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Frequently Asked Questions

• What size softball is used in fastpitch?

  The standard for most fastpitch leagues at the middle school, high school, and adult levels is a 12-inch softball. 11-inch softballs are used at the youth level, typically for players age 10 and under in both recreational and some travel organizations. Always confirm which size your league requires before ordering in bulk.

• What is the difference between a 12-inch and 11-inch fastpitch softball?

  The 12-inch ball is heavier and slightly larger, requiring more hand strength to grip for pitchers and producing a different feel at the plate. The 11-inch ball is lighter and easier for younger players to throw and hit. The size difference also affects how pitchers generate spin and movement on pitches, so 11-inch pitching mechanics do not transfer directly to 12-inch play.

• What certification do I need for a high school fastpitch game?

  High school games require NFHS-stamped softballs. The NFHS mark on the ball confirms it meets the specifications set by the National Federation of State High School Associations. Some state associations add additional requirements beyond the NFHS stamp. Check your state's athletic association rulebook for the full approved ball list.

• What is the difference between a USSSA and ASA/USA Softball ball?

  USSSA and USA Softball are separate organizations with separate approved ball lists and compression specifications. A ball with a USSSA stamp is not automatically approved for USA Softball play and vice versa. If you play in both types of leagues, you need separate balls for each.

• What does COR mean on a softball package?

  COR stands for Coefficient of Restitution, which measures how much energy the ball retains after impact with a solid surface. A COR of 0.47 means the ball bounces back at 47% of the incoming speed. Most sanctioning bodies set a maximum COR to control how lively the ball plays. Higher COR means a livelier ball. COR values are listed in our product descriptions.

• What does compression mean on a softball?

  Compression measures how much force is required to compress the ball by a quarter inch. A 375-pound compression ball is firmer and denser than a 300-pound compression ball. Most sanctioning bodies specify both COR and compression in their approved ball standards. Using a ball outside the approved compression range for your league is a rules violation.

• Can I use slowpitch softballs for fastpitch practice?

  Not recommended. Slowpitch balls are typically heavier and have a higher COR than fastpitch-approved balls. Using them for fastpitch pitching practice gives inaccurate feedback and can affect pitching mechanics. For practice use, buy proper fastpitch balls even if they are economy training versions rather than certified game balls.

• How many softballs does a fastpitch team need for a travel season?

  A competitive travel fastpitch team typically uses one to two dozen game balls per tournament weekend and keeps three to four dozen practice balls for weeknight training. Buying practice balls by the case (typically 6 or 12 dozen) is more economical than buying smaller quantities repeatedly throughout the season.

• Do softballs go bad if stored improperly?

  Yes. Leather-cover softballs stored in high heat, direct sunlight, or humid conditions can dry out, crack, or absorb moisture that changes the compression. Store game balls in a cool, dry location in their original packaging or a sealed container. Practice polyurethane balls are more resistant to storage conditions but should still be kept out of extreme heat and freezing temperatures.

• What is a GSL softball?

  GSL refers to the Greater Softball League, a regional sanctioning organization primarily operating in the Midwest. GSL-sanctioned events require GSL-stamped balls, separate from USSSA and USA Softball approved lists. If you play in a GSL league, confirm the specific ball requirement with your league director.

• What is the difference between a leather-cover and synthetic-cover fastpitch ball?

  Leather-cover balls are the standard for competitive game use. They provide better grip for pitchers and a more consistent feel at the plate. Synthetic-cover balls are more durable in wet or humid conditions, cost less, and are practical for practice where ball wear is expected. Most sanctioned game ball requirements specify leather cover.

• What is an NFHS softball used for?

  NFHS-certified softballs are used in state-sanctioned high school fastpitch games. The NFHS certification stamp indicates the ball meets the performance standards specified by the National Federation of State High School Associations. These balls are not typically required for rec league or youth travel play, which use USSSA or USA Softball certified balls instead.

• Can I buy fastpitch softballs by the case at SPC Sports?

  Yes. We sell softballs by the dozen and by the case. Case pricing reduces the per-ball cost significantly. Contact us for bulk and league pricing on large-quantity orders.

• What is a reduced impact softball?

  Reduced impact (RI) softballs have a softer outer cover and lower compression core, which reduces the risk of injury from a direct hit. They are primarily used for younger players just learning the game, particularly in youth leagues where safety equipment requirements are more relaxed. They are not approved for competitive sanctioned play in most organizations.