So, you have finally decided to join in and get it on with the team, but have you picked the right kickball equipment and gear to win? You’ve maybe already got yourself the majority of the gear, though not necessarily all of it. Or maybe you haven’t even given it much thought yet. Kickball, just like other games needs proper gear, and being decently equipped will most definitely give you an edge during the game. Some good kickball equipment will allow you to enjoy the game, improve your skills and performance, and most importantly, stay safe during play. Imagine sprinting in shoes that have slippery soles! You not only risk missing the base but maybe slipping while you run. A kickball ball that is too large, too small, or is not bouncy enough will also complicate matters in the field. So, without further ado, let’s make a list of the most important equipment for kickball.

 

1. The Kickball Ball

This is without a doubt one of the most crucial pieces of equipment in the game of Kickball. While many balls can be used to play, for instance, a football/soccer ball, volleyball, and other types, it’s best to go for specific rubber balls that meet the recommended kickball standards.

According to WAKA rules, the perfect ball should be 10 inches in diameter and inflatable. The right pressure is approximately 1.5 PSI. A poorly designed or wrongly inflated not only affects the fun but may contribute to injury. Think of a ball that doesn’t bounce enough or bounces too much. Or a type that is too rigid, too hard, or too soft. If money allows, you can go the extra step of acquiring the official kickball, which comes in red color and features a WAKA Logo. You can check out our top 5 kickball balls here. Also, you can grab an official-size kickball ball that fits the generally agreed specifications, for just a few bucks on Amazon, here:

 

2. Kickball Shoes/ Cleats

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come across people, both adults and kids, playing kick baseball with the wrong shoes. Some people opt for regular canvas and rubber shoes; others wear shoes with worn-out soles or missing studs. Predictably, most of the times, these players end up complaining about soreness, discomfort, or even numbness in their toes or feet. It’s not uncommon for a runner to unintentionally slide past the base or collide with other players because of  poor shoe traction.

Considering that the game is mostly played on grass or dirt, it’s a good idea to go for a decent pair of kickball cleats. They provide a firm and non-slip support even on wet grass or slippery dirt and are designed for intense games. Top quality cleats are made of sports-friendly materials and designs that encourage good air circulation and reduce excessive sweating or stuffiness. It’s simply ideal (I would actually say imperative from my point of view) to get a good pair of kickball shoes in order to perform well during the game. Once you try out a good pair of cleats for the first time, you will instantly tell the difference in terms of grip, acceleration, speed. This will also directly reflect into better performance in the game. Prices may vary according to the brand you pick, but a good place to start is by checking out a decent pair of cleats on Amazon, below. Additionally, for more alternatives, you can check our in-depth top 8 best kickball cleats review, where we cover some of the best quality cleats that we’ve field tested.

 

3. Kickball Bases

Without a base, you wouldn’t know where to stand or stop. In fact, there would be lots of confusion and disorderliness in the field. You can use different objects to mark the bases. Some of the common things include Frisbees, t-shirts, and rocks. However, you are better off with buying some genuine kickball bases. Firstly, a genuine kickball base is much easier to see. Secondly, it won’t get blown away by the wind or occupy lots of space. Thirdly, it’s specifically designed for the sport and meets the minimum safety standards. Can you imagine tripping and falling over a rock or stick?

Bases are usually made out of rubber while cheaper ones are made from vinyl. Orange seems to be the most popular color. Despite their affordability, the bases can last for a long time and you won’t need to replace them regularly unless you lose them. They also occupy minimal space thanks to their flat design. Get your set of kickball bases on Amazon.com:

 

4. The Scoreboard

A very important item on the kickball equipment list is the scoreboard. It’s crucial for the players, coaches and spectators to have real-time info about the game. With a clear display and big visible numbers, a good scoreboard will provide great visual aid for both the teams and the onlookers.

A clear scoreboard helps teams make smart choices during the game based on the score and time left. And it makes the game more exciting because everyone can see how things are going. So, it’s a big deal for kickball games to have a visible scoreboard. Check out some options below:

 

5. Kickball Team Jerseys

Possibly the most important component of the kickball outfit is the jersey. Matching kickball team jerseys are super important. They help the team look and feel united. When everyone wears the same T-Shirts, it’s easier to know who’s on your team.

So, what we recommend is that once you’ve picked an awesome kickball team name, you go on and get yourselves some personalized, custom-printed matching T-shirts. Available in various colors and sizes, these jerseys are customized with the team’s name, logo, and sometimes even the players’ names and numbers. Having a team uniform will make the team feel special and unique.

Matching tees make the team look more professional and serious about the game. People watching can easily see which team is which, which makes the game more exciting. Your team will feel more motivated. So, these jerseys are a big part of kickball and should be a top priority on any kickball equipment checklist. They make the game better, bring the team together, and make the whole experience more enjoyable.

 

6. Kickball Sunglasses

Sunglasses are extremely versatile for most players in certain scenarios. They help a lot when the sun is bright and you’re pitching, catching, or even when coaching or refereeing. Sunglasses have special lenses that filter UV light and make things easier to spot during bright sunny days.  They make it easier to see the ball and the game without getting blinded by the sun. They also protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

The cool thing is that sunglasses aren’t just useful, they can also look cool on you. When you’re playing kickball, having proper sunglasses can help you see better and look stylish too. So, if the day is too bright, sunglasses are a great item on the essential kickball equipment list. They will help you stay comfortable and see the game better on the kickball field. See some slick options below:

 

7. Sweat Protection

As a universal understanding, perspiration is an unavoidable part of any sport. Nevertheless, it tends to become a real annoyance when it finds its way to unintended areas. Picture it trickling from your forehead into your eyes precisely when you’re tracking a ball that you want to catch. Or droplets of sweat reaching your palms just as you’re preparing to make a throw or catch. The probable result is the ball slips through your grasp, and you don’t want that.

You can avoid these situations by simply getting some basic sweat protection. Good sweat protection accessories are made from sweat absorbent material such as moisture-wicking fabric, feel soft and smooth on the skin, and are ergonomic. Quality sweat protection gear should keep their shape and size even after multiple wear. They come in an easy-to-clean material and are hygienic. The headband, armband, and wristband are the popular forms of sweat protection. See more of  these here:

 

8. Drinking Gear

Running around or playing under the hot sun will leave you thirsty. If you are playing in an informal setting, you are allowed to take a drink more often compared to a formal setting such as a tournament or league game. In fact, some people go a step further and drag a cooler box to the sidelines. It will contain drinks for all the players including the trainers and coaches.

When playing in a league match or tournament, you aren’t allowed to openly take a drink during play. You have to wait for a break. Investing in a drinking bottle is always good idea. Depending on how much of a drinker you are, you can choose a container with a capacity of 32 – 52 ounces. A good accessory will be BPA-free, ergonomically designed flask. It doesn’t leak, and is made from strong, durable materials. The main idea is that you want your water fresh and cold, and this kind of steel bottle can do this job for up to 24 hours. So if you want your drink preserved cold even in hot summer days, you should get one of these pro-grade stainless steel bottles for the next time you go playing kickball with your buddies. Check them out:

 

9. Music Accessory

These days, the trend of bringing music to the games is on the rise. During breaks, players and spectators can listen to some cool music. Sometimes folks even appoint a person to make announcements on the microphone (such as keeping score or cheering the team etc). Bottom line, the point is that music aims to boost the team morale, and uplifts spirits making the atmosphere more energetic and enjoyable! So why not motivate your team with their favorite tune as they’re taking a break?

You can choose a fully functional portable speaker, a powerful Bluetooth speaker, or even a cooler that comes with a built-in speaker. Music is not just for motivating your team but also distracting your opponents. Picture you playing a “Loser” track as they attempt to kick the ball? The odds are they will miss at your team’s advantage. Just kidding! But you got the picture, having music at a kickball game will always spice things up and make the atmosphere more electric, so that’s why a decent speaker is a great piece of equipment for any kickball championship.

In any case, check some available selections:

 

10. Socks

Although optional, some good socks will definitely improve your kickball experience. They provide comfort for your feet, help manage sweat, and also protect your feet /toes preventing bunions, blisters, corns, and friction. Did I mention that wearing a trendy pair also makes you look cool? The best socks are made from high quality, absorbent materials such as cotton, providing maximum comfort, and easy maintenance. As part of creating uniformity, many teams choose to wear matching socks in terms of material and color.

 

11. Gear For Practicing For The Kickball Game

We have devised a few comprehensive guides about how to train for the actual kickball game. You need to practice running, mobility but also your kicking technique. In order to be able to practice your kicks at home, in your own back yard, a great idea is to pick up a practice kicking ball like the one below.

The adjustable extension cord will allow the ball to return to you after you kicked it, without having to retrieve it. This way you can practice much more kicks and improve your kicking ability in a much shorter span of time. Grab one of these below:

 

12. Other Kickball Accessories

In addition to the essential equipment list, there are a few other accessories that can make a difference in the way you experience kickball. These specific items go beyond the basics and can give you that extra edge on the field.

 

Tape or Wraps:

Sometimes, it’s the little things that can prevent big issues. Athletic tape or wraps can sometimes be a game-saver. You can use them for extra support for your joints. This can help prevent minor injuries, especially since kickball can be a very dynamic and physically demanding game. Have some tape and wraps at hand if you feel that you need the extra protection.

 

Protective Gear In Kickball:

Safety always comes first, and that’s where protective gear steps in. If the gear provides the player no extra advantage, protection accessories are sometimes permitted in kickball. Knee pads, for instance, might provide that extra layer of protection and give you the confidence to dive for that ball. Or slide into a base without worrying about potential bumps or bruises.

 

Equipment Bag:

A trusty bag isn’t just for holding your stuff, it’s a part of your game. You might go for a backpack or a duffle bag, it’s up to you. But a decent bag will help you carry all the rest of your gear, and as such, it is in itself one of the vital pieces of equipment for kickball. This is one of the most popular ones:

 

Sunscreen:

We play kickball outdoors most of the time. So when the sun is up and shining, it’s important to keep your skin safe too. Sunscreen isn’t just an accessory, it’s a must-have. Put on sunscreen before the game and shield your skin from harmful UV rays. You’ll enjoy the game and won’t have to worry about sunburn or other complications. Play safe!

 

Final word

So, this concludes our comprehensive list of kickball equipment and gear that will improve your experience the next time you play. Some pieces of equipment might seem simple, like a basic sweatband or wristband, but believe me, they’re game-changers when it comes to keeping you focused. Picture yourself trying to catch a high-flying ball, when suddenly, that nasty sweat drop goes right into your eyes. Next thing you know, you’re trying to juggle wiping your eyes and catching the ball at the same time! Not the best situation, right?

So here’s the best advice: invest in some top-notch kickball equipment and gear. It’s positively transformative! Whether we’re talking proper cleats, or sweat protection, or even some seemingly insignificant kickball accessories such as a pair of sunglasses, trust us, there will be times when the smallest details will make the biggest difference. Be sure to use gear that’s just the right size, in line with the Kickball Rules, and from a brand you can trust. If you go for quality, it means your equipment will last longer and perform well on the field. Plus, it’s all about playing safely and making sure you’re comfortable too, while you’re out there having a blast. So, gear up, follow the rules, and get ready to show off your kickball skills!