Baseball & Softball Sizing Help, Tips & Information
Choosing the Right Baseball or Softball Balls
Selecting a ball depends on your level of play and whether you need it for games or practice.
Baseball and Softball Construction
Covers are made from either leather or synthetic materials. Leather covers provide the highest quality and durability, while synthetic covers are less expensive
Seams are used to sew the cover around the interior of the ball. They can be either flat or raised. Raised seams provide better grip and more control when throwing the ball.
Cores are comprised of a cork, cushioned cork, cork and rubber, or poly center.
Types of Balls
Different leagues and levels of baseball use balls of varying materials and construction.
Professional balls, such as those used by Major League Baseball, are generally of the highest quality, with cowhide leather covers and raised seams. Other professional leagues as well as minor leagues and youth leagues all have their own standards and specifications for game balls. Generally, most leagues require a ball with a leather cover for games.
Softballs are available in both fastpitch and slowpitch varieties, including both 11" and 12" sizes. Cores vary between 0.40, 0.44, or 0.47 and have different levels of compression. Red Dot, Blue Dot and Gold Dot are examples of common softballs. Look for a softball that's approved by the organization you play in. Balls are approved by the ASA and USSSA.
