A size 4 football is the standard for young players aged 9 to 14, perfectly bridging the gap between junior sizes and the full-size 5 ball used in adult football. Using the correct size is crucial for developing proper technique, control, and confidence on the pitch. It allows players to master fundamental skills without being hindered by a ball that is too large or heavy, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable experience during these vital developmental years. Choosing the right ball, however, can be a challenge with so many brands, materials, and price points to consider.
In this comprehensive guide, we have organised the best places in the UK to find the ideal size 4 football for your specific needs. We cut through the marketing jargon to give you practical, honest assessments of what's available. Whether you need a durable training ball for grassroots practice, a high-performance match ball for weekend leagues, or a budget-friendly option for a kickabout in the park, this resource will help you make an informed decision. We will explore the top online and high-street retailers, comparing their product ranges, prices, and suitability for different scenarios to ensure you find the perfect ball.
1. Sports Direct (UK)
For UK shoppers seeking maximum variety and competitive pricing, Sports Direct is often the first port of call. It stands out for its sheer volume, frequently listing over 60 different size 4 football options from powerhouse brands like Nike, adidas, and Mitre. This extensive selection covers everything from affordable training balls for youth teams to high-spec replica match balls, making it a versatile one-stop shop.
The platform's primary strength lies in its aggressive pricing and promotions. You will often find multi-buy offers and significant discounts on last season’s models, which is ideal for clubs or parents needing to purchase multiple balls without breaking the bank. While the website interface can feel cluttered with promotions, its filtering tools allow you to narrow down your search by brand, price, and ball type.
To navigate the site effectively, use these filters to cut through the noise. The Click & Collect service is another major advantage, providing a convenient way to avoid delivery fees. While the online returns process can be less streamlined than with pure e-commerce players, the value and range make Sports Direct a top contender for sourcing a quality size 4 football.
- Website Link: Sports Direct Size 4 Footballs
2. Decathlon UK (KIPSTA)
For buyers prioritising outstanding value and user-backed quality, Decathlon is a superb destination. Its strength lies in its in-house brand, KIPSTA, which offers a brilliantly curated range of size 4 footballs designed for specific use cases, from casual garden kickabouts to structured club training. This clear product segmentation, with models often priced from just £4.99, removes the guesswork often associated with choosing the right ball.
The platform's biggest asset is its transparent user review system. Many KIPSTA balls have accumulated thousands of customer ratings, providing honest, real-world feedback on durability and performance that is invaluable for parents and coaches. The website is clean and easy to navigate, with clear sizing guidance and stock information. While the selection is dominated by the KIPSTA brand, limiting options from mainstream names like Nike or adidas, the value proposition is almost unmatched.
To get the most from Decathlon, pay close attention to the model names—they often indicate the ball's intended purpose (e.g., 'First Kick' vs 'F500'). Fast UK delivery and a straightforward returns policy make purchasing a low-risk, high-reward option for anyone seeking a dependable size 4 football without the premium brand price tag.
- Website Link: Decathlon Size 4 Footballs
3. Argos
For parents and casual players after a quick, no-fuss purchase, Argos offers unrivalled convenience and affordability. While not a sports specialist, its catalogue provides a curated selection of entry-level and branded balls from names like Mitre, PUMA, and its own Opti brand. This makes it an excellent choice for a last-minute replacement, a kickabout in the park, or a child’s first proper size 4 football.
The platform’s key advantage is its nationwide click-and-collect service, often with same-day availability. You can check local stock online, pay, and pick it up within minutes, eliminating delivery costs and waiting times. Prices are extremely competitive at the lower end, with options starting from around £6, and the website’s customer rating system provides useful real-world feedback on durability.
A key consideration is that the selection is much smaller than dedicated sports retailers, and many balls arrive uninflated, so you will need a pump. However, for sheer speed and budget-friendliness, Argos is a fantastic option for securing a reliable size 4 training ball without any hassle. The straightforward returns policy adds a layer of confidence to any purchase.
- Website Link: Argos Size 4 Footballs
4. Mitre (Official UK Store)
For those who value brand heritage and specialist design, going directly to Mitre’s official UK store is an excellent choice. As an iconic British brand, Mitre offers an expertly curated range focused entirely on its own products, ensuring you get authentic, latest-generation balls. The website features a dedicated section with dozens of models, from the entry-level Impel training ball to professional-spec Ultimax match balls, all available as a size 4 football.
The primary advantage is access to Mitre's proprietary technology like Hyperseam, which combines the benefits of stitched and bonded seams for enhanced durability and minimal water uptake. This makes their balls a reliable investment for clubs and schools in the often-damp UK climate. The site is clean, easy to navigate, and clearly categorises balls by their intended use (training, match, indoor), simplifying the selection process.
While you will not find other brands, the direct-from-source model guarantees authenticity and often includes web-exclusive offers, student discounts, and free UK delivery on orders over £20. For anyone specifically seeking a dependable Mitre size 4 football, this platform offers unparalleled focus and product insight, although stock levels can fluctuate during peak football seasons.
- Website Link: Mitre Size 4 Footballs
5. Lovell Soccer
For those who prefer a specialist retailer, Lovell Soccer offers a curated collection that balances premium quality with clear, competitive pricing. This UK-based site provides a more focused shopping experience than larger general sports stores, featuring a well-organised selection of size 4 footballs from leading brands like Nike, adidas, and Select. It excels at presenting value by clearly displaying the Recommended Retail Price (RRP) next to its discounted price, making it easy to spot a good deal.
The platform’s strength is its user-friendly interface and transparent promotions. Multi-buy deals are clearly badged, and the dedicated size 4 filter includes options for training, match play, and even specialised futsal and indoor balls. This makes it an excellent resource for coaches and players looking for specific types of equipment. While the range of available colourways can narrow towards the end of a season, its focus on quality over sheer quantity ensures every option is a solid choice.
To get the best value, keep an eye on the delivery fee thresholds, as they can vary. Lovell Soccer is an ideal destination for anyone wanting a high-quality size 4 football without the overwhelming choice of a superstore, making it easier to select the right football training equipment for your needs.
- Website Link: Lovell Soccer Size 4 Footballs
6. JD Sports (UK)
For those prioritising the latest branded designs, particularly replica balls from top leagues, JD Sports is a premier destination. The retailer excels in stocking current-season models from brands like Nike and adidas, making it the perfect place to find an official Premier League or UEFA Champions League size 4 football. While its overall range is more curated and less expansive than specialist outlets, the focus is firmly on high-demand, popular designs that kids and teens often covet.
The primary advantage of JD Sports is its blend of a strong online presence with an extensive network of physical stores. This makes the shopping experience incredibly convenient, as customers can benefit from Click & Collect services, often avoiding delivery fees, and enjoy a straightforward in-store returns process. Prices tend to align with the recommended retail price (RRP), but the availability of student discounts can offer some savings.
The website is clean and user-friendly, with a simple filter to isolate size 4 options. While you will not find the deep discounts or multi-buy deals common elsewhere, JD Sports offers reliability, authenticity, and immediate access to the season's most sought-after footballs, backed by a trusted high-street name.
- Website Link: JD Sports Size 4 Footballs
7. FORZA Goal (Net World Sports UK)
For clubs, coaches, and parents looking for high-performance balls without the premium brand price tag, FORZA Goal is an excellent specialist choice. Operated by Net World Sports, it focuses on its own highly-regarded FORZA brand, offering a curated selection that prioritises quality and durability. Their standout product is the FORZA Pro Icon, a FIFA Quality-certified match ball available as a size 4 football, making professional-level tech accessible for youth games.
The primary strength of FORZA is its direct-from-manufacturer model, which ensures competitive pricing on quality gear. The hybrid construction and butyl bladder used in their footballs are designed for superior air retention and consistent performance across multiple surfaces. This makes them a reliable option for teams needing dependable balls for both training sessions and competitive matches. The site also offers fast, next-day UK delivery options, which is a major benefit for last-minute needs.
While the platform does not offer the brand variety of larger retailers, its focus on its own product line guarantees a consistent standard of quality. The bold, modern designs might not appeal to everyone, but the performance value is undeniable. For those also needing training equipment like goals, cones, or bibs, it provides a convenient place to purchase everything in one go, with bulk-buy discounts often available for club orders.
- Website Link: FORZA Goal Size 4 Footballs
8. eBay UK
For those hunting for a bargain or a specific past-season model, eBay UK is an unparalleled marketplace. Its strength lies in its vast network of individual and business sellers, offering a huge assortment of new size 4 footballs from major brands like Nike, adidas, and Mitre. This is the ideal platform for finding discontinued colourways, limited editions, or multi-buy bundles that are perfect for kitting out a youth team on a budget.
The primary advantage is the potential for significant savings and discovering unique finds not available through traditional retailers. You can often secure a high-quality size 4 football for a fraction of its original price by purchasing from sellers clearing old stock. However, success on eBay requires diligence. It is crucial to vet sellers by checking their ratings and reviews to ensure product authenticity and reliability.
Navigating the platform is straightforward, but remember that shipping costs and delivery times can vary widely between sellers. Using the "Buy It Now" filter can streamline your purchase, while the auction format offers a chance for an even better deal if you are patient. With its buyer protection policy and sheer variety, eBay is a fantastic resource for savvy shoppers.
- Website Link: eBay UK Size 4 Footballs
9. Amazon UK
For sheer convenience and rapid delivery, Amazon UK is an unbeatable platform for sourcing a size 4 football. It hosts a vast marketplace with options from all major brands, including Mitre, adidas, and Nike, often with dozens of choices available at any given time. The platform’s key advantage is the integration of Amazon Prime, which frequently offers next-day delivery, a crucial benefit for last-minute replacements before a match or training session.
The primary strength of Amazon is its extensive user-generated review system. This allows buyers to gauge a ball's real-world durability, feel, and performance based on feedback from other parents and coaches, providing insights that go beyond standard product descriptions. Amazon’s well-organised returns process adds another layer of confidence, making it easy to send back items that do not meet expectations. Although it’s a vast marketplace, you can find a suitable size 4 football and compare it with other options like a size 5 ball for older players.
To get the most out of the platform, it is wise to filter for products "Dispatched by Amazon" to ensure authenticity and take advantage of Prime benefits. Be mindful that product specifications can sometimes vary between different third-party sellers on the same listing. Despite this, the combination of speed, extensive reviews, and competitive pricing makes Amazon a go-to choice for many.
- Website Link: Amazon UK Size 4 Footballs
10. Euro Soccer Company (UK)
For grassroots clubs, schools, and coaches in the UK, Euro Soccer Company is an essential destination. This specialist retailer carves its niche by focusing squarely on the practical needs of youth football, offering a curated selection of training balls designed for durability and value. Rather than overwhelming visitors with endless options, the site concentrates on proven models from brands like Mitre, Precision, and iPro, making it simple to find a reliable size 4 football for team use.
The platform’s major strength is its club-friendly approach to purchasing. Pricing structures and product bundles are specifically aimed at bulk orders, with clear guidance on which balls are best suited for 7-a-side or 9v9 formats. This focus on practical application removes the guesswork for volunteer coaches or parents kitting out a team for the season. You will not find the extensive range of high-spec professional match balls here, but that’s precisely the point.
To get the most value, look for multi-buy deals on popular training models like the Mitre Impel. While the stock levels and colourways can be more limited outside of the pre-season rush, the straightforward navigation and emphasis on affordable, fit-for-purpose equipment make Euro Soccer Company an invaluable resource for the backbone of British football.
- Website Link: Euro Soccer Company Size 4 Footballs
11. Nike UK (Size guidance + balls)
For those wanting to buy directly from the source, the official Nike UK website offers an authoritative and premium experience. It stands out by not only selling its latest range of balls but also by providing official size guidance, confirming the correct circumference and weight specifications for a size 4 football. This makes it an invaluable resource for parents and coaches ensuring they purchase the right equipment for players aged 9-11.
The primary strength of shopping here is gaining direct access to the newest designs, including the latest Premier League replica balls and club-branded models as soon as they launch. While prices are often at the full retail value, the authenticity and quality are guaranteed. Nike membership benefits, which are free to sign up for, include free delivery and a streamlined returns process, adding significant value to the purchase.
Navigating the site is straightforward, with a clean interface that contrasts sharply with more cluttered retailer sites. The main challenge can be availability, as popular new colourways and high-demand balls can sell out quickly. However, for the latest technology and official sizing information straight from the brand itself, the Nike UK site is an essential destination.
- Website Link: Nike Football Size Guide
12. Decathlon UK - Size 4 KIPSTA Specific Page
For parents and grassroots coaches prioritising value and functionality, Decathlon's dedicated KIPSTA page is a goldmine. It focuses almost exclusively on their highly-regarded house-brand balls, like the First Kick and Club Hybrid models, offering an unbeatable entry point into the market. With prices often starting as low as £4.99, it is the go-to platform for acquiring multiple training balls without a significant financial outlay.
The platform excels by providing extensive user-generated feedback, with many products having thousands of reviews that offer real-world insights into durability and performance. Each size 4 football listing includes detailed technical specifications, including precise inflation guidance, which is a massive help for beginners. The bright, high-visibility colour schemes of the KIPSTA range are also a practical advantage for keeping track of balls during chaotic youth training sessions.
While the selection lacks premium match balls from major brands like Nike or adidas, its strength lies in its focused, budget-friendly purpose. The user interface is clean and simple, making it easy to compare the few available models. For anyone needing a reliable, affordable, and well-documented size 4 football for practice, Decathlon’s offering is hard to beat.
- Website Link: Decathlon UK - Size 4 KIPSTA Specific Page
Size 4 Football: Top 12 UK Retailer Comparison
| Retailer / Brand | Core Features & Quality ★ | User Experience & Value 💰 | Target Audience 👥 | Unique Selling Points ✨ | Price Range 💰 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Direct (UK) | Wide brand range, 60+ Size 4 SKUs ★★ | Frequent promos, click & collect, slower filters | General UK football shoppers 👥 | Vast stock, multi-buy offers | Low to mid |
| Decathlon UK (KIPSTA) | Entry to match balls, clear model ★★★ | Thousands of reviews, next-day delivery | Parents, coaches, beginners 👥 | Excellent value, consistent sizing guidance | Very low (£4.99+) |
| Argos | Budget & branded balls, live stock ★★ | Same-day store pickup, customer ratings | Casual & budget shoppers 👥 | Quick local pickup, free returns | Very low (~£6+) |
| Mitre (Official UK Store) | Hyperseam durability, many models ★★★ | Free delivery over £20, student discounts | Brand loyalists, tech seekers 👥 | Hyperseam tech, club/competition tie-ins | Mid |
| Lovell Soccer | Premium brands, clear pricing ★★★ | Multi-buy deals, RRP vs discounted prices | Quality-focused players 👥 | Transparent discounts, futsal/indoor options | Mid |
| JD Sports (UK) | Branded, league collections ★★ | Click & collect, student discounts, returns | Trend-conscious buyers 👥 | Current-season licensed designs | Mid to high |
| FORZA Goal (Net World UK) | FIFA certified match ball ★★★ | Next-day delivery, focus on durability | Clubs & teams 👥 | Direct manufacturer, hybrid construction | Mid |
| eBay UK | Wide range, bundles, seller ratings ★★ | Large marketplace, needs careful vetting | Bargain hunters & collectors 👥 | Discontinued & rare balls, bulk deals | Very low to high |
| Amazon UK | Large selection, reviews, Prime ★★★ | Fast delivery, easy returns | General buyers 👥 | Prime delivery, extensive user feedback | Low to mid |
| Euro Soccer Company (UK) | Training balls, youth focus ★★ | Bulk/team pricing, practical size guidance | Grassroots clubs, schools 👥 | Club-friendly bulk deals, youth use emphasis | Low to mid |
| Nike UK | Official size guide, latest balls ★★★ | Free returns, membership benefits | Brand loyal youth players 👥 | Authentic Nike products, latest designs | Mid to high |
| Decathlon UK - Size 4 KIPSTA Specific | Focused youth models, detailed specs ★★★ | Low prices, thousands of reviews | Parents, youth coaches 👥 | Beginner ball range, clear inflation info | Very low (£4.99+) |
Making Your Final Choice: The Best Retailer for Your Needs
Navigating the crowded marketplace for a new size 4 football can feel overwhelming, but armed with the right knowledge, you can pinpoint the perfect retailer for your specific circumstances. This guide has dissected the UK's top destinations, from high-street giants to specialised online stores, revealing that the "best" place to buy is entirely dependent on your priorities. Your decision hinges on a balance of price, convenience, quality, and intended use.
For parents or coaches seeking durable, budget-friendly options for regular training sessions, retailers like Decathlon and Sports Direct stand out. Their extensive ranges, particularly the KIPSTA and Sondico lines, offer exceptional value for money without a significant compromise on performance for developmental play. Similarly, for bulk purchases, specialists such as FORZA Goal (Net World Sports) and Euro Soccer Company provide robust, team-oriented solutions and multi-buy discounts that are ideal for clubs and schools needing to equip entire squads.
Matching Your Need to the Retailer
Your final choice should be a strategic one. Consider these key takeaways to guide your purchase:
- For Unbeatable Convenience: If you need a ball today, Argos is your undisputed champion. Their click-and-collect service means you can often have a reliable ball from a brand like Mitre in your hands within hours of ordering online.
- For Official Brand Authenticity: If only the latest Premier League or Champions League design will do, going directly to the Nike UK store or browsing curated collections at Lovell Soccer ensures you get the official, top-tier product. This is the best route for gifts or for players who want to train with the exact ball used by their heroes.
- For Specialist Knowledge and Quality: For those who prioritise performance and durability above all else, the official Mitre UK store is a must-visit. They are specialists in football construction, offering balls engineered for specific surfaces and levels of play, from grassroots to professional.
- For Finding Bargains and Rare Models: Do not overlook marketplaces like Amazon UK and eBay UK. While you need to be a discerning buyer, these platforms can be treasure troves for finding last season’s models at a deep discount or securing a specific design that is no longer available in mainstream shops.
Your Action Plan for Buying the Right Size 4 Football
Before you click "add to basket," run through this final checklist. First, re-confirm the player's age to ensure a size 4 football is the correct FA-recommended size (typically for ages 9-14). Second, define the primary use: is it for garden kickabouts, AstroTurf training, or competitive grass-pitch matches? This will dictate the required material and construction. Finally, set your budget. Armed with this information, you can confidently select a retailer from our list that aligns perfectly with your needs, ensuring your investment enhances every touch, pass, and shot on the pitch.
Now that you have chosen the perfect ball, ensure your player is fully equipped for success. At SoccerWares, we provide a curated selection of high-quality training gear, from professional-grade shin guards to essential apparel, designed to complement their development. Visit SoccerWares to discover the equipment that will help them take their game to the next level.