A baseball helmet protects the head and face of a baseball player from the dangerous speeds at which baseball pitches can be thrown. Batting gloves are also worn by batters, in order to avoid blisters. Some players even wear them while running the bases as shown on Strobe Sport`s website. Fielding gloves vary depending on position but typically are leather with a webbed pocket that forms a small basket.
Jockstraps
Jockstraps are a common piece of equipment used during baseball gameplay. It consists of an elastic band around the waist and protective cups that fit inside it. Because of the high amount of contact involved in playing baseball, jockstraps are essential pieces of protective equipment.
The jockstrap was invented by C. F. Bennett in 1874. He designed them with Chicago-based Sharp & Smith. In 1897, Bennett's Bike Web Company patented the Bike Jockey Strap. In the years that followed, the Bike Company sold its product to Russell Athletic, which continued to produce them until 2017. Jockstraps are now produced by a third company, Fruit-of-the-Loom, which is owned by Berkshire Hathaway.
Protective cups
Protective cups are an important piece of equipment that every baseball player should have. These cups are used to protect the player's body from the various impacts that can happen during the game. You should consider buying a protective cup that is made from durable materials and has a good shield. Also, choose a cup that fits properly to ensure that you get the maximum benefit from it. You can also consult sizing charts to determine which size you need.
Baseball protective cups are used by both male and female athletes. They protect the groin area from injuries caused by the bouncing ball. They are usually made of hard plastic and come in different shapes and sizes. They range from being flexible to rigid depending on the player's needs.
Bats
A baseball bat is a crucial piece of equipment for playing the game. Bats are made from a variety of materials, including wood, bamboo, and hollow metal. In the professional leagues, aluminum bats are prohibited. Other types of bats include composite wood and bamboo. When choosing a baseball bat, a player should pay attention to the weight and feel of the bat.
Bats have been used for centuries to hit baseballs. Players have even rubbed glass bottles and bones onto their bats, which is called "boning". Although this process produces no physical benefit, some players believe it makes the bat harder. In addition, early hitters have hammered nails into their bats to make them "iron." However, this would decrease the power of hitting. Nowadays, solid wood bats have a very efficient energy transfer.
Helmets
Helmets are used by both pitchers and batters, and protect the head from head injuries during play. They are an integral part of a baseball uniform, indicating team affiliation and blocking out the sun so that players can focus on the ball. Players should make sure to buy the right size helmet – it shouldn't be too small or too large. Helmets are also important because they protect the players' heads from wild pitches and bad throws.
Baseball helmets came about in the early 1900s as a safety precaution. The Brooklyn Dodgers, who had frequent players suffering from beanings, started mandating all players wear batting helmets. As players became more comfortable with the protective headgear, they were designed to be lighter and more durable. By the 1960s, batting helmets were stronger, and featured face flaps to protect the players' faces. In 1971, Major League Baseball made helmets mandatory for all players, though some veterans continued to wear cloth caps with liners under the grandfather clause.
Sliding shorts
The sliding shorts used in baseball are shorts with additional padding along the thighs to protect the players from injury while sliding into the bases. The shorts come with a jockstrap and cup pocket that protects the jockstrap. They are not required equipment in baseball, but are highly recommended for players.
Baseball sliding shorts are also called compression shorts. They are worn underneath the shorts that players wear in uniforms. The padding in these shorts gives the players the confidence they need to slide. Many baseball players also choose to purchase specialized shorts that have a built-in athletic cup pocket.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are an essential piece of baseball training equipment that improves the player's vision. Not only can they enhance the colors and contrasts of the game, but they also protect the player's eyes from the harmful UV rays of the sun. These glasses can be worn under the catcher's mask and helmet, as well as on top of any other baseball gear.
There are two main types of baseball sunglasses: metal and plastic. The former is the safest choice because it is lightweight and strong enough to withstand the basic impacts that players can encounter during play. The latter has a lower safety rating.
Chest protectors
Chest protectors are one of the most essential pieces of baseball equipment you can wear while playing baseball. They protect the chest and shoulders from blunt impact and are usually made of durable foam.
These protections are available in different types of fabrics and can range in price from $50 to $100. Chest protectors can also come in different colors, depending on your preference. Shin guards are another important piece of equipment you should have when playing baseball. They cost around $100 and are available separately.
Chest protectors are also worn by catchers and umpires. They keep the catcher's chest protected when they face fastballs. These balls often hit the catcher's chest, so it is crucial to protect it.
Chest protectors are designed to cover the catcher's neck and chest, and may include shoulder protection as well. Chest protectors are typically made of foam or other soft materials that can absorb a hard blow from a baseball. They are easy to wear and remove, and most have ventilation to keep the catcher cool.