Gear file for softball.

If your kid is starting softball, most of the gear list looks like baseball. There are a few specific differences worth knowing before you spend money on the wrong thing.

The ball is bigger (12 inch versus 9 inch in baseball). The gloves are bigger to match. The bats are similar but tend to be a half-inch longer at the same age. Beyond that, most of the same buying advice applies.

Some links on this page are affiliate links to Amazon. We earn a commission if you buy; the price you pay does not change. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Ages 5–7 (Tee-ball or coach-pitch)

This age usually plays with a softer 11-inch ball. The bats and helmets are mostly the same as tee-ball baseball.

A 10-or-11 inch glove

Even at this age, softball gloves run a size larger than baseball. A 10-inch glove fits most 5-to-7-year-olds.

How to choose: pre-broken-in webbing matters more here than in baseball because the ball is bigger and harder to catch. If the kid can’t close the glove, they can’t catch the ball.

A bat (24–26 inch)

Tee-ball softball bats look almost identical to tee-ball baseball bats. The one-arm test works the same way: kid extends the bat horizontally with one arm, holds for 5 to 10 seconds, that’s the right weight.

Pants

If you have a choice, pick gray or tan pants over white. White stains easily and stays stained. Way easier to keep clean if you avoid white.

A face mask (for pitchers and infielders)

Many youth softball leagues require a face mask for pitchers and corner infielders. Some require it for everyone. Check your league rules before opening day.

Ages 8–10

Coach-pitch softball typically starts at age 6 and overlaps with tee-ball. The transition happens naturally as kids improve. Age, talent, and experience are mixed together at the youth level. That is the point. The goal is for kids to have fun, learn how to be a teammate, and learn a little bit about the sport.

The ball moves to a 12-inch at most leagues by age 10. Pitching also begins (live, not from a machine) at this age in many leagues.

An 11-to-12 inch glove

Infielders use 11.5-inch. Outfielders use 12-inch. Pitchers need a glove with a closed web so the opposing team can’t see the grip.

How to choose: bigger pocket than a baseball glove. The ball is larger, so the pocket needs more depth.

A 27-to-29 inch bat

Drop weight (-10 to -12) is typical at this age. Composite bats start to appear at the higher end. The one-arm test still applies.

Sliding shorts (optional but useful)

Sliding shorts have a padded panel on the side that protects against turf burns and dirt. Once your kid starts sliding into bases (year 2 or 3 of pitch ball), these are worth it.

Ages 11–12

This is the year the ball goes to 12-inch officially in most leagues. Pitching gets faster. Bats get more serious.

A 12-to-12.5 inch glove

Position-specific gloves matter now. Infielders, outfielders, pitchers, catchers. If your kid plays multiple positions, get an all-purpose 12-inch glove.

How to choose: leather quality starts to matter. A cheap glove from a big-box store will fall apart in one season. A good one will last three.

A 30-to-32 inch bat

Drop weight (-10 to -11) at this age. USSSA or ASA stamp depending on league. Two-piece composite bats are common but not required.

How to choose: the bat your kid is comfortable with is the bat your kid will hit with. Don’t pick by color or by brand reputation. Pick by what feels good in their hands.

A pitching jacket (if pitching)

Pitchers wear a long-sleeve jacket between innings to keep the throwing shoulder warm. Required by most leagues for serious pitchers.

Ages 13–14

Travel ball and middle-school programs become more competitive at this age. Costs go up. The gear lasts longer.

A 12.5-inch glove

Buy quality. Your kid will use this glove for three to four seasons if your it. A good glove bought at 13 will still be in use at 17.

A 32-to-33 inch bat

High school fastpitch uses ASA/USA Softball stamps. BBCOR does not apply to softball. Drop-8 to -10 at this age.

How to choose: length and drop weight depend on your kid’s strength. They should be able to swing through the zone without dropping their back elbow.

Sizing notes

Bats: the one-arm test works at every age. Hold the bat handle at the hip, extend the barrel horizontally. If they can hold it parallel to the ground for 5 seconds, the weight is right. Gloves: measure from the heel of the glove to the top of the index finger.