Knowing how to deflate a soccer ball would come in handy if you attend regular soccer training sessions. Carrying a deflated ball is much easier than an inflated one since it takes up less space and weighs less. For this reason, it is more convenient to fit a deflated ball in a bag. There are multiple ways to do this. We will highlight some useful methods to deflate a ball in this piece.
Method 1. The Air Pressure Gauge Method
The air pressure gauge method is not the easiest process we will discuss today, but it is highly effective. We would recommend this for taking out some air rather than flattening the ball completely. We can break down this method into three simple steps:
Step 1. Lubricate The Pressure Gauge Needle Tip
An air pressure gauge can measure the internal air pressure level of a ball. The standard air pressure range for a size five soccer ball is from 8.5 psi (Pounds per Square Inch) to 15 psi (Pounds per Square Inches). Pressure beyond or above this range isn’t ideal for playing. So, you’d need air pressure gauges in a soccer practice facility to check the air pressure status of a ball.
But, how to deflate a soccer ball using an air pressure gauge? The first thing you need to do is to moisturize the needle tip of the equipment. The reason to do this is to make the needle effortlessly connect to the valve of the ball without damaging it. You can use water, coconut oil, or even saliva (probably not a good idea now because of Covid transmission risks) for this purpose.
Step 2. Connect The Needle To The Valve
Locate the valve. Then, gently push the needle through it.
Step 3. Release The Pressure
To let the air out, press the release valve on the gauge. Keep an eye on the progress and release the gauge valve when the pressure hits the level you were looking for. This is the best way to ensure a certain amount of air pressure inside a ball.
Method 2. The Pump Needle Method
The pump needle technique is perhaps the most common modus operandi people resort to when shrinking a soccer ball to its original state. It’s very simple to do and requires nothing but a pump needle. A pump needle
Step 1. Find The Valve
The valve is a small hole in the ball through which you can pass or take out the air. After finding it, wipe away the dirt surrounding it. Otherwise, it might clog the passageway over time.
Step 2. Lubricate The Needle
Lubricate the needle with water or coconut oil to reduce abrasion.
Step 3. Insert The Needle
Position the needle on top of the valve and carefully slide it in. Hold the ball with one hand and press the needle in with the other. Keep on pushing the needle until you hear a hiss. The hiss means the air is escaping through the valve. Retain your position until the ball becomes fully deflated, or when you feel that you have let enough air out.
Step 4. Remove The Needle
Pull the needle out with caution and store it somewhere safe for future use.
Method 3. The Paperclip Method
Can’t find an air pressure gauge or a pump needle nearby? Channel your MacGyver and get it done with a paperclip. Manufacturers won’t encourage it, but if you are careful enough, a paperclip can be a safe and functional substitute for a pump needle or an air pressure gauge.
Step 1. Straighten The Paperclip
A paperclip has a cigar-like shape. To use it as a makeshift pump needle, you need to open the bent area and straighten it. Apply gentle pressure to prevent it from snapping. Increase the pressure incrementally if the shape doesn’t change. You might still be able to use the clip if you end up breaking it, but it would be best to get the maximum length.
Step 2. Slide In The Paperclip
Use water, or coconut oil to moisten the tip of your paperclip, then gently push it through the valve of the ball. Since a clip can be slippery at times, you may need to wear a glove on your dominant hand to have a firm grip.
Step 3. Pull It Out Safely
After you deflate the ball successfully, patiently retract the clip. Again, you need to be extra careful so that the inner bladder remains unharmed.
In Conclusion
All the techniques we have touched on in our how to deflate a soccer ball tutorial are very fruitful. Whenever you need to minimize the ball size for portability or any other reason, you can rely on these methods. So, no matter where you go, you can make room for the ball in your bag without a hassle
