Interactive Explainer
SoftballRead the Gamefrom the Bench
Pick a defensive alignment, tap any player to learn their role, and decode the rules that make softball unique.
Sport DNA
Field
60 ft base paths
Slowpitch: 65 ft
Ball
11–12 in circumference
Larger & softer than baseball
Pitching Distance
40–43 ft (fastpitch)
46–50 ft slowpitch
Players per Side
10 (rec/slowpitch)
9 in fastpitch
Game Length
7 innings
Youth: 5–6 innings or timed
Pitching Style
Underhand
Windmill (fastpitch) or arc (slowpitch)
Players Worldwide
65+ million
Olympic sport (women's)
Founded
1887 · Chicago, IL
George Hancock
Slowpitch / Rec League (10 Players)
Standard rec and youth league setup with a 10th player — the Short Fielder (SF). They patrol the gap between the infield and outfield, cutting off bloops and shallow flies. This is the most common setup your kid will play in.
Tap any player to learn their role
Short Fielder — softball onlyReady to get them on the field?
Find local Softball programs in your area.
Before the Start
Essential Gear
See all 16 items
Softball Glove
Softball gloves run larger than baseball gloves (12–14 in) to handle the bigger ball. Outfield gloves are larger; infield gloves shorter for quick transfers.
Est. $30 – $130
Softball Bat
Must be league-certified — ASA/USA Softball stamp required in most youth leagues. Slowpitch and fastpitch bats are different; do not interchange them.
Est. $30 – $250
Batting Helmet
NOCSAE-certified helmet required. Youth leagues typically require a face guard. Single-ear flap standard; catchers need a full cage.
Est. $20 – $60
Softball Cleats
Molded rubber cleats for youth players. Metal cleats allowed at high school level and above — check your league rules. Low-cut or mid-cut both work.
Est. $25 – $85
Full gear guide
6 must-haves · 16 items total · Est. $85 – $300
Parent's Cheat Sheet
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Official Wording
The pitcher must deliver the ball underhand with a continuous, smooth motion. In fastpitch, a full windmill arm circle is permitted. In slowpitch, the ball must travel in an arc between 6 and 12 feet high.
Parent Translation
The pitcher throws from below the hip — completely different mechanics than baseball. In slowpitch (most rec leagues), the ball lofts in a high arc before crossing the plate. In fastpitch (competitive/travel), the pitcher whips her arm in a full windmill circle and can hit 60–70 mph. Same field, completely different game.
