1) The mask: The mask used should fit the face snuggly and be lightweight. It should not shift around every time you move. It should have a metal bar that drops below the chin to protect the throat. A full catcher's helmet should be attached to the mask (this is not a rule in the Pro League). (Pic 1A)

2) The chest protector: The protector should fit snuggly, especially over the shoulder and collarbone. It should not sag. It should be short enough that it doesn't curl up when you squat. Cut the bottom row of padding and sew it if you must.(Pic 1B)

3) The shin guards: The shin guards should fit tightly around the leg so they don't slide to the side. They should have a flap to cover the top of the foot and an extra flap above the knee to protect the head of the quadriceps (thigh) muscle. Use Little League guards if others are too big.(Pic 1C)

4) The glove: The glove should be either a first baseman's mitt or a true catcher's mitt made specifically for softball and for women. Younger players might use a regular fielder's glove until they are strong enough to control the other mitts. It is difficult to get use to the longer, and possibly heavier, webbed glove.(Pic 1D)