Throughout its long and illustrious history, the sport of Soccer has evolved to become the world’s most popular sport. As the sport has evolved so has the equipment that is used to play the game. The Center piece and most important piece of equipment used when playing soccer is the soccer ball.

Ancient civilizations such as the Ts’in and Han Dynasties of China and even the ancient Egyptians, who played games similar to soccer, used animal skin and other animal parts to construct the first “soccer” balls known to exist. The first predecessor of the modern soccer ball was constructed in 1855 by Charles Goodyear. Goodyear’s ball was constructed using vulcanized rubber, a newly invented technology allowing for more predictable ball behavior when kicked. This design was later improved upon in 1862 by H.J. Lindon which was the first inflatable ball design.

In 1872 the English Football Association set forth some general rules for soccer balls which stated that the ball must be spherical with a circumference of 27 to 28 inches and weigh between 15-17 ounces. In 1937 the weight of the Soccer Ball was increased to 14-16 ounces. The only drastic thing that has changed about the soccer ball since 1872 is the material of the ball and the shape of the panels that form the ball. During the late 1880’s interlocking panels helped to increase the overall strength and stability of the soccer ball.

In the Early 1900’s Soccer balls were made of stronger rubber and interlocking leather panels, enabling the soccer ball to withstand more force. The heavier rubber and leather construction of these balls enabled them to be quite durable. However, during rainy conditions the leather would absorb moisture causing the ball to become very heavy and ultimately caused many head injuries. Water absorption was eventually combatted by using synthetic paints and other nonporous materials.

During the 1950’s a few more advances took place in the evolution of the soccer ball. A new valve was developed which no longer required a slit in the outer layer of the ball, allowing for more air retention, and the first white soccer ball was permitted allowing for higher visibility.

Synthetic soccer balls did not come into existence until the 1960’s and continued to gain acceptance up until the 1980’s when leather soccer balls were obsolete. Synthetic soccer balls performed much like their leather counter parts with the major advantage being less water absorption.

The Buckminster soccer ball is probably the most iconic soccer ball design throughout history. Originally created by Richard Buckminster Fuller, the Buckminster soccer ball design consisted of a series of 20 hexagonal and 12 pentagonal surfaces sewn together to make a nearly perfect sphere. Alternation of black and white panels helped players discern any movement in the balls trajectory.

The ultimate goal is to develop a ball that is water proof, faster, more accurate, softer and will not absorb energy. The design of the soccer ball will continue to evolve as new materials and manufacturing processes are developed.

Soccer (or football ) is the world’s most popular sport. Soccer’s popularity has far exceeded any other sport, being played by over 250 Million people in over 200 countries throughout the world. Early versions of soccer first emerged in England and date back to at least the Eighth century. Throughout the long and fabled history of Soccer, the rules have changed, its popularity has increased, and the game has become more exciting. Amidst all of the changes that the sport has endured, one aspect of the game has remained constant – Players have always worn some type of uniform.

Soccer uniforms have played an important role throughout the history of the sport, allowing players to stay cool and to protect them from bodily injury. Soccer uniforms generally consist of the following components: short or long-sleeved jersey top, soccer shorts, soccer socks, shin guards and soccer shoes (or soccer cleats).

Around the year 1870, popularity of the sport and media attention spurred an evolution of the Soccer Uniform. The primary function of the Soccer Uniform was no longer to just keep the player cool and safe but rather to identify the player and the team to which they belonged. The addition of numbers and distinguishing colors/logos were used for the first time to help fans and players alike identify each other on the field.
Numbers on the back of soccer uniforms were originally determined based on a team’s starting formation. Numbers 1-11 were given to the starting players of each team. Substitute players were assigned numbers beginning at 12.

Here is the original breakdown of the numbers assigned to soccer players on their uniforms:

1 – Goalkeeper
2 – Right back
3 – Left back
4 – Stopper
5 – Last man/Sweeper
6 – Middle fielder
7 – Right winger
8 – Striking midfielder
9 – Striker
10 – Striking midfielder
11 – Left winger

Soccer players wore jerseys that were tailor made from durable, natural fibers in a variety of collar designs. Laced crew necks and wide horizontal/vertical stripes were very common among soccer uniforms of the early 20th century.

In the 1930s, collared rugby-style shirts replaced crew necks. A great example of the shift from laced crew necks to rugby style shirts was most visible with the 1933 Arsenal red shirt with white sleeves, and a wide, white collar. In the mid 20th century the “Continental Style” of soccer uniforms came to existence. This style of soccer uniform was evident by light-weight synthetic fabrics and a short-sleeved v-neck style shirt, creating a look that evolved into the modern soccer jersey.

During the later portion of the 20th century, jerseys worn by professional soccer players patronized various brands such as nike and adidas and Jerseys soon became more commercial as teams sold replica jerseys of notable players.

Technological and Industrial advances continue to produce soccer uniforms that are lighter and more breathable than ever, boasting fabrics that are made from cotton, nylon and polyester blends. From the early creation of soccer to the modern age, soccer uniforms have evolved with the times and continue to serve their aesthetic and functional purposes.