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Equipment Information

Equipment Guide

Parents, ensuring your daughter plays softball with the right equipment is crucial. Baseball and softball, while similar, have distinct differences, and it's essential to use softball-approved gear. Umpires often conduct pre-game equipment checks, and any items deemed unsafe or illegal will not be used.

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These are all regular prices, but a portion of your purchases is credited to our league to help with our fundraising efforts!

If you still need some help on what to get or what sizes to purchase, check out our tutorial below:

Where to Begin?

All that's required for Recreation Softball is:

  • Softball mitt (glove)
  • Cleats (sneakers may be worn for K-2)
  • Batter's Helmet with Face Mask
  • Fielder's face mask
  • Chest/heart guard (optional but recommended for pitchers)

While many players choose to have their own bat and helmet, the Program can provide them if necessary. The Program takes care of all other aspects, including uniforms, catcher’s equipment, softballs, schedule, and umpires.

Just like any sport or activity, begin with the basics and gradually invest in more equipment as your daughter demonstrates dedication and improves her softball skills.

 

Always write your daughter's name in her equipment as many players like to purchase similar equipment.


Fielder's Glove: What size do I need?

Ensure to purchase a fielder's glove labeled "Fast-pitch Softball" since softballs are notably larger than baseballs. When selecting the appropriate glove, consider both the player’s position and age. Younger players benefit from youth-sized gloves, offering improved control. Avoid buying an excessively large glove for them to grow into, as it may hinder skill development and even lead to injuries.

Outfield players require larger gloves with deeper pockets for catching flying balls, whereas infield players need the opposite—smaller gloves with shallower pockets for enhanced control and quicker throws:

  • Aged 6 and under, a glove size between 9 and 10 inches is suitable for all positions
  • Ages 7 to 9 ideally use glove sizes between 10 and 11.5.
  • Aged 10 to 14, infielders may find 11.5 to 12.5-inch gloves suitable, while outfielders can opt for 12 to 13-inch gloves.

Various gloves are available for each position and within different price ranges. Some gloves are even marketed as utility gloves, suitable for both infielders and outfielders.

Please take a look at some of our recommended gloves from our Amazon store

(your purchase also helps support the league):

Product 1

Franklin Sports Girls Softball Glove

LIGHTWEIGHT MESH DESIGN: Constructed from lightweight technical mesh, this glove gives maximum comfort and helps facilitate quick hands out in the field

Check it out on Amazon

Product 2

Easton | Ghost Flex Youth Softball/T-Ball Glove

YOUTH FASTPITCH SOFTBALL PATTERN | Designed to fit the entry-level female athlete

Check it out on Amazon

Product 3

Franklin Sports Fastpitch Pro Series Softball Gloves

SOFT POCKET: The soft pocket material is designed for a quick, easy break in process and provides a dynamic, responsive feel when catching the ball

Check it out on Amazon

If these products are not to your liking, please check out the other gloves available on our Amazon store here.

Remember that a portion of your purchase will be sent to our league to help our fundraising efforts!

Glove Care: It's essential to "condition" your new glove by softening it with conditioning oil. Using the glove is the most effective way to break it in. Storing your new glove with a softball inside will help break it in further and retain its pocket.


How do I know what bat is right for my daughter?

Choosing the right fast-pitch bat involves several considerations:

Type of Bat:

Ensure you purchase a bat marked "Fast-pitch Softball" with an ASA or USSSA stamp. Baseball bats and Slowpitch softball bats are not allowed in Fast-pitch softball.

Length Guidelines:
Use the general rule that the bat should not exceed the distance from the center of the chest to the tip of the player's outstretched fingers (with the arm held out to the side). Length recommendations vary by grade:

  • K-2 (24-28 inches)
  • 3-4 (27-30 inches)
  • 5-6 (28-31 inches)
  • 7-8 (30-32 inches)

Weight Considerations:
Bats are designated with weights like -9, -10, -11, indicating the drop or the difference between length and weight. Lighter bats, with higher drops like -13, are generally preferred for increased swing speed. Lighter bats are also pricier (-12, -13). For younger girls, lighter bats are recommended, while older girls with powerful swings may opt for slightly heavier bats (-8, -9).

Bat Materials:
Bats are typically made of aluminum, but composite bats are available, providing superior weight distribution. Hybrid technology, combining a composite handle with an aluminum barrel, offers maximum "whip" and "rebound." Composite bats may crack in temperatures below 65F due to the hardness of fast-pitch balls.

Budget Consideration:
Fast-pitch bats range from $20 to over $500, depending on the brand, manufacturer, and composition. Choose a bat that aligns with your playing ability, competition level, and budget.

Please take a look at some of our recommended Bats from our Amazon store

(your purchase also helps support the league):

Product 1

Rawlings | Girls | 2024 | Storm T-Ball Bat

PERFECT TEE BALL BAT FOR ENTRY LEVEL PLAYERS to use with soft-core tee balls

Check it out on Amazon

Product 2

Easton TOPAZ Fastpitch Softball Bat

DESIGNED FOR YOUTH FASTPITCH softball players that are perfecting their swing

Check it out on Amazon

Product 3

Easton | Ghost Double Barrel Fastpitch Bat

HI-TECH BARREL DESIGN | Patented double barrel construction provides the best pop, feel, and sound in the game with a massive sweet spot

Check it out on Amazon

If these products are not to your liking, please check out the other bats available on our Amazon store here.

Remember that a portion of your purchase will be sent to our league to help our fundraising efforts!


Safety Equipment: Batting Helmet, Fielder's Mask, Heart Guard:

All players, regardless of age, are required to wear a batting helmet with an attached face mask, even when hitting off a tee.

Beginning this year, it is mandatory for players of ALL ages to use a fielder's mask. Apart from providing evident safety advantages, wearing the mask enhances a player's confidence in catching the ball. Starting to use the mask at a young age increases the likelihood that players will prefer not to play without it. Through the generosity of our sponsors, the league will be providing new fielder's masks for all players who need one.

For added safety measures, the following items may be purchased:

  • Batting Gloves: Lightweight bats may cause vibrations, especially on off-center hits or in cooler weather. Batting gloves reduce the sting, enhance grip and control, and protect against hand scrapes during sliding. An inexpensive pair is recommended.
  • 3rd Grade and Up: many players opt to wear a heart guard. This protective gear is attached to a shirt worn underneath the jersey, safeguarding the chest in case of impact from the ball.
  • 5th Grade and Up: Compression shorts, commonly referred to as sliding shorts, are recommended for players. Some specialized shorts include additional thin padding along the hips to prevent injuries during sliding, although they are not mandatory.
  • 5th Grade and Up: With a growing awareness of dental injuries, players are also considering the use of mouth guards.

Please take a look at some of our recommended Safety Equipment from our Amazon store

(your purchase also helps support the league):

Product 1

Rawlings | COOLFLO Batting Helmet + Facemask

MAXIMUM PROTECTION | Pro inspired protection from the Official Helmet of Major League Baseball to help you feel confident in the batters box

Check it out on Amazon

Product 2

Franklin Sports MLB 2nd Skinz Batting Gloves - Adult + Youth

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY: Creates an extremely efficient utilization of surface area while providing multi-directional points of contact for a superior feel on the bat

Check it out on Amazon

Product 3

Cabasse Youth Chest Protector, Heart-Guard

Impact Protection - Unique press-formed foam padding protects against sudden impact and minor injuries from balls, pitches and hard hits to the sternum, heart, and chest area

Check it out on Amazon

Product 3

COOLOMG Girls Youth Padded Sliding Shorts

The 5-6mm of padding provide complete protection whether you are side slipping, diving or falling.

Check it out on Amazon

If these products are not to your liking, please check out the other Safety Equipment available on our Amazon store here.

Remember that a portion of your purchase will be sent to our league to help our fundraising efforts!


What Cleats Should I Buy? Can we use our soccer cleats?

Distinctions exist between soccer and softball cleats.

  • Softball cleats typically feature a toe cleat designed for rapid acceleration, which is beneficial in softball but poses a risk when kicking a ball on the ground.
  • Softball cleats have thicker soles to offer enhanced support and traction during dynamic movements involved in running bases and pursuing hit balls.
  • These cleats also boast thicker and higher uppers, providing added support to the upper foot and ankle to prevent twisting injuries.
  • In contrast, soccer cleats are lighter with thinner mid-soles and lower uppers, designed for conventional running.
  • The use of metal cleats (or spikes) is strictly prohibited. Players wearing metal spikes will be requested to change. Please do not purchase metal cleats.

Please take a look at some of our recommended Cleats from our Amazon store

(your purchase also helps support the league):

Product 1

Under Armour Girl's Glyde 2.0 TPU Junior Softball Shoe

Lightweight, molded TPU cleat plate provides premium comfort & superior traction on turf & dirt

Check it out on Amazon

Product 2

Nike Girls Hyperdiamond 4 Keystone

Leather in the upper with molded details adds durability while padded collar and tongue create a comfortable fit.

Check it out on Amazon

Product 3

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Velo V3

Fresh Foam X midsole delivers our most cushioned Fresh Foam experience for incredible comfort

Check it out on Amazon

If these products are not to your liking, please check out the other cleats available on our Amazon store here.

Remember that a portion of your purchase will be sent to our league to help our fundraising efforts!


This seems like a lot of gear. Do they make Equipment Bags specifically for Softball?

If you prefer hand-carrying your equipment, it's an option—slide a bat or two under one arm, tuck gloves into a pocket, drape a change of clothes over your shoulder, hold cleats in one hand, helmet in the other, and find space for a water bottle. However, for convenience and to safeguard your gear, a bat bag is essential.

For a durable and protective bag, opt for one with a rubber-reinforced bottom and double-layered sides. Seek a robust outer layer for protection against dragging and weather, coupled with a soft inner layer to secure and prevent scratches on your gear.

Ample Pockets and compartments are key to maintaining your gear's condition. At a minimum, separate cleats pockets, but for optimal protection, choose a bag with extra pockets and a divider in the main section to keep bats and uniforms apart. Superior options even include space for items like water bottles and sunglasses.

There are four primary softball bag styles, each with unique features:

Handheld:
Resembling a classic duffel, this tote bag has a short handle, making it suitable for carrying bats and balls. Opt for one with numerous pockets for added convenience.

Shoulder Strap:
Similar to duffels, these bags have a short handle and a longer, shoulder-length handle for versatility. Ideal for quick and comfortable travel to the diamond. Consider wheels for longer walks.

Wheeled:
Depending on your position and preference, you can carry your gear on your shoulders or wheel it. Sturdy wheels are crucial, especially for catchers carrying heavier equipment. Look for over-sized catcher’s equipment bags with metal runners for support and plastic wheel plates for durability.

Bat Pack:
A newer option designed like a school backpack, suitable for youth players and even older ones due to its even weight distribution. Although it may limit bat-carrying capacity, it offers versatility, making it a popular choice. Look for reinforced bat sleeves, a sturdy bottom, padded straps, and ample pockets. Invest a bit more for a bag that can last multiple seasons.

 

Please take a look at some of our recommended bags from our Amazon store

(your purchase also helps support the league):

Product 1

Rawlings | REMIX Softball Equipment Bag | Backpack & Duffel Options

The large main compartment offers plenty of storage space for sports equipment items of all kinds and includes an internal zippered pouch to safely store valuables

Check it out on Amazon

Product 2

Easton | E100T PLAYER TOTE | Youth | Softball | Multiple Colors

Tote bag designed for the youth player. Has one main compartment for equipment and a Separate bat pocket holds 2 bats

Check it out on Amazon

Product 3

Athletico Bag for Youth and Adults | Holds Bat, Helmet, Glove, & Shoes

Made with 600-denier polyester rip-stop fabric. Keeps your gear game-ready, withstanding dirt, sweat, mud, and rain.

Check it out on Amazon

If these products are not to your liking, please check out the other equipment bags available on our Amazon store here.

Remember that a portion of your purchase will be sent to our league to help our fundraising efforts!


My daughter is new to Softball, do we have to buy all of this equipment?

The decision to purchase all the equipment depends on personal comfort. Many players prefer having their own gear rather than relying on the coach for "extra" equipment or sharing with teammates. However, buying everything new can be costly, especially if there are uncertainties about her continued interest in the sport. Fortunately, our program has received various gently-used items that players can borrow for the season. Feel free to CONTACT US to explore available options.


Do we need to purchase a Uniform?

As for uniforms, the registration fee covers the expense for their softball jersey, pants, and socks.

Unfortunately, once uniforms are ordered, no exchanges can be accommodated.


Please feel free to contact us with any questions at: info@EPsoftball.com