Softball Gear & Equipment Information

So... You want to play softball? Awesome! But what gear do you need?

Let's break it down. 

• Fielding Glove

We have gloves you can borrow at the start, but finding the right glove is crucial. The glove you need will depend on the position you most frequently play. The best choice is to get a glove that is bigger (usually an outfield glove, around 13") so you can have the versatility. Here is a link to a great guide helping to choose the right glove: https://protips.dickssportinggoods.com/sports-and-activities/softball/choosing-the-right-softball-glove

You can buy a glove online, but it is best to go and try them in person. You can go to any softball store, or wait until Leading Edge come down to the fields on a game day. 

Most players have Mizuno, Easton or Rawlings gloves, and depending on the quality they can range from $60 - $400. 

You will have to work in your glove, as it will still be stiff from the manufacturing process. A good way to do this is just throw a ball into the pocket while watching television. Another important thing is to store the glove with a ball in the pocket, secured with either string, a bunch of large hair ties, or a wrap (a large strip of neoprene that has a pocket for the ball and seals with velcro). You can buy wraps for about $20 from most softball stores. 

• Shoes (Cleats)

​​​​​​​If you have old cleats from playing football or hockey, you can wear these. Softball cleats are between $70-$100. The main point of difference is that softball cleats have longer studs, they have a toe cleat, and they are heavier. These factors all play into the player's safety, as well as optimising maneuverability and traction on the field.

The most widely used brand of cleats in the Brisbane Softball Association would be the Mizuno cleats. You can get them at Leading Edge (see Softball Stores), who sometimes have a van come down to BSA. 

• Batting Helmet

​​​​​​​Due to COVID-19 Restrictions, it is important that you have your own helmet. They cost between $50 - $75. You can get one with or without a face grill, for under 18's it is generally required, and it can increase confidence in the batting box. 

You can get Easton (the most popular brand) or MVP (these are adjustible, so a good choice if using over time) helmets from Leading Edge. You can also get a Rawlings helmet from Rebel Sports. Baseball and Softball batting helmets are the same, so don't worry about the label. 

• Bat

​​​​​​​You don't need to go out and buy a bat day one, in fact, we would advise against it! From experience, you will try different bats over time and find a brand or type that you like better than others. Bats are a very individual choice, and people of the same measurements and fitness may like two entirely different bats. 

• Batting Gloves

​​​​​​​Although many players don't use them, batting gloves are a great way of getting the most out of your hits. They protect your hands, make gripping the bat easier, and assist in reducing any injuries from vibration. Gloves can cost anywhere from $20 - $50, depending on the quality.

Many players have Mizuno Finch or Easton brand gloves. If you have delicate joints or arthritis, it would be prudent to look at the Easton ZF7 VRS Hyperskins, as they have silicone padding in the fingers and palm.

• Softball Bag

It is good to get a softball bag to hold all your gear. to start, you may want to use a general purpose sporting bag, and when you find you want to buy a bat, it is very useful to have a bag with compartments for cleats, bats, glove etc.

• EXTRAS

Make sure you come with lots of water, sports drink to replenish electrolytes, sunscreen and a towel. You will also need a cap - until we order more, you can just use any plain cap you have. 

• Uniform (Clothes)

Until you get a team shirt, you can wear a blue t-shirt, plain shorts or exercise leggings, and long socks. We will purchase socks for anyone that needs them a few weeks into the season.

Dick's Sporting Goods has a whole database of Pro Tips for Softball, you can check it out here: https://protips.dickssportinggoods.com/sports-and-activities/softball

See Softball Stores for more information on where you can purchase gear!