subject: Softball Mitts For Beginning Players [print this page] How To Buy Softball Mitts For Beginning Players
It can be hard for parents to know what sizes of softball mitts to buy for beginning players, especially since girls start at different ages and different levels. Following is a brief run-down on what to look for when buying softball mitts for players beginning at different levels.
Before we begin, its important to understand one simple concept: the size of the glove is determined by the size of the ball not the size of the girl. Gloves used for t-ball are quite tiny, partly because the ball is so small. Once girls begin playing with an 11-inch softball, a larger glove is necessary just so the pocket is big enough to field the ball.
Girls hands are often very tiny, and any glove may seem huge. A glove that is too large will be heavier and will make learning fundamental skills harder and less fun so stick with a smaller glove rather than buying one to grow into.
Also, please be aware that the terms pigtail and ponytail may be different in your area of the world, but if you go according to age and the size of the ball you should be okay. When specific questions arise, ask your childs coach for advice so you will get the answers appropriate for the area and level of play.
Starting in t-ball?
Many girls begin in t-ball, often playing on co-ed teams. These are precious years, and they learn the absolute fundamentals. Dont be concerned if your child has no idea what it means to run home, or if every player converges on every ball. Its all part of the learning process, and before long theyll be playing like veterans.
T-balls are small and soft, and at this age girls are usually ages 4-6. Their hands are tiny, and you want a small glove. Look for a 9-inch t-ball glove. These are available in fun colors (pink, purple, etc.) for around $20 or less, often with ball included. This is a glove that will be used for a year or two, at most, so it is perfectly fine to do some bargain hunting at local garage sales and thrift stores, or use hand-me-downs.
Staring in Pigtail level?
Pigtail level is often the first real softball experience, with all girls and usually an 11-inch softball. Girls are in 1st or 2nd grade (6-8 years old), and they still need a smaller glove. Get a 10- or 11-inch softball mitt, depending on the childs size.
Most girls want to get out there and have fun and dont want to break in a glove, so look for a mitt that is soft, made of leather, and game-ready (not stiff). Mitts in these sizes are available in fun colors and styles, so get one that your child will like (and that will be easy to find in a crowded dugout). Prices range from about $20-50, and this is a glove she will use for one or two years.
Starting in Ponytail level?
Players at this level are usually in 3rd and 4th grade (8-10 years old), and balls are usually still 11-inch softballs. There is a bit more practice and a few more games at this level, so durability is a bigger factor. Get an 11- or 11.5-inch softball mitt big enough for the player and the ball, but still not too heavy and easy to fish the ball out of.
Keep in mind that higher-quality mitts may require some breaking in, although there are plenty of excellent game ready styles out there. Prices range from about $30-60, and this is a mitt that will last for about two years.
The next level, commonly called 12-under with players in 6th and 7th grade (ages 10-12) usually begins playing with real 12-inch fastpitch softballs. A larger glove (which will have a bigger pocket) will be needed most likely a 12- or 12.5-inch mitt. By the time your child is playing at this level, she will probably have a really clear idea of what kind of mitt she wants.
