Last updated on August 4, 2023
One of the most important pieces of equipment for softball players is the softball itself. Softballs come in different sizes and materials, each designed to meet the specific needs of the players. In this article, we will focus on 12u softballs, which are designed for players aged 11-12 years old.
When choosing a 12u softball, it is important to pay attention to the size, weight, and material. The size of the softball should be appropriate for the player’s age and skill level. The weight should be light enough for the player to handle comfortably, but heavy enough to provide a good grip and control. The material should be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of regular use, while also providing good performance on the field.
Contents
Best 12U Softballs
| Feature/Softball | Rawlings Batting Practice Fastpitch Softball | Champro Synthetic USSSA Fast Pitch Ball | Dudley 12″ USASB Thunder SY Fastpitch Softball |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 12″ | 12″ | 12″ |
| Quantity | 6 count | 1 | 12 pack |
| Cover Material | Synthetic | Durahide synthetic cover | Synthetic |
| Core Material | Poly-X core | Solid polyurethane core | Polyurethane system |
| Seams | Raised red seams | Raised seams | Raised seams |
| Intended Use | Batting and fielding practice | Game and practice use | Game and practice use |
| Compression and COR | N/A | .47 COR/350 compression | N/A |
| Pros | Durable, good grip, affordable | Long-lasting, good grip, suitable for games | Resilient, good grip, suitable for games |
| Cons | Discoloration, not for games, 6 count only | Heavier, longer break-in, may be pricey | Slippery, too slick, may be pricey |
| Price Range | Affordable | Moderate to expensive | Moderate to expensive |
Each of the picks below is a great choice or a ball to pick up. Let’s go through the benefits of each.
Rawlings | Batting Practice Fastpitch Softball | 12″ | RFPBP12SY | 6 Count, Yellow
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable softball for batting and fielding practice, the Rawlings Fastpitch Softballs are a great option.
Pros
- High-quality Poly-X Core centers and synthetic covers ensure long-lasting use
- Raised red seams provide better grip for pitching and throwing
- Designed for collegiate and high school teams, but also great for recreational use
Cons
- Some customers have complained about discoloration
- Not intended for use in games
- Only comes in a box of six, not a full dozen
From our experience, the Rawlings Fastpitch Softballs are a great value for the price. The Poly-X Core centers and synthetic covers ensure that they’ll last a long time, and the raised red seams make them easy to grip and throw. While some customers have complained about discoloration, we didn’t experience this issue ourselves.
It’s worth noting that these softballs are only intended for use in practice, not games. However, they’re still a great option for high school and collegiate teams, as well as recreational players who want to improve their skills. And while they only come in a box of six, they’re still an affordable option for those who don’t need a full dozen.
All in all, we highly recommend the Rawlings Fastpitch Softballs for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable option for batting and fielding practice.
Champro Synthetic USSSA Fast Pitch Ball
We recently tried out the Champro Synthetic USSSA Fast Pitch Ball and highly recommend it for anyone looking for a reliable and durable softball for game or practice use.
Pros
- The durahide cover is long-lasting and comes in a bright Optic Yellow color, making it easy to track and see during play.
- The raised seams provide improved grip and greater control of the ball’s flight path through the pitching motion, making it easier for pitchers to throw accurately and for fielders to catch.
- The solid polyurethane core ensures consistent performance and a .47 COR/350 compression, which meets standard requirements for true in-game balls.
Cons
- The ball may feel slightly heavier than other softballs, which could affect the speed and distance of throws for some players.
- The ball may take longer to break in than other softballs, which may affect the initial performance and feel of the ball.
- The ball may be more expensive than other options on the market, which may be a concern for those on a tight budget.
Overall, we were impressed with the Champro Synthetic USSSA Fast Pitch Ball and would recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality and reliable softball for game or practice use. The ball’s durahide cover, raised seams, and solid polyurethane core make it a top choice for players of all levels, and its bright Optic Yellow color ensures easy visibility on the field. While it may be slightly heavier and take longer to break in than other softballs, we believe its performance and durability make it well worth the investment.
Dudley 12″ USASB Thunder SY Fastpitch Softball – 12 Pack
We highly recommend the Dudley 12″ USASB Thunder SY Fastpitch Softball for those looking for a reliable, high-quality ball for fast pitches, skilled fielding, and accurate throws.
Pros
- The polyurethane system provides maximum resiliency and a consistent feel.
- The raised seams make it easier to grip and throw accurately.
- The synthetic cover provides a nice feel and aesthetic appeal.
Cons
- The ball surface may be somewhat slippery out of the bag, especially for pitchers.
- The ball may be a little too slick due to the synthetic cover.
- May be a bit pricey compared to some other options on the market.
We recently had the chance to use the Dudley 12″ USASB Thunder SY Fastpitch Softball during a few games and practices, and we were impressed with its performance. The ball’s polyurethane system provided maximum resiliency, allowing it to withstand even the fastest pitches without losing its shape or feel. The raised seams made it easier to grip and throw accurately, which is essential for any serious athlete. Additionally, the synthetic cover provided a nice feel and aesthetic appeal, making it a great choice for players of all skill levels.
However, we did notice that the ball surface may be somewhat slippery out of the bag, especially for pitchers. Additionally, the ball may be a little too slick due to the synthetic cover, which could be a downside for some players. Lastly, the ball may be a bit pricey compared to some other options on the market, which could be a consideration for those on a budget.
Overall, we believe that the Dudley 12″ USASB Thunder SY Fastpitch Softball is a great choice for those looking for a reliable, high-quality ball for fast pitches, skilled fielding, and accurate throws. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, its performance and durability make it well worth the investment.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a 12u softball, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to consider:
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the softball are important factors to consider. A 12u softball should have a circumference of 12 inches and weigh between 6.25 and 7 ounces. Make sure to check the product specifications before making a purchase to ensure you are getting the right size and weight.
Material
Another important factor to consider is the material the softball is made of. Softballs can be made of leather, synthetic materials, or a combination of both. Leather softballs are more durable and provide a better grip, but they are also more expensive. Synthetic softballs, on the other hand, are more affordable and can be a good option for beginners.
Compression
The compression of the softball is also an important factor to consider. Softballs with a high compression will be harder and travel further, while those with a lower compression will be softer and travel a shorter distance. Make sure to choose a softball with the right compression for your needs. Be sure you’re getting a fastpitch softball rather than a slowpitch softball; there are some subtle differences.
Price
Finally, you should consider the price of the softball. Softballs can range in price from a few dollars to over $100. Make sure to set a budget and choose a softball that fits within your price range.
| Feature | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Size and Weight | Circumference of 12 inches, weight between 6.25 and 7 ounces |
| Material | Leather, synthetic materials, or a combination of both |
| Compression | High compression for harder and further travel, low compression for softer and shorter travel |
| Price | Set a budget and choose a softball that fits within your price range |
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