How to Inflate, Care for, and Maintain your Mikasa FT5 Football

1. Equipment Needed

   • Ball pump with pressure gauge and a compatible inflation needle.

   • Small bowl of water (to moisten needle).

   • Soft cloth and mild soap for cleaning.

2. Inflation Steps

   • Inspect the valve area for debris before inserting the needle.

   • Moisten the needle with water (or valve oil) to prevent valve damage.

   • Insert needle gently and pump slowly while monitoring the pressure gauge. Mikasa FT5 typically performs best at a medium pressure — avoid overinflation; if unsure, aim for a slightly softer feel than a hard competitive soccer ball.

   • After inflating, remove the needle and press the valve gently to ensure no immediate leaks.

3. Initial Break-in

   • After first inflation, play lightly for 10–15 minutes to seat the bladder. Recheck pressure and adjust for preferred feel. New PU covers compress slightly during early use.

4. Cleaning & Drying

   • After each beach or muddy session, wipe the ball with a damp cloth and mild soap. Remove salt and sand thoroughly after footvolley use to avoid surface abrasion. Do not submerge for prolonged periods. Dry fully at room temperature before storage.

5. Storage

   • Store deflated or at normal playing pressure in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. Avoid leaving the ball near heaters or inside hot cars to prevent bladder damage and cover degradation.

6. Regular Checks & Repairs

   • Inspect the valve for slow leaks and the cover for cuts or seam separation. For slow leaks, re-inflate and monitor; persistent leaks may require professional repair or replacement. Replace the inflation needle cap and avoid forcing needles at odd angles.

7. Troubleshooting

   • Ball feels too hard: Release a little air and test again.

   • Ball loses pressure quickly: Check valve for debris or damage; re-seat the needle and re-inflate; if problem persists, consult retailer.

   • Surface scuffing after beach play: Clean promptly and avoid rough concrete surfaces.

Following this routine ensures your Mikasa FT5 keeps its shape, touch, and flight characteristics so you get consistent performance for footvolley and soccer sessions.

The Mikasa FT5 Football is ideal for players and organisers who need a versatile, durable ball for both footvolley and recreational soccer. Its soft PU outer and molded triangle pattern make it excellent for footvolley players who rely on controlled volleys, flicks, and juggling. Beach teams, community tournaments, and schools will value its all-weather resilience and straightforward maintenance. Because it’s an official Size 5, the FT5 also suits adult training sessions where players practise ball control, passing drills, and technical work. Families and recreational clubs in the UAE will appreciate the ball’s balance of comfort and durability — it’s a practical choice for mixed use (sand and grass) when you want one ball that performs consistently across surfaces. Choose the FT5 when you want a footvolley-grade ball that still holds up to everyday practice and casual matches.

Q1: Is Mikasa FT5 suitable for outdoor use?
Yes. The Mikasa FT5 is constructed from PU leather with an all-weather build, making it suitable for outdoor play on grass, sand (footvolley), and hard courts. To maximize longevity, rinse off abrasive sand after beach sessions, avoid prolonged exposure to extreme UV when not in use, and store the ball dry. Routine inspection of the valve and panel seams will help prevent premature wear.

Q2: What size is the Mikasa FT5 football?
The Mikasa FT5 is an official Size 5 football, which is the standard adult/competitive size. At approximately 0.5 kg (500 g) it provides a regulation feel suitable for adult players, youth older teens, and footvolley competitions. Size 5 is ideal for technical training, matches, and recreational play.

Q3: What material is the Mikasa FT5 made of?
The FT5’s outer is Polyurethane (PU) / Leather PU, chosen for its soft touch and abrasion resistance. PU gives a near-leather feel, good rebound characteristics, and better weather resistance than cheaper PVC alternatives. This material helps balance comfort and durability for repeated training and recreational use.

Q4: Is the Mikasa FT5 an official footvolley ball?
Yes. The product is marketed as an official footvolley ball (FT5), designed with the appropriate feel and construction preferred in footvolley play. It’s also commonly used for recreational soccer training, giving players a ball that meets expectations for footvolley while remaining versatile for other formats.

Q5: Does the ball come inflated?
No — the Mikasa FT5 ships deflated for safer transport. You’ll need a standard pump and needle to inflate it before first use. Inflate gradually using a pressure gauge to reach the recommended firmness; avoid overinflation which can damage the bladder or change the ball’s touch.

Q6: How do I tell if my Mikasa FT5 is genuine?
Check for clear Mikasa branding, model number (FT5 or FT-5WB), quality stitching/seam finish, and consistent panel molding. Purchase from authorised retailers (like Sea Wonders) or known sellers to reduce risk of counterfeit products. Genuine Mikasa balls show clean molding, even coating, and consistent valve placement.