Baseball / Softball Clothing & Apparel

Early Beginnings

In 1849, the first baseball team to wear uniforms was the New York Knickerbockers. They wore blue wool pants, straw hats, and white flannel shirts, marking the beginning of a new era for baseball attire.

The adoption of uniforms spread quickly throughout the sport. By 1900, every team in Major League Baseball (MLB) wore a uniform. Some teams began incorporating distinct patterns into their designs. The Detroit Wolverines, Washington Nationals, and Brooklyn Bridgerooms of both the National League and American Association were the first to use uniform patterns, which allowed spectators to easily identify different positions on the field. In the late 19th century, players wore both home and away uniforms—home uniforms were typically white, and away uniforms were grey or dark blue. The Brooklyn Superbas (now the Brooklyn Dodgers) were among the first to implement this concept in 1907.

Stockings and Pants

Since the 1860s, the color of a team’s stockings (or high socks) became an important way to distinguish teams. This trend was inspired by the Cincinnati Red Stockings. In the 1990s, a new style of pants, called "close-trimmed pants," was introduced. These pants fit all the way down to the shoes, replacing the traditional knee-breeches style that had been in use for generations. The original stirrups socks are rarely worn nowadays, though they occasionally make appearances in throwback uniforms. Today, players typically wear either knee-high socks or pants, and some opt for loose-fitting pants known as pro-flare.

User Moments

Jerseys & Uniforms

Uniforms are worn during games and training sessions. Many teams have specific training jerseys or uniforms that differ from their game-day attire. Additionally, baseball jerseys have become popular as casual wear among fans.

Pants

Baseball and softball pants are essential gear, worn during both games and practice. They come in various styles to suit different preferences and needs.

Jackets and Pullovers

• Dugout pullovers are worn by players in the dugout to stay warm and comfortable. These are also commonly worn during warm-ups.

• Jackets are typically worn before and after a game, as well as when entering or leaving the field or sports complex.

Sliding Shorts

Sliding shorts are a crucial piece of protective equipment. They help prevent bruises, scratches, and more serious injuries during base sliding and other in-game movements. They are important for athletes of all experience levels.

Shirts and Undershirts

• Shirts are commonly worn during practice or training sessions.

• Undershirts help keep players warm during colder weather and game situations.

Compression Gear

Compression T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and sleeveless shirts are popular under-game and practice apparel. They fit tightly to the body, offering a streamlined silhouette. Compression clothing uses moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics, making it perfect for keeping cool, especially during hot summer games.

Types of Baseball/Softball Pants

There are five main types of pants for baseball and softball:

1. Knickers – Short pants that extend to the knee.

2. Solid Baseball Pants – Plain, standard pants.

3. Classic Long Baseball Pants – Traditional long pants that reach the ankles.

4. Piped Baseball Pants – Pants with contrasting piping along the seams.

5. Pinstripe Baseball Pants – Pants with vertical pinstripes for a classic look.

These pants may come with either elastic or loose cuffs at the bottom, and these styles are available for men, women, and youth sizes.

Materials Used in Baseball and Softball Gear

Jerseys and Uniforms

• Nylon and Polyester are the most commonly used materials for baseball jerseys and uniforms due to their durability, ease of cleaning, and strength.

• Cotton and Polycotton blends are also used for their comfort and breathability.

Sliding Shorts

• These shorts are typically made of 80-95% polyester and 5-20% spandex, with padding made of sponge or foam for additional protection.

Casual Wear

• Spirit Shorts: Made from 100% Microfiber Polyester for comfort and flexibility.

• T-shirts: Typically made from a 60% cotton and 40% polyester blend.

• Hoodies:

  • Lightweight hoodies: 90% polyester and 10% spandex.

  • Performance fleece hoodies: 100% polyester for warmth and breathability.

Pants

• Casual pants are generally made of 100% polyester for durability and ease of care.

Hats

• The 9Fifty snapback model hats are made of 96% polyester and 4% spandex for a comfortable, flexible fit.

Compression Gear

• Compression gear is typically made from a combination of PolyArmour, Polyester, and Elastane to provide a tight fit, moisture-wicking properties, and optimal flexibility for athletes.