How to Size a Youth Baseball Glove
Youth baseball gloves come in smaller sizes than standard baseball gloves to give children better control. The appropriate size for a child's glove depends on what position he is playing, his size, skill level and personal preference. Several types of youth baseball gloves are available, and they are priced according to their quality. The webbing, padding, pocket depth and back style varies from glove to glove.
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Instructions
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Based on the child's position, he will need a specific kind of glove. Outfielder's, infielder's and catcher's gloves all vary in style and size. Obtain a glove with shallow pockets for a child playing an infield position. Shallow pockets will allow the child to quickly remove and throw the ball after catching it. Outfielders should select a glove with deep pockets to help them catch fly balls. Youth baseball gloves can have either an open or closed back. Open backs are better suited for outfielders, as they provide greater support for catching fly balls. Closed-back gloves give infielders greater flexibility when attempting to make difficult plays. First base gloves are designed to be longer than other infield gloves, allowing the child to more easily catch throws. A first baseman's glove resembles a catcher's mitt, but does not have as much padding.
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For a child under the age of 8, select a infield glove size of 9 inches or an outfield glove of 11 inches. A child between the ages of 8 and 13 should have an infield glove from 9 to 10 inches or an outfield glove between 11 and 12 inches. For players between the ages of 14 and 17, choose an infield glove between 10.5 and 11.5 inches or an outfield glove between 12 and 12.5 inches.
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Choose a youth catcher's mitt that is 31 inches or smaller. Anything larger than that is considered an adult mitt. Catcher's mitts are heavily padded to cushion the player's hand throughout the game.
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Break in and treat the child's baseball glove before use. Creams, oils or foam products will soften the leather of the glove and help it to fit better. Also, mold the glove to the fit of a baseball by placing a baseball in the pocket and wrapping a rubber band around the outside of the glove. Allow the child's glove to mold to this shape by leaving it in this position for one to two days.
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Tips & Warnings
Always try on a glove or mitt before purchasing, as online guides and baseball company ratings only offer a general idea of sizing.
Most pitchers will prefer a glove with closed webbing in order to hide the ball from the batter when pitching.
Choose a youth baseball glove made out of a material that fits the child's skill level. Synthetic materials are ideal for novice players, as they are inexpensive and are not intended for highly-competitive performance. Select a treated leather glove for a child that is not a novice, but does not yet play at an expert level. Treated leather gloves are durable and can be broken in more easily than a glove made of synthetic materials. Choose a leather glove for an experienced youth player participating in highly-competitive leagues. Leather gloves provide the most comfort and control.
Do not over-apply creams and oils to soften gloves. Remove excess product after application.
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- Photo Credit baseball in glove image by leafy from Fotolia.com
