Everything You Need to Know About Softball Pants

Find the right style, size and fit so you have the perfect pair for game day.

When it comes to softball pants, there’s more than meets the eye. Sure, they help add some style points to your team’s uniform, but there are a few other considerations to keep in mind.

Fabric type, hem style and fit all affect your performance and how comfortable you are on the field. Here's what to look for, so you can find pants that hold up all season long.

• Features of Softball Pants
• Styles
• Sizing and Fit
• FAQs

Softball pants have come a long way from basic uniform bottoms. These days, they have a variety of practical features like durable fabric and different hem styles to help you look, feel and play your best.

Softball is a physical game. Between diving for line drives and sliding into home, your pants deal with a lot of friction over the course of a season. That's why most softball pants are built with strong fabric in high-contact areas, giving them the durability to hold up game after game.

When it comes to hems, you’ll have two options to choose from: closed or open hem.

A closed-hem style, which is made from elastic materials, is preferred by players who like to keep their pants at a certain length. This a great option if your pants run long.

An open-hem style is meant to drag over your cleats, which can be more comfortable and casual. Players who prefer a relaxed fit will often go with open-hem pants.

Built right into the fabric, moisture-wicking material is a great feature to have when the weather starts getting hot. It pulls sweat away from your skin, which makes it evaporate quickly, so you stay dry when you perspire. It's also breathable enough to let air flow through, which keeps you cool during long games.

Once you've got the functional features covered, it's time to think about how you want your pants to look. They come in a range of designs and styles, so you can easily pick something that makes you feel comfortable on the field.

Most softball teams have three different pant designs to choose from: pinstripe, pipe and solid.

• Pinstripe: Features a grey or white foundation and multiple stripes that run from the waist to the hem. This look can offer a nostalgic feel.
• Piped: Incorporates the best of the pinstriped and solid pant options with one pinstripe on either side of the pants. Like solid pants, these can be worn with any jersey style and come in a variety of colors like black, blue and red.
• Solid: Includes one solid color without stripes. This design makes for a clean, modern look. Most pro/amateur teams have a pair of these since they go with any type of jersey style, including pinstripe.

Low-rise pants, which sit lower on the hip, are also an option to consider if you prefer a more relaxed feel. And if you want more coverage, high-rise pants go above the waist to give you extra support.

Some styles also come with adjustable waistbands, so you can fine-tune the fit exactly the way you want it. Which style you choose comes down to personal preference and whatever you feel most comfortable in.

Most softball players wear elastic belts, which stretch around the waist and hook together with a plastic buckle to keep pants secure during games.

A common trend seen today are designer belts, ranging from camouflage to floral patterns. These are fun options for players looking to add something extra to their uniforms.

When it comes to finding your pant size, the process is simple. Most manufacturers offer their pants in both women’s and youth sizes that range from S to XL, which means you won’t be stuck trying on pair after pair.

In terms of length, most pants run a little long despite their waist size. Before you take the field, make sure your pants aren’t getting caught on your cleats. If that’s the case, you will need to get them hemmed or roll them up a bit.

Fastpitch players often go for a more fitted style for better mobility, while slowpitch players may lean toward a looser fit so they have a bit more room to move.

Once you’ve picked the right size and fit, you’ll have another essential item covered on your softball gear checklist, so dress yourself in a pair you’ll be proud to wear this season.

Softball pants come in three main design styles: pinstripe, piped and solid with your choice of an open or closed hem. Depending on how you want them to fit, you can also choose between low-rise and high-rise.

Pinstripe pants have a grey or white base with multiple stripes running from waist to hem. Solid pants skip the stripes entirely for a clean, modern look that works with any jersey type. Piped pants are a blend of pinstripe and solid, featuring a single stripe on each side.

It depends on your position and play style. Fastpitch players often prefer a more fitted pair for better mobility, while slowpitch players may go for a looser fit that allows more room to move.