Guide For Baseball Glove Sizes
The correct style of glove is often determined by a player's position on the field. For instance, a baseball pitcher's glove has a closed web and ranges from 11.5 to 12.5 inches in length. An outfielder's glove is a longer glove, usually 12.5 inches to 13 inches in length and varies in webbing styles. If a player plays multiple positions, a utility glove is the best option. Utility gloves tend to be a bit larger than an infield glove and have a closed web. Almost all gloves are designated by position to help with your selection.
When selecting a glove, consider how often the glove will be used. High quality gloves feature stronger leather and lacing ensuring durability and longer life. Learn the fundamentals of fielding and catching by wearing a glove that fits your hand well. A glove that is too big will be tough to handle. Beginners who want to be the best they can won’t be able to develop proper skills. A glove can’t be bought for “the future,” or for the player to “grow into it.” Improperly fit gloves will only hurt performance and development; size your glove by age and by position.
When selecting a glove, consider how often the glove will be used. High quality gloves feature stronger leather and lacing ensuring durability and longer life. Learn the fundamentals of fielding and catching by wearing a glove that fits your hand well. A glove that is too big will be tough to handle. Beginners who want to be the best they can won’t be able to develop proper skills. A glove can’t be bought for “the future,” or for the player to “grow into it.” Improperly fit gloves will only hurt performance and development; size your glove by age and by position.
Features You Will Find
- Pocket: not too deep, especially for outfielders and infielders that catch the ball, and then transfer it quickly.
- Webbing: different styles are available, depending on the price or position played. Pitchers prefer closed webs to hide the ball. Open webs are preferred for third base and outfield.
- Backs: open backs, preferred by middle infielders, have an open space across the back. Closed backs only have a small finger hole. Although a matter of preference, open backs can break in more quickly.
- Wrist Adjustment: look for the ability to adjust the opening, whether with Velcro or tightening of the laces since a glove size changes from sweat and the sun/heat.
- Leather: the better quality lasts longer. Better and thicker leather comes from the center of the steer hide. Kangaroo and buffalo leather are rare, but excellent options for upper level players.
- Lacing: it’s wise to keep your lace knots tied. Quality lacing is not stiff. Tighten your laces periodically and keep your glove clean and conditioned so the natural oils do not dry out.
- Padding: too much and you’ll lose feeling for the ball. If your glove hand starts hurting when you have a hard catch, use a batting glove or padded insert.
Youth Glove Size and Age
9 - 10 inch 6 year old 9.5 - 10.5 inch 7 - 8 year old 10.75 - 11.25 inch 9, 10, & 11 year old 11.25 - 11.75 inch 12 - 13 year old |
Adult Glove Size and Position
11 - 11.5 inch 2nd Base 11.25 - 11.75 inch Short Stop 11.5 - 12 inch Pitcher/3rd Base 12.25 - 12.75 inch 1st Base 12.5 - 12.75 inch Outfield 32.5 - 35 inch Catcher |
Recommended Baseball Gloves
If you are looking to purchase a quality baseball glove, please follow our link to our recommended choices -Top Rated Baseball Gloves