Softball Equipment

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Softball is a highly popular team sport that is very similar to hardball (more commonly known as baseball). Softball is played on the same type of field, though it is often smaller, and it is played out over seven innings rather than nine. The other major difference between hardball and softball is the way the pitcher delivers, which in softball is underarm.

The popularity of softball has increased in recent years, thanks to incredible teams from around the world that compete in the Olympics. Unfortunately, it is no longer going to be a part of the Olympic itinerary beginning with the Summer Games in 2008 in Beijing. Even so, the popularity of the sport continues, thanks to collegiate play and the involvement of youth and office groups.

Softball equipment is similar to the equipment you'd find on a baseball field. Mitts are generally larger because of the increased size of the ball. Lightweight aluminum bats are also more prevalent in the sport than wooden ones, thanks in part to the sport's popularity with women.

The biggest equipment difference between hardball and softball, obviously, is the ball! Softballs are considerably larger, about 4 1/2 inches in diameter. They are also a bit softer than their baseball counterparts, incorporating rubber into the outer layers. Even with the decrease in density, however, the ball is heavier.