Softballs are quite a bit larger than baseballs and are usually made out of hard plastic or composite centers, which are actually harder than a baseball. The centers are covered by leather or synthetic material which is stitched over the ball. Some balls are still made with cork and rubber centers that are then wrapped in yarn before being covered. The balls should be smooth seamed and flat surfaced. Balls can either be hand or machine made. Softballs come in different sizes with the most common being 11 inch and 12 inch diameter balls. A 12 inch ball should weigh between 6 ΒΌ ounces to 7 ounces and an 11 inch ball between 5 7/8 ounces and 6 1/8 ounces. Different leagues use different balls and you should check your league's specifications. If you are just playing for fun any sized ball is fine. Softer balls are also available for practice and indoor use. Balls come in various colors, sizes and materials.
