The Equipment Rack
Coach-tested gear for baseball, softball, and junior golf players. Built to help families buy smart, avoid wasting money, and make sure their athlete is ready for the season.
Summer 2026 Coach’s Picks
These are the featured items we are putting on the rack this summer. Not every player needs the most expensive gear, but these are strong options for families looking for quality equipment.
2026 Victus Nova Lit Beacon
Our Baseball Bat of the Summer for players looking for a high-end USSSA option.
2027 Easton Ghost OG
Our Softball Bat of the Summer for serious fastpitch players ready for a premium bat.
US Kids Golf Ultralight Clubs
Properly fit junior clubs are the most important equipment choice a young golfer can make.
Marucci Cypress M-Type 11.75”
A strong baseball glove option for players ready to move beyond a starter glove.
Marucci Magnolia 12.5”
A quality fastpitch glove for softball players who are ready for a better fit and feel.
Dudley Hitting Station
A home training setup with net, tee, and ball caddy. Great for baseball and softball players who want more reps.
Baseball Ready Checklist
A successful baseball player does not need every piece of gear on day one, but these items help players show up prepared for practices, games, lessons, and tournament weekends.
Must Haves
- Baseballs, ideally 1 dozen
- Baseball glove
- Bat that fits the player’s size and league rules
- Batting helmet
- Baseball bag that carries 2 bats
- Sliding shorts
- Baseball hat, if not provided by team
- Sunscreen
- 64oz water jug for summer tournaments
Coach Recommended
- Hitting net
- Adjustable tee
- Rubber home plate
- Sunglasses
- Cold weather bat if using a composite bat
- Eye black
- Glove conditioner
- Batting gloves
- Practice bucket or ball bucket
Softball Ready Checklist
Softball players need the same basic training tools as baseball players, with a few important safety additions like a facemask helmet and fielder’s mask.
Must Haves
- Softballs, ideally 1 dozen
- Softball glove
- Bat that fits the player’s size and league rules
- Batting helmet with facemask
- Fielder’s mask
- Sliding shorts
- Softball bag that carries 2 bats
- Sunscreen
- 64oz water jug for summer tournaments
Coach Recommended
- Hitting net
- Adjustable tee
- Rubber home plate
- Visor for older outfielders, usually ages 11+
- Sunglasses
- Cold weather bat if using a composite bat
- Eye black
- Glove conditioner
- Batting gloves
- Extra hair ties
Junior Golf Ready Checklist
The biggest mistake junior golf families make is using clubs that are too long, too heavy, or simply not fit for the player.
Must Haves
- Properly fitting junior golf clubs
- Driver
- 7 iron
- 9 iron
- Wedge
- Putter
- Carry or stand golf bag
- Golf balls
- Tees
Coach Recommended
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat or visor
- Metal water bottle
- Tennis shoes or golf shoes
- Golf glove
- Golf towel
- Ball marker
- Divot repair tool for older players
Don’t Waste Your Money
The best equipment is the equipment that fits the player’s age, size, experience, and commitment level.
Start Smart
First-year players do not need the most expensive bat. A properly sized, league-approved bat is more important than a premium price tag.
Fit First
A glove that fits the player and position matters more than buying the flashiest model on the shelf.
No Adult Clubs
Adult clubs that are cut down are usually still too heavy. Proper junior clubs make a major difference.