Fastpitch Softball General Equipment Information

Required Equipment

All NPGS players are required to have the following equipment.

Cleats - Softball/baseball cleats provide stability and traction when running on both grass and the dirt infield. Unlike soccer shoes, softball/baseball cleats have a toe cleat at the tip of sole. Soccer cleats do not and are made more for running exclusively on grass.  Soccer cleats can be used for softball, but in many soccer leagues, softball/baseball cleats are not allowed. Only plastic or rubber cleats are allowed, i.e. no metal cleats, except for players in the 14U division.

Glove - Softball players require gloves that are slightly longer in length and deeper in the pocket than baseball gloves to help field the bigger balls used in softball. Avoid buying a baseball glove. See the Ball section for ball sizes used in each division. Keep these things in mind when buying a softball glove:

Recommended Equipment

Helmet - All helmets must have  a face mask secured to the helmet. The helmets must also be NOCSAE certified with the NOCSAE certification stamp clearly visible on it. Never use a helmet that is cracked, deformed, or if the interior padding has deteriorated.

Fielding Masks - Although not required, they are HIGHLY recommended, especially for new players. These are masks worn on the field to protect players faces from bad hops, missed fly balls, or missed thrown balls. More experienced or older players tend not to use them, but it only takes that one time for a player to be hit in the face and to become fearful.

Again, recommended for new players, less experienced players, players that are unsure of themselves and their skills, and players playing on the infield (especially the pitcher, and corner positions, 1st and 3rd). Wearing a fielding mask is not a sign that you are not very good, just that you and your parents are cautious and have safety in mind. Good players wear them too.

Sliding Shorts - Sliding shorts are worn underneath uniform shorts or pants and can give players the confidence to slide without the fear of getting injured. Although they are not required, NPGS recommends them for the 8U division and above. Sliding shorts can be purchased with heavy padding or little padding.

Knee Guard/Sliders - Sliders provide extra protection when sliding and fielding. They are optional, however, NPGS recommends them for all divisions. You can purchase long sliders that cover the knee and shin or short sliders that cover just the knee. Typically younger girls wear two long sliders and older girls wear two short sliders. Some choose to wear one of each (if going this route wear the long slider on the left leg, remember - long on left!).

Equipment Bag - Bags for your players softball equipment (helmet, glove, bat, fielding mask, hat, visor, balls, batting gloves) and other miscellaneous items help keep things organized. Some bags are bigger than others, such as catcher's bags that require more room to carry the catcher's gear.

Softball Bat - Please see the Softball Bat Information page for more information.