How To Choose A Glove

Fit first!

There are endless features in the glove market, but nothing else matters if it doesn’t fit well. 

Here’s what to consider when finding the correct fit:

·         The glove should fit snugly, but the Player’s hand should not feel pinched

·         The Player should not feel like the glove is going to slide off their hand when their arm is down by their side.

·         The Player should be able to easily squeeze the glove closed.  If the Player struggles to close the glove, try a smaller glove.

·         Many gloves have a velcro or buckle wrist strap that can help adjust the fit

·         Gloves made of genuine leather typically provide the best fit as they’ll conform to your Player’s hand over time.

Glove type and size:

There are many types and sizes of gloves.  Here is a general guide to help you find the right one for your Player, but keep in mind, every Player is different. 

Boys	Glove type	Size
6 & under	T-ball or youth	9”-10”
7-9	Youth	10.5”-11”
10-12	Youth or Baseball	11”-12”
13 & up	Baseball	11.75”-12.5”

Girls	Glove type	Size
6 & under	T-ball or youth	9”-10”
7-9	Youth	11”
10-12	Youth or Fastpitch Softball	11.5”-12”
13 & up	Fastpitch Softball	12”-12.5”

Some gloves are labeled for a particular position (first base/catcher/infield/outfield).  We don’t recommend a specialty glove since KBSL Players will play several different positions throughout the season. You’re looking for a utility glove (if it’s not labeled with any position, it’s a utility glove!)  Please note – a first baseman’s glove and a catcher’s mitt may only be used when playing those positions, so if you choose those gloves, your Player will also need a utility glove.

Price Ranges

You’ll see gloves ranging from around $20 all the way to over $300, but you don’t need to spend a fortune on your Player’s glove – there are many great gloves at affordable prices.  Choose a glove that works with your budget – as long as it fits well, your Player will have a great season with it! You can find a few recommendations from our Coaches on our Gear page.