always confirm the required size with your league.
