Sliotar Size Guide: Which Sliotar Should You Use for GAA?
Jun 30, 2025
If you’re new to buying sliotars — or just not sure which one is right for the age group you’re dealing with — you’re in the right place.
From Go Games sizes to senior match balls, sliotars come in all shapes and specs. But once you understand what each one is for, it’s pretty easy to choose the right one.
This guide breaks down the different types of sliotars, who they’re for, and when to use them.
What Are the Different Types of Sliotars?
First Touch (U6–U8)
Big, soft, and forgiving. Designed for the youngest hurlers who are just starting out.
✅ Helps kids learn the basics without the fear of getting hurt
👉 Shop First Touch sliotars
Quick Touch (U10)
Still soft, but closer in size and shape to a regular sliotar.
✅ Great for kids who are improving their striking and control
👉 Shop Quick Touch sliotars
Smart Touch (U12)
The final step before full-sized sliotars.
✅ Slightly heavier, better for developing match technique
👉 Shop Smart Touch sliotars
Size 4 & Size 5 (Teens & Adults)
Size 4: Used in older juvenile levels and adult camogie
Size 5: Standard for senior hurling
✅ These are the real deal — stitched leather, cork centre, regulation size
👉 Shop Size 4 & Size 5 sliotars
Wall Balls / Soft Sliotars
Designed for solo practice or indoor sessions
✅ Softer with reduced rebound — perfect for tight spaces or wall drills
👉 Shop wall balls
Training Sliotars
Built to last, often synthetic or brightly coloured
✅ Great for team drills, bulk orders, or wet weather days
👉 Shop training sliotars
Sliotar Size Guide (By Age)
|
Age Group |
Recommended Sliotar |
|
Under 8 |
First Touch |
|
8–10 |
Quick Touch |
|
10–12 |
Smart Touch |
|
12+ |
Size 4 or 5 |
Browse all sliotars from Lar Corbett Sports
Not sure which size? Drop us a message — our friendly team is happy to help.
Things to Think About Before You Buy
-
Match or training?
Training sliotars are more affordable and tougher. Match balls are official spec.
-
Indoor or outdoor?
Wall balls are best if you’re training indoors or on your own at home.
-
Buying for a team?
Go with training balls in a bundle — easy to spot, built to last.
Quick Links to Popular Sliotar Types
Whether you’re buying for your child, your team, or yourself, stick to the age guidelines and think about how it’ll be used — training, matches, or solo practice.
We stock GAA-approved sliotars for all levels — from First Touch to senior match balls. Built to last, trusted by clubs across the country.
👉 Browse the full sliotar range here
FAQs
What is the difference between Size 4 and Size 5 sliotars? Size 4 is a bit smaller and lighter — often used in camogie or for older juvenile players. Size 5 is the full-size senior sliotar used in adult matches.
What sliotar should an 11-year-old use?
Most U12s use a Smart Touch sliotar. It helps with developing skills without jumping straight to a full-size ball.
What does a smart sliotar do?
Some test sliotars now include chips to track speed, distance, and strike data. Handy for elite training — not something you’ll find in your average club match (yet).
