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Softball gear is available for all ages and skill levels. When shopping for bats, gloves and protective wear, you'll find a wide range of sizes and styles. Many are custom designed for fast or slow pitch as well as position on the field. You'll find specialty items that are designed for safety and all at affordable prices.
While the pros are required to use wooden bats, most younger and non-professional players find aluminum alloy is a popular choice. Some feature compounds such as carbon and titanium, which can aid in vibration control and how the ball responds. The lighter weight allows even the youngest kids to develop a more powerful swing that packs a punch. In general, they tend to last longer, but some individuals will certainly prefer the pop of a ball off the wood. Comfort and feel are the most important aspects of choosing a bat and each person will develop specific preferences. It's important that the youngest kids have a bat that's not oversized, or they will certainly struggle on the plate.
The choice of bats can be determined by an individual's height and weight. These are basic recommendations designed as a guide only. But you may also see a listing for the "weight drop," which is a negative number relating to length and weight. A higher "minus" means the bat is lighter. Manufacturers incorporate many different definitions regarding the performance of their bats.
Gloves are also one of the first pieces of softball equipment you'll want to purchase. These are designed with variations depending on the position played. A catcher's mitt, for instance, will have more padding than a first base glove. Gloves for the outfield are longer than those used at infield positions. Open and closed web styles should also be selected based on whether you're pitching or catching and whether you need a fast release at infield or a greater catch area in the outfield. Size is important, of course, and you'll find designs to fit both small and large hands. Never substitute a baseball or T-ball glove as these are all designed to accommodate smaller balls.
Be sure to give yourself time to soften the glove to fit the hand. The leather can be oiled in a number of ways and you'll want the pocket area to conform to the ball. Casual practice is one of the best ways to break in a new glove.
For protective gear, you'll find our helmets incorporate the latest materials to meet the highest safety standards. Even in slow pitch at the youngest levels, you'll want to have your child outfitted with a helmet. While he or she may not be in danger from pitches, a wildly swung or thrown bat might make head or face contact. It's also recommended that beginners start out with helmets so they can become accustomed to the feel of a head covering while they're at bat. As they progress through the league, a batting helmet will be mandatory.
If you're coaching a softball league or simply want to bone up on batting, catching and pitching at home, cages provide a contained spot for practice. You'll find all sizes and most are portable so you can set up at home or take them to the field. You can include the use of pitching machines, as framing and netting are rugged and durable for multiple users on a daily basis. These are excellent investments for improving the game at all age and skill levels.
At Softball Equipment USA, you can see how easy it will be to become enthused about America's favorite pastime.