Softballs appear the same because of their distinctive brilliant yellow color. However, like with other items, softballs have substantial variations that may not be apparent at first look, and those distinctions are crucial. You'll be squandering your money if you choose the incorrect softball. We have curated this softball’s buying guide to help you save money.
Which size of a softball should one buy?
To determine the size of a softball, measure its circumference.
11 inches
This is the smallest softball size you'll find. Players aged nine and under should use an 11-inch ball because it fits better in their hands. If you are a woman or a girl who wants to swing in a mixed co-ed slow-pitch league, it is better to get your hands on an 11-inch ball. It enables you to be at a greater distance right away.
12 inches
The most popular softball size for both fast-pitch and slow-pitch games is 12 inches. Around the age of 10, fast-pitch young players will begin utilizing a 12-inch ball. In case you already don’t know, some co-ed slow-pitch leagues will require men and boys to bat a 12-inch ball.
14 inches
Although a 14-inch softball is more of a recreational softball size, it is used in some slow-pitch leagues. A 14-inch softball does not move as far or as quickly as a smaller softball off the bat, making the game safer.
16 inches
This size softball is used in several slow-pitch leagues where the players are seniors and wheelchair users. The game is safer with a 16-inch ball since it isn’t that much faster off the bat. Certain softball leagues and game types use a 16-inch ball. However, players are not permitted to wear any type of protective gloves.
Which features should the best softballs have?
You might not know much about softballs aside from their yellow hue. Understanding how softballs are manufactured and what materials are used in them will assist you in selecting the best softball for your requirements.
Cover
A softball's cover is made of one of two materials: natural or synthetic leather. You can expect more durability from a natural leather cover as compared to the synthetic one. Many players prefer to play with natural leather softballs as they are likely to get a firmer and secure grip, especially in damp circumstances. Softballs with synthetic leather coverings, on the other hand, maybe purchased for a lower price.
Seams
The changes in softball seams may be difficult to see, but they are significant. Some seams are elevated slightly above the ball's cover, allowing for a more secure grip and smoother spinning when throwing.
Some seams are stitched in red, while others are stitched in blue. Before you buy softballs, find out what kind of seams your league permits.
Core
The softball's core is the part that you never see. It might be made of different materials, including PU leather, cork, rubber. The COR and compression ratings described below are based on the different types of cores.
Which factors should you consider before buying the best softballs?
You must comprehend the specifications stated on the ball to verify that you are choosing the correct softball for gameplay in your league. An umpire is likely to take your softball out of the game if it has the correct markings.
Compression
A softball's compression rating determines how far the ball will go when struck with a specific bat speed. The ball with a greater compression rating has a tougher core and will go further.
Balls with a certain compression rating are required in most leagues. Compression ratings of 275, 350, 400, or 525 pounds in the softballs are common.
COR
It is a measurement of the bouncing ability of the ball. If you are using a ball with a higher COR rating, you will be able to swing it to a far-off distance without much effort. Softballs must have a particular COR rating in most leagues.
COR values of .40, .44, and .52 are common (calculated in decimals)
Slow-pitch
While choosing a slow-pitch softball, you should bear in mind that it is designed to swing a bit slower and travel less as compared to its counterpart.
However, just because a ball is marked "slow-pitch" does not imply it complies with your league's regulations. Pay special attention to the ball's size, compression, and COR ratings to ensure that it meets your league's requirements.
Fast-pitch
A fast-pitch softball has a faster bat speed than a slow-pitch softball. The speed of the softball depends on the compression as well as COR ratings.
Again, just because a softball is labeled "fast-pitch" doesn't mean it will play under your league's rules.
Stamps of the organization
If a softball satisfies the requirements of an organizational governing body, the logo of that organization will be imprinted on it. USA Softball, the National Softball Association (NSA), and the United States Specialty Sports Association are all common softballs (USSSA) stamps.
Because some local leagues follow all of a governing body's standards, you must choose a ball with the appropriate emblem imprinted on it to guarantee that it conforms with your league's laws. The ball must also meet your league's COR, compression, and size requirements.
How much do softballs cost?
Softballs are very affordable sporting equipment, especially when compared to a softball glove or bat. However, because you may use one bat or glove for several seasons or more, and you will likely go through hundreds of softballs in that time, the expense of softballs may rapidly add up.
Single softballs
Softballs are generally priced between $4 to $10 apiece. Balls with leather coverings are more expensive than ones with synthetic covers. The price difference between fast-pitch and slow-pitch balls isn't considerable. However, slow-pitch balls are generally less expensive.
Multiple softballs
Purchasing softballs by the dozen is the most cost-effective option. You may save anything from a few cents and a $1 for each ball.
Practice softballs
Some manufacturers sell multi-ball bundles of poorly manufactured softballs dubbed "practice" balls for $2 or $3 apiece.
Training softballs
Softballs designated as "training" balls are heavier than regular balls and are designed to assist pitchers in building arm strength. These softballs range in price from $8 to $15 apiece.
Dimpled softballs
Some batting practice balls, which resemble softballs but have enormous dimples and no seams, are produced particularly for use in automatic pitching machines. Depending on the quality, dimpled balls might cost anywhere from $25 to $50 per dozen.
Best Softballs FAQs
Q: Do softballs are harder than baseballs?
Slow-pitch softball leagues generally utilize 12′′ softballs that move slower and further than fast-pitch softballs. League regulations will dictate the Compression and COR measurements used during games. Fastpitch softball players will often use an 11-inch ball.
Q: Do softballs are harder than baseballs?
Despite their similarities, these sports are quite different. Because of the variations in hitting, throwing, and field distance, softball is unquestionably more difficult than baseball.
Q: What are the meanings of the dots on softballs?
The dots on softballs provide a visual indicator of the bounce and hardness of each ball. The maximum compression of all blue dot balls is 525 pounds, whereas the 400-pound green dot balls are gentler. Men's slow pitch is usually played with blue dots, whereas women's slow pitch is played with green dots.