Main Body
4. Equipment
Softballs – 12 in. softball made of vinyl or leather; 11 inch often used by women and youth leagues. It is important to research the guideline of the league and adopted association requirements before participating. They will require a certain composition, cover, compression, and color of the ball.
Bats– must be on an approved list by association or local rules. The bat must be free of rough and sharp edges. Baseball bats and fungo bats are not allowed. Again, due to recent technology advancements and the safety concerns, each association has lengthy requirements for the bats that they are willing to approve. It is important to know these when going to purchase a bat for specific level of play. Other guidelines are as follows: Bats must not exceed 31.5 ounces (if playing in USSSA) or 38 ounces (if playing in NSA) in weight. They must also not exceed 34 inches in length, and the diameters may be no larger than 2.25 inches along the barrel. All bats must be stamped with USSSA, ASA, or NSA approval. At any time during a game, if an umpire requests to check game bats, they must be produced. If ever in doubt about the legality of a particular bat, check the approved bat lists that each governing body produces each year.
Glove– is required for all players- No top lacing, webbing or other device between the thumb and body of the glove can be more than five inches in length. Gloves with white, grey circles or optic yellow on the outside, giving the appearance of a ball are prohibited for all players. The pitcher’s glove or sleeve can’t match the color of the ball used. Multicolored gloves are acceptable for all other players.
Batting helmets– are not typically required but are highly recommended for safety.
Shoes– are a requirement for all players. League or association rules will govern what is allowed for players. Typically, rubber soled or rubber cleated shoes are permissible for all levels of plays and associations. There are some levels of play that allow metal spikes to be worn. If metal cleats are not approved, some umpires will eject a player for rule violation.
Catcher’s gear– face mask with throat guard, shin guards, and chest protector are not always required by league play but are highly recommended for safety. Requirements vary according to association rules that are adopted.
Strike Zone Mat– is a mat, which is made of rubber or wood, is 48.18cm wide and 81.23m long, measured from the end of the mat to the tip of each side that joins the back edge of home plate (see diagram below). It is a ‘strike’ if a legally pitched ball hits this mat. The mat is an optional piece of equipment.
Uniforms– all players should wear uniforms alike in color, trim and style with the same name and logo. It is highly recommended that jewelry not be worn.