Equipment

Equipment Provided by Southfour Fastpitch:

• Game Jersey
• First aid kit
• Catcher’s gear:
  • if your child want’s to be a catcher (aka back-catcher), they do not require their own catcher’s gear.
  • Southfour provides two sets of shin pads, chest protector, and catcher’s mask for every team

Some teams may choose to provide practice shirts, socks, hoodies etc. which would be paid for via team fundraising events. Your coach will let you know if this is planned for your child's team. 

Required Equipment

(TO BE PROVIDED BY PLAYER)

Below is a list of the equipment your child is required to have in order to play softball for Southfour at the U9 to U19 age levels.

Softball Glove

• Be sure to purchase a softball glove - which are different from baseball gloves! 
• Softball gloves are larger and longer to accommodate the larger softball.
• On average, youth softball players will use a 10.5" - 12" glove size, depending on age and category.
• Do not buy a glove your player can grow into. Size correctly for your player's needs this season.

Fielder's Mask

• All U9 - U19 Southfour players are required to wear a fielder’s mask when playing on the infield, including the pitcher.
• Fielder's masks significantly reduce the risk and severity of injury by a ball, including concussions.

Batting Helmet

• All Southfour players, including Learn to Play , must provide their own batting helmet with a metal face mask and chin strap.
• 'Shake test': to assess for a good fit, place helmet on head and give your head a few good shakes. There should be minimal movement.

Softball Pants

• All U9 - U19 players will need to purchase black softball pants.
• There are many brands of ball pants and they all fit a little different. They tend to hit just below the knee to mid-shin.

Protective Jill

• Also referred to as a female jockstrap, this protective gear is required by Softball Alberta.

Water Bottle

• Hydration is key! Send lots of water!

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT 

(TO BE PROVIDED BY PLAYER)

Softball Bat

• Players are welcome to bring their own bats to practices and games. However, each team will be provided with bats that players can use.
• Purchasing a bat appropriate for your player can be tricky. Please make sure it is softball regulated.
• Not sure what size bat your child needs? Find the BAT SIZING CHART HERE!

Softball Cleats

• Players may choose to play in running shoes. The benefit of softball cleats is the added stability and security provided while playing on shale or in the grassy outfield, reducing slips and potential injury.
• Note: metal cleats are not allowed.

Batting Gloves

• Batting gloves can help enhance a player's swing by improving their batting grip while also offering protection from vibrations and blisters.
• Style is the player's preference. However, the gloves should fit snug yet comfortable.

Gear Bag

• Help keep your player organized and ready to go with a well-designed ball bag. 
• Consider a bag equipped to store your player's glove, helmet, bat, cleats, water bottles, sunscreen, extra layers and more! The ones that have the clip are extra handy so they can be hung at dugout.

Additional Apparel

• Red socks 
• Players may want/need a belt to keep their softball pants up. We recommend opting for a red softball belt to be consistent with Southfour colours.

Dressing for the Weather

Playing spring softball in Alberta means potentially playing in all seasons (sometimes in a single game!).

Spring season in Calgary is often chilly to start! Wearing or bringing extra layers is highly recommended, including:

• Long sleeve under shirt to wear under the jersey.
• Jackets, vests, hoodies, toques, gloves or mittens (while on the bench)
• Extra socks
• Rain coat (we will often play in light rain)

As the spring progresses, you can expect some very hot days that may require:

• Sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, ball cap or visor, ChapStick, eye black,  

Where to shop

Southfour families receive discounts on sports gear at the following locations:

• Play it Again Sports (Shawnessy or Signal Hill)
• Tuxedo Source for Sports

Get Awesome Southfour Merch Here:

Southfour Team Shop