Little League has drawn together millions of children, parents and volunteers from six continents and scores of countries into a common purpose. Little League enhance children's love and knowledge of baseball, improves their baseball skills, and fosters teamwork, esteem, social skills, fitness and discipline. Little League has established rules regarding equipment to assure that no children or teams obtain unfair advantage. Local leagues can vary in the standards and rules they apply for equipment, so check with your community league before you purchase any equipment.
Bats
Bats approved by Little League will have "Little League Approved" markings. Bats can be no more than 2 1/4 inches in diameter and must be shorter than 33 inches. Non-wood bats should have a bat performance factor of 1.15 or less. Junior's bats can be no longer than 34 inches and no wider than 2 5/8 inches in diameter. Senior bats can be no longer than 36 inches and should have a diameter of 2 5/8 inches or less. Senior bats must be marked with the Ball Exit Speed Ratio certification. Some local leagues do not allow wood bats due to liability issues.
Gloves
Though some local Little Leagues specify their own rules, Little League provides specific limits for glove sizes and types. Fielders' gloves must be less than 7 3/4 inches across the palm, while first baseman gloves must be 8 inches or less across the palm and no more than 12 inches from top to bottom. Gloves are measured from the heel of the glove, up the inside of the pocket to the top of the index finger using a flexible tape measure. A pitcher is not allowed to use a gray or white glove. Check with your community Little League to affirm local standards.
Catcher's Mitt And Gear
The catcher's mitt and gear are provided by the team. Catchers who wish to practice at home with a live pitcher and batter should obtain practice equipment. Catching should not be attempted without proper gear. Check local sporting good stores or look for gear at a used sporting gear store.
Baseballs
Your local team will provide game and practice balls that meet local league guidelines. For practice at home, any standard baseball 2.94 inches in diameter should suffice.
Batting Helmets
Batting helmets are provided by your team. All helmets should have the "Approved For All Youth Baseball" stamp. To avoid possible serious injury, you should buy a helmet if you plan on having your child practice batting at home. Look for youth baseball approved helmets or helmets with the NOCSAE stamp.
Athletic Supporters
All boys are required to wear athletic supporters, though community leagues don't always check. To be safe, have your child wear a supporter for practices and games.
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