Fast-pitch softball is a highly competitive game that requires specialized equipment. Much of that equipment is safety equipment that will protect the player from fast pitches. Catchers also wear protective equipment since they have to receive the pitches and they have to do it within a few feet of the batter.
Batting Helmet
Competitive fast-pitch softball requires all batters to wear a helmet every time they come to the plate. The helmet must be made of hard plastic and it must cover both ears. Face masks on the helmet are not required but they are encouraged. If the batter reaches base, she must continue to wear her helmet. Players must wear their helmets from the moment they come out of the dugout and move into the on-deck circle.
Bats
When the batter comes up to hit, she must have a bat to hit the ball. The bat should be 26 to 33 inches long and can be made of aluminum composite or wood. Most players used aluminum bats but some players prefer wood. In softball tournaments, umpires will look at bats before the start to make sure players are using legal bats.
Gloves
All players must wear fielding gloves in the field. Catchers and first basemen can use specialized gloves for their positions, but that is not a requirement. Players at both positions can use traditional fielder's gloves if they prefer. Since the softball is bigger in circumference than a baseball, softball gloves tend to be bigger than baseball gloves.
Catcher's Equipment
All catchers must wear protective equipment. Catchers are required to wear a catcher's mask, a chest protector and shin guards. Catchers also wear a throat protector that hangs from the bottom rung of the catcher's mask.
Softball Cleats
Softball players are required to wear softball cleats when competing. Softball cleats are athletic shoes with rubber or plastic spikes on the soles of the shoe that allow players to have secure footing when batting, running or fielding. Some leagues allow players to wear metal spikes but most do not because they can injure other players.
Member Comments