Getting your little one started in baseball or T-ball is an exciting time! Watching them learn to field, catch, and throw can be incredibly rewarding. But before they can snag that game-winning fly ball, they need the right equipment – and that starts with finding the best baseball gloves for kids. A good glove isn’t just a piece of gear; it’s a tool that helps them build confidence, develop skills, and most importantly, have fun!
Choosing the perfect youth baseball glove can feel a bit overwhelming with so many options out there. You want something comfortable, easy to use, and durable enough to withstand countless practices and games. That’s why we’ve rounded up five top picks that are ideal for junior players, whether they’re just learning the ropes in T-ball or starting their little league journey.
Let’s dive into our top selections to help you find the ideal glove for your budding baseball star!
Our Top 5 Picks for Best Baseball Gloves for Kids
Here are our in-depth reviews of the top gloves designed specifically for young athletes:
1. Rawlings | REMIX T-Ball & Youth Baseball Glove | Right…
The Rawlings Remix T-Ball & Youth Baseball Glove is a fantastic starter option for kids aged 3-5, offering a blend of utility and style. Designed to be a versatile glove for any position, it’s lightweight and reliable, helping first-time players grasp the fundamentals of defensive play with ease. Its vibrant, sublimated design ensures your child will not only play well but also look sharp on the field, making it a standout choice among best baseball gloves for kids.
Key Features:
- Designed as a utility glove for any position.
- 9-inch size, ideal for beginning youth baseball players aged 3-5.
- Stylish, sublimated design (Black, White, and Metallic Silver) for a unique look.
- Basket web pattern and soft shell for easy scooping and catching.
- Right Hand Throw (Glove goes on left hand).
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and reliable for young beginners.
- No break-in time needed thanks to the soft shell.
- Eye-catching design helps kids feel confident and excited.
- Versatile enough for various positions in early play.
Cons:
- The 9-inch size is specific to very young players, meaning it will be outgrown quickly.
- Sublimated design might not appeal to every child’s preference.
- Only available for Right Hand Throwers (left-hand worn glove).
User Impressions: Parents frequently praise this Rawlings glove for its instant playability and how comfortable it feels on their child’s hand. Many note that the stylish design is a big hit with kids, encouraging them to get out and play. Its soft material makes catching less intimidating for little ones.
2. Franklin Sports Baseball Gloves – Meshtek Child’s Tball…
Franklin Sports brings us the Meshtek Child’s T-Ball Glove, specifically engineered for the youngest of players. Its standout feature is the super soft and lightweight mesh construction, making it incredibly easy for small hands to manage and control. This glove arrives “ready to play” right out of the box, meaning zero frustrating break-in time, allowing your child to jump straight into practice. Plus, it even comes with a soft foam ball, so you have everything you need for immediate fun!
Key Features:
- Soft and lightweight mesh construction, easy for younger players to use.
- Ready to play with no break-in required due to soft palm construction.
- Hand-formed pocket designed specifically for a child’s hand for a comfortable fit.
- Includes a soft foam ball, perfect for indoor or outdoor play.
- Available for Left Hand Thrower (glove worn on right hand) and Right Hand Throw (glove worn on left hand) – Note: Check specific listing for thrower options.
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort and ease of use for toddlers and young children.
- No break-in period is a huge plus for eager young players and parents.
- The included foam ball is a great value-add, providing immediate play.
- Ergonomic design ensures a natural and comfortable fit for small hands.
Cons:
- Mesh construction might not offer the same durability as leather for more intensive play.
- Primarily suited for T-ball, less ideal for progression into serious youth baseball.
- Might be too small for children at the upper end of the “youth” age range.
User Impressions: Reviewers consistently highlight how perfectly sized and incredibly soft this glove is for little ones. The fact that it comes with a ball is often cited as a bonus, making it an excellent all-in-one starter kit. Kids genuinely find it easy to catch with.
3. Franklin Sports Kids Baseball Glove – Youth Baseball,…
Another great contender from Franklin Sports, this Youth Baseball Glove prioritizes simplicity and comfort for young athletes. Like its Meshtek sibling, it boasts a soft and lightweight mesh construction, ensuring it’s easy for little hands to maneuver. It arrives pre-broken in, making it an instant hit for tee ball players who are ready to practice their catching and throwing skills without delay. It’s truly one of the best baseball gloves for kids starting their journey.
Key Features:
- Soft and lightweight mesh construction for ease of use.
- Ready to play with no break-in time required.
- Hand-formed pocket designed to fit the contours of a child’s hand.
- Perfect first glove for any young tee ball player.
- Available for Left Hand Throw (glove worn on right hand) and Right Hand Throw (glove worn on left hand) – Note: Check specific listing for thrower options.
Pros:
- Extremely user-friendly for young children due to its light weight and softness.
- Zero break-in time means immediate fun and skill-building.
- Designed for a snug and comfortable fit on small hands.
- Excellent choice for introductory T-ball play.
Cons:
- Does not include a foam ball, unlike some other Franklin combo sets.
- Mesh material may not hold up as well as leather over extended, rigorous use.
- Primarily focused on T-ball, so older kids may need a more advanced glove soon.
User Impressions: Parents appreciate the no-fuss design and immediate playability of this glove. Many remark on how well it fits tiny hands and how encouraging it is for kids who are new to catching, making the learning process much smoother.
4. Franklin Sports Kids Baseball Glove – NeoGrip Boys +…
The Franklin Sports NeoGrip Boys + Kids Baseball Glove takes comfort and immediate playability to the next level. Featuring a soft and lightweight mesh construction, it’s designed specifically for younger players who need an easy-to-manage glove. There’s absolutely no break-in required, so your child can start catching from the moment they put it on. This combo set also includes a soft foam ball, making it a complete package for aspiring baseball stars, whether playing indoors or out.
Key Features:
- Soft and lightweight mesh construction for easy handling.
- Ready to play with no break-in needed due to soft palm.
- Hand-formed pocket tailored to a child’s hand for a secure and comfortable fit.
- Includes a soft foam ball, providing everything needed for immediate play.
- Available for Left Hand Throw (glove worn on right hand) and Right Hand Throw (glove worn on left hand) – Note: Check specific listing for thrower options.
Pros:
- Incredibly soft and comfortable, ideal for sensitive young hands.
- Eliminates the need for any break-in period, making it perfect for impatient kids.
- The included foam ball is a fantastic addition for instant practice.
- The hand-formed pocket ensures an ergonomic fit, enhancing catching ability.
Cons:
- The mesh construction, while light, may not offer the longevity of more durable materials.
- Best suited for very young children and T-ball, not for competitive youth league play.
- “NeoGrip” branding isn’t explicitly detailed with specific grip features in the description.
User Impressions: Customers love that this glove is ready to go right away, often mentioning how well it fits little hands and the added bonus of the foam ball. Many reviews highlight how it significantly helps children gain confidence in catching due to its softness and light weight.
5. Franklin Sports Kids Baseball Gloves – RTP Youth Teeball…
Rounding out our list is the Franklin Sports RTP Youth Teeball Glove, a prime example of a beginner-friendly glove that offers maximum comfort and ease. Constructed with lightweight PVC, this glove is super soft and comfortable right out of the box, meaning zero break-in time for your eager player. It also comes complete with its own soft foam baseball, providing an instant solution for practicing throwing and catching, making it an excellent choice among the best baseball gloves for kids just getting started.
Key Features:
- Lightweight PVC construction for maximum comfort and ease.
- Super soft materials ensure easy fielding and no break-in time.
- Includes a soft foam baseball, perfect for immediate practice.
- Ideal first glove for any young T-ball player to practice skills.
- Available for Left Hand Thrower (glove worn on right hand) and Right Hand Throw (glove worn on left hand) – Note: Check specific listing for thrower options.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and soft, reducing hand fatigue for young players.
- Absolutely no break-in period, ready for immediate use.
- The included foam ball offers great value and convenience.
- Durable PVC material designed for ease of use in T-ball.
Cons:
- PVC material might not provide the same feel or long-term durability as traditional leather gloves.
- Specifically designed for T-ball, meaning it might not be suitable as kids progress to harder balls.
- The soft structure might not offer as much protection against harder throws as more robust gloves.
User Impressions: This Franklin RTP glove is a consistent favorite for its immediate usability and the included ball. Parents frequently comment on how perfectly soft it is for little hands, making catching an enjoyable and less daunting experience for their kids. It’s highly recommended for toddlers and preschoolers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids’ Baseball Gloves
Choosing the right glove for your child is crucial for their enjoyment and skill development. Here are some common questions parents ask:
Q: What’s the difference between a T-ball glove and a youth baseball glove?
A: T-ball gloves are typically smaller, softer, and require no break-in time, making them perfect for very young beginners using soft T-balls. Youth baseball gloves are slightly larger, often made from more durable materials (like leather or synthetic leather), and might require a short break-in period, designed for harder baseballs and more competitive play as kids grow.
Q: How do I choose the right size glove for my child?
A: Glove size for kids is measured in inches. For T-ball (ages 3-6), 9-10 inches is common. For young baseball players (ages 6-8), 10-11 inches. As they get older (ages 8-12), 11-12 inches might be appropriate. The glove should fit snugly but comfortably on their non-throwing hand, allowing them to open and close it easily.
Q: What does “Right Hand Throw (RHT)” or “Left Hand Throw (LHT)” mean?
A: “Right Hand Throw (RHT)” means the player throws with their right hand, so the glove goes on their left hand. “Left Hand Throw (LHT)” means the player throws with their left hand, so the glove goes on their right hand. Always make sure to check this before purchasing!
Q: Do these kids’ gloves need to be “broken in”?
A: Most of the T-ball and beginner youth gloves featured here are designed with soft materials that require little to no break-in time. This means they are ready to use right out of the box, which is a huge advantage for eager young players. More advanced youth gloves made of stiffer leather might require some breaking in.
Q: What materials are best for kids’ baseball gloves?
A: For young beginners, soft synthetic materials (like mesh or PVC) or soft synthetic leather are excellent choices. They are lightweight, flexible, and don’t need breaking in. As kids get older and play more seriously, genuine leather or higher-quality synthetic leather gloves offer better durability and protection.
Q: How can I help my child learn to catch with their new glove?
A: Start with soft foam or tennis balls in a relaxed, fun environment. Practice throwing gently from a short distance. Encourage them to watch the ball into the glove and squeeze it shut. Make it a game, not a chore! Consistent, positive reinforcement is key.
Q: How often should I clean my child’s baseball glove?
A: For most kids’ gloves, a simple wipe down with a damp cloth after use is sufficient to remove dirt and sweat. If it gets particularly muddy, you can use a mild soap and water solution, but avoid harsh chemicals. Allow it to air dry completely, away from direct heat. Regular cleaning helps prolong the life of the glove.
We hope this guide to the best baseball gloves for kids helps you confidently choose the perfect glove for your young slugger. Getting the right gear is the first step toward a love of the game, so pick one that makes learning and playing a joy!