A sliotar is a hard, leather-covered ball used in the traditional Irish game of hurling. It is slightly smaller than a baseball, with a circumference of 7 to 8 inches and typically weighing between 4 and 5 ounces. The sliotar can travel at speeds up to 100 mph when hit by an experienced player! It is made of a compressed cork core, covered with two layers of hand-stitched cowhide and has a raised design on its surface that provides grip for the players.
At each end of the sliotar there is an opening that allows air to enter and exit during play. In hurling, teams use the sliotar to score points by striking it over or under the crossbar or into the goal.
Players are not allowed to pick up or touch the ball with their hands, instead relying on controlled strikes either from their stick (called a ‘hurley’) or from any part of their body other than their hands. Hurling is a fast-paced sport that requires great skill, speed and agility from its participants and it has become one of Ireland’s most popular sports.
The sliotar was first developed in Ireland in the early 1900s and continues to be an integral part of Irish culture today, representing tradition and pride for both local communities and countries around the world who celebrate Irish heritage. Its distinct shape, unique design features as well as its ever evolving construction materials have helped keep this age-old game alive for generations.
The best sliotar is the O'Neills Supertouch. This sliotar is made from a durable rubber material that helps it to keep its shape and last through intense play. It has a hand-stitched construction that ensures it will stay together for longer and won't fray or separate with prolonged use.
The Supertouch also features revolutionary aerodynamics, providing a smooth yet powerful flight across the pitch. The synthetic leather casing offers added grip, allowing players to make precise passes, shots, and catches without any slippage.
Additionally, this sliotar has been tested by top Gaelic games athletes who have found it to be an excellent choice for all levels of play, from amateur to professional.
There are many places where you can purchase a sliotar for use in Irish hurling. If you're looking for a traditional, hand-stitched cowhide sliotar, then you might want to visit an authentic Irish store or shop online. Popular brands such as O'Neills, Kilkenny and Galway offer the traditional style of sliotar with a natural leather finish.
Additionally, these companies also offer synthetic leather versions with revolutionary aerodynamics that provide smooth and powerful flight across the pitch.
If you're looking for something more advanced, then you might want to consider purchasing a sliotar specifically designed to improve your performance.
For instance, O'Neills Supertouch is made from durable rubber material that helps it to keep its shape and withstand intense play. It also has hand-stitched construction that ensures it won't fray or separate during use and offers added grip for players making precise passes, shots and catches. Additionally, this sliotar has been tested by professional Gaelic games athletes who have found it to be an excellent choice for any level of play.
For those who are not able to buy an authentic Irish made sliotar or do not have access to a local store selling them, there are several online retailers available from around the world who can provide a selection of quality sliotars at competitive prices.
Many of these online stores sell various sizes and types of sliotars suitable for both amateur and professional players alike. Furthermore, they often offer discounts during sale periods that make their products even more attractive and cost-effective.
No matter your preference or skill level, there is certainly a perfect type of sliotar out there for everyone interested in playing hurling! With some research and effort into finding the right supplier, you can find a high-quality product at an affordable price - so what are you waiting for? Get ready to hit the field with your new trusty companion!
Hurling is a game played with 15 players against 15 players on a grass pitch. It's the most incredible game in the world.
