A Complete Guide to the Different Types of Baseball Pants

No baseball uniform is complete without the right pair of pants. Every game demands agility — whether for batting, running, or fielding — so the uniform you wear can directly impact your performance on the field.

In the past, baseball pants were made of thick, baggy wool, but as fabric technology advanced, so did the design of premium baseball pants. Today, modern synthetic materials like polyester offer a perfect balance of durability, comfort, and a polished, professional look on the field.

Choosing the right baseball pants for yourself or your team can significantly improve player comfort and performance. Here’s our guide to help you browse different types of baseball pants and how to choose the best one.

Types of Baseball Pants Styles

The first step in choosing your baseball pants is considering factors like length and hem. When it comes to length, there are two different types of baseball pants styles to choose from: full-length and knicker-style pants. Once you’ve decided on the length, you have to decide between a closed or open hem style.

Full-Length Pants

Full-length baseball pants extend to the ankle. Many players and teams prefer full-length pants, as they appear more professional – especially in professional leagues. The added coverage is also beneficial for warmth during games in colder weather. For infielders and other players, the added coverage is also beneficial in preventing abrasions during sliding.

If you’re browsing different types of baseball pants for your team, full-length pants achieve a more uniform look. These can also be folded to look knicker-style, so this is the more versatile option.

Knicker-Style Pants

Knicker-style or high pants end just below the knee and are often paired with high socks or stirrups. These were popular choices in the past, though they’re making a comeback among players who prefer the classic vintage baseball aesthetic.

Functionally, knicker-style pants provide better ventilation and feel more breathable, which keeps players cool while playing in warmer weather conditions. They also offer less restricted movement, which can be valuable for those in the outfield and infield.

Closed Hems

Closed-hem pants have elastic cuffs at the hem around your ankles (or below the knees, for knicker-style pants). These ensure the bottom of your pants are snugly fit around your leg. This prevents loose fabric from impacting your movement or getting caught on your cleats. If you want to improve your agility or wear pants that look sleek and tapered to your body, opt for a closed hem.

Open Hem

Also known as open-bottom pants, the hem of these pants doesn’t have elastics that cling to your legs. These provide more airflow, and many players prefer the added comfort and unrestricted movement. However, these can drag on your shoes if your pants aren’t properly fitted. Many players choose open hems for the loose and relaxed fit, while others prefer tailoring open hems for a perfect fit over opting for a closed hem.

Design Variations

Aesthetics are also an important consideration, especially if you’re purchasing pants for a team. Most baseball pants feature one of three designs:

Pinstripes

This is the traditional vintage design of early professional baseball teams. These baseball pants feature vertical stripes from the waist to the hem. Teams like the New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs use pinstriped pants with a classic and timeless baseball look. These pants are professional and traditional while visually elongating the legs’ appearance.

Piped

Piped baseball pants have a single stripe running down the outer sides of each leg. Think of this as a more subtle nod to the traditional pinstripe pants without adding overwhelming details to the uniform’s aesthetic. Although these stripes can come in various colors, they’re a great way to subtly add the team’s colors to the uniform.

Solid Color

A solid-colored pair offers a clean, simple, and modern appearance. They are the best choice for players who want a uniform and cohesive look. They are also relatively easier to maintain, as there are no details that could wear out over time. If your team has brightly colored jersey uniforms, neutral, solid-colored pants can balance it out.

Material and Fabric Considerations

Plenty of sportswear pants are made of various materials, including nylon, elastane, and spandex. Wool was once the traditional material for baseball pants, but trends and modern advancements have shifted toward the benefits of synthetic materials.

If you want the best fabric material for baseball, we recommend looking for polyester and polyester blend pants. Since 2020, professional baseball players in Major League Baseball teams have polyester baseball pants uniforms specifically manufactured by Nike, the league’s official uniform supplier.

Polyester and Polyester Blends

 Polyester and polyester blends are arguably the most common and best materials used in modern baseball pants. Their synthetic material makes them engineered to withstand the regular wear and tear of the game. Additionally, their lightweight, moisture-wicking, and durable properties can assist player performance in various ways:

• Flexibility: Players can experience better movement without their pants affecting their speed or agility.
• Quick-Drying Capabilities: Their moisture-wicking properties repel sweat and prevent build-up, helping keep players comfortable even during intense games.
• Enhanced Breathability: This helps prevent overheating, especially compared to heavier, outdated materials like wool.
• Easy Maintenance: Polyester is resistant to stains, making it easier to clean dirt and prevent stains after a game.

Reinforced Areas

When browsing sportswear bottoms, it’s important to consider that pants specifically designed for baseball are reinforced in areas more prone to wear. Actions like sliding and diving can lead to tears in the knees and thighs area.

Many premium baseball pants have a double layer of fabric, additional stitching, or extra padding in these areas. Investing in baseball pants with reinforced areas ensures your pants hold up longer despite the heavy action on the field. This extra durability is especially beneficial for catchers, infielders, and baserunners who frequently slide or come into contact with rough playing surfaces.

Functional Features

You should also consider the functional areas that can impact your pants' fit and practical use.

Waistbands

Baseball pants typically either have belt loops or elastic waistbands with drawstrings. However, some pants can also have elastic waistbands with belt loops for a secure and personalized fit. Belt loops provide a more traditional look that many professionals prefer. You will need to buy a belt, which could impact the overall look, but it offers a more structured and stable fit that keeps your pants in place throughout the game. The right belt can give your outfit a tailored and professional appearance.

In contrast, elastic waistbands and drawstrings are much more flexible and adjustable. They’re the better option for younger players and those who prefer comfort and easy adjustments even while playing.

Pockets

Pockets have practical and aesthetic functions. More traditional baseball pants feature back pockets, which can be used to store batting gloves, scorecards, or small accessories. On the other hand, more modern pants eliminate pockets completely, especially sleek styles and lightweight pants. Pockets can create unnecessary weight, so players who want to maximize speed and performance may want to find pocketless pants.

Selecting the Right Fit

Once you’ve considered all these factors when browsing different types of baseball pants, you can narrow down your options based on your chosen style, material, and features. From there, you have to ensure they are a good fit. Pants that are too small can be restrictive and damage easily, while a pair that’s too loose can get in the way during a game.

Understanding Sizing Charts

Finding the perfect fit while shopping online starts with correctly interpreting sizing charts. Sizes can vary across brands and manufacturers, so it’s important to look at the size charts of the same brand. Size charts typically require you to measure the following areas:

• Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your abdomen.
• Hips: Measure the fullest part of your hips.
• Inseam: This is the length from the crotch seam down to the hem, which can affect your comfort and fit. Brands like Nike and Under Armour offer special tall sizes with inseams two inches longer to accommodate taller individuals.

Use a flexible measuring tape to accurately measure your size.

Choosing Your Fit for Comfort and Performance

Achieving the right fit requires considering details like your body type, playing style, and preferences. There are typically two kinds of fits: a slimmer athletic fit and a fuller, relaxed fit. A slim fit is more form-fitting and contours to the player’s body. It has very little excess fabric, a sleek appearance, and a snug fit. These have a more performance-driven design, as players can make unrestricted movements.

A relaxed fit has more room and is typically looser. Its appearance is more casual, but it provides better airflow and comfort. Although the extra room makes motion unrestricted, the fabric’s movement can impact a player’s overall performance.

Slim-fit baseball pants are going to look and feel more snug, while a looser fit may have extra length. Here are some tips to consider when choosing your fit:

• Consider Your Fit During Sizing: If your body measurements are between two sizes, consider whether you prefer a looser or tighter fit. If your hip and waist measurements fall under different size recommendations, choose the size that aligns with your hip measurement – you can tailor your pants for a better fit.
• Account for Layers: Gear like sliding shorts or high socks for knicker-style pants can have an effect on the overall fit. If you want a slim fit, consider whether your chosen size has room for additional gear underneath.

Maintenance and Care Tips

Proper care of your baseball uniform helps maintain its quality and durability for as long as possible.

Cleaning and Stain Removal

When in the field, your pants are likely to accumulate dirt and grass – on top of sweat and other debris your clothes collect. Proper cleaning ensures you can maintain the appearance and quality of your pants’ material integrity. Here are some best practices for cleaning baseball pants:

• Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Like any clothing, your pants should come with washing instructions. Following the prescribed washing instructions helps prevent fading.
• Pre-Treat Stains: Once you’ve removed your uniform, immediately apply an oxygen-based stain remover, a bit of liquid detergent, or a mixture of baking soda and water to break down the dirt. Soak your pants in cold water to loosen debris.
• Use Cold Water and a Mild Detergent: Using hot water can cause shrinkage and affect the fabric’s elasticity, while harsh detergents can wear down the fibers faster.
• Avoid Excessive Heat: Air dry your pants in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Direct heat exposure and sunlight can cause shrinking and weaken elasticity.
• Scrub High-Impact Areas: The knees, thighs, and seat area are prone to damage due to wear and tear while playing. Use a soft brush or a toothbrush to lift stubborn stains without damaging the fabric.
• Use White Vinegar for Odor Control: Vinegar is a natural deodorizer that can eliminate sweat and dirt smells without harming the fabric. Avoid using bleach, which can discolor polyester. 

Storage Recommendations

Proper storage of baseball pants can prevent unnecessary fabric damage. Store your pants in a cool, dry place. Hang your pants or fold them neatly to prevent wrinkles. For long-term storage, store your pants in a breathable garment bag to protect them against dust, moisture, and pests.

Shortly before baseball season arrives, give your pants time to air to get rid of any odors and accumulated dust. If you plan to travel with your gear, roll your pants instead of folding them to minimize creasing.

Hit It Out of the Park at Your Next Baseball Game – Shop for High-Quality Baseball Pants at Midway Sports

Choosing the right baseball pants involves evaluating different factors, including your preferred style, material, fit, and functional features. Whichever you select, the right types of baseball pants styles are those that can provide your desired level of comfort, durability, and performance.

Invest in your performance on the field. At Midway Sports, you can find baseball pants and other sportswear from premium brands like Nike and Under Armour. As an authorized dealer for top-notch sporting goods brands, we carefully curate our inventory to deliver options that ensure peak performance and a professional appearance.

Shop at Midway Sports today!