I saw this question come across my time line and figure I'd answer it since I play fast pitch and I'm a catcher. read more
For one thing, it’s to not get hurt while catching pitches. When catching for a player before a travel ball tournament, I took a hard curveball to the ribs because my gear moved. Imagine that: a 58 MPH curveball right to the bone. read more
In all the years I played softball as a catcher in school, I never even considered one. The area is sensitive, but it's not like it is for a guy. There is "similar" equipment called pelvic protectors used by women in hockey that are better suited for protecting that area. read more
Fastpitch Softball Catcher's Equipment Choosing the right softball catcher’s gear for level of play and age group is imperative when it comes to protection behind the dish. The wrong fit or level of protection as a catcher can lead to injury and land you on the disabled list pretty quickly. read more