Last Updated on July 22, 2023 by Matt Musico
Choosing the right baseball glove can be a daunting task. After all, there are lots of sizes and styles on the market. Finding the right one for you can make a huge difference on the field. Part of that journey is asking yourself the following question: What size baseball glove do I need?
We’ll go through all the things you should consider to answer this question accurately.
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Understanding Baseball Glove Sizes
There are a few things you should know when it comes to choosing the right baseball glove size. It will vary depending on what position you play, your age, and last but most certainly not least, your personal preference.
Infielders typically use smaller gloves, while outfielders require larger gloves to cover more ground. Catchers and first basemen also use unique gloves designed to help them catch baseballs flying in their general direction.
Youth players should use smaller and lighter gloves, while high school and college players typically use larger ones. The size of your glove should be comfortable and fit snugly on your hand. Manufacturers provide a size chart that outlines the recommended size based on age and position. The chart usually lists the ideal glove size in inches, making it easy to compare and select the right size.
Related: Find the Best Youth Baseball Glove: 8 Top Picks for Players
Factors Influencing Glove Size
Age
The age of a player is an important factor in determining the proper baseball glove size.
Players between the ages of 5 and 7 should use gloves between 10 and 10.5 inches, while players between the ages of 8 and 13 should use gloves between 10.5 and 11.5 inches. Players between the ages of 14 and 18 typically use gloves between 10.5 and 12.5 inches.
Position
As mentioned before, infielders typically use smaller gloves than outfielders. That’s because they need to quickly transfer the ball out of their glove to make a throw across the diamond. Catchers use much larger gloves in order to handle fastballs, changeups, breaking balls, and pitches in the dirt. Outfielders will use a larger glove to make catching fly balls a little easier.
Size
A smaller player may need a smaller glove to ensure a proper fit, while a larger player may need a bigger glove to accommodate their hand size.
How to Measure for a Baseball Glove
To find the right baseball glove size, measure the distance from the tip of the index finger to the base of the heel. This will give you the size of the glove in inches. That number is often etched into the leather on the pinky or thumb of gloves.
To measure a catcher’s mitt, flatten the palm/pocket side of the mitt down on a stable surface. Measure from the top of the index finger to the bottom of the heel to get the size in inches.
When measuring for a youth glove, keep in mind that the average size for a youth infielder glove is between 10 and 11 inches. High school to professional infielder gloves average between 10.5 and 11.5 inches. Outfield gloves are larger than most other positions and can be between 12 and 13 inches.
Choosing the Right Glove
When choosing a baseball glove, keep the following three things in mind.
Comfort. A comfortable glove should fit snugly but not be too tight. Look for a glove with a wrist strap to keep it secure.
Material. Leather gloves are more durable and provide better protection, but they can be expensive. Synthetic gloves are more affordable and easier to break in, but they may not last as long.
Price. Prices for baseball gloves can range from under $20 to over $300. Consider how often you will use the glove and your budget. It may be worth investing in a higher-quality glove if you’re a serious player.
Related: How to Oil a Baseball Glove: A Beginner’s Guide (2023)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to buying a baseball glove, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. They’ll sound familiar thanks to our earlier talking points.
One of the biggest mistakes is buying a glove that is too small or too big. A glove that is too small will make catching a ball hard, while a glove that is too big will be difficult to control. Another is not considering the position you play. Different positions require different glove sizes. Pay attention to those details because doing so will help set you up for success.
Finally, don’t forget to break in your glove. Many people make the mistake of not doing that, which can make them difficult to use. Breaking in your glove involves using it regularly and applying oil to help soften the leather.
It’s easy to see how important it is to choose the right baseball glove size before hitting the diamond. By following these simple guidelines, you should be able to find the right piece of leather that’ll be your companion on the field.
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