I have put together a fairly nice collection of game used footballs. How is the best way to store them? I would appreciate any input -- thank you!
Best method for storing footballs
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Re: Best method for storing footballs
As with most items in our hobby, out of direct sunlight and in a temperature-controlled environment is next to essential. Speaking specifically to footballs, direct sunlight - and to a far lesser degree some artificial light - will fade the ball (I've seen a Goodell ball that even within the span of a couple years was light tan on a panel and a half from sunlight exposure) and eventually begin to visibly degrade the leather's physical structure.
UV protected cases are readily available, but a simple acrylic case stored away from harsh, direct light usually suffices for me. This also serves the purpose of keeping dust off, which I've found to be a problem with my non-cased footballs. Have to hit those every few weeks with a soft nylon brush to get the accumulated dust off.
Other than that, I just wear gloves when I handle them (probably overkill) and make sure they're properly inflated (I usually inflate for storage to about 10-11 lbs instead of 13, though others may feel different) -
Re: Best method for storing footballs
deflating slightly the bladder helps to preserve the bladder walls. removal from direct sunlight assists in avoiding cracks.Regards,
Joel S.
joelsabi @ gmail.com
Wanted: Alex Rodriguez Game Used Items and other unique artifacts, 1992 thru 1998 only. From High School to Early Mariners.Comment
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Re: Best method for storing footballs
As with most items in our hobby, out of direct sunlight and in a temperature-controlled environment is next to essential. Speaking specifically to footballs, direct sunlight - and to a far lesser degree some artificial light - will fade the ball (I've seen a Goodell ball that even within the span of a couple years was light tan on a panel and a half from sunlight exposure) and eventually begin to visibly degrade the leather's physical structure.
UV protected cases are readily available, but a simple acrylic case stored away from harsh, direct light usually suffices for me. This also serves the purpose of keeping dust off, which I've found to be a problem with my non-cased footballs. Have to hit those every few weeks with a soft nylon brush to get the accumulated dust off.
Other than that, I just wear gloves when I handle them (probably overkill) and make sure they're properly inflated (I usually inflate for storage to about 10-11 lbs instead of 13, though others may feel different)Comment
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