How to choose baseball & softball equipment

At first glance, they look similar, but the differences are reflected in the choice of ball, bat and protective gear:

• Ball size – baseball has a smaller ball (approx. 9–9.25″), softball is commonly played with a larger ball (typically 11″ or 12″ depending on age and competition).
• Pitching – in softball, the ball is typically thrown underhand, while in baseball it is thrown overhand – this results in a different pace of play and different demands on the batter’s reaction time.
• Field and dynamics – Softball is played on a smaller field and tends to be faster “over short distances” – therefore, face protection is more often an issue for younger players.

Balls → for training, games and beginners
Are you looking for a classic baseball or 11″/12″ softball? When it comes to balls, you can quickly decide whether you want a harder game ball or a softer training ball (very forgiving on first throws and hits).

Bats → length, weight and “ease of swing”
A bat is not just about the brand – it is important that it fits your hand. We offer bats of various lengths and “drops” (lighter bats are easier for beginners to swing).

Gloves → according to hand, size and position
First, check which hand you throw with (the glove is selected according to this). Then consider the size in inches and, if necessary, the position – there are also special gloves, e.g. for first basemen.

Helmets → peace of mind (and safer training)
For beginners and children, a helmet is almost always worthwhile. Choose according to size and consider a face mask – just make sure it is compatible with the specific helmet model.

Everything in one place → when you want to compare the entire range
Just want to quickly see what’s in stock and what gear best suits your playing style? Check out the entire category.

Size – in our country, you will typically encounter sizes 9″ / 11″ / 12″ (baseball most often 9″, softball typically 11″ or 12″).
Training vs. match – training variants (e.g. “safety” or dimple) forgive mistakes and protect your hands and glove.
Surface and durability – if you play outdoors on hard surfaces, a more durable ball is worth the investment.

Tips from our range (training):

• Rawlings 12″ FP12S softball
• Champro baseball ball CBB-61 9″ training (SAF-T-SOFT)
• Acra Softball Dimple Ball 12″ (great for batting practice)

The most common mistake with bats is “I’ll take the first one I like”. However, the bat must be the right length and weight – and for young people, certification is often a deciding factor.

3 main parameters:

Length (in inches) – shorter = faster swing and better control, longer = greater reach.
Drop (e.g. -10, -12) – difference between length and weight; the more negative the number, the lighter the bat (easier swing for children/beginners).
Certification/competition rules – some leagues require specific approval.

Tip from the offer (youth baseball):

• Rawlings Raptor USA (-10) – light swing (drop -10), more lengths (27–30″), and most importantly, USA Baseball certification for youth competitions.

Tip from the offer (younger fastpitch softball):

• Louisville Slugger Quest (-12) – extra light (-12) for easier technique and control for younger players.

When it comes to gloves, first decide one thing: which hand you throw with.

• If you throw right-handed, wear the glove on your left hand (and vice versa).

What to focus on:

• Size (in inches) – smaller gloves = faster work in the field, larger = more secure grip.
• Position – some gloves are versatile, others are designed for the “first base” (mitt).
• Break-in – how quickly the glove “breaks in”.