to top 10 table

10 Best Kids’ Baseball Gloves in 2024

last updated Nov 12, 2019

Finding a baseball glove for a young player is not easy. There are so many sizes, brands, models, and other things that affect the fit of the glove that it really makes the whole process a bit challenging, especially for parents of first-time players

It’s not like a bat where everyone is using the same one. If you are searching for the perfect baseball glove then look no further. We have created a list of well-constructed and perfect sized baseball gloves for the kids. The list features gloves that will last multiple seasons and give them the confidence they need to perform well on the field.

In a Hurry? The test winner after 31 hrs of research

icon
Franklin Sports Air Tech Foam
98.7/100 our score
Safety
99
Ease of Use
99
Materials
98
Franklin Sports Air Tech Foam
Why is it better?

Colorful red, white, and blue design.

Made of soft, foam like material so there is less sting when the ball hits the glove.

Helps little ones learn the game and more easily close their hand around the the ball.

Watch your child’s eyes light up when he hits the ball far afield.

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Franklin Sports Air Tech Foam
Test Winner: Franklin Sports Air Tech Foam
Amazon Link
Researched Sources
23
Researched Sources
Hours Researching
31
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
15
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Angeline Mirenda:

We’ve replaced two gloves that are no longer easily accessible. We’ve also updated our image cache and restructured our explanations of how we evaluate the ease of use of our favorite gloves, as well as the materials used in their construction.

Sorting Options
Safety Ease of Use Materials By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98.7
Safety
99 %
Ease of Use
99 %
Materials
98 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$19.63
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98
Safety
98 %
Ease of Use
99 %
Materials
97 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$26.40
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.7
Safety
96 %
Ease of Use
98 %
Materials
96 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$49.68
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.3
Safety
97 %
Ease of Use
98 %
Materials
94 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.3
Safety
96 %
Ease of Use
97 %
Materials
96 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$14.99
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95.7
Safety
97 %
Ease of Use
95 %
Materials
95 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95.3
Safety
96 %
Ease of Use
95 %
Materials
95 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$19.98
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.7
Safety
94 %
Ease of Use
95 %
Materials
95 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$54.99
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93.3
Safety
92 %
Ease of Use
95 %
Materials
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
Safety
90 %
Ease of Use
93 %
Materials
93 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (11.12.24)
Amazon Link
$26.03

10 Best Baseball Gloves for Kids Reviewed

1. Franklin Sports Air Tech Foam

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98.7
franklin sports air tech foam kids baseball gloves
franklin sports air tech foam kids baseball gloves pattern
franklin sports air tech foam kids baseball gloves red
Amazon Link
Safety
99
Ease of Use
99
Materials
98
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$19.63

Colorful red, white, and blue design.

Made of soft, foam like material so there is less sting when the ball hits the glove.

Helps little ones learn the game and more easily close their hand around the the ball.

Watch your child’s eyes light up when he hits the ball far afield.

Some say the glove is too small for kids of 5 years.

If you’ve shopped for sports equipment before, you’re probably familiar with Franklin. The company is the home of a lot of professional equipment and has been around since 1946. This glove is a fun, colorful option for kids that still holds to Franklin’s high quality standards. It’s easy to maneuver and break in, and also comes with extra cushioning so kids can catch those fly balls without the accompanying sting.

Read more

Safety

The Special Edition Air Tech comes with a soft foam outer shell so your child’s young hands won’t necessarily feel the impact of the ball hitting the insides of the mitt. This issue has been further addressed by the inclusion of an equally soft and lightweight Air Tech ball so your young child will be having lots of fun throwing and catching the lightweight ball until such time that he has grown more confident with the sport. The Special Edition Air Tech is soft and very flexible so it can be easily opened and closed even by the smallest hands in your family. And it fits perfectly, too, thanks to a wrist enclosure made of Velcro. With a red, white, and blue design you can also instill a certain sense of pride in your kid for being an American.

Ease of Use

While Franklin Sports does not have the long history of sports equipment manufacturing tradition enjoyed by Mizuno and Rawlings, having been established only in 1946, the company is nevertheless known for introducing to the world the very first batting gloves. These are mitts worn specifically by batters as they go to the plate to hit home runs and flyers. The original design was conjured by the owner of the company, Irving Franklin, and the 3rd baseman Hall of Famer from the Phillies, Mike Schmidt. Today, the company still specializes in batting gloves but has largely expanded into other baseball equipment that are now used both in the MB and the Little League as well as leagues all over the world. The 9 inch Special Edition Air Tech Soft Foam Baseball Glove and Ball Set may not be your best youth baseball glove but it sure can provide the experience of being a Hall of Famer to your young child.

Materials

Your little one will love playing with this mitt, though she might have to grow into it a bit. It is meant for the just above toddler crowd. The little ones find that this glove is easier to close than a leather glove. The mitt is soft and comes with a soft ball that the kids love to play with just by itself. It’s good for T-ball, as it’s a bit heavier than a plastic ball. The mitt is left handed so that a child can throw with his right.

2. Franklin Sports Teeball Performance Set

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
98
franklin sports teeball performance set kids baseball gloves
franklin sports teeball performance set kids baseball gloves inside
franklin sports teeball performance set kids baseball gloves ball
Amazon Link
Safety
98
Ease of Use
99
Materials
97
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$26.40

No need to break this glove in.

Comes in a variety of colors.

Comes with a light ball so you can play right away.

Available for right or left handed throwers

Complaints were more about size than anything else. It fits different on everyone.

Introduce your little sports star to T-ball or baseball with this RTP Performance Glove from Franklin Sports. Perfect for a beginner, this glove is made with light materials so little ones can practice safely, not having to fear getting hit in the face with a big, heavy ball. This glove does come with a ball. Perfect for T-ball play so they can learn the game. Have fun right out of the box, as the glove is preconditioned so there is no need for you to do it.

Read more

Safety

With an excellent experience working with many of the league’s and sports industry’s best athletes and sportsmen, Franklin Sports continues to design and manufacture superb quality products for everyone to enjoy. If the Rawling 2017 looks quite childish for your taste, then maybe the RTP Teebal Performance Gloves and Ball Combo will appeal more. Finger stalls are duly lined with cool touch materials so your kid’s digits will still feel comfy inside.

Ease of Use

Like all Franklin products, the RTP Teeball comes with the signature comfortable design that’s well-known of the company. The ball mitt also requires no break-ins as its construction has been well engineered to be as flexible and pliable as a really seasoned mitt. And combined with a very friendly price, the RTP Teeball youth baseball gloves and ball are excellent starter kits for any youngster who would like to follow in the footsteps of Joe Namath, Babe Ruth, and other baseball greats.BENEFITS

Materials

Available in 2 designs specific for boys and girls as well as in right- and left- handed players, the RTP Teeball consists of a PVC shell giving it lightweight features that will help your child train properly with the basics of catching the ball without being constrained by weight issues.

3. Rawlings Player Preferred

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.7
rawlings player preferred kids baseball gloves
rawlings player preferred kids baseball gloves brown
rawlings player preferred kids baseball gloves top view
Amazon Link
Safety
96
Ease of Use
98
Materials
96
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$49.68

Pre-oiled

Player only needs to break in the glove about 20% of the way

Leather stitching for durability and longevity

Zero shock palm padding absorbs ball’s impact

Basket-web makes the glove suitable for most field positions

On the larger side for kids; better for preteens and teens

If you’ve got a preteen or teen looking for a tried and true glove that can stick with them for a few years, the Rawlings Player Preferred exceeds expectations. This glove comes pre-oiled, making the break-in process faster and easier and allowing players to concentrate on the game and honing their skills instead of trying to navigate stiff leather. It’s versatile and suitable for most positions, as well as having a zero impact shock absorption layer.

Read more

Safety

With zero shock palm padding, fastballs won’t leave anyone stinging after a game-saving catch. A flex loop velcro strap makes for easy adjustment and custom fit, and the basket-web is versatile and meant to support the demands of most any position on the field.

Ease of Use

If your child’s passed the tee ball stage and farm days, and has their eyes on the big (or little!) leagues, the Rawlings Player Preferred Glove is a quality choice. This glove comes 80% broken in straight from the factory, and pre-oiled, so players won’t be fighting stiff material and spending weeks trying to replicate the fit and feel of their last glove.

Materials

One of the worst things about new gloves (or really new anything) is how long it takes to break them in. This is why Rawlings calls this model the Player Preferred. Your child will be back to catching like a seasoned pro in no time at all with the pre-oiling and factory break-in. That means less time googling tricks of the trade to soften the glove up and more time out there practicing their hand-eye coordination, endurance, agility, and teamwork.

4. Wilson A200 MLB Ten-Inch

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.3
wilson youth kids baseball gloves
wilson youth kids baseball gloves front
wilson youth kids baseball gloves giants
Amazon Link
Safety
97
Ease of Use
98
Materials
94
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Soft and flexible

Lightweight design

Lots of fun styles to choose from

Easy to break in; good beginner glove

Some parents were disappointed in the quality for the price

The Wilson A2000 MLB Ten-Inch Glove is one of the trendiest models on the market. You can purchase this glove in a whole host of different styles. Choose your favorite MLB team and receive a glove with their logo printed right in the middle. Or opt for a red, white, and blue design that’s available for lefties and righties alike.

Read more

Safety

This glove is really meant for little ones who are starting out with T-Ball. Don’t expect professional quality performance. But if you want something cute and effective, this is a good choice. Baseball fans will be especially enthusiastic as they can choose their favorite team’s design.

Ease of Use

T-Ball runs at a slower pace and has a little more guidance to it than other forms of baseball, so this glove is just right for newcomers. It’s flexible and allows kids to start grasping the basic proponent of clamping down on the ball once it’s in their grasp.

Materials

Made with soft, lush EVA material, this glove is flexible and lightweight. It features an H-Web design between the thumb and fingers. It measures roughly 10” and is available in the colors and with the logos of all 30 MLB teams.

5. Teeball Left Hand

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
96.3
teeball left hand kids baseball gloves
teeball left hand kids baseball gloves inside look
teeball left hand kids baseball gloves ball
Amazon Link
Safety
96
Ease of Use
97
Materials
96
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$14.99

Comes in fun colors

Mesh design makes the glove flexible and breathable

Softer for an increased range of motion

Easier to use for players just starting out

Comes with a baseball

The baseball included is not as pictured

Beginners can sometimes be turned off of baseball due to how uncomfortable the equipment feels. This colorful little glove is designed specifically to provide an increased range of motion through a softer texture so little ones that are just starting out can still enjoy their time on the field. Breathable mesh means this glove won’t get sweaty too quickly, either.

Read more

Safety

With a softer glove, the act of squeezing your fingers together to catch a baseball is made increasingly easier. This glove allows the flexibility that smaller kids need to successfully catch the ball without worrying about extra tension or tightness in their glove.

Ease of Use

It’s great for young baseball players because it gives a better range of motion to those who are not yet used to the heaviness that comes with a traditional baseball glove. This is a lighter option with way more versatility as far as squeezing the ball goes which makes it perfect for younger kids.

Materials

This glove, in particular, is designed for beginners and even has a unique and colorful flair to it. For baseball players who are stylish as well as down-and-dirty sports fans, this glove is a perfect choice. The glove itself is constructed with a traditional mesh design while incorporating colors that are definitely not traditional, but super fun anyway! The glove was designed to be a bit softer to allow for easier flexibility which, in turn, makes for easier catches.

6. Rawlings PL90MB Youth

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95.7
rawlings PL90MB youth kids baseball glove
rawlings PL90MB youth kids baseball glove black and red
rawlings PL90MB youth kids baseball glove inside view
Amazon Link
Safety
97
Ease of Use
95
Materials
95
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Woven web gives glove more flexibility for easy grasping of ball

Durable and holds up to use.For 3 to 5 year olds.

Buyers say it’s great for beginners.

Some people received the wrong glove.

Helping to outfit baseball players since the 1880s, Rawlings has been around for a long time and thus knows the best ways to support your little one. This glove is meant for tots, mostly tee-ball players, and is soft and flexible to allow them to play without having to go through the painful process of breaking in a new glove.

Read more

Safety

It comes with a soft core baseball training ball so kids will really have a feel for what it’s like to throw and catch a 9 inch ball. The PL90MB is designed for right-handed throwers only, meaning it is worn on the left hand. This should be clear as confusion may arise as to what a right-handed glove means. While the PL90MB is flexible, it does require some amount of breaking in. Never skip this process as it can literally spell the difference between a wonderful baseball experience and a rather traumatic one.

Ease of Use

With its patented BasketWeb system, Rawlings PL90MB Players Series 9 Inch Youth Baseball Gloves offer exceptional catching capabilities because of its flexible construction. Designed with young children aged 3 to 5 years old in mind, the PL90MB is Rawlings’ answer to the kiddie baseball glove sets of Franklin Sports, providing youngsters with a 9 inch T-ball pattern that should be perfect for beginning players.

Materials

You and your daughter will have so much fun exploring the possibility of her becoming a star! This glove has a great webbed design that helps with flexibility so your child can learn to hang onto the ball. This is a durable glove that will stand up to some punishment. Have a ball playing in the backyard or in little league. You can celebrate your little one’s joyous wins and commiserate the losses while learning the game of baseball.

7. Franklin Sports Field Master Series

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
95.3
franklin sports field master series kids baseball gloves
franklin sports field master series kids baseball gloves yellow
franklin sports field master series kids baseball gloves right hand
Amazon Link
Safety
96
Ease of Use
95
Materials
95
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$19.98

Premium synthetic leather outside for durability

Soft palm synthetic material inside for added comfort

Just right fit system with adjustable thumb

Hand formed a pocket system for ease of catching or scooping

Increased flex with a webbed basket

Material does not breathe, causes sweaty hand

Pam padding is minimal, basket catching is ideal

The Franklin Field Master is a great pick for kids who are slightly older or have been out on the field for a few years. It’s less padded than some beginner gloves and also less breathable, but it’s closer to the fit, feel, and functionality of the kinds of gloves professionals use. Synthetic leather allows for durability so this glove can grow with your kid’s baseball career.

Read more

Safety

Give the kids the power of baseball with this glove. It is a featured baseball glove that is a part of the field mater series. It is a smaller sized glove that has been designed for the little ones, but that does not mean that it is any less durable or soft. The outside of the glove has been designed with synthetic leather for durability and the inside features the synthetic palm. The design of the glove and the fit are made to contour the hand. It has a Contour Fir System that allows the player to be able to adjust the fingers to their liking. It allows them to feel like a champ while wearing a glove that fits securely and protects their hand like the players in the big league.

Ease of Use

The catching system even makes it easy for them to play like those big leaguers, too. The pocket for catching uses a hand formed technology that makes for the perfect way to have the player perform a scoop up or a catch with ease. The webbing in the back provides them with increased flexibility and comfort during the game. This glove is available for both left hand and right handed throwers. For the comfort and learning how to catch this baseball makes it easier for your little player.

Materials

Getting that perfect fit for your player’s smaller hands can be hard with full sized baseball gloves. This baseball glove has been specially designed for younger learning players and features an adjustable fit system. The thumb is adjustable for that custom fit. The custom fit makes it easier for players to maneuver the glove.

8. Mizuno Prospect Youth Catcher's Mitt

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
94.7
mizuno prospect youth catcher's mitt kids baseball gloves
mizuno prospect youth catcher's mitt kids baseball gloves black
mizuno prospect youth catcher's mitt kids baseball gloves full
Amazon Link
Safety
94
Ease of Use
95
Materials
95
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$54.99

Power close for quick and easy catching

V Flex Notch assists easy closure

Parashock palm pad absorbs impact

Perfect size for youth roughly 7-9 years old

Soft and flexible once broken in

Will be stiff upon receipt; needs some leather care

Got a little one who spends most of the game behind the batter? This mitt is a solid choice for all the catchers out there, specifically the 7-10-year-olds. It will need a little breaking in but once it’s been properly cared for and worked, it’s extremely soft and flexible while still providing shock absorption and longevity.

Read more

Safety

Living behind homebase can be tough on your child’s body. Make sure to buy them the proper protective gear for their knees, head, and chest. This glove will ensure their hands are kept safe and ready to snap that ball out of the air.

Ease of Use

Batter up! Many kids move around the field and try their hand at different defensive positions. But some know where they fit right from the start. If you’ve got a catcher on your hands, you probably already know that buying gloves works a little differently for you. The Mizuno Prospect Youth Catcher’s Mitt is a great model for kids who feel most at home behind home base. Whether they’re seasoned or newcomers, this full-sized glove has got them covered.

Materials

Power close makes it easy for players to snape the glove closed to catch those tricky pitches. A V Flex Notch initiates the easy closure, and a parashock palm pad will absorb the impact to ensure both protection and comfort.

9. Mizuno MVP

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
93.3
mizuno mvp kids baseball gloves
mizuno mvp kids baseball gloves front
mizuno mvp kids baseball gloves player
Amazon Link
Safety
92
Ease of Use
95
Materials
93
best offer for today
Amazon Link

Soft leather

Easy to break in

Professional-quality laces

Lots of styles to choose from

Center pocket design

The hole in the webbing of some designs is large and risks a fastball breaking through

Looking for a glove fit for the major leagues? The Mizuno MVP is a soft, leather model that comes in six different styles, nine different colors, and with the option to choose a right or left-handed design. It includes professional-grade lace and a centred pocket to make breaking the glove in a faster, easier process.

Read more

Safety

These gloves are durable and well-made. They allow control and flexibility so your player can perform at the top of their game. One parent did have concerns about the size of the webbing, though, as it was large enough that a fastball ran straight through it and almost hit the player wearing this glove.

Ease of Use

Many players dread having to break in a new baseball glove. This glove comes with measures already taken to make that event a little easier on everyone. These gloves are already oiled and the positioning of the pocket makes it easy to soften these up and fit it properly to your player’s hand.

Materials

Bio leather comes pre-oiled to help the breaking in process. It’s balanced to be firm but flexible when necessary and to provide players optimum control. The laces are professional-grade and won’t slow down your little star or get in the way of their awesome plays. This glove can be a favorite resource for years to come.

10. Wilson Windmill for Softball

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
92
wilson windmill for softball kids baseball gloves
wilson windmill for softball kids baseball gloves black and green
wilson windmill for softball kids baseball gloves black and pink
Amazon Link
Safety
90
Ease of Use
93
Materials
93
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$26.03

Mesh allows for breathability

Cute color options

Can select which hand you need the glove for

Lightweight

Arrives pretty stiff

Plastic material is slippery

Lightweight and designed with a mesh shell, this glove is breathable and agile. It comes with lime or neon pink trim to help entice young eyes and it can be ordered for right-or-left-handed use. An adjustable wrist closure keeps it firmly in place throughout the game so your child can focus on playing their very best.

Read more

Safety

The wrist strap keeps the fit firm and unyielding as balls go whizzing by, which means no wrists or fingers will be bent out of whack by a slippery glove. It doesn’t have a lot of padding around the palm though, so be mindful if you’re looking for something with more shock absorption.

Ease of Use

This glove is eye-catching and lightweight. It won’t bog little hands down with heavy materials, but it also will take some time to break in. The plastic-like material especially will need a little time and work, as it can feel slippery and make catching the ball difficult when it’s being used brand new.

Materials

Mesh allows some breathability in this softball mitt and a PU-laminated construct for the palm adds a little extra comfort. It’s more fashionable than functional according to some customers, though, who noted that it was difficult to catch with and that it took a long time to break in.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Safety

When we chose the gloves, we tried to make sure the items are safe for kids to use. To be sure, sports are not totally safe, but we have chosen gloves that we feel adhere to parents’ safety expectations. So most of the gloves are made specifically for kids. We chose many gloves that are made of foam so they don’t hurt kids and make it easy for kids to grasp a ball. Some of the gloves come with a ball made out of similar material so that they don’t hurt when they come in contact with the glove or even someone’s head.

Picking the best youth baseball glove is like choosing the best mitt to use in the kitchen. Why? Well, you should be able to perform all of your expected chores like holding hot pans and baking trays while also protecting your hands from thermal injuries. In like manner, picking the right ball mitt involves the same process. We had to make sure that it is designed primarily to catch the baseball and minimize dropping the ball. Once the ball has been caught, then it should be kept within the confines of the mitt. It simply doesn’t make sense being able to catch a fly ball only to drop it moments later. That’s the number one criteria. So we had to examine the different features that will allow your kids to catch the baseball every time and minimize drops.

Ease of Use

Finding the right glove is an important aspect of the game. We’ve looked for gloves that come highly recommended and are flexible but durable, lending safety and protection but also enough control that your player doesn’t feel impeded by bulky design or poor choice in materials. We also tried to find gloves that had reviews attesting to how easy they were to break in; the transition between a beloved old glove and a stiff new one can be uncomfortable and we want your player to feel good about their new gear as quickly as possible.

Materials

Most professional-quality gloves are made with leather. We tried to find leather that was generally pre-oiled or had been subject so some initial breaking in. We also looked for tough laces that will hold the glove together even through the various wear and tear of the game. We wanted strong materials that feel soft and last for years and years. We also tried to find styles that have both right and left handed options available and we’ve provided a multitude of sizes and designs depending on what position your child plays.

Most Important Criteria (According to our experts opinion)
Sort criterias acording to:
Experts Opinion Editors Opinion Users Opinion By Default
Click on a to rate the most important criteria:
#1
Safety
Rate This Criteria as Most Important
#2
Ease of Use
Rate This Criteria as Most Important
#3
Materials
Rate This Criteria as Most Important
Parents, Did You know?

With baseball, there are so many benefits that your child can take advantage if they enjoy and play the game with others. Physically, they get lots of exercise, allowing for gross and fine motor skills to develop. The muscles strengthen in the arms and legs, and since these are major muscle groups they burn a lot of calories. Plus, all that running, jumping, and playing strengthens the heart muscle. They are moving their legs, arms, head, and torso, so it’s a whole body type of workout. And of course, they get to do practice drills during the team practice. So it’s even more exercise and incredible muscle strengthening.

Parents, Did You know?

With a ball coming at them, the kids get to develop stronger eye-hand coordination, always a welcome asset. And this doesn’t just happen during a game. There are drills that can be done in practice to improve eye-hand coordination. Some drills are batting from a Tee, playing catch with a partner, using a pitching machine, and more. There is always a way to work in the use of a brand new baseball glove. Good eye-hand coordination is one of the most important assets a child can have.

Parents, Did You know?

As children grow, they learn to trust their parents. But there is nothing like developing that bond further than by having a parent teach their child a skill so that they can both do that skill. Once a skill is learned, children need to practice that skill. Enter the parent once again to continue strengthening that bond. Children who have close positive relationships with their parents tend to be more successful in life in part because of the confidence they have developed after years of living, playing, and learning with their parents.

Parents, Did You know?

Kids who play baseball with other kids benefit from building relationships with these friends, too. If they are on a team, they make new friends and benefit from having a coach who can be a mentor. They learn how to praise and criticize constructively so the they can learn together. This builds self-confidence, helping kids to learn to present ideas to others. They also gain confidence in their friends and, they learn to trust each other. They learn to get along with the other kids and adults on the team.

Parents, Did You know?

Being on a baseball team helps your child live out those character traits everyone tries to instill in their kids, like honesty, humility, kindness toward others, and more. Those are the positive qualities that are the basis of our existence and help us live a good life. Kids can put those principles into practice when they are part of a team. They learn to work together toward a common goal: winning games or a championship.

Parents, Did You know?

The kids learn to help each other, even the kid who most of the others don’t like. Children know it’s bad to be dishonest, but on a team, as in any other group, there are the ones who try to take shortcuts. Parents who have taught their kids well, will have kids who are able to recognize that being honest is more important. Being on a team will strengthen the positive character elements that parents teach kids when they are young.

Parents, Did You know?

Like adults, kids need a way to unwind. As they grow, they start going to school, and other public places. They start to feel pressured to perform well and to fit into groups of friends. This can be tough on a kid, so children need to be able to have an activity or hobby they can engage in where they can forget about their problems and just be a kid.

Other Factors to Consider

Comfort

While baseball mitts come in sizes often in inches, we really cannot make any recommendations as to the appropriate age of the child who will be wearing it. There are some children who may still be young yet already have appendages that are unusually large. Conversely, there are those who are already old yet their hands are still small. As such, it was imperative to look at the size requirements of these gloves. More importantly, these mitts need to have a mechanism that will allow for guaranteeing the perfect fit regardless of hand size or age of the child. Moreover, there must be a mechanism to help ensure it stays in place.

Social Development

We already said in the beginning that playing baseball can bring a lot of benefits for kids. These can range from health effects to physical and emotional benefits. In case you’re still wondering why your child should play baseball, we’ve listed here some of the many health, wellness, and fitness benefits of playing the game.

Strengthens their arms and legs.
Throwing and catching the ball requires substantial force from the muscles of the arms. Running from one base to another or running after a ball involves the use of all the muscle groups of the legs as well. This makes playing baseball a great way to achieve leaner and stronger limbs.

Promotes decision-making skills
Stealing a base requires split-second decisions. Catching a ball and deciding on which base to throw it to also require making a decision. These will not be possible if one cannot stay focused on the game.

Enhances hand-eye coordination
Catching a ball is not easy as one needs to be able to coordinate the placement of the glove in relation to the approaching ball.

Boosts spatial intelligence.
Playing baseball is all about understanding one’s relationship with space. This is especially true with the ball flying through the air. Catchers will have to have a fair sense of space and the overall trajectory of the ball to anticipate where it will land.

Fosters camaraderie and boosts social relationship skills
Baseball is a team sport. Children will learn how to play as a member of a team and how to work together with others to bring home the win.

Entertainment Value

Playing baseball is fun. For kids, it can bring a lot of developmental and health-related benefits. You don’t need to train your kids to become the next Hall of Famer. Simply provide them with the correct tools such as our 10 best kids’ baseball gloves and let them discover for themselves the true joys of playing the sport.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: How do I measure my kid’s hand for a baseball glove?

a:

You can measure your child’s hand size by measuring from the top of his index finger to the base. Then add 2 inches. Make sure the hand is flat on a table top with fingers together and fully extended.

q: How should I choose a baseball glove that fits my child well?

a:

The fit is the most important thing in helping your child play his best baseball. The glove should have some way of adjusting it so it fits pretty snuggly on the hand. Do not buy a glove that is too big as it may slide off the hand during a game. That can cause an injury.

q: My little girl is 5 years old. What size glove should I buy her?

a:

Gloves for kids 3-5 years are sized around 9 inches. Five and six year olds go up to about a 10 or 10.5. She may be in between sizes. Try several sizes between 9 and 10.5 inches to find the best fit.

q: Is there a difference between a glove and a mitt in baseball?

a:

Yes. The gloves have fingers. Mitts do not have fingers. The only positions that allow a mitt are catcher and first base. All other positions wear gloves. Mitts, particularly the catcher’s mitt protect the player’s hand better because it has more padding. A mitt is better for keeping the ball in the mitt if it doesn’t hit the pocket.

q: What is the difference between LH and RH gloves?

a:

We know that the designations are a bit confusing. They stand for Left Hand and Right Hand. But they refer to the throwing hand. So a Left Hand glove is meant for a left handed thrower, but is worn on the right hand. An RH glove is for a right handed thrower, but is worn on the left hand. It’s the nature of baseball.

q: What kind of oil should I use to break in my kid’s glove?

a:

First, most of the gloves in our list are made of foam or poly materials so they don’t need breaking. But if you have a leather glove, then the glove will need some softening. You can use an oil recommended by the manufacturer. That is probably the best bet. Alternatives may be: saddle soap, shaving cream with lanolin, Vaseline, mink oil, and others. Apply it lightly and let sit overnight

Sources

  1. Jessica Lopa , 10 Benefits of Playing Baseball, Blog Article
  2. Author Unknown, Why Should Your Family Play Baseball? Fitness And Health Benefits Of Playing Baseball, Informative Article
  3. Author Unknown, Baseball Glove Buyers Guide, Informative Article
  4. JustBats.com , When Should My Child Start Playing Baseball?, Blog Article