Footballs

Choosing the right footballs is essential for safety, skill development, and overall team success. Gopher is a trusted partner for physical education teachers, coaches, and athletic programs nationwide, providing one-of-a kind balls and well-known brands like Wilson or Rawlings, that are built to last and made for daily use. With the right football in hand, students and athletes will be set up for success!  

Why the Right Youth Football Matters  

Using age-appropriate footballs helps students safely learn proper throwing, catching, and ball-handling techniques while keeping activities inclusive for all skill levels. 

Smaller sizes and softer options like foam footballs support early skill development, while advanced options like leather footballs prepare older athletes for gameplay. 

Gopher makes it easy for educators and coaches to select the right ball, offering a wide range of tested options designed for progression and performance.  

Material Options: What are footballs made of?  

Gopher offers a variety of footballs to match different environments and skill levels. From introductory foam footballs for beginners to official-style leather game balls and even multiple color options for a custom football feel, there is a solution for every program.  

• Foam
  • Benefit: soft and friendly, great for beginners and young students. Also a great option for indoor, compact spaces. 
  • Screamin’ Rainbow SoftScore Footballs are a great choice 
• Rubber
  • Benefit: durable and ideal for PE classes and outdoor play. They also are a more friendly option as students learn the fundamentals and build their confidence. 
  • Gopher Performer is a top rubber choice. 
• Synthetic
  • Benefit: A manufactured material that offers the enhanced grip and feel of a composite. Great for practice and PE instruction. 
  • Gopher’s Rainbow Victory 1000 is our most popular and comes in bright colors 
• Composite
  • Benefit: provide a grippy football feel for better control during practice.
  • Gopher's own Comp 1000 is our most popular ball. 
• Leather
  • Benefit: the best-handling material. Designed for competitive play and advanced athletes. 
  • Wilson GST or Wilson GRT footballs are the most popular choice.  

Sizing Guide: What size football do I need?  

Selecting the correct football size ensures proper technique and safer play for all participants. Footballs follow four standard sizing options:  

Gopher footballs are trusted by schools and youth programs because they are designed for institutional use and consistent performance. Each option is carefully selected to support active, engaging learning while standing up to daily wear in PE classes and team practices. Educators and coaches rely on Gopher for dependable quality, helpful product guidance, and equipment that meets the demands of busy programs.  

The right youth footballs make a meaningful difference in your PE or athletic program, prioritizing proper fit, skill progression, and overall enjoyment of the game. Explore the full selection of Gopher, Wilson, and Rawlings footballs today! Need help with personalized recommendations, bulk orders, or choosing other football equipment to pair with footballs? Connect with our team—they’re ready to help!  

We’ve gathered answers to the most common football balls questions to make your shopping experience simple. Whether you’re looking for details about sizing, material, or which ball to get, you’ll find everything you need right here. 

Questions are organized by category and include detailed answers, practical tips, and helpful resources that support your frequently asked questions.