How to Size Youth Baseball Gloves

How to Size Youth Baseball Gloves
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Baseball gloves are an essential piece of equipment for youth leagues. But choosing a glove for a child can be a difficult process. In order to find the perfect glove, it is important to keep several considerations in mind, including player position, price range, and the child's age and size. Finally, the young athlete should try on several gloves to find the one that fits best.

Step 1

Determine what position the athlete will be playing. Outfielders use longer gloves in order to catch fly balls, and infielders using shorter gloves to get the ball out quickly. Catchers use a third type of glove which doesn't have fingers. Often youth league athletes will rotate positions, so a utility glove may be best.

Step 2

Choose a price range. Children grow rapidly and may quickly outgrow their glove. A good-quality glove may cost at least $60, but it will last longer and may feel more comfortable. A lower-quality glove will be cheaper, and can be easily replaced.

Step 3

Choose the right fit. This is important in order to promote optimal performance. Children under the age of five typically start with a nine-inch youth glove. Kids above the age of nine may begin to move up to an 11-inch glove.

Tips and Warnings

  • Gloves vary based on weight, size and fit, so try various gloves and see which ones feel best.
  • A glove that is too big can hinder a player from developing proper skills.

References

Article reviewed by Roman Tsivkin Last updated on: Aug 24, 2010

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