Ever watched a pro baseball game and wished you could make those amazing plays? Getting the right gear is the first step! Finding the perfect Youth Infield Glove can be challenging, but we’ve made it simple for you.
Choosing a glove is tough. There are so many sizes, materials, and prices to consider. Too small, and it’s uncomfortable. Too big, and you can’t catch anything! Many parents and kids struggle to understand the differences. They end up with a glove that doesn’t fit well or perform as expected.
This post will help you navigate the world of youth infield gloves. We’ll break down everything you need to know to find the best glove for your young player. You’ll learn about different glove sizes, materials, and features. We’ll even give you some tips on breaking in your new glove.
Ready to find the perfect glove and help your young athlete shine on the field? Let’s dive in!
Our Top 5 Youth Infield Glove Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Rawlings | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
 | WILSON 2024 A1000 Infield Baseball Gloves – 11″ | 9.6/10 | Check Price |
 | WILSON A500 Youth Baseball Gloves | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
 | Rawlings | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
 | WILSON A500 | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Youth Infield Glove Detailed Reviews
1. Rawlings
Rating: 9.4/10
The Rawlings Select PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove is a popular choice for young ballplayers. It comes in several sizes (10.5″ to 12.25″) and styles, mimicking the gloves used by professional players. This makes it a great option for serious young athletes looking for quality and a professional feel.
What We Like:
- Lightweight design: Young players will appreciate the glove’s light weight. It makes catching easier and reduces fatigue during long games.
- Durable construction: Rawlings uses quality materials. This ensures the glove lasts through many games and practices.
- Professional feel: The glove’s design and feel are similar to pro models. This gives young players a sense of confidence and excitement.
- Variety of sizes: The range of sizes ensures a proper fit for players of different ages and hand sizes. This is important for comfort and performance.
- Good value for the money: The glove provides excellent quality at a reasonable price point.
What Could Be Improved:
- Break-in time: Like most new leather gloves, this one requires a break-in period. It may feel stiff at first.
- Limited color options: Some players might prefer more color choices.
Overall, the Rawlings Select PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove gets high marks. It’s a durable, comfortable glove that provides a great playing experience for young baseball enthusiasts. We highly recommend it for any youth player serious about improving their game.
2. WILSON 2024 A1000 Infield Baseball Gloves – 11″
Rating: 9.6/10
The WILSON 2024 A1000 Infield Baseball Gloves come in four sizes: 11″, 11.5″, 11.75″, and 12″. These gloves are designed for infielders and are known for their quality and durability. They’re a popular choice for players of all skill levels, from little league to high school ball.
What We Like:
- These gloves feel great. The leather is soft and supple.
- They break in relatively quickly. You won’t have to wait forever to use them.
- The A1000 series is known for its durability. These gloves should last a long time.
- Wilson’s reputation is excellent. You can trust the quality.
- The different sizes offer a good fit for many players. You can find the perfect fit for your hand.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price is a bit high. They are a more expensive option.
- Some players find the smaller sizes a little stiff at first. Breaking them in takes some effort.
- Finding the right size requires careful consideration. You need to measure your hand properly.
Overall, the WILSON 2024 A1000 Infield Baseball Gloves are excellent gloves for serious players. They provide great performance and durability. However, the higher price point should be considered.
They’re a worthwhile investment if you’re looking for a top-quality glove.
3. WILSON A500 Youth Baseball Gloves
Rating: 8.6/10
The WILSON A500 Youth Baseball Gloves are designed for young ballplayers. They offer a good balance of comfort, durability, and affordability. These gloves help young players develop proper fielding techniques. They come in various sizes to fit different hand sizes.
What We Like:
- Affordable price: These gloves won’t break the bank, making them accessible to many young players.
- Durable construction: They’re built to withstand the rigors of regular use. They last a long time.
- Comfortable fit: Many young players find them comfortable to wear during long practices and games.
- Good quality leather: The leather feels nice and breaks in easily.
- Proper sizing options: Wilson offers various sizes so you can find the perfect fit for your child’s hands.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited color options: Some players might prefer more color choices.
- Break-in time: While they break in relatively easily, some extra time might be needed for optimal performance.
- Padding could be slightly better: While comfortable, a little more padding in certain areas might improve shock absorption.
Overall, the WILSON A500 Youth Baseball Gloves offer great value for young players. They provide a solid combination of features at a reasonable price. They are a good choice for beginners and intermediate players alike.
These gloves help young players improve their game.
4. SSK Z5 Craftsman Infield Baseball Glove – 11.25” – 11.5” – 11.75” – 12” – Right & Left Hand Throw
Rating: 9.6/10
The SSK Z5 Craftsman Infield Baseball Glove comes in four sizes (11.25”, 11.5”, 11.75”, and 12”) and is available for both right- and left-handed throwers. It’s designed for infield play and promises a great feel and reliable performance. This glove is a popular choice among young players and serious ballplayers alike.
What We Like:
- The leather is high-quality and feels great. It breaks in nicely over time.
- It offers excellent control and a secure grip on the ball.
- The glove is well-made and durable. It can handle tough games.
- Many players find it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
- The different sizes cater to various hand sizes and playing preferences.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point might be a bit high for some buyers.
- Some users report needing more time to break it in completely.
- Availability can sometimes be an issue, depending on the size and retailer.
Overall, the SSK Z5 Craftsman Infield Baseball Glove is a solid choice for players who want a high-quality glove. It provides excellent performance and comfort. However, consider the price and potential availability issues before purchasing.
5. SSK Z5 Craftsman Youth Baseball Glove – 10.5” – 11” – 11.25” – 11.5” Right & Left Hand Throw
Rating: 9.0/10
The SSK Z5 Craftsman Youth Baseball Glove is a popular choice for young ballplayers. It comes in several sizes (10.5”, 11”, 11.25”, and 11.5”) and is available for both right- and left-handed throwers. This glove offers a good balance of features for developing players. It’s designed to be durable and help young players develop proper catching techniques. Many young players find it comfortable and easy to break in.
What We Like:
- The glove feels comfortable and fits well. Many reviewers praised the comfortable fit.
- It’s durable. The leather holds up well to regular use.
- The price is reasonable for a youth glove of this quality. It offers great value for the money.
- It comes in multiple sizes to fit various hand sizes. This ensures a good fit for different age groups.
- The glove breaks in relatively quickly. Young players don’t have to wait long to use it effectively.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users reported that the glove’s laces could be stronger. A few laces broke after extensive use.
- The color options are limited. More color choices would appeal to more players.
- The padding could be slightly thicker for some players. Increased padding might offer more protection.
Overall, the SSK Z5 Craftsman Youth Baseball Glove receives positive feedback from many young players and their parents. It’s a solid choice for those looking for a durable, reasonably priced glove. The minor drawbacks are outweighed by its numerous positive attributes.
The SSK Z5 is a great glove for young players who are serious about baseball. It provides excellent value and performance.
Choosing the Right Youth Infield Glove: A Buying Guide
Getting the right infield glove can make a huge difference for young baseball or softball players. A good glove helps them catch better, throw farther, and have more fun. This guide will help you find the perfect fit.
Key Features to Look For
- Size: Gloves come in different sizes. Younger players need smaller gloves. Check the manufacturer’s size chart. Too big a glove is clumsy. Too small a glove is uncomfortable.
- Position: Infield gloves are smaller than outfield gloves. They are designed for quick reactions and close plays. Some infield gloves are even more specialized for shortstop, second base, or first base.
- Material: The glove’s leather or synthetic leather affects its durability and feel. Better materials last longer.
- Webbing: The webbing is the part between the fingers. Different webbing patterns offer different benefits for catching. Some are better for quick catches, others for bigger balls.
- Padding: Padding protects the player’s hand. More padding means more comfort, but it can also make the glove stiffer.
- Closure: The glove’s closure (laces or straps) should fit snugly but comfortably. It keeps the glove closed securely.
Important Materials
Gloves are often made from leather or synthetic leather. Leather gloves are usually more expensive but are known for their durability and feel. They get better with use. They break in more naturally. Synthetic leather gloves are more affordable. They’re easier to maintain. However, they may not last as long.
Factors Affecting Glove Quality
- Leather Quality: Higher-quality leather is stronger and more durable. It will last longer.
- Stitching: Strong stitching prevents the glove from tearing. Look for even and tight stitching.
- Construction: A well-constructed glove will feel solid and sturdy. Poor construction leads to quick wear and tear. It might fall apart faster.
- Padding Quality: Good padding makes the glove more comfortable and protective. Cheap padding can flatten easily.
User Experience and Use Cases
A comfortable glove makes playing more enjoyable. The glove should fit snugly. It shouldn’t be too tight. The player should be able to close the glove easily. A properly broken-in glove will feel supple and comfortable. It should also be easy to close. It should be easy to catch and throw with.
The glove’s use case depends on the player’s position. A shortstop needs a smaller, quicker glove. A first baseman needs a larger glove with more padding. The right glove fits the player’s position and playing style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: How do I break in a new glove? A: Use a glove oil or conditioner. Use a ball to soften the leather. Repeatedly catch and throw a ball with the glove.
- Q: What size glove should my child use? A: Check the manufacturer’s size chart. Consider your child’s age and hand size.
- Q: How much should I spend on a youth infield glove? A: Prices vary widely. You can find good gloves at different price points. Consider your budget and the glove’s quality.
- Q: What’s the difference between leather and synthetic leather? A: Leather is more durable and develops a better feel over time. Synthetic leather is more affordable and easier to care for.
- Q: How often should I clean my glove? A: Clean your glove after each use. Use a damp cloth and mild soap if needed.
- Q: Can I use a baseball glove for softball? A: While possible, a softball glove is generally recommended for softball. They’re designed for a larger ball.
- Q: What is webbing and why is it important? A: The webbing is between the fingers. It affects how easily you catch the ball. Different styles offer various benefits.
- Q: How do I choose a glove for a specific infield position? A: Shortstops often prefer smaller gloves. First basemen tend to use larger gloves. Consider the demands of the position.
- Q: My glove is too stiff. What can I do? A: Use a glove conditioner. Use a ball to help break it in. Catch and throw repeatedly.
- Q: How long will a youth infield glove last? A: With proper care, a good quality glove can last several years. The quality of the materials and construction will influence its lifespan.
In conclusion, every product comes with its own unique set of features and benefits, and its value ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. We hope this review has helped you gain a clear understanding of whether this product aligns with your expectations. Remember, making an informed choice ensures you get the best experience possible.
If you have any questions or thoughts about this product, feel free to share them in the comments section. Your feedback not only helps us but also assists fellow readers in making better decisions. Thank you for reading.