Playing softball is a good way to get exercise and have fun at the same time. You can play on a school team, in an amateur league, or casually with a group of friends. You'll need some basic equipment to play softball properly; if you are playing on a team, make sure it is certified, regulation softball equipment.
Bats
Softball bats are made of aluminum. Sometimes they are made from very thin aluminum, and lined with graphite and titanium. This makes the bat lightweight, and helps to reduce shock and vibration to your hands. Softball bats are available in a variety of lengths, to accommodate players from the youth through adult levels. The weights of the bats vary as well. Younger and beginning players typically choose lighter bats as they provide better control.
Balls
The size of the softball used depends upon the type of game played. Softballs range in size from 10 inches to 16 inches in circumference. They are white or yellow. To be acceptable for league play, they must be stamped with a certification seal.
Gloves
Gloves are not required in softball, but many players use them because they make it easier to catch the ball. Softball gloves are a little larger than baseball gloves, because a softball is larger than a baseball. Batting gloves may be worn when it is time to bat. These help absorb shock, and provide a more secure grip on the bat.
Uniforms
If you play on a league, you will be required to wear a team uniform. The requirements may also include cleated shoes, to provide better traction, and helmets that provide head protection while batting and running the bases.
Bases
Whether you play for a team or in your backyard, designate bases and home plate. You will also want to designate boundaries, so you know when a home run has been hit. Leagues and teams paint white lines onto the field, and use white raised bases and the traditional five-sided home base.
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