What gear does my child need for Majors softball?

Most leagues supply the jersey or shirt, cap or visor and shoulder patch, and many supply team bats, helmets and catcher's gear. Families usually buy:

• a glove that fits
• cleats with rubber or molded spikes. Metal cleats aren't allowed in Majors.
• pants, belt and socks in the team colors

Rules on protective gear:

• Batting helmet: NOCSAE approved with double ear flaps, worn at practice and in games. A face guard is optional in Little League Softball (unlike high school, where it's mandatory). Add-ons such as C-flaps need the helmet maker's written approval, shown to the umpire.
• Catcher: catcher's helmet and mask with a dangling throat protector, chest protector and shin guards. The catcher may use a catcher's mitt, first base mitt or fielder's glove.
• Defensive face masks for fielders are permitted.

Softball players don't have to wear a cap or visor in games.