COR & Compression in softballs refers to the ball's hardness and bounce. Compression is rated by how many pounds of force (like 300, 400, 475) compress it a quarter-inch. The higher numbers mean harder balls for more distance, while lower numbers are softer for limited flight, safer play or training. These compression ratings work with the Coefficient of Restitution (COR) (e.g., 52, 47, 44) to determine bounce, with lower COR/higher Compression balls being harder and bouncier for competitive play.
Understanding the Numbers
Compression (e.g., 300, 400): The force (in pounds) to compress the ball 0.25 inches; higher number = harder ball, more travel.
COR (Coefficient of Restitution, e.g., 52, 44): Measures the ball's bounce (e.g., a 0.52 COR ball rebounds at 52% of its impact speed)
Types of Softballs by Compression
Low Compression (e.g., 275, 300): Very soft, limited flight, great for training, youth, or safety.
Mid Compression (e.g., 375, 400): Harder, for competitive play.
High Compression (450+): Very hard, lively, often too much for standard play, but used in specific leagues or home run derby's
Key Considerations
Weather: Hotter weather makes balls softer; cooler weather makes them harder.
Safety: Lower compression/higher COR (like 52/300) balls are safer for beginners or leagues.
Performance: Higher compression/lower COR (like 44/400) balls go farther in competitive and tournament play.
Certification: Make sure you're buying softballs with the proper certification stamps on them (e.g., NFHS, NSA, USA, USSSA) as they will be required for official league and tournament play. Each association has varying COR/Compression standards.
NOTE: Softballs have a 25± compression variance. So, they could be up to 25 points above or below the certified compression.
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