Though they may appear the same sport on the surface, softball and baseball are actually very different. From the different length of the base paths, to the pitching mound or lack thereof, to the different types of equipment used, baseball and softball have their dissimilarities.
Ball
The first thing you will notice, as far as differences between softball and baseball go, is the size of the ball. A baseball is smaller and weighs less, its size typically between 9 to 9.25 inches round and typically weighs 5 to 5.25 oz. A softball is larger and heavier, its size typically between 11.88 and 12.13 inches round and typically weighs 6.25 to 7 oz. For younger softball players, the ball may be slightly smaller and lighter since their hands may not be big enough to hold and throw a regulation size softball.
Bat
Softball and baseball bats look very different from each other. The size of the barrel and the drop of the bat are the main two differences between a softball and baseball bat. A baseball bat features a maximum diameter of 2 3/4 inches and has specific drop zone regulation rules, depending on whether it's Little League, Senior Little League or college/professional. In addition, professional baseball players can only use wooden bats. A softball bat comes in a wide variety of materials, it resembles a bottle-like design and also comes with Amateur Softball Association logo as well as a Bat Performance Rating.
Gloves
In order to accommodate the larger size of a softball, softball gloves feature a larger pocket size and larger length. A softball glove's length typically is between 11 to 14.75 inches. First-baseman's mitts typically range between 12 and 13 inches long. For younger players, the length ranges between 11 and 11.5 inches. Softball gloves also feature smaller finger stalls and wrist openings in order to provide a better fit and better ball control for the player. A baseball glove is typically 9 to 12.75 inches long and comes in a wide variety of materials including leather, cowhide, kangaroo skin and pigskin.
Cleats
There are two types of cleats available -- plastic and metal. Plastic molded cleats are considered the most popular design and can be used in both baseball and softball. Metal cleats, allowed in baseball, is not allowed in most softball organizations.
Member Comments