Through the passing of time, the game as well as the equipment of the game of softball have developed to a great extent. Among the various components of the game of softball, the most important ones are the ball itself, gloves, the bat, the jersey, shoes and the protective gear that is so essential for the catchers.

The size of the ball varies according to the codes of the play. Besides being easily distinguishable, the particular ball used for the game has some particular measurements to which the ball must adhere. The permitted circumferences for the international rules of play are 12 inches or 30 centimeters, and 11 inches or 28 centimeters. Often the ball remains enclosed in a layer of white leather, roughly in two pieces. The ball then resembles the shape of the numeric figure of eight (8). It is sewn together with a red thread. The material of the core of the softball is made up of long fibers, a mixture of cork and rubber, polyurethane mixture or another material approved by the international organization of softball. The recent invention of the yellow, easily visible optic ball is a landmark achievement in the history of the game.

Gloves and mitts are prime components for those players on the field trying to catch the ball. All players wear gloves and mitts, and the latter is differentiated from the first on the basis of the fact that mitts have an extra padding with no fingers. The bat that is used is usually made of hardwood, metal, or any other materials that the game permits, and is no more than one kilogram in weight, thirty-four inches in length and just over two inches in breadth.