The ball
IHF · 2025Sizes and age categories · Resin-free balls and replacements
Sizes and age categories
The ball must be spherical, with a leather or synthetic surface that is neither shiny nor slippery. With resin, size 3 measures 58–60 cm and weighs 425–475 g; size 2 is 54–56 cm and 325–375 g; size 1 is 50–52 cm and 290–330 g. Size 3 is for men aged 16 and over. Size 2 covers women aged 14 and over and boys aged 12–16; size 1 covers girls aged 8–14 and boys aged 8–12.
Resin-free balls and replacements
Without resin, the same categories use different specifications: size 3 is 55.5–57.5 cm and 400–425 g; size 2 is 51.5–53.5 cm and 300–325 g; size 1 is 49–51 cm and 290–315 g. At least two compliant balls must be available, with reserves immediately accessible at the timekeeper’s table. Referees decide when to replace a ball. Mini-handball dimensions are not fixed by these normal playing rules.
Sources & approach ↗