Finding the right size baseball glove is an important part of helping your child play their best. A glove that is too big or too small can be uncomfortable, difficult to control, and can lead to injury. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take to ensure you pick the right size glove for your child.
Understand the Different Glove Sizes
Baseball gloves come in a variety of sizes, from the small size for kids up to the much larger glove for adults. The different sizes are typically categorized as follows:
• Kids’ sizes: 8”, 9”, 10” and 11”
• Adult sizes: 11.25”, 11.5”, 11.75”, 12” and 12.25”
Measure Your Child’s Hand
The easiest way to determine what size glove your child needs is to measure their hand. Start by having your child extend their arm and make a fist, with their palm facing up. Then, use a tape measure or a ruler to measure the circumference (distance around) their hand, just below the knuckles. This measurement will give you an accurate idea of what size glove your child will need.
Choose the Right Glove Style
Once you have the measurement of your child’s hand, you can use it to determine which glove size is best for them. Generally, kids under 8 years old should use a glove that is 8” or 9” in size. Kids 8-11 years old should use a 10” glove, and kids 11 and older should use an 11” glove.
It’s also important to choose the right style of glove for your child. Generally, most kids should use a glove with a relatively shallow pocket, as this will make it easier for them to catch and throw the ball. For kids who are playing in more competitive leagues, a deeper pocket glove may be more appropriate.
Try the Glove On
Once you’ve chosen the right size and style of glove, it’s time to try it on. Have your child put the glove on, making sure that their fingers are all the way in the pocket and that the glove fits snugly on their hand. They should be able to make a fist without the glove being too tight or too loose. If the glove is too tight, they may find it difficult to move their fingers and the ball may not be secure in their glove. If the glove is too loose, the ball may slip out of their glove too easily.
Check the Glove’s Quality
Before buying any glove, it’s important to take a close look at it to make sure it’s of good quality. Check for any signs of wear or tear, and make sure all the seams are secure and that the leather is in good condition. If the glove is made from synthetic materials, make sure the material is durable and will hold up to regular use.
Conclusion
Picking the right size baseball glove for your child is an important part of helping them play their best. With the right size, style, and quality of glove, your child will be able to play comfortably and confidently. By measuring your child’s hand, choosing the right glove size and style, and checking the glove’s quality, you can ensure you pick the perfect glove for your child.