How to Choose Catcher Gear

A catcher's gear should be selected carefully because it is the first line of defense against the many hazards faced on the baseball diamond. A catcher needs far more equipment than any other player on the field and therefore needs to have greater preparation before stepping on the field.

Instructions

1. Pick shin guards and a chest protector that fit tightly. These items should not be loose. Also, select a chest protector that gives some protection to your throat and clavicle. Your shin guards should have an extension at the bottom that protects all the way down to the tops of your shoes.

2. Buy a protective cup to protect your groin area. This piece of equipment might be optional for other players, but is extremely important for a catcher. If you do not have a cup, it is important your coach knows this. You should not catch until you have one.

3. Get a catcher helmet. This is sometimes considered optional for catchers, but it will protect you from a stray back swing from a batter.

4. Select a throat guard. This is another piece of equipment sometimes considered optional, but could save your throat from a foul tipped baseball. Throat guards are made to fit onto your catching mask. Ensure your mask will accommodate the throat guard you choose.

5. Choose a soft glove with lots of padding to help save your hand from the sting of catching fastballs. Also consider a bigger glove rather than a smaller one. While it is important to quickly dig the baseball out of the glove when a runner is stealing, a bigger glove will offer you more protection.

6. Consider adding a pair of knee savers to your shin guards. Not only do they give you some padding when you must go down to your knees, they also provide some extra protection because they cover the hinge of your shin guards.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use catcher gear that is too small. If you have out grown your gear, get new equipment.