If you are new to the game, there is some basic information you need about the right softball team to choose from. Whether you’re playing an impromptu game with a few friends or starting or joining an organized league, you’ll want to make sure you have the right gear.

The ball you will be using is, of course, slightly larger than a regular baseball. However, there are different balls for men and women. Many co-ed leagues actually use different balls depending on whether a male or female is at bat. A smaller ball travels farther, so the pitcher will use the smaller one when a woman is at bat. When a man comes up, the pitcher will switch to the bigger one. A regulation ball is yellow and 12 inches in diameter.

The bat is another essential piece of softball equipment. The bats used in most leagues are made of aluminum or other types of metals to help get the ball out faster. Batters with lower skill levels find it easier to hit a metal bat than a wooden one. Regular bats have to pass strict performance and safety standards. For example, the American Softball Association requires that bats made after 2004 not allow the ball to fly off the bat faster than 98 miles per hour when hit.

There are other optional equipment that can help players perform better. Gloves are not required, but they are basically essential to be able to catch the ball. Batting gloves provide a better grip and also help protect the batter’s hands. You’ll also want to consider buying real cleats instead of just wearing tennis shoes when you play. They will help with traction on the field and will also help prevent slipping when running the bases. You’ll also want to purchase a helmet to protect yourself from injury. This is particularly important if you play wide receiver.

If you’re a woman, you’ll probably want to get a sports bra to make sure you get the right kind of support. Whichever type you choose, compression or encapsulated, the bra should allow you to move freely whenever you’re shooting, catching or fielding. Both men and women should also have slip-on shorts to protect their legs and breathable tops for when it gets hot. Since you’ll be getting a lot of softball gear, you’ll want to get a sturdy bag to hold it all. Find one with hooks so you can hang it on a fence if needed.

Choosing the right softball gear can help you not only perform your best, but also keep you as safe as possible when you’re on the field.