Youth Fielding (Fastpitch)

At the youth level, most players rotate between positions, so a single all-around glove is usually the best choice. An 11" to 11.5" glove works well both in the infield and the outfield for most players aged 9 to 12. Once she settles into one position, a position-specific glove will help her play at her best. Our glove size chart can help you choose.

Infield gloves are smaller, usually 10.5" to 11", with a shallower pocket so players can get the ball out quickly for the throw. Outfield gloves are longer, usually 11.5" to 12.5", with a deeper pocket to secure fly balls. For older players, see our adult fastpitch gloves.

• Basket webs create a deep, forgiving pocket that’s easy for beginners, and hide the ball for pitchers.

• H-webs and I-webs are more open, popular with infielders who want quick transfers.

• Trapeze webs make a deep pocket for catching fly balls in the outfield.

For young beginners, a basket web is often the easiest to learn with. Learn more in our glove buying guide.

Yes. At the youth level, most pitchers use their regular fielding glove. A closed web, like a basket web, is a plus because it hides her grip from the batter. Some leagues have colour rules for pitchers’ gloves (for example, no white or grey), so check before buying a light-coloured glove. Since pitchers are close to the batter, many leagues also require a face mask, available in our player protection collection.

Most youth gloves, like the Rawlings Sure Catch, Mizuno Prospect and Easton Ghost Flex, are made to be game-ready with little break-in. The best method is simple: play catch every day. A glove break-in product can help soften stiffer leather gloves, and for a glove that’s ready right away, try our Mitt Master glove break-in service. Avoid ovens, microwaves and hot water.

Kids are hard on gloves. Don’t leave it in a hot car or out in the rain, let it dry naturally if it gets wet, and store it with a ball in the pocket to keep its shape. A glove conditioner applied a couple of times per season keeps the leather from drying out and cracking.

For beginners, not necessarily: an easy-to-close, lightweight glove will help her more than premium leather. For players in competitive or travel fastpitch, a sturdier glove like the Wilson A500 Siren, Rawlings R9 or Marucci Caddo holds its shape longer and offers better control.

Start with soft tosses and have her catch with two hands, using her throwing hand to cover the ball in the pocket. Teach her to keep the glove fingers up for balls above the waist and down for balls below. A glove that’s the right size and easy to close makes a big difference in how quickly she learns.