Baseball is one of the oldest and most popular sports in the world. It’s been around for centuries, and over that time, many different pieces of equipment have been created to help players perform their best. One of the most important pieces of equipment is the baseball glove. Every player needs a glove that fits properly in order to play their best. But how do you know what size baseball glove you need?
Sizing Tips for Baseball Gloves
The first step to finding the right glove for you is to know your size. Baseball gloves come in several sizes, ranging from youth to adult. Generally, the size you need will depend on your age, position, and hand size. Here are some tips to help you determine the right size glove for your needs:
Youth Sizes:
If you’re looking for a glove for a young player, you’ll want to go with a youth size. These gloves are typically smaller than adult gloves and are designed for younger players. As a general guideline, youth gloves are usually between 9 and 11 inches long and between 5 and 7 inches wide.
Adult Sizes:
Adult gloves come in several sizes, ranging from 11 to 14 inches long and from 6 to 8 inches wide. The size you choose will depend on your position and hand size. Generally, infielders will want a smaller glove, while outfielders will want a larger glove.
Position-Specific Gloves:
Some gloves are designed specifically for certain positions. For example, first basemen typically use a first base glove that is larger than a traditional glove and has extra padding to help with scooping up errant throws. Catchers need a larger glove that has extra padding to protect their hands when catching the ball.
Measuring Your Hand:
Once you know what position you’ll be playing, you can measure your hand to find out what size glove you need. To do this, wrap a measuring tape around the widest part of your hand, across your knuckles. The measurement should be taken while your hand is in a relaxed position. Once you have the measurement, compare it to the glove sizing chart to find the right size glove for you.
Trying On the Glove:
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices to a few different gloves, you’ll want to try them on. The glove should fit snugly on your hand, but not so tight that it causes discomfort. If the glove feels too tight or too loose, try a different size. You should also check the length of the glove. For infielders, the glove should come up to about your armpit, and for outfielders, it should come up to your chin.
Breaking in the Glove:
Once you’ve found the right glove for you, you’ll need to break it in. This is done by repeatedly flexing and bending the glove. You can also use a glove mallet to soften the leather. Breaking in the glove will help it form to the shape of your hand and make it easier to catch the ball.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size baseball glove is an important part of playing the game. Knowing your size, position, and hand measurement will help you find the right glove for you. Once you’ve found the right glove, you’ll need to break it in to make sure it fits your hand properly. With the right glove, you’ll be ready to play your best.