First off, let’s be real, finding a decent soccer ball that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg can be a freakin’ nightmare. You see all these flashy “official” match balls for like, $150 and you’re like, “Seriously? I just wanna kick it around in the park!” That’s where the Nativo Glider comes in, or at least, *tries* to come in.
I saw one on eBay, right? The Adidas MLS Nativo Glider, Size 5. Looked pretty snazzy. The description said it’s a “match ball replica,” which, let’s be honest, is code for “it *looks* like the real deal, but don’t expect it to *perform* like the real deal.” Ya know? Still, free shipping, so points for that, Adidas.
But then I’m lookin’ at Amazon, and they got the *2021* Nativo Match Ball Replica, Size 3. SIZE 3! What’s a size 3 even FOR?! Like, toddlers? I guess. It was only like $25 bucks or something though. That’s not too bad. They’re trying to tempt you into buying a mini goal too…sneaky sneaky Amazon. Like, am I gonna suddenly become the next Messi because I buy a tiny goal and a mini soccer ball? I doubt it.
Okay, back to the Glider. Honestly, I haven’t actually *kicked* one of these things myself. A friend of mine had one a while back, and he said it was okay. “Okay” is not exactly a ringing endorsement, is it? I mean, it held air, I guess. That’s the bare minimum, right?
The whole “replica” thing gets me, though. Like, who are they trying to fool? Are you gonna trick your opponents into thinking you’re playing with the official MLS match ball? Nah. Everyone knows. But I get it, the design is cool, and it’s probably more durable than some of those cheapo balls you get at the grocery store.
I guess, in the end, it really depends what you want it for. If you’re just messing around and want a decent ball that won’t fall apart after a few kicks, the Nativo Glider might be alright. Just don’t go expecting miracles. And maybe skip the size 3 unless you have a small child or a thing for miniature sports equipment.
