BatsLover.Com

Fastpitch and Slow Pitch Softball Equipment

by

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.

How To Play Softball For Youth Player

by

Youth softball bats, cleats, uniforms, and gloves are all equipment required for a player.

The ASA (Amateur Softball Association) provides both competitive and recreational leagues for players under the age of 18 years. There are divisions within each league that separates the girls into smaller age brackets and provides the training they need for their level of play. Deciding to be a part of a competitive league is a decision generally made by players who are looking to continue with the sport well through the high school level or further. Youth fastpitch softball is a competitive league, while most recreational leagues are made of slow pitch teams. The desire to play youth girls softball is expanding each year and with roll models like the US Nationals team, girls are proud to be told “you throw like a girl”.

The rules of the game are similar to baseball with a few minor exceptions. The primary difference is the size of the ball and the equipment changes necessary to compensate for that change. Equipment like youth softball gloves are the same regardless of which type of league the player takes part in. In a youth fastpitch softball league, nine players are allowed on the field during defensive play. The same positions found in baseball are found on a softball field, 6 infield players and 3 outfield. In some slow pitch recreational leagues, there will be 4 outfield players with the center field position being shared.

Changes in equipment are the only difference between softball and baseball. Youth softball gloves are manufactured for specific positions on the field just as with baseball. There are infield gloves, outfield gloves, along with pitcher and catcher mitts. They are made to have a larger pocket to compensate for the increase in ball size. The barrels of softball bats are also different then what is found in a baseball bat to provide an increased chance for contact. Specific materials are used to decrease the amount of vibration felt by the batter. Equipment regulations are the same for youth girls softball as well as boys teams.

Any player who is willing to work on their technical, tactical, and mental skills can become a successful softball player. Learning the rules of the game is the foundation to being an effective part of the team. Keeping herself in good physical condition is also important. Quick reactions are required to effectively play the sport, so proper physical training will reduce the risk for injury. Playing the game is fun, so once the heart and determination are there, simply grab your youth softball bats and hit the field.