Softball Equipment Information

With an estimated 40 million Americans playing at least one game of softball a year, softball is the most popular sport in the United States. While the game can be enjoyable for players of all levels and ages, the right equipment can make the game even more fun.

  1. Softballs

    • The most important piece of equipment is the softball itself. Softballs come in several different sizes. The most common size is a 12-inch softball for international and college play as well as for men's recreational softball. An 11-inch ball is used for women's recreational play and youth play in many leagues. A 16-inch softball is used for a type of softball called "mush ball."

    Gloves

    • Fielders will be much more effective with gloves made especially for softball. Softball gloves are sized for the ball's larger size. Sizes are measured in inches and range from 11 inches for an infield glove to 14 inches for an outfielder's glove. Catchers and first basemen often use mitts with a large pocket instead of a standard glove.

    Bats

    • Bats are used by the offensive team to put the softball in play. Bats may be made of wood, aluminum or composite material. Aluminum bats are generally less expensive and are used for youth or recreational play. Composite bats are used for competitive, college and international play. Wood bats are favored by men and slow-pitch leagues.

    Batting Helmets

    • Players in youth leagues and fast-pitch teams are usually required to wear an approved batting helmet to protect against injury from a pitched ball. The helmets may have an attached face mask. Slow-pitch leagues and recreational leagues do not require the use of batting helmets.

    Other Protective Gear

    • Catchers at all levels wear a face mask, with helmets, shin guards and chest protectors being required for different levels and styles of play. Youth league infielders may also wear a fielder's mask. Batter's shin guards, heart guards and mouth guards are also used, but aren't usually required equipment.