If you’re new to the game, there’s some basic information you need on the right softball team to choose from. Whether you’re playing an impromptu game with some friends or starting or joining an organized league, you’ll want to make sure you have the right gear.
The ball you will be using is, of course, slightly larger than a regular baseball. However, there are different balls for men and women. Many co-ed leagues actually use different balls depending on whether a man or a woman is at bat. A smaller ball travels farther, so the pitcher will use the smaller one when a woman is batting. When a man goes up, the pitcher will switch to the biggest. A regulation ball is yellow and measures 12 inches in diameter.
The bat is another essential piece of softball equipment. The bats used in most leagues are made of aluminum or other types of metal to get the ball out faster. Hitters with lower skill levels find it easier to hit a metal bat than a wooden one. Regular bats have to pass strict performance and safety standards. For example, the American Softball Association requires that bats made after 2004 not allow the ball to leave the bat faster than 98 miles per hour when hit.
There are other optional equipment that can help players perform better. Gloves are not required, but they are basically essential to be able to catch the ball. Batting gloves provide a better grip and also help protect the batter’s hands. You’ll also want to consider buying real cleats instead of just wearing tennis shoes when you play. They will help with traction on the field and will also help you avoid slipping when running the bases. You will also want to purchase a helmet to protect yourself from injury. This is particularly important if you play receiver.
If you’re a woman, you’ll probably want a sports bra to make sure you have the right type of support. Whichever type you choose, compression or encapsulation, the bra should allow you to move freely whenever you’re shooting, catching or fielding. Both men and women should also have slip-on shorts to protect their legs and breathable t-shirts for hot weather. Since you’ll be getting a lot of softball gear, you’ll want to get a sturdy bag to store it all in. Find one with hooks so you can hang it on a fence if you need to.
Choosing the right softball gear can help you not only perform better, but also keep you as safe as possible when you’re on the field.
