According to the US Consumer Products Safety Commission, more than 620,000 baseball-related injuries are reported each year. These include serious injuries such as fractures and dislocations plus strains, sprains, cuts and bruises. Protective gear and clothing can help protect baseball players from injury. All equipment, such as helmets and cleats, must fit properly in order to provide optimal protection.
Helmet
Each baseball player must wear a protective helmet at all times. The helmet must cover the entire head as well as the ears. Some players may choose to add a face shield or face mask or wear a mouth guard to provide extra protection for the chin, nose and mouth. A catcher must wear a helmet as well as a face mask and throat protector. Ensure that the helmet fits properly onto the player. A loose helmet will not protect the wearer from injury nearly as well as a properly fitted one.
Gloves
A pair of sweaty hands may result in a bat swinging wildly out of control. Don on a pair of batting gloves to prevent a slippery grip. Batting gloves may also protect the hands from blisters as well as provide a layer of padding to protect the palm and the wrist from possible injury. Outfielders must have fielder gloves that match their outfield position. Some may also wear a glove inside their catching mitt, which provides extra protection for the index finger and palm.
Cleats
In order to prevent foot injuries, baseball players must invest in a pair of properly fitting cleats. Cleats provide protection and support for the feet, toes and ankle, added traction to run the bases as well as padding or cushioning for shock absorption. Many baseball cleats also provide features to help wick sweat away from skin as well. To ensure proper protection, visit a sporting goods store to have your feet sized each baseball season.
Athletic Supporters
Wild pitches and flying bats may mean serious damage to a baseball player's body. To protect the groin area, it is highly recommended that male baseball players wear athletic supporters, such as a jock strap. Not only do they protect the groin area, they also help circulate air and wick away sweat, which helps keep your focus on the game. Other athletic support options include a supporter cup.
Slider Pants
Worn beneath a baseball uniform, slider pants protect a baseball player's hips and thighs from injury when sliding into bases or other players. Resembling a pair of extra long briefs, many slider pants feature extra padding around the hips and thighs as well as fabrics that wick sweat away from the skin. Some may also come with some form of athletic support such as a jock strap or a protective cup already integrated into the pants.
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