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Baseball and Softball Cleats

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As the game of baseball and softball has increased in popularity, the development of baseball softball cleats has also developed to address the specific needs of players of this sport.

In the beginnings of the game, players would use cleats designed for other sports as softball cleats were not manufactured yet. These football and soccer cleats may have worked to an extent, but current softball cleats are much more effective as they deal with the many conditions found in only the game of softball.

The two main types of slowpitch and fastpitch softball cleats are dependent on the type of spikes used on the soles of the shoes. Both rubber and metal softball cleats have certain benefits for players. The rubber spikes are generally less expensive shoes and are great for both training and actual softball matches. Those cleats with metal spikes are mainly used for game situations and can be more expensive than the rubber versions.

However, softball players report that the metal spikes provide a higher level of traction and support for the foot. In addition, these types of girls and mens softball cleats may have better resistance to typical wear and tear. The rubber spikes of some shoes can be eroded away by general use whereas the metal spikes can be replaced, thus extending the life of the shoe. Girls softball cleats are usually somewhat narrower than mens softball cleats as to better fit the feet of women players of the game.

More superior pairs of softball cleats have other features that can improve the performance of a player. A good pair will feature a leather upper that fits better than synthetic materials. Also, a removable insole may be part of the package to add to a player’s comfort. Another feature of many good softball cleats will be some sort of mesh that allows ventilation of the feet and prevents sweat buildup within the shoe. These linings may also have a layer of anti-microbial material that inhibits the development of fungus and bacteria that thrive in warm and wet conditions such as the inside of a player’s shoe.

As with any piece of equipment, a player should evaluate several pairs of mens or girls softball cleats to determine which pair will provide the best features and fit on an individual basis. With more and more players being introduced to softball, cleat manufacturers will come up with more features that allow athletes to play the game at their peak potential. From the days when players used any type of shoes that worked, modern baseball softball cleats have evolved to meet the demands of the game’s players.

Fastpitch and Slow Pitch Softball Equipment

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Youth softball equipment bags are helpful in making sure that all the necessary items accompany a player to practice and games. Baseball softball equipment bags come in a variety or styles and sizes and have special pouches that house a players bat.

While the given bat and glove are required for play, some players require additional protection. Softball sports equipment includes cleats, the proper uniform, and batting helmet.

In some leagues, infield helmets are also required. Softball catchers equipment lists are even larger containing shin guards, full coverage helmets with masks, and chest guards. Fastpitch softball equipment is the same as slow pitch.

All batters in a fast pitch softball game is required to wear a hat while batting. In slow pitch helmets are mandatory for youth players, but are optional for adult players. Softball catchers equipment varies between fast and slow pitch games. Only at the adult level, slow pitch players are allowed to go without a catcher’s mask. Even though it is recommended, fast pitch players can opt to go unmasked at the adult level as well. Any player can chose to wear a mask even if they are not a catcher to prevent facial injuries, but the mask must adhere to regulations.

Other equipment that is common for softball players are slider pants. They are worn under shorts and are built with extra padding to protect players who slide into the bases feet first. They are not required, but are recommended.

Depending on the players position on the field, fastpitch softball equipment will differ. Defensive players are required to wear fielding gloves, while first basemen and the catcher use mitts. These mitts differ from gloves based on the extra padding to protect the hand from the extreme pace of the ball. Softball rules state that gloves can not be the same color as the softball, even the stitching. Softball gloves are generally larger than baseball gloves since the size of the softball is bigger than that of a baseball.

The size of the ball changes depending on the division of play. Bats are made with larger barrels than for baseball so that there is more room for contact.

Each team is provided with a rules and regulations book at the beginning of each season to ensure that the players equipment is legal. There is a range of equipment sizes that are legal to insure that each player can find the best bat and glove for their level of performance. Youth softball equipment bags are necessary to keep up with all the required pieces.

Difference Between Girls and Mens Softball

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Female athletes that have not yet tried the sport of girls softball are certainly missing out on lots of action. This game is experiencing a rapid surge in popularity and girls youth softball is drawing players from early ages to learn and compete in the sport. Played in the same manner as mens softball, there are several key differences.

While the majority of mens softball teams play the slowpitch variety of the game, all-female teams usually play girls fastpitch softball. This influences how the game is played in a dramatic fashion.

While slowpitch is mainly geared to hitting long balls and home runs, girls fastpitch softball is a more complex game, featuring extensive and complicated strategical maneuvers. In addition, the role of pitcher is greatly magnified. Strikeouts are a rare occurrence in the slowpitch version, but a successful pitcher playing fastpitch softball can record a number of strikeouts per game.

Another major difference between girls and mens softball is the level of competition. Many mens leagues are simply for recreation between church or business teams. On the other hand, girls leagues for softball are a primarily competitive endeavor with recreational leagues typically only found in the early girls youth softball leagues.

Girls softball uniforms can be found for teams at every age level. The beginning teams for younger girls are mostly recreational, but as the girls grow up and improve their skills, there are more serious options available to good players. Club teams exist that play tournaments all year. It is at these tournaments that college and university scouts look for good players. A strong competitor can play well in one of these tournaments and then find herself wearing one of the girls softball uniforms from her favorite school with a full scholarship. Competition at the college level can be very tough as many teams compete for the chance to be called national champion.

In international competition, the teams from the United States and Japan are two of the best. In the 2008 Summer Olympics, the American team was able to take the gold medal while Japan netted the silver medal for their strong performance. The USA Junior Women’s team was also able to take a world championship at the 2007 tournament in Europe. Other countries such as Australia and China are fielding good teams and positive results are expected from these squads in the near future. The next major championship for girls softball will be the 2010 World Championships which will take place in July in the South American country of Venezuela.

Fastpitch and Slow Pitch Softball Gloves

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Fastpitch and Slow Pitch Softball Gloves
Image Credit: https://pixabay.com/en/baseball-glove-kids-sport-youth-591920/

Softball gloves are an important piece of equipment for all players of the game. While the early gloves used in the game were the same for all fielding positions, this has changed as glove manufacturers have realized the specific needs of each position and altered the gloves slightly to accommodate these needs.

The material of softball baseball gloves has not changed much as leather has always been the first choice for glove construction. However, some synthetic materials have been adopted to lower the cost of gloves. Unfortunately, these synthetics tend to wear out quickly and require frequent replacement.

There are five main aspects of both a slowpitch and fastpitch softball glove: pocket, webbing, backs, wrist closure, and padding.

  • The pocket is the area of the glove where hits and throws are caught. An outfielder benefits from a deeper pocket to aid in catching long hits as well as shock absorption. Infielders prefer the pocket to be more shallow as it means that they can retrieve the ball from the glove quicker.
  • The webbing in a fastpitch softball glove can either be closed or open. Pitchers should use a closed web as it hides the ball from opposing teams. If the web is open, a batter may be able to see how the pitcher is holding the ball and thus which type of pitch will be delivered. Most infielders choose an open webbing to increase the ease and speed of getting the ball out of the glove.
  • The backs of softball baseball gloves can also be open or closed. This aspect is usually decided by which style gives more comfort and ease of use to the player.
  • The wrist closure is how the glove is tightened on the hand to provide a better fit. There are many different types of closures available and personal preference is the main deciding factor.

In addition to the fielding gloves, softball batting gloves are used by many players when they are up to bat. These gloves have a central area that gives players a better grip while they are batting.

Also, specific materials are used that keep the hands cool and dry to prevent slippage of the bat. Softball batting gloves also feature wrist closure that help to increase the snugness of the fit. Softball gloves are an essential piece of equipment for players of the game and careful consideration should be taken to ensure that a player chooses the right one.

Worth Vs. Easton Slow Pitch Softball Bats

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Worth slow pitch softball bats are a good addition to any players equipment bag. Their entire line of bats fall within the required weight and length guidelines set by the Amateur Softball Association or ASA slow pitch softball league. The equipment that Worth manufacturers can withstand seasons of hard play and are effective tools for any player. Their wide range of styles will ensure that anyone can find the correct weight and length to use. Finding the correct size is important so that players can effectively swing the bat and produce the necessary power and speed to any hit.

Easton slow pitch softball bats and equipment is a favorite choice for many of the player associated with the USSSA slow pitch softball league as well as ASA slow pitch softball teams. Male, female, and coed slow pitch teams can be found all across the country. Many churches or business have coed leagues and are a part of the millions of people that participate in a game each year. Easton slow pitch softball equipment is perfect for a player of any skill level. Many of the slow pitch leagues are considered to be recreational teams, but some like the USA softball league are a part of a competitive organization. Each season, this organization names 17 players to be apart of their Women’s National Team and compete in the Women’s World Championships each summer.

Softball is a team sport that is extremely popular in American and considered to be more of a female sport. Leagues begin for players at a young age and provide the necessary training and education they need to become amazing players. Often, girls who are looking to participate in softball through high school or college levels are required to be a part of a fast pitch league. In most cases, girls who are participating in slow pitch leagues are only there for the fun of the game. Men’s teams are always slow pitch teams, so coed teams follow suit. The only difference between softball and baseball is the pitching method and size of the ball.

The USSSA slow pitch softball league provides the training necessary for players to advance their skills. Finding the proper equipment for the individual players is important. Making sure that the bat is the right size or that the protective gear fits properly is important to reduce the risk of injury. The choice between Easton or Worth slow pitch softball bats should only be determined by the feel of the swing.

Difference Between One Piece Vs. Two Piece Softball Bats

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When you are in the market, you will get both one piece and two piece softball bats. Therefore, you should know about those types of bats in order to buy the right one. To clarify each of the type, we are here to present you the right type of bat towards you. Then, you can easily pickup the right bat that you want.

One piece softball bats

One piece softball bats are generally one of the best components of the first generation players. However, they have to deal with the vibration but hitting very hard. Still, the experienced players love to play with one piece bats very much.

One piece softball bats is a type of bat is that made of one material. In this case, there is no connecting point in the bat in the construction. As a result, this provides more hitting ability to the players.

Pros of one piece softball bats

  1. The bats are very hitting
  2. The weight of the bat is generally low
  3. Very stiffer
  4. perfect for strong player

Cons of one piece softball bats

  1. Vibrate rate is extreme for the players
  2. Not perfect for small players
  3. Does not offer any flex option

Some of Best One Piece Fatpitch Softball Bats

1. Easton Fp13S2 Fs2 1-Pc Composite-10 Fastpitch Softball Bat

This is one of the best one piece composite fastpitch softball bats that provide you full control over the bat. The Single System Technology ensures the durability and control of the bat. Don’t worry because the IMX composite barrel is used in the bat that provides a good performance during the bat. You will not find any problem to grab the diamond grip handle because this is ultra thin design. Moreover, the fast swing speed using the lightweight bat will always give you a balanced shoot in the game.

2. Miken Psycho ASA Composite Fast-pitch One Piece Maxload Softball Bat

Miken is a well-known brand for the fastpitch bats especially for the one piece bats. The carbon fiber is used in the epoxy in order to provide the maximum support and performance. You will get completed balanced weight throughout the bat to control it properly. Moreover, the ultra thin handle will never give you any discomfort during the play. 100 Composite formulas are used in the bat that has increased the performance, durability and power of the bat very high.

Two Piece Softball Bats

Two piece softball bats are very popular among the players especially the young because they are generally vibration free. Moreover, the overall bat performance in the game is good to the new comers.

Two piece softball bats are those bats that have connecting point on the handle and barrel. Manufacturer use different material in order to make the handle and the barrel in order to make it stronger than other bats.

Pros of two piece softball bats

  1. More durable and strong
  2. Provide no vibration because the handle is connected with the barrel separately
  3. It provides more flex to the player
  4. This is perfect for small and young players especially newbie

Cons of two piece softball bats

  1. Usually not perfect for hitting bat so strongly

Some of Best Two Piece Fastpitch Softball Bats

1. Easton FP14X1 FX1 2-Piece Composite Fastpitch Softball Bat

This is an end loaded two piece bat for fastpitch games that ensures maximum performance for the players. The composite design is just perfect for the two piece bat lovers. The IMX composite barrel is used in order to provide good control, hitting power and performance. Moreover, the Connexion technology optimized perfectly in order to give you a right pattern for the bats. Don’t worry because you will get ultra thin handle grip to ensure full control over the bat.

2. Easton FP14MK MAKO 2-Piece Composite Fastpitch Softball Bat

This is another good designed two piece composite softball bat of the Easton brand. The extra long barrel ensures the speed of the bat once you hit the ball. Don’t worry because the TCT Thermo Composite technology is used in order to make the joining point perfect and give unmatched bat speed. Therefore, there is reason to avoid two piece bats when you have the Easton model in your option. Like other bats, you will also have a diamond grip with good composite handle to get flex while playing.

3. Easton FP14S1 FS1 2-Piece Composite Fastpitch Softball Bat

Do you want to buy a balanced two piece composite fastpitch bat? Then, this is the right option for the balanced bat lovers. The IMX composite barrel will always take care of your performance level. Like other Easton bats, you will have Connexion technology to give the patented two piece design to the players. Diamond grip with a good barrel will give you a certified hitter in the game.

How To Choosing the Bats

This is the biggest battle when you will become confused between one piece bat and two piece bats. Actually, this decision will depend on how much flex you want from your bat.

Of course, the hard hitters and strong players will go for the one piece bat. If you are strong and experienced player, you should go for the strong bats. However, the two piece bat will not vibrate once you hit the ball. Moreover, you will feel comfortable and flex while playing with the bat. Therefore, you should buy the two piece bat for your first time bat.
There are different things that you will need to consider before you purchase the bat. The point’s are-

  1. How much flex you want from the bat?
  2. Do you have vibration free or vibrate bat for your game?
  3. Do you strong enough to deal with one piece bat performance?
  4. Do you have to buy the most durable bat for your life?

You will need to determine the answers of the above question. Then, you can easily fix and get the way to purchase the bat.

Conclusion

The technology has not stopped to produce and design different kinds of bats. Now top branded companies are offering three piece softball bats to the players. However, you should try both one piece and two piece bats before going to the next generation bat. Remember you should think about the advantages and disadvantages of each of the type before choosing the best one for you. Don’t feel hesitate to discuss with the experienced players in order to set your mind.