Spring is around the corner! The winter clouds are giving way to warm sunshine and blue skies and everything starts to green up … let’s play some baseball, y’all!
- OFHQ’s Favorites:
- Rawlings Sure Catch T-Ball and Youth Baseball Glove (Best Overall Utility Glove)
- Rawlings Prodigy 11″ Youth Infield/Pitcher’s Glove (Best Infield/Pitcher’s Glove)
- Wilson 2021 A500 32″ Youth Catcher’s Mitt (Best Catcher’s Mitt)
- Rawlings R9 Series Youth Pro Taper First Base Mitt (Best First Base Mitt)
- Wilson 2022 A700 Youth Outfield Baseball Glove (Best Outfield Glove)
- Utility Gloves: Best Baseball Glove for 7-Year-Old
- Baseball Catcher’s Mitts: Best Baseball Glove for 7-Year-Old
- Infield and Pitcher’s Baseball Gloves: Best Baseball Glove for 7-Year-Old
- Baseball First Baseman Mitts: Best Baseball Glove for 7-Year-Old
- Outfield Baseball Gloves: Best Baseball Glove for 7-Year-Old
- Selecting the Best Baseball Gloves for Kids (Things to Consider)
- Youth Baseball Glove Sizing Chart
- Breaking In and Caring for a Baseball Glove
- Let’s Play Ball!
If you’ve got a young ballplayer in the family, chances are you’re on the lookout for the perfect new glove to help them hone their skills on the diamond. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know where to start.
After volunteer coaching on my son’s Little League team and spending hours speaking with coaches whose families have been in baseball for generations, I have some great insight to share.
And it’s going to save you time and money!
Selecting the best youth baseball gloves for 7-year-old players (or any age for that matter) has to do with more than just a brand or size. Let’s explore these and other factors that need to be considered before making your purchase.
OFHQ’s Favorites:
So, what are my picks as the father of a Little League player and a volunteer assistant Little League coach?
The following gloves meet the mark when it comes to being lightweight, flexible, requiring little-to-no break-in time, and affordability. These are the best gloves for young players who need a comfortable, responsive glove while learning to master and enjoy the sport of baseball.
Rawlings Sure Catch T-Ball and Youth Baseball Glove (Best Overall Utility Glove)
My personal choice for my Little League Bambinos.
Pliable. Durable. Lightweight. Responsive. These are great all-around baseball gloves!
- DESIGNED AS A UTILITY GLOVE FOR ANY POSITION, this 11 inch Sure Catch Basket Web youth baseball glove has a game-ready feel right out of the box
- CRAFTED TO LOOK JUST LIKE MIKE TROUT'S GAME DAY GLOVE, this glove is easy to use and is perfect for entry level youth players ages 4 to 10 just starting to learn the game
- SURE CATCH TECHNOLOGY allows players to quickly and easily close the baseball glove as soon as they put it on for the first time
- READY TO PLAY, the Sure Catch Series gloves come with a 90% factory break in, meaning that players can use them right out of the box
Rawlings Prodigy 11″ Youth Infield/Pitcher’s Glove (Best Infield/Pitcher’s Glove)
For the young Pedro Martinez, the Prodigy is ideal for quick-thinking, fast-acting infielder’s who are beginning to take the mound.
- DESIGNED FOR INFIELDERS AND PITCHERS: This 11 inch Prodigy Series youth Baseball glove features a Youth Pro Taper Fit, providing the perfect solution for an athlete looking for a pro-style model that fits their growing hand size
- IDEAL FOR THE BEGINNING YOUTH Baseball PLAYER AGES 6 TO 12: This glove features a Basket Web, and comes with a 90% factory break-in and is game-ready out of the box
- SURE CATCH TECHNOLOGY: Allows players to quickly and easily close the Baseball glove as soon as they put it on for the first time
- SOFT, ALL-LEATHER SHELL CONSTRUCTION AND PALM LINING: Creates a very comfortable feel and added shock reduction, making this glove a safe, reliable option for young Baseball players
- 90% FACTORY AND 10% PLAYER BREAK-IN: Makes this glove completely ready to use, right out of the box
Wilson 2021 A500 32″ Youth Catcher’s Mitt (Best Catcher’s Mitt)
Next to the pitcher, the most critical player on the field is the catcher. The glove for this position must be protective and responsive, allowing for quick reflexes and snappy retrievals.
The Wilson A500 meets this criteria; however, it will require some break-in time out of the box.
- Redesigned smaller hand opening for a snugger fit
- All-leather construction
- Double Palm Construction gives maximum pocket stability
- Dual Welting provides long-lasting shape and quicker break-in
- 12" Dual Post Web
Rawlings R9 Series Youth Pro Taper First Base Mitt (Best First Base Mitt)
A specialized mitt specifically recommended for the all-important first baseman, the Rawlings R9 fits the hand of a young player snugly while remaining light and flexible enough to act fast and decisively.
- GAME-READY: Soft, durable all-leather shell designed to play with right away
- PRO PATTERNS: Glove models trusted by MLB stars to help you feel and play like a pro
- IMPACT PROTECTION: Reinforced palm pad and padded thumb loop for coverage and comfort
- COMFORTABLE FIT: Padded fingerback lining for a soft, comfortable feel
- BUILT FOR SMALLER HANDS : ContoUR Fit specially designed to give you more control and a better feel
Wilson 2022 A700 Youth Outfield Baseball Glove (Best Outfield Glove)
Larger than most in our list but tapered to fit a young athlete’s hand, Wilson’s A700 Outfield glove increases range for snagging pop flies, with pockets deep enough to secure them and shallow enough for fast retrievals.
Allow some time for breaking-in when brand new.
- H-Web design
- Full-grain cow hide leather construction
- Lightweight feel
- Drawstring wrist closure for secure fit
- Youth baseball glove
Utility Gloves: Best Baseball Glove for 7-Year-Old
Let’s begin with a youth gloves that will suit a first-year player best. First, we’ll look at some good general-purpose utility gloves that serve well anywhere on the field.
These are recommended for first-year players who are new to the sport as well as players who play outfield and infield (catcher excluded).
1. Rawlings Sure Catch T-Ball and Youth Baseball Glove (Best Overall Utility Glove)
Rawlings Sure Catch was my personal choice for my sons during their first year of baseball. It’s a great glove for young, small hands!
The baseball glove’s all-leather shell enables players to close it rapidly and effortlessly the first time they try it on. Almost no break-in time is required before using this glove, so it will be ready to use as soon as you get it!
- DESIGNED AS A UTILITY GLOVE FOR ANY POSITION, this 11 inch Sure Catch Basket Web youth baseball glove has a game-ready feel right out of the box
- CRAFTED TO LOOK JUST LIKE MIKE TROUT'S GAME DAY GLOVE, this glove is easy to use and is perfect for entry level youth players ages 4 to 10 just starting to learn the game
- SURE CATCH TECHNOLOGY allows players to quickly and easily close the baseball glove as soon as they put it on for the first time
- READY TO PLAY, the Sure Catch Series gloves come with a 90% factory break in, meaning that players can use them right out of the box
The design of the glove achieves a near-perfect balance of quickness, shape retention, and comfort for young athletes with growing hands. It’s durable, lightweight, and features padded finger linings.
The styling of this glove is perfect for young first-year players who are still exploring the different defensive positions on the field.
With seasonal conditioning and proper care, this glove will last for years and years!
2. Mizuno Prospect Series Powerclose Baseball Glove (First-Year Utility Runner-Up)
Mizuno began making baseballs in 1906 and has been a respected leader in the sports industry since.
Their 11″ Powerclose Baseball Glove is specifically designed for young players between the ages of 7 and 12. This utility-style glove is an excellent all-around glove that will help your young ballplayer hone their skills at any defensive position.
- Full-Grain Pigskin Leather: for great durability and flexibility
- Super-Soft Palm Liner: for increased durability, feel, and comfort
- Mzo Lining: disperses perspiration away from the skin
- Air Mesh Back: increases flexibility & breathability
The glove is made from full-grain pigskin leather coupled with their patented AirMesh (synthetic material) which provides not only durability but a superior amount of flexibility, allowing developing hands to close the glove around the ball firmly and quickly.
Plus the patented Mzo lining on the interior means even fickle hands can acclimate to the glove.
No break-in is needed. it’s ready to go out of the box.
3. Wilson 2022 A450 Youth Baseball Glove (Best Budget Pick)
For young rookies exploring the sport, the Wilson A450 is an inexpensive option that is still high quality, durable, and comfortable and can be used in a utility fashion.
Made of full-grain leather, this glove will withstand the rigors of enthusiastic play. The A450 features an H-web pocket which is perfect for infielders who need to field ground balls with speed and accuracy, allowing them to catch and transfer the ball quickly to their throwing hand.
- Delivers the perfect fit for small hands
- Lightest all-leather glove on the market
- Top Grain leather is ready to play
- Quick Fit elastic wrist is designed to securely fit small hands for ages 7 and under.
- H-Web pocket
The A450 is a frugal option that will still give your young player the feel of a quality, well-made glove. It’s available in both right-handed and left-handed models.
Going forward, we’ll review position-specific gloves for players who have been in the sport long enough to begin specializing in positions on the field.
Download this guide to get your kids outside and off screens.
Download The FREE Guide NowBaseball Catcher’s Mitts: Best Baseball Glove for 7-Year-Old
The catcher’s mitt (not a glove … big difference) is the most unique and specialized piece of baseball equipment.
If a player is assigned the catcher position, he/she is required to wear a catcher’s mitt to protect their catching hand from serious injury.
As such, it’s important to select a catcher’s mitt that is the correct size and shape for the player. If a mitt is too large, it will be difficult for the catcher to control. If it’s too small, it won’t provide enough coverage and protection.
For 7-year-old players, a catcher’s mitt can range from 30″- 32″.
4. Wilson 2021 A500 32″ Youth Catcher’s Mitt (Best Catcher’s Mitt)
The 32″ A500 catcher’s mitt, designed with lightweight black and blonde leather is the perfect tool for young backstops just getting their start in the game.
The hand opening is designed for a snug, secure fit and double palm construction provides solid pocket stability.
- Redesigned smaller hand opening for a snugger fit
- All-leather construction
- Double Palm Construction gives maximum pocket stability
- Dual Welting provides long-lasting shape and quicker break-in
- 12" Dual Post Web
The Half Moon Web helps players catch pitches more easily, and its all-leather laces add durability so the mitt can be used game after game, year after year.
The extra half-inch on the length of this glove gives it a slight range advantage over the Mizuno (see below). That little bit can make a difference in snagging a wayward pitch at a crucial point in the game.
5. Mizuno Prospect GXC112 31.5″ Youth Catchers Mitt (Runner-Up Youth Catcher’s Mitt)
Included in Mizuno’s Prospect Series, the 31.5″ GXC112’s design emphasizes softness and flexibility for young, developing hands.
Fast reflexes, a firm glove closure, and quick retrieval are essential to the catcher’s position, and this glove will help your young player hone these specific skills without the drag of a break-in process.
- Designed To Fit Young Ball Players (Smaller Hand Openings and Finger Stalls)
- Exclusively For Catchers
- Minimum Break-In Required; Almost Game-Ready
- ParaShock Palm Pad Reduces Rebound and Shock
- PowerClose Technology and V-Flex Notch Make Closing Easier
- 31.50" Circumference
- Super Soft Palm Lining
- Two-Piece Closed Web
- Conventional Open Back
- Full Grain Pigskin Leather Provides Durability and Flexibility
Mizuno’s GXC112 is made of long-lasting, lightweight Bio Soft Leather. This natural material has been dealer pre-oiled and softened at the tannery for an immediately playable feel with hardly any required break-in time.
A downside: the too-bold gold lettering on the balm may be considered advertising-gone-too-far by some. It’s a bit gaudy to be honest.
Infield and Pitcher’s Baseball Gloves: Best Baseball Glove for 7-Year-Old
Generally speaking, infield gloves have the following defining characteristics:
- Smaller than an outfielder’s glove for speed and agility inside the diamond
- Generally ranges between 9″ and 10.5″
- Closed webbing is preferred by pitchers (ball concealment) and third basemen (catching line drives)
- Shortstop, second and first basemen usually prefer open webbing gloves because the ball can be transferred to the throwing hand quickly.
- Shallower pockets let you get the ball out fast for quicker throws and outs.
Technically, a pitcher’s glove is smaller, has a closed pocket for concealing the ball, and has less finger padding (among other technical differences).
Between the ages of 7 and 10 however, many feel that a dedicated technical pitcher’s glove is not necessary.
Rather it is better to have a general infielder’s glove that features closed webbing so the aspiring pitcher can practice his finger placement on the ball for specific pitching styles and still be able to use the glove in various infield positions.
6. Rawlings Prodigy 11″ Youth Infield/Pitcher’s Glove (Best Infield/Pitcher’s Glove)
The Rawling’s Prodigy accomplishes the balance between the utility glove and pitcher’s glove well.
Plus, the 11″ length also makes it suitable for outfield position, providing sufficient catch range and the ability to peer through the pocket at incoming pop flies.
- DESIGNED FOR INFIELDERS AND PITCHERS: This 11 inch Prodigy Series youth Baseball glove features a Youth Pro Taper Fit, providing the perfect solution for an athlete looking for a pro-style model that fits their growing hand size
- IDEAL FOR THE BEGINNING YOUTH Baseball PLAYER AGES 6 TO 12: This glove features a Basket Web, and comes with a 90% factory break-in and is game-ready out of the box
- SURE CATCH TECHNOLOGY: Allows players to quickly and easily close the Baseball glove as soon as they put it on for the first time
- SOFT, ALL-LEATHER SHELL CONSTRUCTION AND PALM LINING: Creates a very comfortable feel and added shock reduction, making this glove a safe, reliable option for young Baseball players
- 90% FACTORY AND 10% PLAYER BREAK-IN: Makes this glove completely ready to use, right out of the box
Specifically designed for smaller, developing hands, the Prodigy’s Youth Pro Taper Fit hugs the hand snugly and responds comfortably. It offers Professional-style performance without sacrificing comfort or dexterity.
The soft, full-grain leather shell of each glove breaks in quickly and easily while still maintaining its quality and shape.
7. Wilson 2021 A500 10.5″ Youth Infield Glove
For a slightly shorter glove, consider the Wilson A500 Infielder’s Glove.
The 10.5″ A500, which has Wilson’s iconic H-Web to keep the ball in place, is the perfect size for youth ballplayers who play multiple infield positions, including pitcher.
- Redesigned smaller hand opening for a snugger fit
- All-leather construction
- Double Palm Construction gives maximum pocket stability
- Dual Welting provides long-lasting shape and quicker break-in
- 10.5" size serves well in any infield position
- X2 Web
The all-leather build is both lightweight and durable, with Blonde and Red Top Grain leather as well as White binding and dual welting.
The A500 was designed for youth players, with a Quick-Fit Wrist elastic system that adjusts to hug the wrist. The finger stalls are designed to be short and narrow for wearers to have greater control over the glove.
Rawlings player preferred leather glove – This glove is perfect for any beginning ballplayer. Its soft, full-grain leather construction is durable and easy to break in, while its basket-webbing pattern provides a versatile grip that can be used for both infield and outfield play.
Baseball First Baseman Mitts: Best Baseball Glove for 7-Year-Old
Like the catcher, the specialized first baseman wears a mitt, not a glove.
A first basemen’s mitt is distinctively longer with a solid, curved edge. The shape of the edge makes it easier for the player to scoop wild throws and stop ground balls close to the sideline.
The mitt’s large surface area makes it easier for infielders to hit their target when throwing for that out at first.
It is unusual for a player as young as 7 to have already specialized in a position like first base. That being said, it’s difficult to track down a first base mitt to fit.
Still, there are a few excellent options out there.
8. Mizuno GXF102 Prospect Youth First Base Mitt
Mizuno Prospect Series gloves are made of full-grain pigskin leather, making it durable and soft The Powerclose design makes it easy for developing players to close down on the ball.
- Designed For Younger Players (Fits Some Adolescent's Hands)
- Exclusively For Use At 1st Base
- Full Grain Pig Skin Leather: Soft And Game-Ready
- Heel Flex Technology Increases Flexibility
- ParaShock Palm Pad and ParaFlex Palm Technology for Added Protection
- PowerClose Technology makes it easy to trap the ball securely
- Three-Piece, Closed Web
- Conventional Open Back
- Velcro Wrist Strap
This glove requires a little-to-no break-in time, so your player can start using it immediately.
Removable lace loops can accommodate those players needing a little more flexibility in their mitt while the reinforced palm pad provides an ideal level of protection from hard-hit balls down the line.
9. Rawlings R9 Series Youth Pro Taper First Base Mitt (Best First Base Mitt)
Recommended exclusively for first base, the 12″ R9 Series mitt is made with a durable, all-leather shell and palm lining.
While a little break-in time will be required (factory break-in is 80% with about 20% break-in left to the player) Rawling’s ContourFit and adjusted back and wrist opening are designed for smaller hands.
- GAME-READY: Soft, durable all-leather shell designed to play with right away
- PRO PATTERNS: Glove models trusted by MLB stars to help you feel and play like a pro
- IMPACT PROTECTION: Reinforced palm pad and padded thumb loop for coverage and comfort
- COMFORTABLE FIT: Padded fingerback lining for a soft, comfortable feel
- BUILT FOR SMALLER HANDS : ContoUR Fit specially designed to give you more control and a better feel
The youth glove is specifically reinforced to reduce impact from hard-hit line drives
This 12-inch first base mitt is long and wide enough to improve the player’s ability to catch errant throws from other infielders, scope low grounders from the dirt, and reach for balls high overhead.
While it’s a bit pricier than we would recommend for this age, the quality and design of this youth glove make it deserving of a recommendation to those willing to spend a little more.
Outfield Baseball Gloves: Best Baseball Glove for 7-Year-Old
So, what specifies an outfielder’s glove?
An outfielder’s glove is larger to provide more coverage/range, has an open webs to allow for quicker ball retrieval, and often has deeper pockets to help secure those long fly balls.
While a utility glove measuring 10″-12″ will suffice, here are a few gloves specifically designed for young outfielders.
10. Wilson 2022 A700 Youth Outfield Baseball Glove (Best Outfield Glove)
The Wilson A 700 Youth Baseball Glove is a great choice for beginning outfielders.
It’s 12 inches in length, which provides plenty of coverage, and its open web design makes it easy to scoop up balls hit into the gaps.
- H-Web design
- Full-grain cow hide leather construction
- Lightweight feel
- Drawstring wrist closure for secure fit
- Youth baseball glove
This glove is made with premium full-grain leather that’s been tanned to provide a soft, comfortable feel that doesn’t sacrifice durability.
The A700 also has a Quick-Fit Wrist closure that adjusts to fit snugly around the wrist, and its finger stalls are designed to be short and narrow for greater control.
11. Marucci Caddo Series 11″-12″ Youth (Outfield) Glove
Marucci is a go-to brand for the Major Leagues; however, they also cater to those aspiring to become greats in the sport, even the little ones.
While the Caddo series youth baseball gloves are classified as general utility gloves, it’s available in longer lengths making it ideal for outfielders.
- Shell Is Made From Full-Grain, Lightweight Cowhide Leather
- Inner Palm Lining Made From Perforated Synthetic Material & The Finger Linings Built With Fleece.
- Requires Little-To-No Break-In Period
- Conventional Hand Stall With Adjustable Thumb & Pinky Loops (To Help Secure The Glove To Your Hand)
- EZ Flex Notch Allows The Glove To Be Closed Very Easily
- Intended Beginning & Pre-Teen Ballplayers
- Single Post Web
- Conventional Open Back
The Caddo gloves from Marucci are perfect for baseball players who have just started to play the game, and also for those that might be hitting their stride!
These Caddos are fashioned to be a little larger than what you would typically find for beginning players, but they are lightweight and pliable enough for beginners.
The Caddo glove’s EZ Flex notch is specifically designed to attract a younger players looking for a flexible glove.
By removing a section of leather and creating a notch, Marucci guarantees that this glove will close more easily than others on the market.
Selecting the Best Baseball Gloves for Kids (Things to Consider)
Like the sport of baseball itself, there’s a LOT more that goes into a glove than the novice eye can discern.
Sure, the fit, the brand, and the quality of craftsmanship are important; however, the position your child plays on the field as well as their ability level is critical in making your final decision.
Not all gloves are created equal, and the best glove for 7-year-old players will be different than the best choice for those who are older or just more experienced.
To save you time (and money), here’s a quick rundown of things to consider when picking out a baseball glove:
Expensive Doesn’t Mean Better … Especially When They’re Young.
Right off the bat, when parents first introduce their children to baseball, they tend to want to buy the best and most expensive glove.
While this is understandable, it’s not always necessary … and, in fact, can actually ruin the child’s enjoyment of the sport.
This is particularly true with baseball gloves. While it may seem counter-intuitive, buying your child a $300 Wilson A2000 crafted of Pro Stock Leather may not be a great idea. A glove of this type arrives stiff (not to mention uncomfortable) and requires a great deal of time and use to break in.
Small, young hands that are still developing coordination-wise are likely to have a tough time closing and gripping a ball with a glove that’s this stiff.
A lower-priced, softer glove made of full-grain leather or pigskin (or even synthetic leather) is easier to close and requires less dexterity to grip the ball than its expensive counterparts. This can help young player build confidence and feel successful as they’re just starting.
Tip From a Little League Coach: “Avoid spending over $100 on a glove until your child is ready to be fitted with an adult-sized glove (age 12-13). By then, you’ll know the level of your child’s dedication to the sport and they’ll have developed the skills to break in, utilize, and properly maintain a high-end glove.”
My older son and I both started with full-grain leather Rawlings gloves ($30-50 from Walmart) when he first showed an interest in the sport 3 years ago.
I took good care of the gloves (pictured above after 3 years of regular use and proper care), conditioning them and keeping them wrapped tightly with a baseball stored in the pocket between seasons.
After three years of regular use, both are still in great condition, and, now that Luke has grown out of his glove, his little brother Jack can use it!
The right glove for your child does not have to be a drain on the bank.
Field Position = Different Glove
As your young baseball player progresses in baseball, they may begin to specialize in a specific position that will require you to provide a glove that meets the specific needs of that position, whether it be a catcher, pitcher, first baseman, etc.
For example, outfielders have gloves that are longer than any other player’s glove on the field. Outfielders must catch fly balls, so a longer glove increases their range and the deeper pocket of an outfielder’s glove prevents fly balls from popping out.
A first baseman’s glove, on the other hand, has a unique curved style along the fingers designed specifically for scooping errant throws out of the dirt and, though smaller than an outfielder’s, is larger than other infielders’ gloves to provide a larger target for other players.
Likewise, pitchers, catchers, and other infielders’ unique needs are taken into consideration when engineering their gloves.
Still, there’s a BIG BUT here: BUT, what if my child is new to baseball? How do I know what position he/she will be playing?
Well, you don’t.
You’ll need a utility glove that can be used by players who play multiple positions and can handle the demands of both infielders and outfielders.
These gloves are usually on the larger side and have a closed-web design to fit players who also pitch.
If your child has been in baseball for at least one or two seasons, you should have some idea of what position they will be playing most and can shop for that style of glove.
But, if your child is a rookie, look for a utility-style glove that can serve them well as they find their niche on the team.
Tip From a Little League Coach: “Unless they’re a catcher, most young players between the age of 7 and 10 need a utility glove that will serve them anywhere on the diamond.
A catcher must have a catcher’s glove, an infielder is best served by a general infielder’s glove, and an outfielder is best served by an outfielder’s glove.”
Lefty or Righty?
A glove’s specified dexterity is determined by the player’s dominant throwing hand. In other words, if they throw with their right hand, they’ll need a glove for their left hand (and vice versa).
A glove marked RHT (Right Hand Throw) is made for the left hand and if marked LHT (Left Hand Throw), it’s made for the right.
Size Matters!
There’s one last, vitally important consideration when purchasing a baseball glove: glove size.
You MUST make sure that the glove you purchase is the right size for your child’s hand. A glove that’s too big will be unwieldy and difficult to control. A glove that’s too small will be uncomfortable and won’t give your child the best range of motion.
Generally speaking, kids 12 and under should look for gloves that are no more than 12 inches (unless they’re looking for a catcher’s mitt).
However, if your child’s hands are smaller than average, you’ll want to stick with the 9″-11″ range.
Youth Baseball Glove Sizing Chart
| AGE | UNDER 7 | 7-10 | 11-13 | OVER 13 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CATCHER | 29.5 - 30″ | 30 - 31″ | 30 - 32.5″ | 32 - 34.5″ |
| PITCHER | 8 - 10.5″ | 10.5 - 11.5″ | 11.5 - 12″ | 11.5 - 12″ |
| FIRST BASE | 11.5″ | 11.5 - 12″ | 11.5 - 12″ | 12 - 13″ |
| SECOND BASE/SHORT STOP/UTILITY | 8 - 10.5″ | 10.5 - 11.25″ | 11 - 11.5″ | 11.25 - 11.5″ |
| THIRD BASE | 8 - 10.5″ | 10.5 - 11.5″ | 11 - 11.75″ | 11.5 - 12″ |
| OUTFIELD | 9 - 10.5″ | 10 - 12″ | 11.75 - 12.75″ | 12 - 13″ |
The best way to determine the right size glove is to try them on in person so that your child can get a feel for how they fit. But if you’re purchasing online, most manufacturers have sizing charts available on their websites.
To determine the measured size of a glove, look for the measurements etched into the thumb or pinky of the glove.
Finally, glove sizes come in only two categories: Youth and Adult.
Generally speaking, children up to age 13 will wear a youth-sized glove while those 14 and older will graduate to an adult-size baseball glove.
Breaking In and Caring for a Baseball Glove
Once your child’s new glove arrives, you’ll want to take regular steps to ensure that it lasts as long as possible.
With the right care, even a glove in the $30-50 range can last well past the time they out grow it.
Breaking In a Baseball Glove
If you selected one of the gloves in this post, chances are your child’s glove arrived game-ready. However, if the glove is a bit stiff or is difficult for them to close it around the ball, here are some steps you can take to increase the glove’s flexibility and responsiveness.
The video below will help illustrate the steps in the break-in process:
Step 1: Oil the Glove
Using a leather conditioner or other light oil, massage the entire glove – both the interior and exterior. This will help to soften and preserve the material.
Step 2: Wrap the Glove
Once you’ve thoroughly oiled the glove, place a baseball in the pocket of the glove and then wrap the entire glove tightly with two large rubber bands
Leave it overnight and then repeat the process for several nights in a row until you see an improvement in the glove’s flexibility.
Step 3: Play Catch!
Finally, the best way to break-in a new baseball glove is to use it! The more your child wears it and works it in, the more comfortable and responsive it will become.
Step 4: Use a Glove Mallet (Optional)
If you’re in a pinch and need to break in the glove quicker, you can use a glove mallet. This is especially useful if there’s no one to play catch with as a glove mallet simulates the impact of a baseball on the interior of the glove.
With the glove on your catching hand, repeatedly strike the interior of the glove with the mallet where the ball would strike when caught. Do this in 5-10 minute intervals to simulate a throwing-catching exercise.
The mallet can also be used to reinforce the breakpoints of the glove – the space between the thumb and forefinger as well as the space where the pinky finger meets the rest of the glove.
Simply place a ball in the desired location inside of the glove and then use light taps with the mallet to shape and soften that exterior area of the glove where it folds over.
Caring for a Baseball Glove
Once your child’s glove is broken in and game-ready, you’ll want to take regular steps to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. Here are some tips for keeping a baseball glove in top shape:
- Avoid getting the glove wet. If it does get wet, stuff it with newspaper and let it air dry completely before using it again.
- It is recommended that the player wear a batting glove on their catching hand while wearing their baseball glove. This prevents oils and acids from their skin from building up inside the glove and causing additional deterioration.
- When not in use, store the glove in a cool, dry place – never in direct sunlight or in a car … ever!
- At the end of each season, brush the glove thoroughly with a soft bristle brush (that won;t score the leather) to remove dust and dirt buildup. Then apply a leather conditioner on the glove. This will help to keep the material supple and prevent it from drying out and cracking.
- When not in use, keep the glove stuffed with a ball or other object to help it retain its shape.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners on the glove as they can damage the leather.
Following these simple tips will help to extend the life of your child’s baseball glove so that they can enjoy it for seasons to come!
Let’s Play Ball!
Wrapping up, the best baseball glove for a player 7 years of age all depends on the size and, maybe, position of the player.
For most players at this age, a general-purpose utility glove is best until they begin to specialize in a particular position.
And a glove over $100 dollars is never necessary and not recommended.
A smaller glove between 10″- 11″ is best for infielders, while a larger one measuring 11.5″-12.5″ is best for outfielders.
The most important thing to keep in mind when shopping for a glove is to make sure it’s comfortable and fits snugly around the wrist.
Once you’ve found the perfect glove, all that’s left to do is head out to the diamond and start playing ball!
Now, get out there!
Joshua Davis
Being outdoors is freedom! Being outdoors with my wife and two boys is LIVING! Whether in my backyard or getting lost in a National Park, there’s nothing I’d rather do than explore, discover, and experience the paradise that surrounds us. Give me my family, a backpack, and a trail and my life is full!Download this guide to get your kids outside and off screens.
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