Is your child planning on playing baseball this year? If so, you may need to buy him a baseball glove. The type of baseball glove that you select for your child should ultimately be based on the size of your child’s non-dominant hand and the position that he’ll be playing. In most instances, youth baseball gloves range in size from 9 inches to 11 inches. Outfielders traditionally need a large glove with a deep well in order to catch fly balls. However, you don’t want to get a glove that is too large for your child to handle. With that said, here’s a look at five of the best baseball gloves for outfielders:
1. adidas Youth Triple Stripe Fielding Glove
The adidas 11.5″ Youth Triple Stripe Fielding Glove is a great glove for young outfielders for several reasons. For starters, it has some length to it and a deep well that is clad in PigSkin Palm leather. I have always been a fan of leather gloves because they tend to break-in quickly. The webbing is closed, which is important. A tight web helps when it comes to catching and controlling the ball. In addition, the glove comes with an adjustable wrist closure that is beneficial when it comes to maintaining a snug fit. If the glove is too loose, your child won’t be able to catch and control the baseball effectively and efficiently. The glove generally sells online through most major sports retailers for $38.
2. Rawlings Revo 750 Series Glove
The Rawlings 12″ Revo 750 Series Glove is a superlative choice for older children with large hands. What makes it a good choice is the basket web design, adjustable pocket and cushioned fingerback lining. The extra padding is helpful when it comes to catching fast balls. It will provide your child’s hand some protection against the impact of the baseball. My children felt it helped cut down on the sting of catching fast balls. The web design and adjustable pocket are an advantage when it comes to catching fly balls. It is also made from leather, which hastens break-in time. You can typically purchase one of the gloves online for $160.
Wilson baseball gloves are one of my favorites because of its durability and quick break-in time. I had my Wilson baseball glove for years until my children’ confiscated it. They loved how the baseball glove felt and I was more than happy to pass it down to them. The company’s 11.75″ Youth A2000 Showcase SC-B2 Series Glove is one that you may want to consider. It is designed with a knuckle bridge, a deep well, a narrow hand opening and a two-piece, closed web pattern. The knuckle bridge and narrow opening are helpful in securing a solid fit. The only downfall is the price. The gloves usually retail for $220 each. Personally, I don’t mind paying a higher price for a quality baseball glove that will last for decades.
4. Mizuno Youth Franchise Series Glove
The Mizuno 11″ Youth Franchise Series Glove is another one worth considering. You can normally purchase one online for $75. One of the nice things about this baseball glove is the lacing system and the adjustable wrist closure. They help make for a more custom fit. The glove also features a well-padded lining, tartan web pattern and a good size well for comfort and better ball control. My children always had an easy time with the glove so yours might as well.
The Nike N1 lock Series Gloves have a few features that are not found in most other baseball gloves. It employs a moisture wicking material inside the glove as well as a special Energy Arrest foam and a padded wrist strap. In my experience, all of those features help to make the baseball glove very comfortable to wear and use. The price is reasonable as well. One of the gloves will typically lighten your wallet by $65.
Killeen Gonzalez enjoys watching baseball with her family and has traveled extensively. In addition, her children have also played on Little League baseball teams.
