Buying a baseball glove for a kid can be a daunting task. It’s important to get the right size, material, and style to ensure the glove is comfortable and effective for the player. With so many options available, it can be difficult to determine which glove is best for the young athlete. Here’s a guide to help you buy the perfect baseball glove for a kid.
Choose the Right Size
The most important factor to consider when buying a glove for a child is size. Children’s hands vary widely in size, so it’s best to measure the child’s hand to get the right size. To do this, measure the distance between the base of the child’s index finger and the base of the thumb when the hand is spread open as wide as possible. The measurement should be taken from the top of the index finger to the bottom of the thumb. The measurement should be taken in inches and will determine the size of the glove.
Glove sizes are usually listed as “Inch” or “Ounce”. Inch sizes range from 8 to 12 inches, with 8 inches being the smallest size and 12 inches being the largest. Ounce sizes range from 16 to 20 ounces, with 16 ounces being the smallest and 20 ounces being the largest.
Choose the Right Material
The material used for the glove is also important. Most gloves are made of leather or synthetic material. Leather gloves are more durable and provide a better grip, but they are also more expensive. Synthetic material is less expensive, but it is not as durable and may not provide the same grip.
Choose the Right Style
The style of the glove is also important. Baseball gloves come in a variety of styles, such as infielder, outfielder, catcher, first baseman, and pitcher. Infielder gloves are smaller and lighter, while outfielder gloves are larger and heavier. Catcher gloves are the largest and heaviest of all and are designed to help protect the catcher’s hand from foul balls. First baseman gloves are designed for fielding ground balls and are slightly larger than infielder gloves. Pitcher gloves are designed for throwing and are slightly larger than first baseman gloves.
Choose the Right Brand
The brand of glove is also important. Different brands offer different features and qualities, so it’s important to do some research to determine which brand is best for the child’s needs.
It’s also important to buy a glove from a trusted brand. Many brands are known for their quality and durability, so it’s best to go with a brand that has a good reputation.
Consider the Price
Price is also an important consideration when buying a baseball glove for a kid. High-end gloves can be quite expensive, so it’s important to consider the budget when deciding which glove to buy. There are also some good deals to be had if you shop around.
Break in the Glove
Once you have the glove, it’s important to break it in before use. This process involves softening the leather and creating a pocket in the glove so the ball can be easily caught. To break in the glove, wrap a baseball in a towel and place it inside the glove. Then, place a heavy object, such as a book, on top of the glove and leave it overnight. This will help the glove form to the player’s hand and make it easier to use.
Conclusion
Buying a baseball glove for a kid can be a challenging task, but it’s important to get the right size, material, and style to ensure the glove is comfortable and effective for the player. It’s also important to consider the brand, price, and break in the glove before use. With these tips, you should have no problem finding the perfect baseball glove for a kid.