How to Choose a Baseball or Softball Bag

baseball player with an equipment bag walking

A quality baseball or softball equipment bag is important to keep your gear protected and organized throughout the season, but knowing what type of bag to get can be challenging. Whether you’re a parent, player, or coach, our Baseball and Softball Experts share the pros and cons, and details of each type of bag so you can find the right one.

Types of Equipment Bags

When choosing from a variety of baseball and softball bags, it will depend on the player's preference and how much gear they need to fit. From rolling bags to bat packs, we explain the differences and key highlights of each bag.

Backpacks & Bat Packs

A backpack is a classic reliable option. Featuring padded shoulder straps and ample compartments for essentials and securing items, backpacks, and bat packs have bat-specific compartments on the sides.

Pros:

Multiple zipper compartments & pockets
Adjustable padded shoulder straps
Lightweight for young players

Cons:

Limited space

Roller/Wheeled Bags

For players—or coaches—looking to keep the weight off of their shoulders, a roller bag is the best option. Roller bags are a popular choice for baseball and softball catchers as they generally have more equipment to be hauled.

Pros:

Durable wheels for easy transport
Discreet handle for wheeling
Spacious storage

Cons:

Wheels get stuck on rough gravel or loose rocks
Gets dirty quicker than other bags
Takes up more space in the car

Duffle Bag

Duffle bags are a versatile option for carrying your equipment. Whether you're a coach carrying your team's gear or a catcher ensuring you have your essentials, duffle bags are an easy choice for baseball and softball players.

Pros:

Dedicated fence hooks to keep it off the ground
Commonly features a zippered cleat pocket
Two different handles
Bat specific pockets

Cons:

Uneven weight distribution can be hard on player's shoulders
Lacks internal organization

How to Choose the Right Bag

Now that you understand the different types of baseball and softball equipment bags, you'll be able to make an informed decision on which one is best for you. Keep these key details in mind when choosing a new bag:

Durable Materials: The dugout is a dirty place, so you'll want a durable bag to withstand the elements.
Space: Consider the gear you need to transport and if it's reasonable to fit in one bag.
Fence Hooks: Not only do these keep your bag cleaner, but they also keep them off the ground and out of the player's way.
Internal Organization: If you want your gear to be in compartments, equipment bags with pockets and zippers will keep everything in its place.

Finding the right baseball or softball bag is important for holding and transporting essential gear. With leading brands like Easton, Nike, and Marucci, parents, players, and coaches can find the best equipment bag for the season. For more information on baseball or softball, contact your local SCHEELS to speak with an Expert.