Softball Season is approaching, what you need!

As we prepare for another exciting softball season, you may be asking yourself, what do I need to start the season. There are some basics that every player needs if you are new to the sport or a seasoned veteran.

Glove

Every player needs a good quality glove. A good quality glove is not going to be found for $9.99. We recommend that every player have a glove that is made of a quality leather that will last for many seasons such as a Wilson, Rawlings, or Easton glove. The position that you will play will also determine what kind of glove you will need, but for most versatile glove, an infield or outfield glove will work great.

• Pitcher’s glove: Pitchers will want to look for a closed web design with a deep pocket. This can help you control your grip and avoid tipping your pitches. Take the mound with confidence with the help of this Pro Tips guide on how to choose a softball pitcher’s glove.
• Catcher’s mitt: When it comes to how to choose a softball catcher’s mitt, the focus is on mobility and control. Softball catcher’s mitts typically have open webs to accommodate the size of the ball.
• Infielder’s glove: A shallow pocket is preferred to help with an infielder’s quick release. Softball infielders also favor a closed design for a more secure catch. Before taking the field, discover more tips on how to buy a softball infielder's glove.
• Outfielder’s glove: Outfielders will want to look for a deeper pocket to catch fly balls. Some players prefer an open web for increased visibility. However, others like a closed web for more support. Get ready to track down fly balls with these Pro Tips on how to choose a softball outfielder’s glove.
• First baseman’s mitt: A first baseman’s mitt is typically longer than other softball glove types. It can have a shallower pocket than a catcher’s mitt to allow for faster ball transfer

RHT: Right hand thrower. Means the player throws with his or her right hand and wears the glove on the left. LHT: Left hand thrower. Means the player throws with his or her left hand and wears the glove on the right.

Getting the correct size glove is crucial for fit and function. The chart below shows an estimate of the size range of the glove for a specific player for fastpitch softball:

When trying to find out how long a glove is, you can look on the thumb or pinky finger and you should see the size etched in the leather there. The sizes range from 8 to 15 inches, and to 35 inches for catcher’s mitts. To measure a glove that does not have a size, take a fabric tape measure and measure from the top of the index finger, down along the glove, to the center of the heel of the glove:

Cleats or Spikes

The most common softball shoe is the molded or rubber cleat shoe. For players under High School age, this will be mandatory. Softball spikes or metal cleats are reserved for high school and above players. Get a good quality cleat so that you will get a full season of use without issue. Look for cleats by Nike, Under Armour, or our favorite, Ringor. Ringor cleats are our favorite because the quality and fit are outstanding, and the shoes are designed by softball players for the unique needs and demands of softball. They offer a Molded Cleat, Metal Spike, and Turf shoes with or without pitching toe protection.

Pants

When it comes to softball pants, there’s more than meets the eye. Sure, they help add some style points to your team’s uniform, but there are a number of other factors to be aware of. For games your team will dictate the pants you will be required to wear, however, for practice, you are on your own.

There are now a variety of features on the market to help you look, feel and play your best.

Reinforcement

Softball is a physical game, so there’s no doubt your pants can take a beating over the course of a season.

For added protection, most softball pants have been outfitted with reinforced fabric at the knees and rear. This can help absorb some of the impact when sliding or diving while also preventing any wear and tear to the materials.

Hems

When it comes to hems, you’ll have two options to choose from: closed and open hem. The closed-hem style, which is made from elastic materials, is preferred by players who like to keep their pants at a certain length. These are a great option if your pants run long. The opened-hem style is meant to drag over your cleats, which can be more comfortable and casual.

Moisture-Wicking

Moisture-wicking technology is a great feature to have when the weather starts getting hot. This technology is built into the fabric of the pants and helps wick away sweat so you stay dry when you perspire.

Our favorite is the Four way stretch Rip-It Pro pant that comes in a variety of colors for both girls and women. These pants feature Padded where it matters. Form-fitting. Strong enough to withstand every slide into home. Comfortable enough to power through every play.

• Signature Fabric. Engineered with spandex, ultra 4-way stretch, sweat-wicking, and durable.
• Comfortable Fit. Athletic fit, breathable, and designed to stretch in all the right places.
• Impact Defense. Expanded double-layer thigh and knee padding.
• Made For You. Two welt back pockets and a tunnel belt loop waist for a custom fit.

Mask

If you are going to pitch or play infield, you MUST protect your head and face. To do that you have to have a fielder’s mask. These come in a variety of sizes, colors, and materials. Again, quality is most important because you are protecting your most important part, your head! Our only recommendation here is the Rip-It Defense or Defense Pro mask. The original steel wire mask offers optimum protection, vision, comfort and design to protect your face from fast moving balls.

For more softball recommendations and gear, be sure to shop www.BoyersMart.com