Quote:
Originally Posted by woob
Anyone have any tips for buying baseball gloves for kids? Under 10. Wondering if a lightly used one from Play it again sports would be best if it’s worked in a bit?
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I do. I have coached and run clinics for many years.
Baseball or softball?
For a younger kid DO NOT buy too small of a glove. Definitely go to Play it Again and try on gloves. It will be broken in and cheaper. Ask if Troy is there, he is very knowledgeable.
Get a leather glove, and it will last. A poorly broken-in but good-quality glove can be 'saved' relatively easily if it still has structure. If it is a pancake, leave it.
I would strongly suggest finding one that can be adjusted at the wrist and has a 'hand strap' inside the glove. This will be tight on the hand, and then they can control the glove, even if it is bigger. Then it will stay on their hand, even if it is a bit big, and they can grow into it, but there is a point where too big is too big.
For softball, which starts with an 11" ball and moves to a 12" ball, the minimal size I would recommend is a 12" glove. Most infielders use a 12.5 to 12.75 glove, which is adequate for an outfielder until they are much older and competitive.
Adjust the sizes accordingly for baseball. A baseball is 9" and does not change as the player ages.
Whatever you do, make sure it is broken in properly. The best way to do this is to play catch with it. If you have access to a pitching machine, stand there for thirty minutes, catching balls coming as fast as you can handle. Absolute by the University has lanes to rent.
This is the best video I have seen about breaking in a glove. If you get a new one, this is the way to go IMO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lwgw...9cgW8htZ0VIdyO
Also, if you end up buying a bat, make sure your kid can swing it. Have them swing it really hard and see if they have to "get it going" or if they can get a quick whip motion. Have them take the bat and hold it by the end and see if they can hold it out at shoulder height with one hand. That will give you a pretty good idea if it is too heavy. Most parents buy a bat that is way too long and heavy. Also, spend minimally as they will need another one when they get older and bigger.
For what it is worth, a batting tee and front toss are the best ways to teach hitting. A bownet will be a great investment if they stay with it.