If you're playing or practising softball or baseball, besides proper protective and playing gear, you'll need the right clothes. You should feel free, comfortable and unlimited in your movements during your practice or game. That's why you need proper softball clothes. First and foremost, when choosing your pants, blouse, underwear and accessories it's essential to consider the fabrics they're made of and if they fit you well. The fabrics should contribute to proper airflow, keep you dry and free of irritations, and the fit should help you move around freely without any distractions.

Comfortable Clothing

Softball Pants

Your softball pants should feel comfortable and allow you to move freely. Most pants have added knee and rear protection. This helps absorb some impact when sliding and diving and prevents tearing and wearing of the materials. When it comes to hems, they can be opened and closed. The latter is made from elastic materials and is preferred by players who want to keep their pants at a certain length. The opened ones drag over your cleats and can be more comfortable and casual.

Be sure your softball pants have moisture-wicking properties; it's quite helpful for playing games during hot weather. The fabrics should be elastic and allow you to move without any restrictions. When it comes to style there are solid and piped pants. The solid has no stripes, so they have a clean and simply modern look. The piped pants are designed with one pinstripe on both sides of the pants. This streamlined design blends the best of the pinstriped and solid pant options and just like solid pants, these can be worn with any jersey style.

Blouse

This is another piece of softball clothes that's essential. Depending on the climate and where you'll play your game you can choose a long or short-sleeved blouse. What's more important is that it's made of breathable fabrics such as cotton that won’t make you sweaty and will feel soft against your skin. You can also choose a half-turtle neck blouse that will keep your neck protected against the sun. A hoodie is another great choice as it will keep you warm (especially during colder months).

Sliding Shorts

A pair of comfortable and protective sliding shorts will help you perform at the highest level. Sliding shorts are an essential softball clothing item better than regular underwear; make sure you get an anti-microbial, moisture-management fabric that keeps you dry and comfortable throughout your practice and games.

Sneakers or Athletic Shoes

Sneakers or athletic shoes are a good choice for beginner players or players who play on grass fields. These shoes provide adequate support and cushioning and are comfortable to wear for extended periods. Sneakers or athletic shoes don’t have the same level of traction as cleats, so there are chances for slipping or losing your ground on dirt or wet fields. If your choice are these type of shoes, search for models with a non-slip soles and good arch support. Shoes with too much cushioning can make it harder to feel the ground and do quick movements.

Cleats

Cleats are the best footwear for most softball players, especially those who play on dirt or turf fields. These have spikes on the sole that give excellent traction and grip players grip the ground when running or making quick turns. Consider the two types:
• Moulded cleats - these include rubber or plastic spikes moulded into the sole. Even though durable and with good traction on most surfaces, the moulded cleats might feel uncomfortable to wear for a long time.
• Metal cleats - these have metal spikes screwed into the sole. Metal cleats provide the best traction on dirt or turf fields, but some leagues don't allow them as they can be dangerous if you accidentally step on another player.

Accessories

Hat or Visor

Some players choose a hat or visor to protect their faces and eyes from the sun. These accessories are helpful for daytime games when the sun shines bright. When choosing yours, be sure it fits comfortably and securely on your head. You surely don’t want to constantly adjust it while you’re trying to play.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are another practical accessory that can help keep your eyes safe from the sun. They can help reduce glare, which will make it easier to see the ball. When buying your sunglasses, seek a well-fitting pair that gives good coverage. Be sure they don't slip down your nose or fall off when you’re running or jumping.

What to Consider

Breathable Fabrics

Your softball clothes should be comfortable and made of breathable fabrics that will dry fast. Breathable fabrics are essential because this is a sport that requires running jumping and sweating. Cotton and cotton blends with polyester will keep your clothes dry. Such fabrics are great for letting air flow and keeping you dry and comfortable.

Loose-Fitting Clothes

Loose-fitting clothes are important for free movement. Your clothes shouldn't put any pressure on you and make you feel any discomfort. By loose-fitting I don't mean baggy; baggy clothes can and will interfere with your movement which will distract your game.