There is a major flaw in this design which is potentially dangerous: It uses a foam-rubber "basket" or harness that holds the ball. This foam is relatively thick, and it will usually be facing you when you kick. Because of this, I found myself subconsciously trying to get under the ball more than I normally would, which caused me to KICK INTO THE GROUND.
Maybe I'm an idiot, and maybe you wouldn't have this issue. But I'm now looking at possible surgery for torn cartilage in my knee (meniscus tear). I've played soccer for over 30 years. I've never suffered an injury, and I know how to properly kick a ball.
When I first received the product I was pleasantly surprised. The basket can accommodate your own size 5 ball. The counter-weight, which is only three pounds, did a great job of staying-put. The elastic cord worked better than I expected. After about 20 kicks though, the basket came unhooked from the cord and the ball went sailing. That would happen occasionally.
I suspected I had been overcompensating, trying to get more lift on the ball because of the basket. The next day my knee was really sore, so I waited a few weeks before I tried it again. The next time I used it, I definitely kicked right into the ground... dirt went flying and it was painful. The plastic hook also broke earlier that day, and I had to tie the cord directly to the basket.
It's been two months and my knee is getting worse, to the point where I've had to take time off from playing. Surgery will depend on whether or not I can get it to heal.
My personal experience may be unique, and I'd give it -5 stars if I could. Instead I give it two stars for the design and product alone. The bottom line is they should rethink the design of this product and go with a net basket like everyone else.
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SKLZ PowerBase Soccer with BallProduct Description: Go long with the PowerBase. With this trainer system, you'll build your soccer skills like never before. Improve the power and accuracy of your passes, build your footwork, sharpen your legs, and take your kicking game to the next level.
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My son and I enjoy playing with this ball. Great ball at a bargain price.
