Glove Size Suggestions

What size glove should I use? This is one of the questions we hear most. Many people choose a glove that is far too large and way too heavy. Simple answer; she should choose the smallest glove that can do the job.

Most colleges have infielders stay around 12 inches, except perhaps for first base. The reasoning: Kids with larger gloves cannot move them as quickly and they over-estimate their length so a lot of balls get under them. College players focus on catching the ball right at the point where thumb and hand join…that little web of skin…so they can get the ball out quickly to throw. A larger pocket just increases the odds that the ball will be harder to locate and get out of a deep pocket quickly.

If we are talking about pitchers, a heavy, pre-oiled glove is going to affect balance and rhythm. It’s far more likely to cause glove swim or affect the synchronization of motion. Remember that weight is as important as size. Some kids bring us high quality gloves that are so well-built that it creates too much excess weight.

Finally, for pitchers, a larger glove is slower when it comes to defending herself. You may think that all of that extra length is helpful, but it can give her a false sense of security. A hit hard ball can just push the glove back and sort of deflect through to the face. Our younger daughter is pretty typical. She chose a 12-inch glove the first year of college. This past year, she dropped to 11.75, saying that was lighter and quicker.

The smallest glove that can do the job. Good choice.