Softball Glove Sizes
Age Measurement (in inches)
7 years 6 – 6 1/4
8-11 years 6 1/4 – 6 3/4
12+ years Anywhere from 7 – 11″ depending on playing position
Softball Gloves for a 5 to 7 year-old
Kids (children) between 5 & 7 years old should use a 10 – to 12 -inch youth glove, while 8 too 10 year olds should generally use an 11- or 12-inch youth glove or a 13-inch small adult model —though it’s best to contact your local sporting goods store for sizing advice because every child is unique. Additionally, having lighter gloves will make them easier for your child to catch with, so always look for light weight models!
Softball Gloves for a 10 year old
A 10 year old needs a glove that fits correctly and is sized correctly for the age and size of the player. too 10 year olds should generally use an 11- or 12-inch youth glove or a 13-inch small adult model. Softball glove sizes can vary depending on the age, position and skill level of the player. Selecting the right glove is vital in order to ensure that the player is comfortable and can perform to the best of their abilities. To pick the right sized glove, it is important to understand the different glove sizes available.
Youth gloves (ages 8-11)
Youth gloves are designed for ages 8 to 11 and are perfectly sized for players of this age who are learning the game or beginning to play in a league. These gloves usually range from 9 – 11 1/2 inches in length, making them ideal for all positions. Most manufacturers will label softball gloves as either youth or adult sizes. Even if a glove is labeled as a youth model, it can still work well in some cases when being used by an older player. Keep in mind that a glove that’s too large can be difficult to break in, while an adult-sized glove may be harder to control depending on the size and skill level of the player. Unisex gloves may also be slightly larger than their female-specific counterparts, so if your daughter is playing baseball or softball you’ll want to make sure you get the right size glove for her hand size.
Junior gloves (ages 12-14)
Junior gloves are designed for ages 12-14, however 10 year olds can use them as well. Junior gloves range from 8″ – 9″ in size as these young players need smaller fitting gloves that are lightweight yet provide enough protective padding between the ball and hand upon impact. While a typical 9” glove works best for most youth of this age and size, some prefer an 8” for better control and the feeling of being able to close the glove more easily around their hand when making catches. Softball gloves also come in a range of popular colors and styles suitable for young outfielders or infielders.
Adult gloves (ages 15+)
Adult gloves are designed for players aged 15 and over, so it is not recommended to choose an adult glove for a 10-year-old. Adult gloves usually measure 11 inches to 14 inches, although some manufacturers may produce larger sizes as well. Adult softball gloves also have larger pockets than youth gloves, making it easier to catch the ball when pitching. In addition, these gloves are often made of leather or other durable materials with more breathable linings to better protect the player’s hands and provide greater flexibility.
Measure Your Hand
If you’re looking for a way to make sure you’re sizing your softball glove correctly, the first step is to measure your hand. Knowing the size of your hand can help you determine which glove size will work best for you. To measure your hand, you’ll need to measure the circumference of your hand and the length from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger. Let’s take a look at how to get these measurements.
Measure the circumference of your hand
Measuring the circumference of your hand is one of the most important steps when sizing a softball glove. Use a measuring tape or piece of string to measure around the widest part of your hand, not including your thumb. This should be done with your hand open, held flat, and fingers stretched out as much as possible. You can then measure the length from end to end to get an accurate hand circumference measurement.
It is important that you measure both hands in order to determine which size glove would work best for you regardless of which hand you play with. Once you have gathered the measurements for both hands, choose a glove that is slightly larger than either hand measurement so you can comfortably fit your fingers in easily and be able to flex them inside the glove. The gloves available range from 10’’ – 15’’ in circumference size and if neither measurement falls into this range then it would be wise to buy a larger size. Additionally, consider factors such as webbing style and surface of the palm when purchasing a softball glove.
Measure the length of your hand
When measuring your hand for a softball glove, you should begin by using a tape measure or ruler to measure the length of your hand from the base of your palm to the tip of your longest finger. Measure in inches, rounding up to the nearest inch. This measurement is generally used when sizing youth and adult baseball gloves. Youth gloves often start at 9” in size and can go up to 17” for adult gloves.
Once you have determined your hand size, you should factor in additional measurements that will may impact fit and comfort. Measure around your palm (at the widest part), holding the measuring tape firmly but not tightly against your skin. If you wear thick batting gloves, be sure to account for their circumference as well so that a good fit can be achieved with or without batting gloves on.
The circumference of your lower hand (right below the knuckles) will also impact glove fit and comfort so it is important to measure that area as well – again, while not pulling tightly on skin or fabric during measurement. Generally speaking, mitts have wider measurements than standard infield baseball gloves in this region as mitts are generally wider and bulkier than traditional shaped gloves, but it’s still important to consider personal measurements when sizing a glove.
Types of Gloves
When shopping for a softball glove for a 10 year old, it is important to consider the type of glove you get. Different gloves fit different hand sizes, playing styles, and positions. The most common types of gloves are slow pitch, fast pitch, and infield gloves. Each of these offers different levels of support for your 10 year old as they learn to play softball. Let’s take a look at the various types of softball gloves.
Fastpitch gloves
Fastpitch softball requires a glove with more support and a larger pocket so that it can withstand the faster moving ball. The pocket should be large enough to fit the ball in snugly and securely, with enough support around the edges to prevent any passes from slipping through. For a 10 year old, an 11-11.5 inch glove is usually recommended. Fastpitch gloves are designed in more tapered shapes to provide better grip and control for fast movements of the hand which is essential for fast-paced games like fastpitch softball. Softer leather material used in the construction of these gloves also adds comfort without reducing their strength or playing ability levels.
Slowpitch gloves
Slowpitch softball gloves are crafted with thick leather, deep pockets and wider webs than gloves designed for fastpitch softballs. This is because slowpitch baseballs are larger, heavier and traveling at lower velocities than those coming off a fastpitch bat. Most slowpitch gloves available range in size from 11 to 15 inches, with 12-inch gloves being among the most popular. Choosing the right size glove is important as it affects ball control as well as comfort during play.
For a 10 year old player, an 11 inch slow pitch glove will be the ideal choice due to its smaller size and shallow pocket. This allows for quicker ball transfer from the pocket of the glove to their throwing hand. An 11 inch slow pitch glove will give them better control of the ball to get it where they want it faster!
In addition to deciding on a glove size, there are other factors that should be taken into consideration when shopping for a glove such as padding and construction options (closed versus open back) which will vary depending on the manufacturer. It’s also important to make sure that you have a properly fitted glove; one that isn’t too big or too small for your hand! A well-fitted glove can make all the difference in performance and comfort during play.
Catcher’s mitts
Catcher’s mitts are typically larger and heavier than gloves used for other positions in softball, as the catcher is the defensive player that most often comes into direct contact with the ball. Catcher’s mitts are padded to provide the catcher with extra protection from hard-thrown pitches. They usually measure twelve to fifteen inches in circumference, fourteen to eighteen inches in length, and come in various widths ranging from twenty-five to thirty-five inches.
To ensure an optimal fit, measure your child’s hand around its widest point. Measure the palm of their dominant hand (the right hand for righties, and left for lefties). Choose a catcher’s mitt that best suits their size and position preferences. A good mitt should have enough padding around the fingers, palm and shoulder regions for safety purposes as well as enough give on all sides of the glove so that it can comfortably accommodate your child’s immature hands.
Most ten year old players will benefit from a sized 30cm (11 – 12inch) catcher’s mitt specifically designed for youth softball games.
Choose the Right Glove
Finding the right softball glove for the season can be a daunting task for any player. It is important to choose the correct glove size and features to ensure the best performance. This guide will provide an overview of the different glove sizes, and some tips on selecting the proper glove for your position and level of play.
Consider the position you play
The type of glove you need depends on factors such as the position you play and your individual style. If you are a shortstop or third baseman, you will likely need a shorter glove with thinner pocket so that you can quickly adjust and make quick grabs from balls in the dirt. Outfielders usually prefer deeper pockets on their mitts to help them snare fly balls. Catchers tend to prefer stiffer gloves since they have to keep the ball from going through to the ground.
It is also important to think about sizing when selecting a softball glove; if your glove is too large for your hand, it could result in you not being able to make some key catches. When measuring your hand, start at the base of your fingers and measure just up past where they curve into your palm, this is referred to as the “length” measurement (in inches) and can help determine which size glove fits best. To get an accurate length measurement of your hand without measuring tapes or rulers, take a piece of string or yarn and wrap it around part of one of your hands while making sure that it follows the same path that a softball glove would (such as wrapping around both thumb knuckles).
Also keep in mind what type of material the pocket lining is made out of when choosing the right softball glove for yourself because each material may feel differently in your hand, depending on what laced material it is paired with – leather or synthetic leather – provide more breath ability than synthetic materials; if you are looking for greater performance, look for one with extra cushioning or padding in specific areas where more control or comfort may be desired. Finally, if comfort and control are top priorities for you then try looking into purchasing added features such as an adjustable wrist strap which can help add more stability and better fitment when wearing a softball glove during play.
Consider the size of the glove
Choosing gloves that fit properly is essential for both comfort and protection. Gloves should fit snugly but shouldn’t be too tight or they may restrict movement and cause your hand to become sweaty or tender. Measure the circumference of your hand at the widest part and compare it to the size ranges in glove sizing charts to select a size most appropriate for you. The manufacturer’s sizing chart will ensure that you select the right size glove for a snug, comfortable fit. For some applications, like medical, industrial and food service operations, it is important that you take precise measurements for hygiene, safety and protection reasons; having the correct measurements will guarantee that the gloves provide maximum protection from contaminants.
Glove Materials
Choosing the right softball glove for your 10 year old depends on several factors, such as their hand size, the position they want to play, the quality of the glove, and the material from which the glove is made. There are a variety of materials used in the construction of softball gloves, each offering different levels of durability, weight, grip, flexibility, and cost. Let’s discuss each of these materials in detail and help you decide which is the best one for your child.
Leather
Leather is the most classic material used in the manufacture of softball gloves. It can be more expensive than synthetic materials, but will last longer and improve with use over time. Leather gloves provide good resistance to sweat and temperature, along with extra grip, which makes them the ideal choice for 10 year olds and all levels of players.
The main types of leather include full-grain leather, top-grain leather, Pigskin leather and Steerhide leather. Full-grain or A-grade is the thickest type of leather available and offers superior strength and durability – ideal for multiple season use. Top-grain or B-grade is also tough but a little less resilient; it is often lined to keep it flexible even when wet. Pigskin leather provides an exceptional degree of grip combined with strong durability; however it can wear quicker than cow hide or steer hide materials. Steerhide gives superior performance in any climate while providing lasting softness that adapts to a player’s hand shape over time.
Synthetic
Synthetic materials are an economical and popular choice for softball gloves and usually feature some combination of leather, nylon, or polyurethane. Synthetic gloves are lightweight and flexible with a good grip, making them ideal for younger players who need more maneuverability in the field. Certain models are designed to be easier to break-in than most leather gloves by incorporating holographic inserts that increase flexibility and comfort. As synthetic gloves typically have thinner palms, they may require more padding to defend against hard pitches. However, leather glove replacements can easily be added if needed.
Mesh
Mesh is one of the most popular materials used in softball gloves because it offers one of the lightest weights and best breathablity. There are two types of mesh options, vinyl mesh and poly mesh. Vinyl mesh is a lightweight synthetic material that is durable and provides good support for fingers to make catching easier. Poly mesh is a more durable material that provides improved structure for more severe fielding conditions. Both types of mesh offer flexibility, breathability, and a comfortable feel making them an excellent choice for 10-year old softball players. This type of material works especially well with larger gloves because it helps to reduce the overall weight making them easier to handle.
Try the Glove On
The best way to size a softball glove is to physically try it on and see how it feels. Finding a glove that fits properly will provide the player with comfort and stability while playing. Proper fit is paramount in ensuring the player has the most success on the field. Before buying a glove, there are a few important factors to consider.
Put the glove on your hand
When sizing a softball glove, the first step is to put the glove on your hand. The glove should fit snugly but comfortably. You should be able to move your fingers and close the glove’s pocket without it feeling too tight or uncomfortable on your hand.
When wearing the glove you should pay careful attention to how it fits in a few key places of comfort:
- Around your knuckles
- Across the back of your hand
- On your palm and fingertips
- Around your wrist
Your thumb should fit comfortably in the thumb hole and close securely at the heel of the hand, not feel too short or long for you and your fingers should not get pinched when you move them inside. It is important that you are comfortable when wearing it as this will help ensure that you have maximum control when fielding a batted ball and making catches.
Make sure the glove is comfortable
Once you’ve chosen the right size glove, it’s important to make sure it is comfortable while you are wearing it. If the glove feels too tight or too loose, then it will not provide the protection and support you need while playing. Start by placing your hand comfortably inside the glove with your fingers spread out. Pay special attention to the area where your middle finger meets the webbing or pocket of the glove. Make sure that this area does not feel too constricted as this can lead to finger cramping or numbness during play. Then make a fist and check that you can still wrap your fingers around it without any excess material folding over. Finally, move your fingers in variety of positions to ensure a good range of movement around all parts of the glove surface. Once you have ensured comfort, try closing and re-opening the glove to make sure that you can do so without difficulty or any additional stress on your wrist or hand.
Make sure the glove fits snugly
When trying a glove on, start by positioning your hand in the pocket as you would if you were wearing the glove for competition. The key is to think about how the glove will fit on your hand during use. The proper fit should be snug and it should feel like a second skin. If there is any slack or looseness when you move your fingers, it’s not the right fit.
Next, make sure that all of your fingers are situated properly within the finger stalls — including your thumb — so they don’t bunch up and cause discomfort while wearing it or impede movement. If your pinky tip is tucked up at an angle rather than lying flat inside the pocket, then it’s too large a size and you should move down to a smaller one.
Lastly, eyeball the circumference of your wrist when compared to the wrist strap or cuffs of the glove itself; if there’s no give in that area either then it could be too tight and result in fewer fly ball catches during game usage. Before purchasing any glove, try more than one model if possible because some gloves were built with more protective padding around certain areas like palms and thumb joints
Break in the Glove
Breaking in a softball glove will not only help you to size the glove correctly, but it will also make it easier to use and catch. There are several methods that can help you to break in your glove and make it more comfortable for playing softball. We will discuss a few of them in this section and look at which one might be best for you.
Soften the leather with a leather conditioner
Softening the leather is an important step in the break in process. You will find that when you buy a new glove, the leather can be stiff and not very pliable. This is something you will want to take care of before you even put your hand inside the glove. A quality leather conditioner will do the job nicely. Follow the instructions for application as directed on the conditioner’s packaging. Taking this step now will help to ensure proper coverage and prevent over conditioning of the glove’s surface.
Once you’ve applied some conditioner, use heat to further soften and shape your gloves. There are a few different options for doing this: placing your gloves near another heat source, like a heating vent or using a hair dryer on its lowest setting to warm up both sides of your glove at once (use low heat settings). Heat helps open up all portions of your glove so that it forms naturally around your hand without creasing or binding when worn in game play.
Apply a glove oil
Manufacturers of professional quality gloves, such as those worn by major league players, recommend that leather gloves undergo a period of breaking in before being used. Applying a glove oil is a recommended step in the process to help with the softening of the leather and the molding of the glove to the hand.
Glove oils are easily found at most sporting good stores or baseball retailers, and may come with applicator brushes. Additionally, many players make use of shaving cream or shaving lotion which can be found at drug stores as an alternative glove oil.
The most effective way to condition your new glove is often through a series of steps. Start by applying some oil over it, followed by shaping it with your hands while slightly moistened. Allow it to air dry before next using another lightweight layer of lubricant or conditioner over the surface. If you find that your glove isn’t bending enough on its own, you could try using any common kitchen oil like olive oil or vegetable oil for further softening prior to using it for game play.
Use a glove mallet to break in the glove
Breaking in a baseball glove is a time-honored ritual, and one of the best ways to do it is to use a glove mallet. This simple tool help achieve that desired game-ready “work in” feel. To break in the glove with a mallet, begin by lacing a ball in the pocket and securely tying or taping it shut. Then, wielding the mallet like a hammer, lightly pound the pocket for fifteen minutes, exercising caution as not to hit directly onto the seams, as that can loosen them. After pounding for fifteen minutes from both sides and across all seam facets, remove the ball from the pocket and lay it on its face. Continue pounding around all edges of the mitt until thoroughly broken in. Next clean your newly broken-in glove with oil or conditioner and perform some stretching exercises tailored to help it get partial game-readiness for play.
Maintain the Glove
Owning a softball glove is essential for any softball player. Taking proper care of a glove can make sure it stays in good condition for many years. However, in order to maximise the lifespan of a glove, it is important to size and fit it correctly. This article will cover how to size a softball glove and how to maintain it.
Clean the glove regularly
Keeping your softball glove in optimal condition requires proper maintenance. To maintain a glove for the long term, you should clean the glove regularly to prevent dirt and grime from building up and impacting the performance.
Clean the leather using a damp cloth or sponge. Be sure to wipe down all areas of the glove, as dirt or grime can hide in multiple locations within a baseball glove such as creases and seams. Rub gently, as too much vigorous cleaning could damage the soft leather. Allow the leather to dry naturally with air circulation; do not use a hairdryer or other direct heat sources to speed up drying time, as this may cause cracking or other damage to your glove’s material.
Once fully dry, use leather conditioner to moisturize and protect the softball glove’s exterior material. Work this product into any creases that are present on your gloves by using circular motions with your fingers; periodically spray a bit of water onto areas that seem particularly dirty or dried out during this process. When finished, allow your softball glove plenty of time for air drying until it feels completely dried out again before storing and placing in use for playtime activities!
Store the glove in a cool, dry place
Making sure your softball glove is properly stored can help to prolong its life. It’s important to store your glove in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. This will help keep it from cracking, warping and fading. It’s also a good idea to stuff the inside of the glove with newspaper or bubble wrap when storing in order to maintain the shape and texture of the leather. If your glove gets wet, make sure it is dried thoroughly before storing in order to prevent mold or mildew from forming. Additionally, always make sure that your glove has been put away with a love ball inside so that it keeps its size and shape while it is not being used.
Repair any damage to the glove
Leather softball gloves require regular and timely maintenance if you want them to last as long as possible. After every use, inspect the glove for any damage such as tears, cuts, or loose stitching. Smaller repairs can be done at home with a needle and thread. For larger repairs or any repair that involves using tools on the leather, consult a professional shoe restorer or glove technician for advice.
To maintain the shape of the glove you can use a mitt-shaped mallet to gently re-form any creases that may have formed during play. Also, regularly apply conditioner to keep the leather supple and hydrated – this will prevent it from becoming hard and brittle over time. Finally, store your glove in its natural shape between uses. Wet gloves should never be stored – instead let them dry completely in room temperature air before folding them up for storage or transport (avoid storing wet gloves in direct sunlight).
Benefits of a Properly Sized Glove
Having the right glove is an essential part of playing softball. A properly sized glove is essential for young players as it will help improve performance and also help to prevent injury. An effective glove should fit comfortably without being too tight or too loose. When a glove fits just right, it allows young players greater flexibility and better range when catching and throwing a ball.
When selecting the proper sized glove for a 7 year-old, look for gloves made from lighter materials such as leather or synthetic material that provide little to no break in time. The fingers and webbing of the gloves should be snug to ensure that the player can make secure catches without dropping them. As for length, opt for a size between 8-10 inches with extra padding around the thumb and wrist area to provide more protection when catching.
Lastly, ensure that you check the manufacture’s instructions on sizing before purchase as every brand may have different sizing criteria based on their individual design features. When selecting a softball glove, be sure to take your time – this will help you find one that offers your player maximum flexibility and protection needed during game play.
Good luck – this could be the something special!