You’ve signed up your Little League player for T-ball/coach pitch and now he needs a glove. Starting a new sport can be a strain on your wallet, especially if you’re not sure if your child will like playing baseball. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on a glove to get a good quality one that can be used during T-ball and coach pitching seasons. You just need to know how to choose a good glove.

1. Size does matter. Contrary to popular belief, bigger is not always better for the beginning player. Beginning players need a smaller glove so they can perfect the skill of catching and fielding a baseball. Look for a youth glove that is 9 1/2″ to 10 3/4″. At this age, players don’t need an 11″ glove or specialized glove (one made for first baseman, infielder, outfielder, etc.). They need an all-purpose glove for T-ball and/or coach’s pitching Don’t worry about playing certain positions at this point, T-ball is geared towards teaching the fundamentals and making baseball FUN so they want to come back next season.

2.Construction and Material. Most youth gloves are made with a leather palm and synthetic material for the outer shell. This allows for a lighter glove that is easier to close. Look for a glove that is primarily leather and leather laces. If cared for properly, a mostly leather glove can be used season after season. You’ll also want to look for a glove that has a nice rounded pocket and one that has “easy-zip” or “power-zip” technology. Because beginning players are still building muscle, gloves with closure technology make it easy to squeeze the glove closed when a ball is caught.

Once you get your player’s glove, have him try it on and practice catching balls with it before the season starts. This practice will not only help you, but it will also help break through the glove. Since most youth gloves are a combination of leather and synthetic material, using a glove conditioner is not recommended. The best way to loosen up your youth glove is to WEAR IT!

Once your player completes the T-ball/coach pitch and advances to the higher leagues, it may be time to get a new glove. Once again, there are key elements to consider when choosing a glove for the intermediate player.