Handballs explained – understand the differences between the models
Handballs explained – understand the differences between the models
Handball is an intense and technical sport where the equipment plays a bigger role than many think. The right ball can make a significant difference in grip, control and playing experience – whether you play in a club, at school or in your free time. In this article, you’ll get an overview of what to look out for when choosing a handball, and how the different models and types differ from each other.
The article presents a wide range of handballs, from beginner-friendly models to professional match balls. The goal is to provide an overview of features, materials and sizes, so you can more easily find the type of ball that suits your level and needs. The information is based on publicly available product descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to give a clear and informative picture of the market.
Factors to consider when buying a handball
When choosing a handball, it’s important to consider size, grip, material and use. Here we go through the most important factors you should take into account.
1. Size and weight
Handballs come in different sizes depending on age and gender. Size 0 and 1 are usually used by children and young players, size 2 by women and juniors, while size 3 is standard for men. A ball of the right size makes it easier to control throws and dribbles.
2. Material and surface
Most handballs are made of synthetic leather or PU material, which provides a combination of durability and good grip. Training balls often have a slightly rougher surface for better control, while match balls usually have a softer and more precise feel in the hand.
3. Grip and resin
The quality of the grip is crucial for the playing experience. Some balls are designed for use with resin, while others have a surface that provides good grip without adhesives. If you play in a hall where resin is not allowed, you should choose a ball with a naturally sticky surface material.
4. Air pressure and bladder
A good handball should maintain its shape and bounce. The bladder – the inner part of the ball – plays a major role in this. Latex bladders give a softer feel, while butyl bladders retain air better and require less maintenance.
5. Price and use
The price varies depending on quality and purpose. Training balls are often cheaper and more durable, while match balls have higher precision and better grip. Consider how often you play, and whether the ball will be used for training, matches or leisure.
Products in focus
Select Soft Rubber Handball Child is developed for the youngest players who are learning the basic techniques of handball. The ball is made of a soft and durable rubber material that makes it comfortable to grip and throw, even for small hands.
The surface provides a secure grip without the use of resin, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use in schools, clubs, and leisure settings. The soft construction reduces the risk of impact and makes the ball suitable for children who are developing their ball-handling skills.
Designed in a bright blue colour, it gives a fresh look, and the ball is adapted to children's sizes so that it is easy to handle during play and training.
- Soft rubber material: Provides a comfortable feel and good grip without resin.
- Child-friendly size: Easy to grip and throw for younger players.
- Durable construction: Withstands frequent use in both school and club.
- Suitable for training: Ideal for learning basic handball technique.
- Colour: Blue
Pros and cons
- Soft and safe to play with for children
- Good grip without the use of resin
- Durable rubber material
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
- Not intended for high-level play
- May feel too light for older players
Pros and cons
Pros
- Soft and safe to play with for children
- Good grip without the use of resin
- Durable rubber material
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Not intended for high-level play
- May feel too light for older players
Pros
- Soft and safe to play with for children
- Good grip without the use of resin
- Durable rubber material
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Not intended for high-level play
- May feel too light for older players
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: Soft Rubber Handball Child
- Colour: Blue
- Material: Soft rubber
- Use: Training and play for children
- Size: Child size (typically size 0 or 1)
Hummel Kids HB Handball Child is designed for young players who are learning and developing their handball technique. The ball has a surface made of 100% synthetic leather with air-touch foam, which provides a soft and comfortable feel in the hand.
The internal latex bladder is equipped with an air-trap valve that helps maintain air pressure and reduce impact during play. The combination of materials makes the ball easy to grip and throw, which is ideal for children in training or matches.
The ball is not suitable for use with resin, making it best suited for indoor use in training contexts. The classic Hummel design with logo and chevrons gives a recognisable and sporty look.
- Air-touch foam: Provides a soft and comfortable surface.
- Synthetic leather material: Durable and easy to clean.
- Latex bladder with air-trap valve: Maintains air pressure and reduces impact.
- Not suitable for resin: Designed for training without adhesives.
- Classic Hummel design: With printed logo and chevrons.
Pros and cons
- Soft and light ball that is easy for children to grip
- Durable synthetic leather surface
- Good air retention thanks to the air-trap valve
- Suitable for training and beginners
- Not suitable for use with resin
- Primarily intended for indoor use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Soft and light ball that is easy for children to grip
- Durable synthetic leather surface
- Good air retention thanks to the air-trap valve
- Suitable for training and beginners
Cons
- Not suitable for use with resin
- Primarily intended for indoor use
Pros
- Soft and light ball that is easy for children to grip
- Durable synthetic leather surface
- Good air retention thanks to the air-trap valve
- Suitable for training and beginners
Cons
- Not suitable for use with resin
- Primarily intended for indoor use
Specifications
- Brand: Hummel
- Model: Kids HB Handball Child
- Item number: 11-212552_A009297214
- Colour: 6132 Green / White
- Material: 100% synthetic leather with air-touch foam
- Bladder: Latex with air-trap valve
- Features: Not suitable for resin, printed logo and chevrons
The Select HB Solera Handball is designed as a training ball that combines softness and durability. It is made of synthetic leather, which provides a comfortable surface and good grip during play.
The ball’s new construction improves both grip and feel, making it suitable for training at various levels. The patented Zero-Wing bladder inside the ball ensures that it retains its round shape and stable balance over time.
Thanks to the choice of materials and construction, the ball fits well in the hand, whether playing with or without resin.
- Training ball: Developed for regular use in training contexts.
- Synthetic leather: Provides a combination of softness and durability.
- Zero-Wing bladder: Preserves the ball’s shape and ensures stability.
- Improved grip: The new construction provides better control during play.
- Comfortable in the hand: Can be used both with and without resin.
Pros and cons
- Durable synthetic leather material
- Good balance and shape stability
- Suitable for training at multiple levels
- Comfortable grip with or without resin
- Primarily intended for training rather than match use
- Only available in size 2 for this model
Pros and cons
Pros
- Durable synthetic leather material
- Good balance and shape stability
- Suitable for training at multiple levels
- Comfortable grip with or without resin
Cons
- Primarily intended for training rather than match use
- Only available in size 2 for this model
Pros
- Durable synthetic leather material
- Good balance and shape stability
- Suitable for training at multiple levels
- Comfortable grip with or without resin
Cons
- Primarily intended for training rather than match use
- Only available in size 2 for this model
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: HB Solera
- Item number: 20-210018_A005332186
- Colour: yellow/green
- Size: 2
- Material: Synthetic leather
- Bladder: Patented Zero-Wing bladder
- Use: Training handball
The Select Soft Rubber Handball Kids in orange is designed for young players who are learning and developing their ball control. The ball is made of extra soft and durable synthetic leather that provides a comfortable feel in the hand and makes it suitable for both training and leisure play.
The construction with a 4 mm foam layer contributes to improved grip and a softer surface, making the ball easier for children to handle. The patented Zero-Wing bladder ensures optimal roundness, so the ball retains its shape and flies stably during play.
The ball is hand-stitched and EHF-approved, which emphasises its quality and suitability for organised training. It can be used with or without resin, depending on the players' level and preferences.
- Soft synthetic leather: Provides a comfortable and controlled ball feel.
- 4 mm foam layer: Improves grip and comfort during play.
- Zero-Wing bladder: Ensures optimal roundness and stability.
- Hand-stitched construction: Increases durability and quality.
- EHF-approved: Meets requirements for use in training and tournaments.
Pros and cons
- Soft and easy to grip for children
- Durable hand-stitched construction
- Can be used with or without resin
- Good roundness and stability thanks to the Zero-Wing bladder
- Not intended for adult players or rough play
- The soft surface may wear faster with outdoor use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Soft and easy to grip for children
- Durable hand-stitched construction
- Can be used with or without resin
- Good roundness and stability thanks to the Zero-Wing bladder
Cons
- Not intended for adult players or rough play
- The soft surface may wear faster with outdoor use
Pros
- Soft and easy to grip for children
- Durable hand-stitched construction
- Can be used with or without resin
- Good roundness and stability thanks to the Zero-Wing bladder
Cons
- Not intended for adult players or rough play
- The soft surface may wear faster with outdoor use
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: Solera V24 (Soft Rubber Handball Kids)
- Colour: Orange
- Material: Synthetic leather with 4 mm foam layer
- Bladder: Patented Zero-Wing bladder
- Construction: Hand-stitched
- Approval: EHF-approved
- Available sizes: 0, 1, 2, 3
- Item number: 20-210033_A009612909
Product descriptions
Select Soft Rubber Handball Child is developed for the youngest players who are learning the basic techniques of handball. The ball is made of a soft and durable rubber material that makes it comfortable to grip and throw, even for small hands.
The surface provides a secure grip without the use of resin, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use in schools, clubs, and leisure settings. The soft construction reduces the risk of impact and makes the ball suitable for children who are developing their ball-handling skills.
Designed in a bright blue colour, it gives a fresh look, and the ball is adapted to children's sizes so that it is easy to handle during play and training.
- Soft rubber material: Provides a comfortable feel and good grip without resin.
- Child-friendly size: Easy to grip and throw for younger players.
- Durable construction: Withstands frequent use in both school and club.
- Suitable for training: Ideal for learning basic handball technique.
- Colour: Blue
Pros and cons
- Soft and safe to play with for children
- Good grip without the use of resin
- Durable rubber material
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
- Not intended for high-level play
- May feel too light for older players
Pros and cons
Pros
- Soft and safe to play with for children
- Good grip without the use of resin
- Durable rubber material
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Not intended for high-level play
- May feel too light for older players
Pros
- Soft and safe to play with for children
- Good grip without the use of resin
- Durable rubber material
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Not intended for high-level play
- May feel too light for older players
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: Soft Rubber Handball Child
- Colour: Blue
- Material: Soft rubber
- Use: Training and play for children
- Size: Child size (typically size 0 or 1)
Hummel Kids HB Handball Child is designed for young players who are learning and developing their handball technique. The ball has a surface made of 100% synthetic leather with air-touch foam, which provides a soft and comfortable feel in the hand.
The internal latex bladder is equipped with an air-trap valve that helps maintain air pressure and reduce impact during play. The combination of materials makes the ball easy to grip and throw, which is ideal for children in training or matches.
The ball is not suitable for use with resin, making it best suited for indoor use in training contexts. The classic Hummel design with logo and chevrons gives a recognisable and sporty look.
- Air-touch foam: Provides a soft and comfortable surface.
- Synthetic leather material: Durable and easy to clean.
- Latex bladder with air-trap valve: Maintains air pressure and reduces impact.
- Not suitable for resin: Designed for training without adhesives.
- Classic Hummel design: With printed logo and chevrons.
Pros and cons
- Soft and light ball that is easy for children to grip
- Durable synthetic leather surface
- Good air retention thanks to the air-trap valve
- Suitable for training and beginners
- Not suitable for use with resin
- Primarily intended for indoor use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Soft and light ball that is easy for children to grip
- Durable synthetic leather surface
- Good air retention thanks to the air-trap valve
- Suitable for training and beginners
Cons
- Not suitable for use with resin
- Primarily intended for indoor use
Pros
- Soft and light ball that is easy for children to grip
- Durable synthetic leather surface
- Good air retention thanks to the air-trap valve
- Suitable for training and beginners
Cons
- Not suitable for use with resin
- Primarily intended for indoor use
Specifications
- Brand: Hummel
- Model: Kids HB Handball Child
- Item number: 11-212552_A009297214
- Colour: 6132 Green / White
- Material: 100% synthetic leather with air-touch foam
- Bladder: Latex with air-trap valve
- Features: Not suitable for resin, printed logo and chevrons
The Select HB Solera Handball is designed as a training ball that combines softness and durability. It is made of synthetic leather, which provides a comfortable surface and good grip during play.
The ball’s new construction improves both grip and feel, making it suitable for training at various levels. The patented Zero-Wing bladder inside the ball ensures that it retains its round shape and stable balance over time.
Thanks to the choice of materials and construction, the ball fits well in the hand, whether playing with or without resin.
- Training ball: Developed for regular use in training contexts.
- Synthetic leather: Provides a combination of softness and durability.
- Zero-Wing bladder: Preserves the ball’s shape and ensures stability.
- Improved grip: The new construction provides better control during play.
- Comfortable in the hand: Can be used both with and without resin.
Pros and cons
- Durable synthetic leather material
- Good balance and shape stability
- Suitable for training at multiple levels
- Comfortable grip with or without resin
- Primarily intended for training rather than match use
- Only available in size 2 for this model
Pros and cons
Pros
- Durable synthetic leather material
- Good balance and shape stability
- Suitable for training at multiple levels
- Comfortable grip with or without resin
Cons
- Primarily intended for training rather than match use
- Only available in size 2 for this model
Pros
- Durable synthetic leather material
- Good balance and shape stability
- Suitable for training at multiple levels
- Comfortable grip with or without resin
Cons
- Primarily intended for training rather than match use
- Only available in size 2 for this model
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: HB Solera
- Item number: 20-210018_A005332186
- Colour: yellow/green
- Size: 2
- Material: Synthetic leather
- Bladder: Patented Zero-Wing bladder
- Use: Training handball
The Select Soft Rubber Handball Kids in orange is designed for young players who are learning and developing their ball control. The ball is made of extra soft and durable synthetic leather that provides a comfortable feel in the hand and makes it suitable for both training and leisure play.
The construction with a 4 mm foam layer contributes to improved grip and a softer surface, making the ball easier for children to handle. The patented Zero-Wing bladder ensures optimal roundness, so the ball retains its shape and flies stably during play.
The ball is hand-stitched and EHF-approved, which emphasises its quality and suitability for organised training. It can be used with or without resin, depending on the players' level and preferences.
- Soft synthetic leather: Provides a comfortable and controlled ball feel.
- 4 mm foam layer: Improves grip and comfort during play.
- Zero-Wing bladder: Ensures optimal roundness and stability.
- Hand-stitched construction: Increases durability and quality.
- EHF-approved: Meets requirements for use in training and tournaments.
Pros and cons
- Soft and easy to grip for children
- Durable hand-stitched construction
- Can be used with or without resin
- Good roundness and stability thanks to the Zero-Wing bladder
- Not intended for adult players or rough play
- The soft surface may wear faster with outdoor use
Pros and cons
Pros
- Soft and easy to grip for children
- Durable hand-stitched construction
- Can be used with or without resin
- Good roundness and stability thanks to the Zero-Wing bladder
Cons
- Not intended for adult players or rough play
- The soft surface may wear faster with outdoor use
Pros
- Soft and easy to grip for children
- Durable hand-stitched construction
- Can be used with or without resin
- Good roundness and stability thanks to the Zero-Wing bladder
Cons
- Not intended for adult players or rough play
- The soft surface may wear faster with outdoor use
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: Solera V24 (Soft Rubber Handball Kids)
- Colour: Orange
- Material: Synthetic leather with 4 mm foam layer
- Bladder: Patented Zero-Wing bladder
- Construction: Hand-stitched
- Approval: EHF-approved
- Available sizes: 0, 1, 2, 3
- Item number: 20-210033_A009612909
Other products
Select Solera Handball (grey/blue) is designed as a training ball with a focus on comfort and control. It is made of extra soft and durable synthetic leather that provides a comfortable surface and a good grip during play.
The ball’s core is built around a patented Zero-wing bladder that ensures it retains its round shape and stable bounce. This construction contributes to a consistent ball feel and precision in throws and catches.
The Solera model is available in sizes from 0 to 3, making it suitable for both younger players and adults. The grey/blue colour combination gives a neutral and modern look that suits many clubs’ equipment.
- Soft synthetic leather: Provides a comfortable surface and good grip.
- Zero-wing bladder: Retains the ball’s round shape and ensures stable bounce.
- Suitable for training: Developed for use with and without resin.
- Multiple sizes: Available from size 0 to 3, making it suitable for different age groups.
- Durable design: Made from hard-wearing materials for long life.
Pros and cons
- Good grip both with and without resin
- Stable shape thanks to the Zero-wing bladder
- Durable synthetic leather suitable for frequent training
- Available in multiple sizes for different players
- This variant (size 3) may be out of stock at times
- Primarily intended for training rather than match play
Pros and cons
Pros
- Good grip both with and without resin
- Stable shape thanks to the Zero-wing bladder
- Durable synthetic leather suitable for frequent training
- Available in multiple sizes for different players
Cons
- This variant (size 3) may be out of stock at times
- Primarily intended for training rather than match play
Pros
- Good grip both with and without resin
- Stable shape thanks to the Zero-wing bladder
- Durable synthetic leather suitable for frequent training
- Available in multiple sizes for different players
Cons
- This variant (size 3) may be out of stock at times
- Primarily intended for training rather than match play
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: Solera
- Colour: grey/blue
- Material: Synthetic leather
- Bladder: Patented Zero-wing bladder
- Size: 3 (adult)
- Use: Training handball
- Item number: 20-210021_A006096134
The Select Solera V24 Handball has been developed as a popular training ball that combines softness and durability. It is made from a synthetic leather material that provides a comfortable surface and long lifespan, even with frequent use.
The ball’s new construction with a 4 mm foam layer improves grip and provides a more cushioned feel in the hand. The patented Zero-Wing bladder ensures optimal roundness, contributing to stable flight and precise ball control.
The Solera V24 is hand-stitched and can be used both with and without resin. It is also EHF-approved, meaning it meets the official standards for high-level handball play.
- 4 mm foam layer: Provides improved grip and a softer ball feel.
- Zero-Wing bladder: Ensures optimal roundness and stability in the air.
- Hand-stitched construction: Increases durability and provides a classic ball feel.
- EHF-approved: Meets the requirements for official handball matches.
- Suitable for training: Designed for both youth and senior use.
Pros and cons
- Good balance between grip and softness
- Durable synthetic leather construction
- Can be used with or without resin
- EHF-approved quality
- As a training ball, it may feel slightly softer than match balls
- Requires proper inflation to maintain optimal roundness
Pros and cons
Pros
- Good balance between grip and softness
- Durable synthetic leather construction
- Can be used with or without resin
- EHF-approved quality
Cons
- As a training ball, it may feel slightly softer than match balls
- Requires proper inflation to maintain optimal roundness
Pros
- Good balance between grip and softness
- Durable synthetic leather construction
- Can be used with or without resin
- EHF-approved quality
Cons
- As a training ball, it may feel slightly softer than match balls
- Requires proper inflation to maintain optimal roundness
Specifications
- Brand: Select
- Model: Solera V24
- Colour: Orange
- Available sizes: 0, 1, 2, 3
- Material: Synthetic leather with 4 mm foam layer
- Bladder: Patented Zero-Wing bladder
- Construction: Hand-stitched
- Approval: EHF-approved
- Item number: 20-210033_A009612907
Different types of handballs
There are several types of handballs, each developed for different purposes and player types.
1. Training balls
Training balls are designed for frequent use and usually have a robust surface that can withstand many throws and impacts. They provide a good grip and are ideal for both club training and school use.
2. Match balls
Match balls are made with a focus on precision, balance and grip. They are often hand-stitched and made of materials that provide a soft and controlled feel. These balls are used in official matches and tournaments.
3. Resin-free balls
Several manufacturers now offer resin-free balls, which have a special surface that provides extra grip without the use of resin. They are popular in halls where resin is prohibited and require minimal maintenance.
4. Children’s and youth balls
For younger players, there are lighter and smaller balls that make it easier to learn technique and develop throwing strength. They often have a softer surface to reduce the risk of injury and increase enjoyment of the game.
5. Street and beach handballs
For outdoor use, there are special balls for street and beach handball. They are made of materials that withstand moisture and wear, and have a surface that provides good grip even with sweaty or wet hands.
Different brands of handballs
The handball market includes a number of well-known brands, each with its own strengths and areas of focus.
Select
Select is one of the most recognised brands in handball and supplies balls to both clubs and international tournaments. The brand is known for high quality, good grip and durability.
Molten
Molten produces handballs with a focus on precision and control. Their balls are often used in tournaments and are popular for their consistent bounce and comfortable surface.
Hummel
Hummel combines classic design with modern technology. Their handballs are known for good balance and a solid grip, making them well suited for both training and matches.
Kempa
Kempa specialises in handball equipment and offers balls that focus on grip and ball control. Many of their models are developed in collaboration with professional players.
Erima
Erima offers a wide range of handballs for both beginners and experienced players. The brand emphasises durability and functionality, and their balls are often used in club training.
Frequently asked questions
What size handball should I choose?
The size depends on age and gender. Children usually use size 0 or 1, women and juniors size 2, and men size 3. It’s important to choose a ball that fits the size of your hand for optimal control.
How do I maintain my handball?
Keep the ball clean and dry, and avoid storing it in damp environments. Check the air pressure regularly and inflate it when needed. Do not overinflate the ball, as this can damage the bladder.
Can I use the same ball for both training and matches?
You can, but many players prefer to have one ball for training and another for matches. Training balls wear out faster, while match balls retain grip and shape longer.
What does it mean that a ball is resin-free?
A resin-free ball has a special surface that provides good grip without the use of resin. This makes it ideal for halls where resin is not allowed and makes cleaning both the ball and the court easier.
How long does a handball last?
The lifespan depends on use and maintenance. A quality ball can last for several seasons if used correctly and stored dry. Training balls wear out faster than match balls due to more frequent use.
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