How to choose handball equipment – ball, uniform, shoes

Handball requires precision, reaction, power, and speed. Each piece of equipment directly affects the performance in the match, stability on the court, and overall condition of the athlete after training. Making the wrong choice hinders focus, slows down movement, reduces the quality of throws, and increases the risk of injuries. To avoid unnecessary expenses and get the most out of each piece of equipment, it is important to understand how to choose handball gear correctly and reasonably — taking into account the game requirements, level of training, and specifics of the court.

How to choose a ball with the right characteristics

The handball is the central element of the game. Its parameters determine the accuracy of the throw, the feel of the ball in the hands, the grip with the fingers, and the overall interaction within the team. Players train daily for agility, strength, and coordination — the choice defines the result of these efforts.

Size and weight

The size of the handball varies by age and gender:

1. Size 1 (50–52 cm, 290–330 g) — for players up to 14 years old.

2. Size 2 (54–56 cm, 325–375 g) — women’s teams and boys 14–16 years old.

3. Size 3 (58–60 cm, 425–475 g) — men’s teams, juniors from 16 years old.

Adhering to the sizes affects not only comfort but also ball handling technique — incorrect weight overloads the wrists and reduces accuracy.

Material and covering: how to choose handball gear

The surface affects the grip. Natural leather is less durable but provides high tactile sensitivity. Modern synthetic options are resistant to wear, provide stable aerodynamics and balance. Popular brands (e.g., Select, Molten) use a multilayer structure with lining and foam, ensuring shape stability even after intense play.

Balancing and pressure

How to choose handball gear: a poorly balanced ball deviates in flight. Factory balancing is a mandatory criterion when purchasing from an official store. Pressure varies: for an adult ball — 0.3–0.5 bar. Low pressure deteriorates bounce and slows down the game pace.

Uniform for handball: fabric, cut, freedom of movement

The handball uniform must withstand sharp movements, falls, and physical contact. How to choose handball gear, especially in this segment? Here, durability, breathability, and dynamic comfort are important.

Materials

Multifunctional polyester fabrics with elastane provide maximum freedom of movement and resistance to wear. Modern fabrics wick away moisture, maintain thermoregulation, and retain shape after multiple washes.

Cut and ergonomics

The handball sportswear features a special anatomical fit. The shirt should not slip or ride up during jumps, and the shorts should not restrict movement in the groin area. Some manufacturers add elastic inserts in areas of maximum stretch — shoulders, armpits, thighs.

Additional elements

A stand-up collar and flat seams reduce the risk of chafing. In practice, athletes appreciate the absence of unnecessary decorations — the simpler, the better. A snug fit allows judging grips during the game, which is important for officiating.

Footwear: grip, protection, stability

Choosing handball gear without proper footwear is a rhetorical question. Every handball player makes hundreds of jumps, sudden stops, and turns during a match. Footwear must withstand this without losing quality.

Parameters:

1. Sole type. For indoor use — only light rubber sole. It leaves no marks, provides maximum grip on the parquet floor, and stability. A medium-depth tread provides a balance between cushioning and surface sensitivity.
2. Cushioning and foot support. Reinforced heel reduces strain on the Achilles tendon. EVA and gel inserts absorb impact upon landing. Lateral support prevents sprains during lateral movements, and lacing with a strap secures the instep.
3. Weight and ventilation. Average weight per pair — 280–380 g. Heavy sneakers overload the legs over a distance. Ventilation inserts and mesh elements provide heat dissipation — especially important for games on indoor courts.

Handball for beginners: how to choose gear wisely

Beginner players often make the mistake of focusing on appearance or price. Choosing handball gear correctly is a matter of practicality, not fashion. The basic set should correspond to height, weight, and level of activity.

Selection recommendations:

1. Always consider the level of training — beginners will benefit from universal, simple gear.

2. Check the size compatibility according to the manufacturer’s charts.

3. Avoid “oversized” models — extra volume hinders technique.

4. Use gear specifically for handball, without adapting from other sports.

Gear in practice: one set — dozens of tasks

One set of handball gear solves several tasks at once: protects, enhances efficiency, boosts confidence. A quality ball improves pass accuracy, a well-designed uniform facilitates physical contact, and footwear prevents injuries.

A comprehensive understanding of how to choose handball gear includes:

1. Analysis of training and competition intensity.

2. Selection based on size, weight, and age.

3. Comparison of manufacturers by warranty, reviews, durability.

4. Fitting in the hall — especially for footwear.

5. Consideration of budget and price-to-quality ratio.

Where to look: stores, brands, team advice

Specialized sports stores offer certified handballs, uniforms, and footwear. Notable manufacturers include: Select (balls), Kempa (uniforms), Mizuno and Asics (footwear). Before purchasing, it is recommended to test the gear during training and receive feedback from the coach or teammates.

Many stores offer special deals for team purchases, reducing the price by 15–25% and simplifying gear standardization within the team. Participation in competitions raises the quality requirements — especially for footwear and balls.

Conclusion

The effectiveness of a handball player depends not only on skills. Understanding how to choose handball gear requires attention to details — ball size, fabric density, sole type. The right set not only complements training but also forms a stable playing base, reduces strain, improves accuracy, and helps excel on the court.