Purchasing a new baseball glove might seem straightforward, but in today’s baseball landscape, where performance is key, choosing the right glove is crucial. Parents and players alike are looking for gloves that not only look great but also enhance fielding and catching abilities. If you’re navigating this process, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about baseball glove sizing, ensuring your player can field and catch at their highest potential.
Let’s dive into the essential steps for sizing a baseball glove correctly!
Step 1: Getting Familiar with Baseball Glove Anatomy
Before we delve into sizing, understanding the basic anatomy of a baseball glove is fundamental. Knowing each part will make the sizing process and glove selection much clearer. Here are the key components you should be aware of:
- Index Finger: Almost all baseball gloves are designed with four finger slots plus a thumb slot. The design intends for each of your fingers to correspond with a slot in the glove (your index finger goes into the glove’s index finger slot, and so on). This design maximizes control and feel.
- Palm: The palm is the primary catching area of the glove. Ideally, the ball should be caught in the pocket, located just below the web. The palm shell is constructed from a single piece of leather that forms the palm, fingers, and thumb area of the glove, providing structure and durability.
- Heel: This is the bottommost part of the glove, situated at the base of the palm. The heel is typically padded to offer extra protection and aid fielders in handling ground balls, reducing sting and improving control upon impact.
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Step 2: Understanding Baseball Glove Measurement
It’s important to understand how baseball gloves are measured to ensure accurate sizing. Manufacturers measure the length of fielder’s gloves and first base mitts from the bottom of the glove’s heel to the tip of the index finger. This measurement is taken when the palm leather is laid flat before the glove is assembled. This standardized method ensures consistency across different brands and models.
If you’re measuring a glove you already own, the best approach is to use a flexible paper ruler or a fabric measuring tape. This allows you to follow the curve of the glove’s index finger, palm, and heel. However, keep in mind that your measurement might slightly differ from the manufacturer’s listed size due to minor warping of the leather during the glove’s construction process. These slight variations are normal and generally don’t significantly impact the glove’s performance.
Catcher’s mitts are measured differently. Instead of length, their size is determined by the circumference of the mitt’s palm shell. Refer to the image below for a visual guide on how catcher’s mitts are measured.
How Baseball Glove and Mitt Sizes are Measured
Similar to fielder’s gloves, when measuring the circumference of a catcher’s mitt at home, use a flexible measuring tape to follow the curve of the palm. Again, be aware that your measurement may vary slightly from the listed circumference due to leather warping during manufacturing.
Step 3: Consider Your Baseball Position
Before selecting a size, it’s crucial to know that every baseball glove and mitt has its size clearly marked, usually etched in the leather on the thumb or pinky finger. This stamped size can serve as a useful reference point. If your player is comfortable with their current glove size and performing well, sticking with a similar length is a reasonable approach. However, if the current glove isn’t optimal, considering position-specific sizing is essential for improved performance. Different positions on the baseball field demand gloves of varying sizes to optimize fielding capabilities.
Step 4: Choosing The Right Baseball Glove Size
By now, you should have a solid understanding of glove anatomy, how glove sizes are measured, and the importance of position. This knowledge equips you to make an informed decision on glove size. While personal preference plays a role, there are general guidelines based on age and position that can significantly simplify the selection process, especially for youth players. For a straightforward guide to glove sizes based on age and position, consult the table below:
| AGE | Under 8 | 8 – 10 | 11 – 13 | Over 13 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catcher | 30″ | 30 – 31″ | 30 – 32.5″ | 32 – 35″ |
| First Base | 10.5″ | 10.5 – 12″ | 11.5 – 12″ | 12 – 13″ |
| Second Base / Shortstop | 9 – 10.5″ | 10.5 – 11.25″ | 11 – 11.5″ | 11.25 – 11.5″ |
| Third Base | 9 – 10.5″ | 10.5 – 11.5″ | 11 – 11.75″ | 11.5 – 12″ |
| Pitcher | 9 – 10.5″ | 10.5 – 11.5″ | 11.5 – 12″ | 11.5 – 12″ |
| Outfield | 9 – 10.5″ | 10 – 12″ | 11.75 – 12.75″ | 12 – 13″ |
This chart provides a general range, and individual player preferences and body size can influence the ideal glove size. It serves as an excellent starting point in your glove selection process.
Step 5: Time To Get Your Glove!
Congratulations, you’re now well-versed in baseball glove sizing! With your newfound expertise, you’re ready to confidently choose the perfect baseball glove for your needs.
Once you’ve selected your ideal glove, remember that breaking it in properly is just as crucial as choosing the right size. Learn how to break in your glove effectively to ensure it’s game-ready and performs optimally.
Bonus Glove Buying Tips:
- Righty or Lefty?: Determine whether you or your player throws with the right or left hand. The glove is always worn on the non-throwing hand. This is a fundamental, but easily overlooked, aspect of glove selection.
- Match Glove to Needs and Budget: Select a glove that aligns with your budget and anticipated level of play. For younger players just beginning, a more affordable glove that breaks in quickly might be suitable. However, for players over 12 who are serious about baseball, investing in a higher-quality, genuine leather glove is often a worthwhile investment for durability and performance.
- Trust Your Feel: Ultimately, your personal comfort and confidence with the glove are paramount. Consider pocket depth, web pattern, and finger stall fit. Choose a glove that feels right and performs the way you need it to. Your personal preference is a critical factor in glove selection.
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Remember, the size recommendations provided are averages and might not be perfect for every player. Always consider the size chart in conjunction with personal preferences. Don’t hesitate in your size selection! With JustGloves Glove Assurance, you have the option to try out a glove, even break it in, and still return it if it’s not the right fit. This program takes the risk out of online glove buying, ensuring you’re not stuck with an ill-fitting glove.
Still unsure about sizing a baseball glove? Our Glove Experts are here to assist! Contact them by phone at 866-321-4568, email at [email protected], or via Live Chat for personalized guidance. They are ready to help you from the initial click to the final catch!
