What To Look For
Most softball pants are made out of a durable polyester material which is easy to clean. New microfibers can make pants more comfortable and breathable--an important factor when playing in warm weather. Some pants are made with microfibers which are stain-resistant. Pants that are reinforced in areas like the crotch or knees offer additional protection against scrapes and bruises when diving or sliding.
Common Pitfalls
Sizing can vary depending on the style of pant being purchased and the manufacturer. For example, a woman with a 36-inch waist would wear size XL pants by Rawlings or size XXL pants by Worth. It's important to try on a specific set of pants before purchasing in order to make sure that it has the ideal fit.
Where To Buy
Purchasing softball pants from a retail sporting goods store like Sports Authority gives you the opportunity to try on pants to make sure you are happy with the fit, material and style before purchasing. If you have a brand that you have worn before and you know which size you wear, softball specialty dealers like Softball.com can offer discounts over in-store pricing.
Cost
As of September 2010, adult softball pants typically run from $20 to $45. Less expensive pants typically are made from standard polyester materials and are fairly tight fitting. More expensive pants can be looser fitting to allow for additional comfort. They also tend to be made from more comfortable materials and have extra features such as mesh insets for ventilation and devices to hold socks and stirrups up.
Comparison Shopping
Traditional softball pants tend to be tight fitting; many younger players prefer to have looser, baggier pants which are not as form-fitting but can be easier to move in. Pants can either have elastic on the pant cuffs for a tight fit around the ankles or forego elastic for a looser, open fit.
Accessories
Sliding pads worn on the knee, calf or shin can help to protect a player from scraping their knee when sliding into a base. Longer sliding pads offer additional protection but can also be less comfortable or restrict a player's range of movement. Sliding shorts which are worn underneath softball pants also provide padding and protection for the rear, hips and upper leg.
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