Handballs

You don't play handball without a handball

We can no longer live without each other and are together almost every day. Some days we want to send it right back where he came from and we don't have it completely under control, but usually it does exactly what we want. One handball player keeps him spotless and he can't be filthy enough for another. We are of course talking about the handball!

The handball is one of the most important components in our most favorite sport on the planet. It has to be comfortable to hold, grippy and able to take a beating, because we want to be able to play with our best friend for as long as possible. The handballs of the handball brands Hummel, Kempa, SELECT, Molten and Erima are very different and offer the perfect match for every handball player.

Both the interior and the exterior of the ball are important for a long life together. But the design should in no way be inferior to the quality of the ball. You may prefer a simple or colorful handball; the brands offer a wide range of colors and designs.

Price, quality and functionality: what makes the difference between the handballs?

A handball layman will say that a handball is a handball. All balls are round and at first glance there may be little difference, but there are indeed several aspects that influence the price, quality and functionality.

The quality of the bladder

The many handball brands have developed different techniques to improve the quality of the bladder in the handballs. Hummel produces the handballs with a double bladder with reinforcement of cotton and polyester. The bladder of Erima handballs is covered with textile strips that ensure that you can never over-inflate the ball. At Kempa they use a similar system.

Soft touch

Under the surface, all handballs have foam that provides the "soft touch". This makes the ball comfortable in the hand. The foam layers of the top handballs have been doubled for an even softer feel.

Longer durability with a sewn surface

Today, the handballs are not simply just sewn. The loose panels are first sewn, then glued and finally cured under high pressure. This gives the handball a longer durability, a rounder shape and better bounce and flight characteristics.

The price of the handballs depends on the extent to which the above techniques have been used. The more expensive the handball, the more the handball production process features the latest technologies.

Which handball do I need?

Your preference for color and brand and the degree of grip is a matter of taste. In addition, there are a number of components that you have to consider when choosing a suitable handball. Consider, for example, the hardness, the size and the rules for your own competition based on age.

How hard should my handball feel?

You will find the softest handballs in the range of Kempa and Erima. Hummel's are generally slightly harder to use. And at SELECT and Molten you have to be for the harder handballs.

How big should my handball be?

The largest handballs, of course within the set conditions, are mainly found at SELECT. At Kempa and Erima, the handballs are "medium" and are always located neatly in the middle of the circumference range. Hummel and Molten produce small handballs that rest against the bottom of the size chart.

What size handball do I need?

Size 0: The size 0 handballs (circumference 46-48 cm and weight up to 260 grams) have been specially developed for small children's hands. The small size gives children better control over the ball, which increases the feeling of performance and fun. The handballs in size 0 are mainly used by children (8-10 years) who play handball up to and including the E-youth.

Size 1: the handballs with size 1 (circumference 50-52 cm and weight 290-330 grams) are the official play balls for children, for girls in D and C youth (10 to 14 years) and for boys in D youth (10 to 12 years).

Size 2: the size 2 handballs (circumference 54-56 cm and weight 325-375 grams) are the official playing balls in the women's competition (from 14 years). Boys who are active in the C youth and B youth (12 to 16 years) also play with the handball in size 2.

Size 3: the size 3 handballs (circumference 58-60 cm and weight 425-475 grams) are the official playing balls in the men's competition (from 16 years).
View this table for a clear overview per competition.

Handball size chart
Age group	Size ball	Circumference ball
< 6	Mini-ball (00)	42-44 cm	Must be a softball
7 - 10	Mini-ball (0)	48 cm	Softball is optional
11 - 12	I	50-52 cm
13 - 14 (Girls)	I	50-52 cm
13 - 14 (Boys)	II	54-56 cm
15 - 16	II	54-56 cm
17 > (Women)	II	54-56 cm
17 > (Men)	III	58-60 cm

Are there special training handballs?

Various brands have developed special training handballs. Think of weighted handballs of up to 800 grams, for example, with which you simultaneously train the strength in your arms. But also, for example, soft handballs that are often used in children's training to reduce the fear of the ball. And handballs that can be used on the street by children who are just getting acquainted with the game. The soft ball has many advantages: it is easy to catch, has a good grip and promotes interaction because you cannot bounce with it.

Do I need a special beach handball?

Beach handball, the upcoming summer variant of handball. Sun, beach and handball, that's the perfect combination. Beach handball is about experience and fast and spectacular play. Kites, pirouettes and high-fives are flying around you. That is only possible with a special beach handball that ensures that you can still show your best game in your summer outfit and with sweat and sand on your hands.

What size beach handball do I need?

Category	Size ball
Up until 10 yrs	Size 00
10-12 yrs	Size 0
From 12 yrs	Size 1
From 16 yrs	Size 2

What does the IHF mark on a handball mean?

The International Handball Federation (IHF) examines handballs based on four criteria: reach, roundness, weight and bounce quality. The IHF quality mark confirms compliance with IHF regulations and guarantees excellent quality, durability and playing characteristics. If a ball does not have such a hallmark, it does not mean that the ball is bad. The IHF testing procedure takes a long time and is expensive, which is why some brands are reluctant to have the handballs labeled.

Is my handball suitable for use with resin?

Many handballs can be used with resin, but not all. If the handball is not suitable for the use of resin, this is clearly indicated in the product description. If you still have questions about this, you can always call our customer service for more information. We are happy to personally advise you.
It may also be the case that no resin may be used in your sports hall. Then there is an alternative: the very first self-adhesive handball SELECT Maxi Grip with the same functionalities as a handball that is covered with resin.

How do I best take care of my handball?

It is of course very annoying if a handball breaks quickly and shows traces of use. That is why it is advisable to take good care of your handball so that it lasts as long as possible. For example, use valve oil when you inflate your handball. This prevents damage to the bladder and valve. In addition, it is best to store your handball in a dry place and at room temperature. So don't forget to take it out of your damp sports bag after training! And if you use a lot of resin, you should regularly clean your ball and get rid of old resin.