On Tuesday we asked you to send in your softball equipment questions.
We forwarded those questions to a group of softball equipment experts around the office. Each expert added their take on the questions you submitted, which we hope will give you some help when you choose softball equipment.
Our experts are: Mark, a company analyst; Troy, one of the friendly voices in the call center; Michelle, another call center extraordinaire; and Rob, who handles our merchandising.
Each question is in bold, with answers directly following.
How do you determine an appropriate bat length for a girl?
Mark: The best way to determine appropriate length is by height & weight. We have a softball bat sizing chart online that shows general recommended bat lengths.
Troy: To test which of the recommended bat lengths is best, I have the batter hold the end of the bat at arms length. He or she should be able to hold the barrel level to ground for a count of three. Start with the heaviest bats first.
What do companies do with all the leftover (outdated) bats that weren’t sold?
Mark: I know we usually mark them down as clearance until they are sold.
What would be the best equipment for a new player to play baseball for the first time?
Mark: The key would be a good glove, one that is not too tight or too loose. Usually with a new player, you would be better buying one that is already broken in. Also a bat proportionate to the player’s size is essential as well; a properly fitting batting helmet (I’m one of those parents who does not believe in sharing helmets, never know who may have head lice, I have seen it happen before), and of course either an equipment bag or bat backpack to carry in. Oh yes, properly fitting cleats are essential as well.
Michelle: First and foremost, you need a good glove.
What’s the best bat that will last in travel softball for at least 2-3 years?
Mark: My personal opinion: For fastpitch, any of the Easton Stealth series is a good choice. I also like the new Miken MV3 my daughter is using now, very happy with it.
Michelle: Unfortunately, no bat is going to be used for two or three years. The players at that age are growing quickly, and the bat size will have to change as they grow.
What does a “new” coach need to coach 12U girls Fastpitch Rec ball? I have a bucket of Softballs and a couple bats, and a glove! But what else do I need?
Mark: Patience (Seriously). Also, if you are coaching for the first time, most likely you will need to be ASA certified, thru ASA (www.softball.org) There are tools there to help with coaching girls. Equipment wise, you could use a pop-up net, such as the Jugs Instant Screen, and a batting tee (helps with proper batting technique). If you don’t have access to a softball field, get some throw down bases in case practice is in a park or empty field.
Troy: You’ll need something to help with practice. It would be worthwhile to get a hitting tee, some throw-down bases, a fungo bat and maybe a softball training video to keep the kids’ interests going.
Knee savers: Yes or no? Top level catchers don’t wear em? But lot’s of kids do?
Mark: My personal opinion is no — it makes the catcher lazy and rest their legs. If they have to pop-up to catch a foul ball, they may not be quick enough. However, my daughter’s orthopedic doctor would probably say yes. They do help reduce stress on the knees, so its kind of a toss-up.
Troy: Knee Savers work, but in the bullpen only. They make lazy catchers, because kids will sit on them when they need to have their fannies up to be able to block balls or throw runners out.
Michelle: I never used knee savers. As a catcher, you should not be sitting back on your heels.
Rob: Some major league catchers may not wear them because they tend to keep you a bit more upright — maybe they aren’t comfortable with them. But the protection against any knee damage is huge for younger kids and high school players.
Related: Browse our selection of softball equipment and apparel.
Posted by Team Express 
