Softball Equipment List: 23 Items (with Pictures)

Softball equipment list with all 23 items: ball, bat, glove, batting helmet, cleats, batting gloves, sliding shorts, uniform and sunglasses.

A softball player carries ten of the twenty-three items on this list, and six of those ten are things a beginner has to own before the first game: bat, glove, helmet, cleats, batting gloves and sliding shorts. Six more items are coach and team gear, from the pitching machine and the batting tee to the scorebook, and seven describe the field itself, from the dugouts and the scoreboard to the rakes that groom the infield. The table below lists all twenty-three with the job each one does and who pays for it.

23items in total

10carried by the player

13supplied by coach and field

Quick answers

What equipment is commonly used in softball?: A ball, a bat, a fielding glove, a batting helmet with a facemask, cleats, batting gloves, sliding shorts, the team uniform, a water bottle and sunglasses. Coaches add a pitching machine, batting tees and hitting nets, a first aid kit, a scorebook and equipment bags.
What do you need to play softball?: For a first practice a glove, cleats and a water bottle are enough, because most teams lend bats and helmets at that stage. For league play a player needs an own bat, a batting helmet with a facemask, batting gloves and sliding shorts as well.
What is plate gear in softball?: Plate gear is the catcher's set that is worn behind home plate: a catcher's mask or helmet, a chest protector, leg guards and the heavier catcher's mitt. It is usually team property rather than something a beginner buys, which is why it sits outside the standard player list.
What softball equipment does a coach need?: A pitching machine for batting practice, batting tees and hitting nets, a first aid kit, a scorebook, spare team uniforms and equipment bags to move it all. Fields add their own list, from the scoreboard and the dugouts to lighting and the rakes for the infield.

Softball Equipment at a Glance

Ten items travel in the player's bag, six are team stock that the coach keeps, and seven are fixed parts of the field. The first block is what a beginner has to buy.

Item	What it does	Who supplies it
Softball	Larger and softer than a baseball, 12 inch for fastpitch, thrown underhand	Player
Bat	Length and weight matched to the hitter, certified for the league played	Player
Glove	Fielding glove with a deeper pocket than a baseball glove	Player
Batting helmet	Hard shell with a facemask, required for every batter and runner	Player
Cleats	Studded soles for grip on dirt and grass when starting and stopping	Player
Batting gloves	Grip on the bat handle and padding against the sting of a hit	Player
Sliding shorts	Padded compression shorts against burns from sliding into a base	Player
Uniform	Softball pants with reinforced knees, jersey and socks	Player
Water bottle	Games run long in summer heat with little shade on the field	Player
Sunglasses	Keeps a fly ball visible against the sun for outfielders	Player
Pitching machine	Delivers the same pitch over and over for batting practice	Coach
Training aidsbatting tees and hitting nets	Tee work for the swing, nets to hit without chasing balls	Coach
First aid kit	Bruises from balls, scrapes from sliding and heat are routine	Coach
Scorebook	Records every at bat, the basis for league statistics	Coach
Team uniforms	Matching numbered sets, required in league play	Coach
Equipment bags	Carries bats, helmets and balls from the car to the dugout	Coach
Softball field	Diamond with 60 foot bases and a pitching circle, fastpitch pitches from 43 feet	Facility
Dugouts	Fenced benches for both teams next to the field	Facility
Bleachersor stadium seating	Seating for parents and spectators along the lines	Facility
Scoreboard	Shows innings, runs, balls, strikes and outs	Facility
Lighting for night games	Even light on the diamond so a fly ball stays visible	Facility
Locker rooms	Changing and storage space for teams and umpires	Facility
Field maintenance equipment	Rakes, drags and chalk to keep the infield and the lines playable	Facility

Equipment for Softball Players

#1 Softball

The softball is the centerpiece of the game and is specifically designed with a larger circumference and a softer exterior than a baseball, enabling underhand pitching and hitting. It's essential for practicing drills, pitching, catching, and hitting skills necessary for successful gameplay.

Rawlings Pro Leather Dream Seam

12 inch, USA/ASA, 6 count

Rawlings | Official USA Pro Leather Dream Seam Fastpitch Softballs | USA/ASA | C12RYLA | 12" | 6 Count

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Size12 inch fastpitch
Coverpro leather with raised seams
CorePoly-X, .47 COR and 375 lb compression
ApprovalUSA Softball league play
Pack6 balls per box, a 12 box is sold as well

Game softballs are sold by the box rather than singly, because a leather ball loses its shape after a season of practice. The two numbers that decide whether a ball is legal are the COR and the compression, and .47 with 375 lb is the standard fastpitch pair.

#2 Bat

A quality softball bat, tailored to the player's size and strength, can significantly impact hitting performance. It's essential for making contact with the ball, driving it into play, and contributing to offensive strategies during a game.

Easton Ghost Advanced

Fastpitch, drop 10

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Length33 inch
Drop10, so the bat weighs 23 ounces
Buildtwo-piece composite
Barreldouble barrel design
CertificationUSA Softball, USSSA, NSA, ISA and WBSC

Drop is the length in inches minus the weight in ounces, and a drop 10 is the usual fastpitch choice for a player who wants bat speed rather than mass. Check the certification stamps before buying, because a league will turn away a bat that carries the wrong one.

#3 Glove

A well-fitted glove is vital for player defense, enabling fielders to catch and control the softball effectively. It's a personal piece of equipment that improves with time, adapting to the contours of the player's hand for optimal performance.

Wilson A500 Siren

12 inch, infield and pitcher

Wilson 2026 A500 Siren 12" Infield/Pitcher Fastpitch Glove - Right Hand

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Size12 inch
Positioninfield and pitcher
Leathertop grain, game ready out of the box
Webclosed, hides the grip on the ball
FitQuick-Fit wrist adjustment
Handworn on the left, thrown with the right

A softball glove has a deeper pocket than a baseball glove because the ball is larger, so a baseball model is a poor substitute. Twelve inches is the middle size that works at most infield positions and on the circle.

#4 Batting Helmet

Safety is important in softball, making the batting helmet a crucial item. It provides head protection for batters and base runners, reducing the risk of head injuries from errant pitches or fielding plays during games and practices.

Easton ALPHA Fastpitch Helmet

Facemask included

Easton | ALPHA Fastpitch Softball Batting Helmet with Facemask | Medium/Large | Black

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Sizemedium to large, hat size 6 5/8 to 7 1/4
Masksoftball facemask fitted
Standardmeets NOCSAE
Shelldual density with vents
FitBOA style adjustment at the back

Fastpitch rules require a facemask on the batting helmet, so a baseball helmet without one will not pass an umpire's check. Measure the head rather than guessing from a cap size, because the two listed sizes overlap by half an inch.

#5 Cleats

Cleats are specialized shoes designed to provide traction and stability on the field, allowing players to run, pivot, and change directions quickly and safely. The correct cleats enhance performance and reduce slippage on dirt or grass.

Under Armour Glyde Sola RM

Molded rubber studs

Under Armour Women's Glyde Sola RM Softball Cleats, (001) Black/White/Black, 8, US

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Uppersynthetic, lightweight
MidsoleEVA foam
Outsolemolded rubber cleats
Weight11.15 ounces
Useyouth leagues that ban metal spikes

Molded rubber cleats are the safe default, since many youth and recreational leagues allow nothing else on the field. Metal spikes grip better on hard dirt but they are a rule question first and a performance question second.

#6 Batting Gloves

Batting gloves enhance grip on the bat, absorb shock from hitting, and protect hands from blisters and abrasions. They're essential for batters aiming to increase comfort and control during swings.

Franklin Shok-Sorb X

Adult large, pair

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Palmgenuine leather with a padded Shok-Sorb insert
Backmesh vents for air flow
CutTri-Curve, follows the shape of the hand
Contentspair
Sizesadult small through extra large

The padded palm exists for one reason: a ball hit off the handle on a cold day stings badly enough to change a swing. Leather is what holds the grip when the hands sweat, so a fabric glove wears out much faster.

#7 Sliding Shorts

Sliding shorts provide players with protective padding, reducing the potential for injuries while sliding into bases. They are an essential undergarment, offering an additional layer of confidence during aggressive base-running.

Youper Padded Slider Shorts

High impact side padding

Youper Women's Classic Softball Sliding Shorts, Compression Padded Slider Shorts (White, Medium)

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Fabric82 percent nylon, 18 percent spandex
Paddinghigh impact panels at the hips and thighs
Stretchfour-way, moisture wicking
Inseam7.6 inch in size small
Sizesextra small through extra large, youth sizes as well

Sliding into a base on dirt takes the skin off a bare thigh, which is why the padding sits on the sides rather than the front. These go under the uniform pants and are worn for the whole game, so the moisture wicking matters as much as the foam.

#8 Uniform

The uniform identifies players as part of a team and provides a professional and coordinated look during play. It's also designed to be durable and comfortable to allow for full range of motion in all aspects of the game.

CHAMPRO Tournament Softball Pant

Double-ply knees

CHAMPRO Women's Tournament Traditional Low-Rise Polyester Softball Pant, Medium, Black

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FabricTEK-KNIT polyester, 14 ounce pro weight
Kneesdouble-ply, reinforced for sliding
Waistband2.5 inch knit with grip strips
Loops7 tunnel belt loops
Sizeswomen's small through 2XL in 6 colors

The knees are where softball pants fail first, so a double layer there is worth more than any other feature. Grip strips in the waistband keep the jersey tucked through a slide, which is the small detail that separates softball pants from ordinary sports trousers.

#9 Water Bottle

Proper hydration is vital for maintaining peak athletic performance, making a water bottle an indispensable item. Players need to stay hydrated to prevent cramps and fatigue during long practices and games.

#10 Sunglasses

Sunglasses protect players' eyes from the sun and improve vision on the field. They are critical especially for outfielders, helping them track fly balls without the hindrance of glare or bright sunlight.

Equipment for Coaches and Teams

#1 Pitching Machine

A pitching machine is a powerful training tool that allows batters to practice hitting without the need for a pitcher. It offers consistency and a range of speeds, helping players refine their timing and develop their batting skills.

PowerNet Launch F-lite

Baseball and softball

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Speed40 to 90 mph at 25 feet, four settings
Legstwo interchangeable tripod sets for pitch height
Usebatting practice, fly balls and grounders
Includedmachine plus 6 baseballs and 6 softballs
Ballscalibrated for the Launch F-lite balls only

A machine repeats the same pitch, which is what makes it useful for fixing a swing when no coach can throw for an hour. Note the ball restriction: this model is calibrated for its own dimpled balls, and leather game balls do not feed the same way.

#2 Training Aids

Training aids such as batting tees and hitting nets are crucial for players to improve their hitting mechanics and power. They provide a controlled environment for repetitive practice, essential for mastery of the sport.

Tanner Tee The Original

26 to 43 inch, one-hand adjust

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Height26 to 43 inch
Shaftsteel
Baseweather resistant composite
Tophand-rolled rubber Flextop
Adjustmentone hand, no tools

The tee is the cheapest piece of practice gear and the one that gets used most, because it isolates the swing from the pitch. A flexible rubber top matters more than the price suggests: a stiff cone sends a jolt through the hands on every low miss.

#3 First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is imperative for any team to address injuries quickly and efficiently. It contains vital supplies for treating cuts, bruises, and strains, ensuring player well-being and swift return to action.

#4 Scorebook

A scorebook is an invaluable tool for coaches to track individual and team statistics throughout the season. It helps in evaluating player performance, making strategic decisions, and maintaining historical records of the games.

#5 Team Uniforms

Team uniforms unite players and present a cohesive and professional appearance. They instill a sense of pride and team spirit, and serve to easily identify players during plays and competition.

#6 Equipment Bags

Equipment bags are essential for transporting and protecting gear such as bats, gloves, and helmets. They help in keeping a team organized and ready for practices or games, ensuring players have what they need to perform their best.

KAVIGOR Softball Backpack

40 liters, helmet holder

KAVIGOR Baseball Bag for Youth and Adult, Softball Backpack 40L Large Capacity, Bat Backpack with Shoes Compartment and Hidden Helmet Holder

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Volume40 liters
Batsholds up to four
Shoesseparate vented compartment
Helmethidden external holder
Fabric900D Oxford, tear resistant
Strapspadded back and shoulders

A softball bag is judged by how it separates wet cleats and a helmet from everything else, not by how big it is. The fence hook and the external helmet pocket are what make it usable in a dugout where there is no clean floor.

Equipment for Facilities

#1 Softball Field

The softball field, with its distinct diamond shape and bases, is the heart of the game. It sets the stage for all gameplay and is critical for delineating fair territory and positioning players. A well-maintained field ensures safety and fairness, making it an indispensable element of any softball facility.

#2 Dugouts

Dugouts offer players and coaches a sheltered area to strategize, rest, and store equipment. They provide a centralized location for teams to gather during games, which is essential for team cohesion, game preparation, and protection from weather elements.

#3 Bleachers or Stadium Seating

Bleachers or stadium seating are crucial for accommodating spectators who come to enjoy the game. They provide a comfortable and designated viewing area, enhancing the game day experience and contributing to the atmosphere and spirit of the competition.

#4 Scoreboard

A scoreboard offers a clear and immediate display of the game's progress by showing scores, innings, and other vital game statistics. It is essential for keeping players, coaches, and spectators informed, contributing to the professionalism and engagement of the game.

#5 Lighting for Night Games

Lighting systems are key for facilitating night games and extending playing hours. Proper illumination ensures that players can see the ball and each other clearly, which is critical for the safety and performance of the players, as well as an enjoyable experience for the spectators.

#6 Locker Rooms

Locker rooms provide a private space for players to change, strategize, and store personal items. They are essential for ensuring player comfort, readiness, and focus before and after games, contributing to the professionalism and organization of the sport.

#7 Field Maintenance Equipment

Field maintenance equipment, such as rakes, drags, and line markers, is necessary to keep the playing surface in top condition. Proper maintenance ensures a safe and fair playing field, reduces the risk of player injuries, and upholds the aesthetic quality and integrity of the game.

After gearing up, test your knowledge with our engaging softball quiz to see how much you really know about the sport.

FAQ

What is the equipment you need to play Softball?

Gloves, bats, helmets, balls, and cleats are the equipment you need to play Softball. This gear is essential for safety, effective play, and adherence to the rules of the game.

What is the most important equipment in Softball?

The glove is the most important equipment in Softball, as it's vital for defensive plays. It allows players to catch and field the ball safely and effectively.

What is a recommended list of Softball equipment for beginners?

Here's a recommended list of Softball equipment for beginners: a softball glove, batting helmet, Softball bat, cleats, and Softball. These items provide the fundamentals needed to learn and enjoy the game.