Footballs are not made from pigskin today. Modern footballs used in professional and amateur play are typically made from cowhide leather or synthetic materials, with a modern rubber or synthetic bladder inside to hold air. The nickname pigskin persists, but it originates from historical practice and not current construction. Key points
- Material today: cowhide leather or synthetic composites for the outer surface; the internal bladder is usually a synthetic rubber or latex-based component. This is the standard for NFL, NCAA, and other major leagues, though some brands may use synthetic covers exclusively.
- Historical origin of the name: early footballs were inflated pig bladders, which led to the nickname “pigskin.” Over time, vulcanized rubber and leather coverings replaced bladders, but the nickname stuck.
- Common misconception: despite the nickname, modern footballs are not made from pigskin. The switch to cowhide and synthetic materials occurred in the 19th and early 20th centuries, driven by durability and consistency.
If you’d like, I can pull up more precise sources or compare specifications from different brands (e.g., Wilson, Spalding) for specific leagues or age groups.
