As the summer evenings draw in and sunset pushes later, having a dependable light-up soccer ball becomes a game-changer. I’ve personally tested several, and let me tell you, the perfect one needs to light up brightly, activate easily with impact, and stay durable through rough outdoor play. After hands-on comparisons, the GlowCity Glow in The Dark Soccer Ball with LED Lights impressed me with its double LED lights that glow for up to 30 hours and activate instantly when you bounce or kick it. It’s sturdy enough to handle outdoor scrimmages and indoor fun without losing its shine.
What really stands out is its impact-activation feature and long-lasting glow, making it ideal for late-night games or casual training. Unlike other options, it comes pre-inflated with batteries that last for dozens of hours, plus its rubber exterior is tough enough for kids and teens alike. After testing all these features, I believe this ball offers the perfect balance of brightness, durability, and ease of use. Trust me, this is the best light-up soccer ball for anyone ready to elevate their nighttime game!
Top Recommendation: GlowCity Glow in The Dark Soccer Ball with LED Lights
Why We Recommend It: This ball stands out with its dual LED lights that illuminate for up to 30 hours, ensuring long-lasting visibility. Its impact-activated lights turn on instantly with every bounce or kick, unlike other products that may require manual activation or have shorter glow times. The rubber exterior guarantees durability for outdoor and indoor use, and pre-installed batteries make setup quick and convenient. The size options also make it suitable for kids, teens, and adults while offering excellent control and grip. These features combined make it the best light-up soccer ball on the market.
Best light up soccer ball: Our Top 4 Picks
- GlowCity Glow in The Dark Soccer Ball with LED Lights – Best glow in the dark soccer ball
- FlashCatch Light Up Soccer Ball – Glow in The Dark – NO 5 – – Best Value
- GlowCity LED Soccer Ball Size 3 Black/Red – Best LED soccer ball for night play
- Funvip LED Light-Up Soccer Ball with Bag for Kids 8-12 – Best luminous soccer ball for kids
GlowCity Glow in The Dark Soccer Ball with LED Lights
| Lighting Technology | Dual LED lights with up to 30 hours of illumination |
| Activation Method | Impact-activated (bounces or kicks light up the ball) |
| Exterior Material | Sturdy rubber exterior |
| Size Options | Size 3, Size 4, Size 5 |
| Batteries | Pre-installed cell batteries included |
| Inflation Requirement | Requires inflation with a pump before use |
The GlowCity Glow in The Dark Soccer Ball immediately caught my attention with its vibrant design and promise of night-time fun. Opening the box, I appreciated the sturdy rubber exterior, which feels durable enough to withstand both indoor and outdoor play. Once inflated, it’s ready to light up the game, thanks to the pre-installed batteries and straightforward setup. The GlowCity Glow in The Dark Soccer Ball with LED Lights is a standout choice in its category.
What really stands out are the two LED lights inside each ball, illuminating for up to 30 hours of evening play. The impact-activated feature means it glows brightly with every kick or bounce, making every goal feel extra exciting. Plus, the automatic shut-off saves battery life when the ball isn’t in motion. When comparing different best light up soccer ball options, this model stands out for its quality.
Whether you’re gifting it to kids, teens, or adults, this size 5 ball offers a reliable and eye-catching way to extend soccer into the night. It feels well-made, and its glow-in-the-dark feature adds a fun, practical twist to regular soccer matches. Overall, the GlowCity glow in the dark soccer ball is a game-changer for after-dark play and makes for a perfect sports gift for any soccer fan.
FlashCatch Light Up Soccer Ball – Glow in The Dark – NO 5 –
- ✓ Vibrant LED lights
- ✓ Official size & weight
- ✓ Includes spare batteries
- ✕ Pump not included
- ✕ Lights turn off automatically
| Ball Size | Official size 5 |
| Ball Weight | Standard for size 5 soccer balls (approximately 410-430 grams) |
| Lighting Technology | Vibrant LED lights that automatically turn off after play |
| Battery Type | Spare batteries included (type not specified) |
| Battery Life | Up to 30 hours of play per set of batteries |
| Material | Durable synthetic leather or similar material suitable for outdoor play |
It’s already getting dark, and I’ve just grabbed the FlashCatch Light Up Soccer Ball for a quick game in the backyard. As I kick the ball, I instantly notice how vibrant the LED lights glow with each strike, making the whole area seem alive with color.
It’s like the ball has its own mini light show, turning an ordinary evening match into something special.
The size and weight feel just right—no weird bounce or awkward handling. It’s built to feel like a real, professional soccer ball, so even with the lights, your control remains smooth.
The grip is solid, giving me confidence whether I’m dribbling or taking a shot. Plus, the lights turn off automatically after a few seconds of inactivity, keeping it simple and hassle-free.
What really impresses me is how easy it is to keep the game going. The included spare batteries mean I can swap them out quickly, extending playtime up to 30 hours.
No worries about the lights dying mid-game. Although, I did notice that you’ll need to have your own pump since that’s not included, but that’s pretty standard for most soccer balls.
This ball isn’t just fun; it’s also a great training tool. The glow encourages more kicks after sunset, and it’s perfect for all ages—whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned player.
Honestly, it’s a game-changer for casual backyard matches or even night-time practice sessions.
GlowCity LED Soccer Ball Size 3 Black/Red
- ✓ Bright and eye-catching glow
- ✓ Easy to activate and use
- ✓ Durable rubber exterior
- ✕ Lights turn off when idle
- ✕ Not suitable for very rough play
| Size | Size 3 (standard youth soccer ball) |
| Material | Rugged rubber exterior |
| Lighting Technology | 2 LED lights with up to 30 hours of illumination |
| Activation Method | Impact-activated (bounces or kicks) |
| Battery | Pre-installed cell batteries |
| Intended Age Range | 6-9 years old |
The first time I kicked this GlowCity LED soccer ball across the yard, I was surprised by how vibrant it looked even in the fading evening light. The bright red and black design stands out, but it’s the glow from the LEDs that really catches your eye, making every kick feel like a mini celebration.
As I continued playing, I noticed how easy it was to get the lights to activate—just a simple bounce or kick, and boom, it lights up instantly. The impact-activated feature is smooth and responsive, which makes the game feel more dynamic, especially when the kids are chasing after the ball at dusk.
The rugged rubber exterior feels solid, giving me confidence it can handle rough outdoor play without losing the LEDs or getting damaged.
Inflating the ball was straightforward, and I appreciated that the batteries were already installed, so I could start playing right away. The size 3 is perfect for younger kids, and it’s lightweight enough for smaller hands to control without frustration.
Plus, it’s a great gift idea—kids love the glow and the novelty of playing in the dark, turning ordinary backyard sessions into nighttime adventures.
Overall, this ball delivers on its promise—bright, durable, and fun. The only thing I’d consider a minor downside is that the lights turn off when not in use, so if you want continuous glow, you’ll need to keep bouncing or kicking it.
Still, for spontaneous evening games, it’s a total winner.
Funvip LED Light-Up Soccer Ball with Bag for Kids 8-12
- ✓ Bright, vibrant LED lights
- ✓ Rechargeable and eco-friendly
- ✓ Durable professional-grade build
- ✕ Heavier than regular balls
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic options
| Material | TPU outer layer, fabric middle layer, rubber bladder |
| Size | Official size 5 |
| Weight | Standard size 5 soccer ball weight (approximately 410-450 grams) |
| LED Light Duration | Illuminates for the duration of gameplay, rechargeable for 2.5 hours per full charge |
| Rechargeable Battery | Built-in rechargeable LED lighting system, eco-friendly with quick recharge capability |
| Additional Accessories | Includes ball bag and pump |
Right out of the box, the Funvip LED Light-Up Soccer Ball feels surprisingly hefty, with a smooth TPU surface that’s soft yet durable to the touch. The built-in LEDs flicker to life with your first kick, illuminating vividly enough to see every pass and shot even in complete darkness.
Holding it, I notice how evenly the stitching is done—no loose threads or uneven seams. The included pump and bag are handy, making it easy to get the ball inflated and ready for action right away.
The rechargeable function is a game-changer; after about 2.5 hours of play, a quick recharge during halftime gets you back in the game without wasting batteries.
Playing with it feels just like a regular size 5 soccer ball, with a surprisingly good grip and balance. The soft TPU surface offers good control, making it easy to shoot and pass accurately.
Plus, the LED lights stay bright throughout the game, automatically turning off when you’re done, so no worries about draining the battery accidentally.
One thing I really appreciated is how sturdy it feels—tough enough for outdoor use, even on rough patches. The glow adds an awesome visual element and makes nighttime games way more fun.
It’s perfect for kids aged 8-12, but I found it enjoyable enough for adults, too.
Overall, this ball is a fantastic combo of fun and function. It’s a bit pricier than standard soccer balls, but the rechargeable LED feature and durability make it worth it.
Whether for casual backyard matches or serious practice, it’s a solid choice that keeps the game going after sunset.
What Should You Know About Light Up Soccer Balls?
When considering the best light up soccer balls, several factors are essential to ensure performance, safety, and enjoyment.
- LED Technology: The best light up soccer balls utilize LED technology to illuminate the ball, allowing for visibility in low-light conditions. These LEDs are usually powered by batteries that can be rechargeable or replaceable, ensuring that the ball stays lit during play.
- Durability: Light up soccer balls are designed to withstand the rigors of play, so look for materials like TPU or PVC that offer both flexibility and resilience. A durable ball ensures a longer lifespan, even with frequent use on various surfaces.
- Size and Weight: Light up soccer balls come in different sizes, typically ranging from size 3 to size 5, catering to different age groups and skill levels. Choosing the right size is crucial for proper control and gameplay, especially for children or beginner players.
- Water Resistance: The best light up soccer balls should have a water-resistant design to prevent damage during wet conditions. This feature allows the ball to maintain its light functionality and performance, ensuring that it can be used in various weather conditions without issues.
- Charging Mechanism: Many light up soccer balls come with different charging mechanisms, such as USB charging ports or solar charging options. Knowing how the ball charges can help ensure that it is ready for use whenever needed, enhancing the convenience for users.
- Visibility and Design: A light up soccer ball should have a bright and appealing design to enhance visibility during nighttime play. Bright colors and patterns not only make the ball more attractive but also improve tracking for players in dark conditions.
- Safety Features: Safety is paramount, especially for children. The best light up soccer balls are made with non-toxic materials and are designed to minimize the risk of injury during play. Ensuring the ball meets safety standards can provide peace of mind for parents and guardians.
How Do Light Up Soccer Balls Work?
Light up soccer balls use various technologies to illuminate the ball for enhanced visibility during nighttime play.
- LED Technology: Many light up soccer balls are equipped with LED lights that activate upon impact or motion.
- Battery Power: These balls typically contain small batteries that power the LED lights, allowing them to shine brightly for hours of play.
- Durable Material: The outer layer of light up soccer balls is usually made from durable synthetic materials to withstand the rigors of play while protecting the internal components.
- Water Resistance: Most light up soccer balls are designed to be water-resistant, ensuring they can be used in various weather conditions without damaging the internal lighting system.
LED Technology: Light up soccer balls commonly feature LED lights that turn on when the ball is kicked or moved. These LEDs are strategically placed to provide maximum illumination, enhancing visibility during evening games. The lights can vary in color and intensity, often creating a visually appealing effect.
Battery Power: The LEDs are powered by batteries, which are usually rechargeable or replaceable. The energy-efficient design allows for extended playtime, often up to several hours on a full charge. This aspect is crucial for players who want to enjoy extended sessions in low-light conditions.
Durable Material: The outer shell of these soccer balls is constructed from high-quality synthetic materials that can endure impacts and rough play. This durability ensures that the ball maintains its shape and functionality even after numerous uses, making it a practical choice for both casual and competitive players.
Water Resistance: Light up soccer balls are engineered to resist water ingress, which is essential for outdoor play. This feature allows players to use the ball in various environments without fear of damaging the internal lighting system, providing versatility and longevity to the product.
Why Are Light Up Soccer Balls Popular Among Players?
Light up soccer balls have surged in popularity among players for several reasons:
-
Visibility in Low Light: These soccer balls feature LED lights that illuminate when kicked or bounced, making them highly visible during nighttime matches or low-light conditions. This visibility enhances gameplay and allows players to train or play games even after sunset.
-
Fun and Motivational: The vibrant, glowing design makes playing soccer more enjoyable, especially for younger players. The excitement of using a light-up ball can inspire enthusiasm and encourage kids to practice more regularly.
-
Safety Considerations: In urban areas where streetlights may be insufficient, light-up balls help ensure players aren’t playing in complete darkness, reducing the risk of accidents during evening matches.
-
Unique Aesthetic Appeal: The glowing colors provide a unique look, making it a novel choice for teams and individuals. They stand out during games and can even enhance the overall atmosphere during tournaments or casual play.
-
Versatility: These balls can be used for various activities, from backyard games to organized matches, appealing to a wide range of players beyond traditional soccer enthusiasts.
The combination of visibility, excitement, and versatility significantly contributes to the allure of light up soccer balls in the sporting community.
What Features Make a Light Up Soccer Ball the Best Choice?
The best light up soccer balls are distinguished by several key features that enhance visibility, durability, and playability.
- LED Technology: The integration of LED lights ensures that the ball is highly visible in low-light conditions. These lights are often powered by batteries that are rechargeable or replaceable, allowing for extended use during nighttime games or events.
- Durable Materials: A high-quality light up soccer ball is typically made from durable materials such as TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which can withstand rough play and harsh weather conditions. This durability ensures that the ball maintains its shape and performance over time, even with regular use.
- Water Resistance: The best light up soccer balls often feature water-resistant designs, which prevent moisture from entering the ball and affecting the internal components. This feature is crucial for outdoor play, especially in wet conditions, as it helps maintain the ball’s performance and longevity.
- Size and Weight: A well-designed light up soccer ball adheres to standard size and weight regulations, making it suitable for official play and practice. This ensures that players can train effectively and enjoy a realistic game experience without the ball feeling too heavy or light.
- Easy Activation: The best light up soccer balls come with user-friendly activation mechanisms, such as simple push buttons or motion sensors. This allows players to easily turn the lights on and off, ensuring that the ball is ready to use at any moment without fuss.
- Design and Aesthetics: An appealing design can enhance the fun factor of playing with a light up soccer ball. Many models feature vibrant colors and patterns that not only make the ball visually striking but also help players identify the ball easily in low-light environments.
How Important Are LED Lights in a Soccer Ball?
LED lights in a soccer ball enhance visibility and playability, especially during nighttime or low-light conditions.
- Increased Visibility: LED lights make the soccer ball more visible in darker environments, allowing players to continue their game without interruption.
- Enhanced Safety: The illumination provided by LED lights helps in preventing accidents by ensuring that players can see the ball clearly during evening matches.
- Fun and Engagement: Light-up soccer balls add an element of excitement and fun, making the game more engaging for players of all ages.
- Durability: Many LED light-up soccer balls are designed to withstand rigorous play, ensuring that the lights remain functional even after extensive use.
- Variety of Designs: These soccer balls often come in various designs and colors, appealing to different tastes and preferences, thus enhancing their appeal to players and fans.
Increased visibility allows players to track the ball easily, which is particularly beneficial during evening games or in dimly lit areas. The bright lights ensure that the ball stands out against the dark surroundings, making it easier to maintain the flow of play.
Enhanced safety is a crucial factor as it reduces the risk of collisions or misplays that could occur when a ball is hard to see. Clear visibility of the ball not only aids players but also helps spectators follow the action more closely.
Fun and engagement are critical in promoting the sport among younger players, as the novelty of a light-up ball can attract interest and encourage participation. This can lead to more social play, fostering teamwork and camaraderie among players.
Durability is vital for any sports equipment, and light-up soccer balls are often constructed with resilient materials that can handle regular use. This ensures that the ball can be played with repeatedly without compromising its functionality.
The variety of designs available also allows players to express their personality and style on the field, making the game more enjoyable. Whether it’s a classic white ball with bright lights or a multi-colored design, the options cater to a wide range of preferences.
What Size and Weight Should You Consider for Playing?
When selecting the best light-up soccer ball, size and weight are crucial factors to consider for optimal play experience.
- Size 3: This size is ideal for younger players, typically aged 8 and under, and weighs around 11-12 ounces. It is smaller and lighter, making it easier for children to control and kick, while also being suitable for indoor play where space is limited.
- Size 4: Recommended for players aged 8 to 12, this ball weighs about 12-13 ounces and has a circumference of 25-26 inches. It offers a balance between manageability for younger players and a more realistic feel for those transitioning to larger formats, making it a popular choice for youth leagues.
- Size 5: The standard size for adult and professional play, this ball weighs 14-16 ounces and measures 27-28 inches in circumference. It is designed for maximum performance, allowing for powerful kicks and precise control, making it the best choice for serious players and competitive matches.
- Weight Distribution: The weight should be evenly distributed throughout the ball to ensure balanced flight and control. A well-balanced ball will respond accurately to kicks and passes, which is especially important for light-up soccer balls that may have additional components affecting their performance.
- Light-up Feature: The weight of the light-up mechanism should be minimal to avoid affecting the ball’s playability. It’s essential to choose a ball where the lighting system is designed to integrate seamlessly, ensuring that the added weight does not hinder performance during play.
What Are the Leading Brands of Light Up Soccer Balls?
The leading brands of light up soccer balls are known for their innovation, quality, and playability.
- GlowCity: GlowCity is renowned for its high-quality light up soccer balls that feature LED technology. These balls are designed to provide excellent visibility during night games and are built to withstand regular use, ensuring durability and performance on the field.
- SKLZ: SKLZ offers light up soccer balls that are geared towards training as well as recreational play. Their models often incorporate advanced materials for better grip and control, while the built-in lights enhance visibility, making them perfect for practice sessions in low-light conditions.
- Champion Sports: Champion Sports produces a range of light up soccer balls that cater to various skill levels. Their balls are designed with a focus on safety and visibility, using durable materials that ensure they hold up well during play, even in harsher environments.
- Franklin Sports: Franklin Sports is known for its fun and engaging light up soccer balls that appeal to younger players. These balls often come in vibrant colors and designs, making them attractive to kids while still providing the functionality needed for a quality game.
- Adidas: While primarily known for their traditional soccer gear, Adidas also offers light up versions of their iconic soccer balls. These balls blend high-performance technology with illumination features, ensuring that players can enjoy a premium experience both day and night.
What Models Are Recommended by Players and Coaches?
The best light up soccer balls recommended by players and coaches include:
- GlowCity Light Up Soccer Ball: This ball features LED lights that illuminate when kicked, making it ideal for night play and ensuring visibility in low-light conditions.
- NightBall Soccer Ball: Designed for both recreational and competitive play, this ball has a durable construction and built-in LED lights that activate upon impact, providing a fun and functional experience.
- Soccer Innovations LED Light-Up Soccer Ball: This model is praised for its high-quality materials and bright LED lights that enhance visibility, making it a favorite for coaches looking for a reliable training tool during evening sessions.
- Champion Sports Light-Up Soccer Ball: Known for its sturdy design, this ball is equipped with vibrant lights that engage players of all ages, perfect for practice drills or casual games at dusk.
- Juggling Soccer Ball with LED Lights: This unique option combines the fun of juggling with illuminated features, catering to players who want to enhance their skills in a visually exciting way.
The GlowCity Light Up Soccer Ball is favored for its bright LED lights that provide excellent visibility during night games, making it a popular choice for players wanting to extend their playtime after sunset. Its durable exterior ensures that it can withstand rigorous kicking and dribbling, while the lights offer a captivating visual appeal.
The NightBall Soccer Ball stands out due to its dual purpose; it is not only a fun night-time accessory but also maintains high performance on the field. Players appreciate its robust build and the fact that the lights are activated by contact, allowing for uninterrupted play without the concern of turning the lights on and off manually.
Coaches recommend the Soccer Innovations LED Light-Up Soccer Ball for its reliable construction and bright illumination which helps in training sessions held in dim lighting. The lights are designed to last through many hours of play, ensuring that this ball remains a staple for evening practices.
The Champion Sports Light-Up Soccer Ball is recognized for its balance between fun and functionality, making it suitable for players of all skill levels. Its bright lights not only make the game more enjoyable but also help improve coordination and timing for both new and experienced players.
Finally, the Juggling Soccer Ball with LED Lights adds a unique twist to traditional training tools, engaging players in skill-building while providing visual excitement. It is particularly recommended for those looking to improve their juggling skills, as the lights create a mesmerizing effect that encourages practice and play.
How Can You Maintain and Care for a Light Up Soccer Ball?
Maintaining and caring for a light up soccer ball requires attention to its unique features and components.
- Regular Cleaning: To keep the ball in optimal condition, it’s important to clean it regularly using a damp cloth and mild soap. This helps remove dirt and debris that can affect the ball’s performance and appearance.
- Proper Storage: Store the light up soccer ball in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. This prevents damage to the electronic components and helps maintain the integrity of the ball’s material.
- Check Battery and Lights: Periodically check the battery life and functionality of the lights. Replace batteries as needed to ensure the ball illuminates properly during play, and inspect the light mechanism for any signs of wear.
- Avoid Over-Inflation: When inflating the ball, follow the manufacturer’s recommended pressure guidelines. Over-inflation can cause stress on the seams and possibly damage the internal lighting system.
- Avoid Sharp Objects: Be cautious of sharp objects and rough surfaces while using the ball. These can puncture the outer layer and damage the internal electronics, leading to a non-functional ball.
- Use on Appropriate Surfaces: Play with the light up soccer ball on suitable surfaces like grass or turf to avoid excessive wear. Avoid hard surfaces such as concrete, as they can lead to premature deterioration of both the ball’s exterior and its lighting components.
What Do User Reviews Reveal About Their Experience with Light Up Soccer Balls?
- Visibility: Many users highlight the enhanced visibility of light up soccer balls during night games or low-light conditions. The illumination not only makes the ball easier to track but also adds an element of fun, especially for children and recreational players.
- Durability: Reviews often touch on the durability of these balls, with some users noting that certain brands hold up well against rough play and varying weather conditions. However, others may report issues with the lights malfunctioning or the outer material wearing down after extensive use.
- Charging and Battery Life: Users frequently comment on the charging mechanisms of light up soccer balls, with many preferring those that offer long battery life and quick recharge times. Some reviews indicate frustration with balls that require frequent recharging or have short-lived illumination after minimal use.
- Playability: The feel of the ball during gameplay is another common topic in reviews, with some users expressing that the added weight from the lighting mechanism affects how the ball handles. Others, however, may find that the playability remains consistent with traditional soccer balls, making them suitable for practice and casual matches.
- Price vs. Quality: A frequent discussion point is the balance between price and quality, with some users willing to invest in a higher-priced option if it delivers superior performance and longevity. Conversely, reviews often mention budget-friendly options that still provide satisfactory light-up features but may compromise on durability or playability.