Hey there, baseball parents and enthusiastic young players! There’s nothing quite like the crack of the bat or the thrill of making that first catch. But before your little slugger can channel their inner Mookie Betts or Aaron Judge, they need the right gear – and that starts with finding the best baseball glove for kids. A good glove isn’t just a piece of equipment; it’s a confidence booster, a learning tool, and the key to enjoying America’s favorite pastime.
Choosing the perfect youth baseball glove can feel a bit overwhelming with all the options out there. You want something comfortable, durable, and easy for small hands to manage. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top 7 contenders, focusing on features that matter most to young athletes and their parents. So, grab a snack, and let’s dive into finding the ideal mitt for your future superstar!
Why the Right Kids’ Glove Matters
Getting the right glove for your child isn’t just about looking cool on the field. It’s about safety, comfort, and most importantly, helping them develop their skills without frustration. A glove that’s too stiff, too big, or too heavy can actually hinder their ability to catch, leading to dropped balls and a dip in confidence. We want those little hands to feel powerful and ready to scoop up anything!
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Baseball Glove for Kids
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s quickly chat about what to look for when picking out a baseball glove for kids:
- Size: This is crucial! Too big, and they can’t close it; too small, and their hand won’t fit. For T-ballers (3-5 years), look for 9-10 inches. For young baseball players (6-8 years), 10-11 inches is a good start. Always measure from the tip of the index finger to the heel of the glove.
- Material & Break-in: Most kids’ gloves are made from synthetic materials or soft leather to ensure an “easy break-in” or even “ready-to-play” feel right out of the box. Stiff, pro-level leather gloves are not for beginners.
- Weight: Lighter is better for young arms. A heavy glove can be difficult for them to control.
- Throwing Hand: This can be confusing! If your child throws with their right hand, they need a “Right Hand Throw (RHT)” glove, which is worn on their left hand. If they throw with their left hand, they need a “Left Hand Throw (LHT)” glove, worn on their right hand.
Now, let’s explore some fantastic options that will help your child catch like a pro!
1. Rawlings | REMIX T-Ball & Youth Baseball Glove | Right…
This Rawlings Remix glove truly stands out with its eye-catching, unique sublimated design, making sure your young player doesn’t just play well but also looks incredibly cool doing it. Designed specifically for first-time players aged 3-5, it offers an ideal blend of lightweight comfort and reliability, making it perfect for backyard practice or their very first T-ball game. Its versatile utility design means it’s great for any position as they learn the ropes of defensive play.
- DESIGNED AS A UTILITY GLOVE FOR ANY POSITION, this 9-inch Remix Series youth baseball and t-ball glove offers first-time players a lightweight and reliable option as they learn the fundamentals of defensive play
- IDEAL FOR THE BEGINNING YOUTH BASEBALL PLAYER AGES 3-5, this is a perfect glove for kids to play with at the field, in the backyard, or at the local park
- STYLISH, SUBLIMATED DESIGN (Black, White, and Metallic Silver) means that each glove will have a unique pattern that is sure to make your kid stand out in the field
- BASKET WEB PATTERN AND SOFT SHELL lets players scoop up grounders and grab fly balls with ease
- RIGHT HAND THROW (Glove goes on left hand)
- Sport type: Softball (also suitable for T-ball/Baseball)
Pros:
– Eye-catching and unique design helps kids feel special
– Very lightweight and easy for young children to manage
– No break-in time needed, ready to play immediately
– Reputable brand known for quality baseball gear
– Versatile for multiple positions for beginners
Cons:
– 9-inch size is strictly for very young players (3-5), they’ll outgrow it quickly
– Not made with real leather, which might not appeal to some parents looking for more traditional materials
– Does not include a ball
User Impressions: Parents love how easy it is for their little ones to get their hands into this glove and actually close it to make a catch. The vibrant design is a big hit with the kids, making them excited to wear it. It’s often praised as an excellent “first glove” for T-ball.
2. Franklin Sports Kids Baseball Glove – Youth Baseball,…
Franklin Sports brings us a fantastic option that prioritizes immediate playability. This youth baseball glove is all about convenience, featuring a super soft, lightweight mesh construction that’s ready for action right out of the box – no frustrating break-in period required! Its clever hand-formed pocket is specifically designed to contour to a child’s hand, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit that makes catching much easier for little learners.
- SOFT AND LIGHTWEIGHT: The lightweight, soft mesh construction makes this glove easy to use for younger players.
- READY TO PLAY: The soft palm construction means there is no need to break in. This glove comes all-ready to play!
- HAND FORMED POCKET: The glove pocket is designed specifically to the contours of a kid’s hand for an easy comfortable fit.
- GREAT FOR TEE BALL: This is the perfect first glove for any young tee ball player to practice their catching and throwing skills!
- NOTE: Left Hand Throw glove = worn on right hand to throw with left; Right Hand Throw = glove worn on left hand to throw with right.
Pros:
– No break-in period required, truly ready to play instantly
– Lightweight mesh design is very easy for young kids to handle
– Ergonomic hand-formed pocket helps kids make catches more easily
– Excellent choice for T-ball and very young beginners
– Comfortable fit designed for children’s hands
Cons:
– Mesh construction might not offer the same durability as more robust materials
– Best suited for T-ball or casual play, not competitive league use
– Does not include a practice ball
User Impressions: Many parents rave about how their kids can actually close this glove, which is a common challenge with stiffer mitts. They appreciate the soft material and the “ready-to-play” aspect, allowing immediate fun. It’s a go-to for kids just starting out in T-ball.
3. Franklin Sports Baseball Gloves – Meshtek Child’s Tball…
The Franklin Sports Meshtek glove set takes convenience to the next level by including a soft foam ball, meaning your child has everything they need for immediate play, whether indoors or out. Like its siblings, this glove boasts a soft, lightweight mesh construction and requires absolutely no break-in time. The hand-formed pocket is a game-changer, perfectly molding to a child’s hand for a snug, comfortable fit that makes learning to catch a breeze.
- Soft and lightweight: The lightweight, soft mesh construction makes this glove easy to use for younger players
- Ready to play: The soft palm construction means there is no need to break in. This glove comes all ready to play
- Hand formed pocket: The glove pocket is designed specifically to the contours of a kid’s hand for an easy comfortable fit
- Ball included: This combo set includes a soft foam ball so you have everything you need for playing indoors or out
- Note: Left Hand Thrower glove = worn on right hand to throw with left; Right Hand Throw = glove worn on left hand to throw with right
Pros:
– Includes a soft foam ball for immediate play, great value
– Zero break-in time; soft and ready to use right away
– Lightweight mesh is ideal for small, developing hands
– Hand-formed pocket offers a secure and comfortable fit
– Perfect for T-ball and introductory baseball skills
Cons:
– Mesh material may not be as robust for long-term, intensive use
– Primarily designed for younger children; might be outgrown quickly
– Not suitable for more advanced or competitive league play
User Impressions: Customers love that this set comes with a ball, making it an instant activity for kids. The softness and lack of break-in are frequently highlighted, with parents reporting their children can easily use it from day one. It’s often recommended as a great starter kit.
4. Franklin Sports Kids Baseball Glove – NeoGrip Boys +…
Another excellent “ready-to-play” option from Franklin Sports, the NeoGrip glove is designed to get your child into the game without delay. Its soft, lightweight mesh construction ensures tiny hands can handle it with ease, while the pre-formed pocket perfectly cradles a child’s hand for natural catching. The included soft foam ball is a fantastic bonus, providing immediate fun and practice opportunities, whether they’re in the backyard or at the park.
- SOFT AND LIGHTWEIGHT: The lightweight, soft mesh construction makes this glove easy to use for younger players.
- READY TO PLAY: The soft palm construction means there is no need to break in. This glove comes all-ready to play.
- HAND FORMED POCKET: The glove pocket is designed specifically to the contours of a kid’s hand for an easy comfortable fit.
- BALL INCLUDED: This combo set includes a soft foam ball, so you have everything you need for playing indoors or out.
- NOTE: Left Hand Throw glove, worn on right hand to throw with left, Right Hand Throw equals to glove worn on left hand to throw with right.
Pros:
– Comes with a soft foam ball, offering great value and immediate play
– No break-in period whatsoever, ready to use out of the box
– Extremely lightweight and soft, ideal for young children
– Hand-formed pocket is comfortable and helps with catching
– Great for indoor and outdoor casual play and skill development
Cons:
– Mesh construction may not withstand heavy-duty use over time
– More suited for beginners and T-ball rather than competitive youth leagues
– Might be less durable than gloves made with stronger synthetic or leather materials
User Impressions: Parents consistently praise the “ready-to-play” feature and the soft feel of this glove. The included foam ball is a big hit, allowing kids to start practicing immediately. It’s seen as a fantastic first glove for casual play and building initial skills.
5. Franklin Sports Kids Baseball Glove – Air Tech Youth…
The Franklin Sports Air Tech set is the perfect entry point for toddlers and young players thanks to its incredibly lightweight and safe foam construction. Designed with learning in mind, this glove and ball combo ensures that practicing baseball skills is fun and frustration-free. What truly sets it apart is the adjustable self-stick wrist closure, allowing for a personalized, secure fit that grows with your child, ensuring comfort and control every time.
- PERFECT FOR KIDS: This lightweight glove and ball set is perfect for toddlers and young players to play catch and practice their baseball skills!
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: The soft foam construction is lightweight and designed to be safe and easy for kids to play and learn with
- READY TO PLAY: The RTP (ready to play) construction ensures that these gloves never need to be broken in. These teeball gloves are ready to go right out of the box!
- ADJUSTABLE FIT: The self-stick wrist closure tab lets players adjust the wrist size for a perfect, personalized fit every time
- RIGHT HAND THROW: This glove is worn on the left hand so players can throw with their right
Pros:
– Incredibly lightweight foam construction is very safe and easy for toddlers to use
– Adjustable wrist closure provides a custom and secure fit
– Comes ready to play with no break-in period
– Includes a ball, offering immediate play value
– Ideal for the very youngest players just starting out
Cons:
– Foam material is less durable than other options, designed for very light use
– Not suitable for older children or organized league play
– Durability might be a concern with extensive play
User Impressions: Reviewers love the extreme lightness and softness, making it incredibly easy for even the youngest children to manipulate. The adjustable wrist strap is a big plus for getting a snug fit, and the immediate playability with the included ball makes it a top choice for introducing kids to baseball.
6. Franklin Sports MLB Youth Teeball Glove + Foam Ball Set…
For young fans eager to show off their team pride, the Franklin Sports MLB Youth Teeball Glove and Foam Ball Set is a grand slam! This officially MLB-licensed combo features official team logos and colors, allowing kids to support their favorite team right on the field. Beyond the cool design, it’s a fantastic first glove, crafted from soft, lightweight materials that require zero break-in, making it super easy for beginners to catch and field with immediate success.
- NEW YORK YANKEES GLOVE: These MLB team glove and ball sets are designed with official team logos and colors so fans show their support for their favorite teams out on the field
- PERFECT FIRST GLOVE: This MLB glove and ball set is the perfect first glove for young players to practice their tee ball skills and learn the game while having a ton of fun
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: This glove is constructed from soft, lightweight materials so kids can practice catching and fielding easily with no break-in time required
- FOAM BALL INCLUDED: This set comes with an MLB team foam baseball that makes it easy to play indoors and outdoors
- OFFICIALLY MLB LICENSED: Designed with official MLB logos and colors so baseball fans can show support for their favorite team
Pros:
– Officially MLB licensed with team logos, great for young fans
– Includes a foam ball for immediate indoor/outdoor play
– Soft, lightweight, and requires no break-in time
– Ideal as a first glove for T-ball and casual play
– Encourages team spirit and engagement with the sport
Cons:
– Team-specific design might not appeal to all, or if they change favorite teams
– Primarily designed for T-ball and casual backyard play, not competitive leagues
– Material durability might be limited for heavy, prolonged use
User Impressions: Parents and kids alike adore the MLB team branding, which adds an extra layer of excitement. The glove’s softness and the included foam ball are frequently praised, making it a hit for instant fun and easy learning. It’s often described as the perfect gift for a young baseball enthusiast.
7. Franklin Sports Kids Baseball Gloves – RTP Youth Teeball…
The Franklin Sports RTP (Ready To Play) Youth Teeball Glove is all about comfort and instant action for young players. Constructed from lightweight PVC, this glove feels incredibly soft and comfortable right out of the box, eliminating any break-in time frustrations. It’s specifically designed for T-ballers, making it easy for them to practice throwing and catching. Plus, it comes with its own soft foam baseball, so your child is geared up for fun whether they’re in the living room or out in the yard.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Constructed with lightweight PVC for maximum comfort and ease for young players
- SOFT AND COMFORTABLE: Made with super soft materials to ensure easy fielding and no break-in time!
- FOAM BALL INCLUDED: This glove comes with its own soft foam baseball so you’ll have everything you need to practice throwing and catching whether you’re indoors or out!
- GREAT FOR TEEBALL: This is the perfect first glove for any young teeball player to practice their catching and throwing skills!
- NOTE: Left Hand Thrower glove = worn on right hand to throw with left; Right Hand Throw = glove worn on left hand to throw with right
Pros:
– Super soft and comfortable, making it very easy for kids to close
– Absolutely no break-in time needed, ready to play instantly
– Comes with a soft foam baseball for immediate practice
– Lightweight PVC construction is easy for small hands to maneuver
– An excellent choice for T-ball and very young beginners
Cons:
– PVC material, while soft, might not be as durable as traditional leather for long-term use
– Primarily designed for T-ball and casual play, not suitable for competitive baseball
– Might be outgrown quickly as skill levels advance
User Impressions: Customers love the extreme softness and the “ready-to-play” aspect, emphasizing how easy it is for even the smallest hands to use effectively. The included foam ball is a big bonus, enabling immediate playtime. Many consider it an ideal first glove for encouraging a love of baseball.
Conclusion
Finding the best baseball glove for kids doesn’t have to be a tough decision. Whether you’re looking for a super lightweight option for a tiny T-baller, a glove with an adjustable fit, or one that comes with its own practice ball, there’s a fantastic choice out there for every young player. Remember, the goal is to make learning fun and comfortable, so they can develop a lifelong love for the game. We hope this guide helps you hit a home run with your purchase!
FAQ Section
Q1: What size baseball glove should I get for my child?
A1: Generally, for T-ballers (ages 3-5), a glove between 9-10 inches is best. For younger youth baseball players (ages 6-8), 10-11 inches is a good starting point. The most important thing is that your child can comfortably open and close the glove.
Q2: What’s the difference between “Right Hand Throw” and “Left Hand Throw” gloves?
A2: This often causes confusion! A “Right Hand Throw (RHT)” glove is worn on the left hand so the player can throw with their right hand. Conversely, a “Left Hand Throw (LHT)” glove is worn on the right hand for players who throw with their left hand. Always choose based on the hand your child throws with.
Q3: Do kids’ baseball gloves need to be broken in?
A3: Most children’s baseball gloves, especially those designed for T-ball and beginners, are made with soft, synthetic materials or supple leather that require little to no break-in time. Many are even marketed as “Ready To Play” (RTP) right out of the box, which is ideal for young, impatient players!
Q4: What materials are best for a beginner’s glove?
A4: For beginners, look for gloves made from soft mesh, PVC, or lightweight synthetic leather. These materials are flexible, easy to close, and don’t require the extensive break-in that professional-grade leather gloves do. Comfort and ease of use are key for first-time players.
Q5: When should my child get their first baseball glove?
A5: Kids can start getting a glove as early as 2-3 years old for playing catch in the backyard or when they begin T-ball around ages 3-5. Introducing them early with a soft, lightweight glove can help develop hand-eye coordination and a love for the game.
Q6: Is a T-ball glove different from a youth baseball glove?
A6: Yes, generally T-ball gloves are smaller (typically 9-10 inches), softer, and designed for very young children playing with softer T-balls. Youth baseball gloves are slightly larger (10-12 inches), can be a bit more robust, and are designed for kids progressing to pitching machines or live pitching with harder baseballs.
Q7: How do I clean and maintain a baseball glove for kids?
A7: For most kids’ gloves made of synthetic materials, a simple wipe down with a damp cloth after use is sufficient. Avoid harsh chemicals. If it gets wet, let it air dry naturally, away from direct heat. Storing it in a cool, dry place can help extend its life.