When it comes to equipping your football pitch for 7-a-side matches, selecting the right goals is essential for creating an authentic playing experience. Standard 7-a-side football goals measure 12ft x 6ft (3.66m x 1.83m), making them perfect for junior football from under 9s to under 12s, as well as adult recreational matches. Quality 7-a-side football goals are designed to deliver exceptional performance and durability, catering to players of all ages and abilities.
The market offers various options for 7v7 goals, including portable pop-up designs, folding frames, and permanently installed structures manufactured from materials like aluminium, steel or PVC. Many suppliers in the UK manufacture these goals domestically, ensuring they meet the specific requirements of British grassroots football leagues and training environments.
For teams or clubs looking to replace worn nets rather than entire goal structures, replacement netting is readily available with different configurations such as standard or straight-back options. Portable options have become increasingly popular for coaches and clubs that utilise different training spaces, with pop-up soccer goals offering convenience for those who need to transport their equipment between venues.
Features of 7-A-Side Football Goals
7-a-side football goals come in various specifications designed to meet different needs and playing environments. These goals balance portability, durability, and regulatory compliance for optimal performance.
Material and Construction
7-a-side football goals are manufactured using three primary materials: aluminium, steel, and uPVC. Aluminium goals offer an ideal balance of strength and weight, making them easy to move while remaining sturdy during play. Steel goals provide maximum durability and are often galvanized to prevent rust, making them excellent for permanent installations.
uPVC goals are lightweight and cost-effective, perfect for training or recreational use. Many goals feature PVC hooks for simple net attachment and secure fastening during matches.
Quality goals include reinforced corners and crossbars to withstand ball impacts and weather conditions. Professional-grade models often feature a polyester powder paint finish that resists chipping and fading, extending the goal's lifespan and appearance.
Standard Dimensions and Compliance
The standard dimensions for 7v7 goals are 12ft × 6ft (3.66m × 1.83m), though some regions may use the metric equivalent of 3.6m × 1.8m. These dimensions comply with official regulations for junior and recreational 7-a-side football matches.
High-quality goals meet UNE-EN 748 safety standards, which specify requirements for construction, stability, and net attachments. This compliance ensures player safety during both training and competitive matches.
Goals should include ground anchors or counterweights to prevent tipping during use. Nets should be properly tensioned with sufficient depth to contain shots effectively.
Many modern 7-a-side goals offer folding or portable designs, allowing for easy storage when not in use. This feature is particularly valuable for facilities that host multiple sports or have limited storage space.
Selecting the Right Football Net
Choosing the appropriate football net involves understanding both material considerations and your specific playing requirements. The right net not only enhances gameplay but also offers longevity and value for your investment.
Net Durability and Material
Football nets come in various materials that directly impact their durability and performance. Polypropylene (PP) nets are popular for their balance of affordability and reasonable lifespan, making them suitable for regular training sessions in 7v7 formats.
Polyethylene (PE) nets offer better UV resistance and typically last longer than PP alternatives. These are ideal for pitches exposed to harsh weather conditions.
For maximum durability, nylon nets stand out despite their higher cost. Professional clubs often select these for their exceptional strength and resistance to wear.
The twine thickness, measured in millimetres, significantly affects longevity. Standard recreational nets typically use 2mm to 2.5mm twine, while premium options may feature 3mm to 4mm thickness for extended use.
Professional Use vs. Casual Play
The distinction between professional and casual requirements is crucial when selecting football nets. Professional settings demand heavier-duty nets with reinforced corners and edges to withstand intense daily use.
Box-shaped nets are preferred in professional environments as they provide more internal space and maintain better shape during gameplay. These typically feature stronger support systems and fastening mechanisms.
For casual play and training purposes, standard nets with simpler designs are often sufficient. These are easier to install and maintain, whilst still providing the necessary functionality for practice sessions.
Budget considerations play a significant role in selection. While premium nets represent a substantial initial investment, they typically offer better value long-term through reduced replacement frequency.
Colour selection matters beyond aesthetics—white remains the traditional choice for optimal visibility, though some casual leagues experiment with coloured nets for soccer facilities with multiple pitches.
Convenience Features
Modern 7-a-side football nets offer various features that enhance practicality and user experience. These thoughtful design elements save time and effort for coaches and players alike.
Portability and Storage
Most contemporary 7v7 nets are designed with portability as a priority. Lightweight materials like uPVC and aluminium provide durability without excessive weight. Many models come with dedicated carry bags, making transportation between training grounds and match venues straightforward.
The Q-Fold range exemplifies this trend with collapsible frames that fold down to compact sizes. This is particularly valuable for clubs with limited storage space or those who share facilities with other groups.
Weather-resistant materials mean these goals can often remain outdoors, though portable options typically store more efficiently. Some premium models feature quick-release mechanisms that allow the net to be detached and stored separately from the frame.
For volunteer coaches and amateur teams, this ease of movement facilitates effective training sessions across different locations.
Ease of Assembly
Assembly simplicity is a crucial convenience feature of modern football nets. Many designs now incorporate flexible joints and tool-free connections that allow quick setup without technical expertise.
Pop-up goals represent the pinnacle of assembly convenience, deploying from flat to fully functional in seconds. These are ideal for impromptu exercise sessions or coaches working with younger age groups.
More robust models typically feature:
- Colour-coded components
- Quick-connect locking systems
- Clear pictorial instructions
- Minimal required tools
The FORZA ProFlex exemplifies this approach with its intuitive design that allows even inexperienced users to assemble the goal correctly. This straightforward assembly process means more time for actual training and less frustration before sessions begin.
Some manufacturers now include online video tutorials specifically for their products, further simplifying the assembly process for grassroots teams.
Purchasing Advice
When buying football nets for 7-a-side pitches, making informed decisions about quality, materials and where to shop can save both money and frustration. Understanding price ranges and reliable suppliers ensures you get equipment that meets your team's needs.
Price Considerations
Quality 7-a-side football nets typically range from £300 to £500, with prices varying based on material, durability and brand reputation. Budget options start around £200 but may need more frequent replacement due to lower quality materials.
Premium nets made from heavy-duty polyethylene or nylon offer excellent weather resistance and durability, justifying their higher price point of £400-£500. These are ideal investments for clubs with regular fixtures.
Consider the net's thickness (measured in mm) when assessing value. Thicker nets (3-5mm) last longer than thinner alternatives (2mm or less), making them more economical over time despite higher initial costs.
Many suppliers offer seasonal discounts, particularly during pre-season periods, which can reduce costs by 15-20%. Amateur clubs should consider pooling resources for higher-quality equipment that serves multiple teams.
Where to Buy
Specialist sports retailers offer the most comprehensive range of 7v7 nets with knowledgeable staff to guide your purchase. These include nationwide chains like Decathlon and independent football equipment suppliers.
Online marketplaces such as Net World Sports and FORZA Goal provide extensive selections with detailed specifications and customer reviews. These platforms often feature competitive pricing and regular promotions.
Local sports shops sometimes stock football nets and can offer the advantage of seeing products before purchase. They may also provide installation advice relevant to local playing conditions.
Many grassroots football associations have partnership arrangements with suppliers, offering member clubs discounted rates. Check with your county FA about potential savings through affiliated retailers.
When buying online, verify the exact dimensions carefully. The difference between 7-a-side and 9v9 goals is subtle, making it easy to purchase incorrectly sized nets if not attentive to specifications.
