Sliding, feet first or head first?
If you’re like me, you might slide head first, especially on close calls. When you slide into a base, that could be the difference between winning and losing the game. How you slide is up to you. If you have good instincts, you will know whether the head-first slide is necessary for a close play.
Why you May Need to Slide
From experience, I will tell you that learning how to slide properly will minimize any injuries that may occur.
When you first learn to slide, you are taught to slide feet first. This tends to be the easiest and safest way to slide.
Essentially, as a base-runner, on a fair ball you have to advance to the next base. When the fielder throw to the base, you need to avoid running the player who standing there, ready to catch the ball.
Collisions are dangerous, each player has their part, from the player who aims and throws the ball, to the base person who is braced to catch the ball and sweep the tag, to the runner who needs to get ready to slide into the base.
Learn how to slide properly
Slide With Leg Extended
The most common slide is when you extend your leg to touch the base with your foot. The technique is to tuck your other leg under the extended leg and slide towards the base. 
Slide Head First
The head-first slide can be more dangerous and should only be used in situations that require you to reach the bag safely. When you slide head first, your arm(s) is/are extended above your head as you reach for the bag.
When to Slide
A runner needs to slide when there is a play at any base or home plate, to avoid a collision with the player defending the bag. The goal is to reach the bag in time to avoid being tagged out, and sliding is the safest way to avoid colliding with the player who is waiting to catch the ball.
Safety Note: Start your Slide early. If you slide too late, you risk serious injury.
Another reason to slide is when you have to return quickly to the base when a ball is caught and you’re off the bag. Head first dives are a perfect way to reach the base safely.
Conclusion
Base sliding is a part of the game, and one that must be practiced regularly. Once you have practiced sliding a few times, you will get a feel for it. The next thing is to ‘know’ when to slide. That is when a an alert base coach will let you know if you need to slide or not.
As Always, if you have any questions about base sliding or any other softball-related topic, send your inquiries to the Coach, using the contact form.