Youth softball equipment checklist

Start with what your league requires

Every league has its own equipment rules, so ask the league or coach before buying anything. Many leagues provide team items such as bases, balls and sometimes catcher's gear. Borrowing or buying used gear is common and fine, as long as it is in good condition and fits properly.

The core items

• Glove: sized for your child's hand. It should be snug but not tight, and your child should be able to open and close it. Gloves are stiff at first and break in with use.
• Batting helmet: required in nearly every league. It should sit level and snug without wobbling. Check whether your league requires a face guard, and whether your child's helmet is certified for that league's standards.
• Bat: leagues often require a bat that carries a particular certification mark and fits league rules. Ask which bats are approved before you shop.
• Cleats or athletic shoes: some leagues allow only molded plastic or rubber cleats at younger ages, and some allow metal at older ages. Many require molded cleats or athletic shoes only, so check the rules.
• Uniform pieces: the team usually specifies a jersey and pants, plus a cap or visor. Many players also wear sliding shorts under pants for comfort. Many leagues restrict jewelry, so ask before game day.

Safety gear

Softball is played with a hard ball, so protective gear matters.

• Catcher's gear: a helmet with mask, throat guard, chest protector and shin guards. This is the most important set of safety equipment on the field. Never skip any piece.
• Fielder's face mask: some leagues require or allow face masks for pitchers and corner infielders. Some families choose them even when optional. Ask your coach.
• Mouthguard: some leagues require them. Ask about it.
• Eye protection: some players wear sports goggles. Talk with your coach or doctor if your child wears glasses.
• Other protection: some leagues require or recommend extra protective gear for particular positions or players. Ask your coach, doctor or athletic trainer about options.

Fit tips

• Try things on in person when you can, with your child in the gear and moving around.
• Do not buy gear to grow into. A glove or bat that is too big makes it harder to learn good habits and can be unsafe.
• Bats should feel balanced. If your child cannot swing it comfortably with control, it is too heavy or too long for them right now.
• Helmets should not slide over the eyes or move when your child shakes their head.

Helpful extras

• A bag to carry gear and keep it together.
• A water bottle labeled with your child's name.
• Sunscreen, a hat or visor, and a rain layer for cool or wet days.
• Hair ties and a headband, since hair in the face makes it harder to see the ball.
• A permanent marker for writing your child's name on their gear.

Fastpitch vs. slowpitch gear

The basic items are similar, but bats and some rules may differ between fastpitch and slowpitch. A bat approved for one may not be allowed in the other. Ask your league before you buy a bat for either version.

Buying smart

It is tempting to buy everything at once, but most families do better by starting small. Wait to see whether your child enjoys the sport before investing in a specialty item. Ask the coach, other parents or a local league about swap events and hand-me-downs. When you do buy, focus on the items that touch safety and fit first, such as the helmet and the glove, and let the rest wait. Always check that anything second-hand is clean, undamaged and still allowed under your league's current rules.

Taking care of gear

1. Keep gloves out of hot cars and away from long wet storage.
2. Wipe down helmets and catcher's gear after use and let them air out.
3. Check helmets and masks regularly for cracks, and replace any that are damaged or no longer fit.
4. Check the bat for dents or cracks before each season and from time to time during it, and stop using a damaged bat.

New to the game? Read softball rules for beginners and how to prepare for softball season.