Girls! If you love to wear fake nails and at the same time a softball player, this one’s for you.
It’s natural for someone who wears artificial nails to worry whether they’re safe for softball. You could also be concerned that having long nails might be a violation of softball’s safety regulations. Hence, the common question is, “Can you play softball with acrylic nails?”
Softball allows for acrylic nails. However, some tweaks need to be made. Since it’s a hands-on sport, playing with long, low-quality acrylic nails can be challenging. Use only short, high-quality, moisturized acrylic nails.
The answer might be both yes and no, depending on your perspective. Don’t worry; you can still play softball even if you have artificial nails.
We will discuss the basics of acrylic nails. Also, the challenges they pose while playing softball. And you’ll get tips and alternatives for a comfortable and safe experience on the field.
Also, if you want to improve your softball throwing skills, don’t miss out on our guide.
The Basics of Acrylic Nails
First, let’s know about acrylic nails so that we’re all on the same page as we go forward. With acrylic nails, you can make your natural nails look longer and better by sticking fake ones on top of them.
They are made of a liquid and a powder that freezes when exposed to air. Women who want their nails to seem longer and stronger sometimes use acrylic extensions.
| Can You Play Softball With Acrylic Nails? You may wear acrylic nails while playing softball. However, several things may affect your performance on the field. Many women report feeling awkward and unattractive after getting artificial nails done. You should practice with your nails to play well, especially at more severe levels. Plays in the professional leagues are fast-paced. So, if you’re not used to wearing acrylic nails, it’ll be a distraction and affect your performance. If you insist on using acrylic nails for softball, try to make them comfortable so they can’t distract you. But it’s hardly rocket science to adapt your habit of wearing acrylic nails. |
Why Acrylic Nails Won’t Stop You From Playing Softball?
Playing softball is fun, but it may be taxing on your fingernails. You may play softball without worrying about damaging your nails when you have artificial nails.
Let’s know the top three reasons below:
Acrylic Fingernails Are Rigid Yet Flexible
When exposed to ultraviolet light, the liquid monomer and powder polymer are needed to make acrylic nails hardened. This ensures that they are sturdy and durable. So you can confidently play softball regardless of how hard the game gets.
Acrylic nails are flexible enough to allow you to play softball while still looking great. Catching or smashing the ball with these is painless since they flex with your finger. They may bend into a harmless shape while making a fist.
Nails Made Of Acrylic Have A Polished Finish
Since acrylic nails are smooth, they improve a player’s ability to hold onto the bat. They’re also more resistant to stray ball or bat swing damage. Since they’re so tough, you won’t have to worry about them snapping off as you slide into home plate.
Not Easily Damaged
Softball is a sport that uses your hands and fingers heavily. But if your nails are weak, you may struggle to master the fundamentals. Due to the durability of acrylic, your nails will not shatter as quickly from the impact of a ball. If you do this, you won’t have to worry about damaging your nails while playing softball.
Possible Challenges of Playing Softball with Acrylic Nails
There are a few reasons why artificial nails might make it challenging to play softball. First, getting a good hold on the ball and throwing it far might be difficult because of how long your nails are.
This may lower your performance and lead to injuries on the field. Making a clean catch when acrylic nails are in the way is also more challenging. Finally, the nails might break or fall out from the frequent contact and pressure. This can be uncomfortable and distracting when playing.
Basic Problems On The Playground
Nails that break or get broken during play may be dangerous for both players and the field. Players on the field may feel pain or perhaps get hurt by your long, sharp acrylic nails if you scratch or stab them. Also, If your fingernails get broken when playing, the long fake nails increase the probability of infection.
Effects On Playability
Sometimes acrylic nails can have negative impacts on your game.
Snatching The Ball And Holding On To It
It’s a big worry about playing softball with plastic nails. It affects the player’s grip and ability to catch the ball. Acrylic nails may be slick, reducing a player’s ability to hold the ball well. This may lead to miscommunication and a general decline in efficiency.
Hitting A Grand Slam
The inability to swing a bat well is another issue while using acrylic nails for softball. Having acrylic nails might make it more challenging to land a clean blow.
Furthermore, if a player’s acrylic nails get broken during play, it may affect the player’s grip on the bat. In turn, it may negatively affect the player’s performance.
Professional Tips For Playing Softball With Acrylic Nails
You should take a few precautions before taking the field in a softball game with acrylic nails. Make sure your nails can withstand the rigors of softball by starting there. Second, make sure your gloves are a good fit so they don’t get in the way while you’re trying to catch the ball. If your gloves don’t fit properly, you may always exchange them for a different size.
The following should also be kept in mind if you plan on playing softball with acrylic nails:
Acrylic Nails Should Be Kept Short
Nails should be kept short to avoid damage from everyday use that might result in chipping or cracking since they were not designed to be that way. You also don’t want them to be too sharp. Otherwise, the ball may hit them and into your hands rather than the bat.
Use Nail-safe Products To Avoid Damage
Using a product designed to prevent acrylic nails from breaking is an excellent precaution to take. Wearing gloves isn’t the only way to play sports safely. This may also help keep them clean and free of stains. Using a top coat is another smart move for maintaining the health of your acrylic nails. This will prevent them from becoming wet and keep them looking excellent.
Use Lotion
Apply lotion to your hands often. If you want your acrylic nails to last as long as possible, it’s a good idea to moisturize your hands daily. After each softball game, apply some lotion to your skin. Usually, you have some downtime before practice or a game, right?
Use Hand Cream
Apply some hand cream. We particularly recommend it if you plan on using a lot of sunscreen or insect spray. A hand cream containing glycerin is recommended for optimal moisturization. Better than anything else, it will prevent moisture loss.
Fill In The Nails
If you want to keep your acrylic nails in good shape for softball, you should have them filled often. Constantly catching and hitting balls may cause chips and breaks in acrylic, so filling it in is a good idea. Avoid the hassle of frequent fill-ins by discussing with your manicurist the possibility of wearing nails made from a more durable substance.
Invest In High-quality Artificial Nails
Research is the first step in any endeavor, not just with artificial nails. The price of acrylic nails might vary widely depending on the nail shop and technician used.
Observe The Reviews
Do your homework by checking out testimonials on several websites and asking people you know for recommendations. This is a quick and easy approach to find a salon or professional you can trust.
Optimal Playing Posture With Acrylic Nails
Acrylic nails are best suited for left or right field in softball. This is because, unlike the center fielder or shortstop, they don’t have to react quickly to the ball and may instead focus on making a play. As a result, having artificial nails won’t affect your efficiency to the same extent.
Remember that it isn’t worth it to wear artificial nails in softball if they are causing any performance impairment. However, if your nails are kept short and covered with acrylic, they will stay in the way.
Batting Position
The batter is another excellent field position. You don’t need to worry about how your fake nails will affect your batting. Worrying about your nails in the heat of battle is not a good idea.
Shortstop
The shortstop position is the toughest to play with artificial nails. They’re always in touch with the ball despite their busy schedule. Extreme dives and bends make it hard to use even a medium-length acrylic nail as one.
Comparing Advantages and Disadvantages
| Pros | Cons |
| Enhanced appearance on the field | Difficulty gripping and throwing the ball properly |
| Long and polished nails | Interference while catching the ball |
| Durable and longer-lasting nails | Potential distraction and discomfort during the game |
The Bottom Line
Acrylic nails won’t prevent you from playing softball. But they might be less convenient. So, still thinking, “Can you play softball with acrylic nails”?
Well, take all the essential precautions and think about having shorter, rounder nails if you want to experiment with acrylics. Gel manicures and regular manicures are two more alternatives to consider. The most crucial aspect of playing is your sense of ease and confidence. So, choose the method that best suits you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the alternatives to acrylic nails?
Consider looking into alternatives to artificial nails if you play softball often. Gel nails are a viable alternative since they are thinner and more adaptable than acrylic nails. They are more durable, break less often, and won’t get in the way of your work. If you don’t like the appearance of your nails while they’re long and thickened with acrylic, a basic manicure with nail paint is another choice.
How do you treat an acrylic nail infection?
Terbinafine, an oral drug, will likely be recommended by your doctor. You may need to take this drug regularly for a few months. Your doctor may also recommend Nail polish removers like Loceryl 5% or Amorolfine. Over time, these should kill off the fungus.
Can you always have acrylic nails on?
Getting touch-ups every two to three weeks will help you keep your fake nails in place for longer. This is because your real nails will grow in between applications. Touch-ups too often might cause irreparable harm to your natural nails. Artificial nails may cause your natural nails to become weak, brittle, and dry.
