How to Fix a Popped Football

American football has generated many fans since the first formal rules for the sport were created in the late 1860s. The footballs used today are made from cow hides. While the balls are sturdy, they won’t last forever. If you find yourself with a deflated ball and low air isn’t to blame, there is a fix to the problem. Depending on how much you use the football, a special sealant can extend the life of your ball.

Things You'll Need

  • Ball repair kit
  • Air pump
  • Marker
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a ball repair kit from a sporting goods store or online. The kits are relatively cheap, starting at $20 as of the date of publication, and are meant to withstand high levels of inflation without breaking.

    • 2

      Submerge the popped football in a bucket of water to determine where the hole is. When you see a section of the football begin to bubble, that’s where the hole will be. Mark its location with a marker.

    • 3

      Fill a syringe with the sealant. This sealant and syringe can be found in the repair kit.

    • 4

      Use the syringe to apply the sealant to the puncture located on the football. Wait several minutes for the sealant to fully dry on the football.

    • 5

      Use an air pump bought from a sporting goods store to inflate the football.