Baseball Glove Size Calculator (Youth & Adult)
Buying the wrong baseball glove causes hand injuries, poor fielding performance, and frustration for young players. Our Baseball Glove Size Calculator provides exact size recommendations for youth and adult players based on age, position, skill level, and hand measurements. Whether you're shopping for an infield glove, outfield glove, pitcher's glove, or catcher's mitt, get position-specific guidance with safety tips for proper fit. Parents, coaches, and first-time buyers: stop guessing and get the perfect glove size in seconds.
Find Your Perfect Glove Size
Baseball Glove Sizing Guide
How to Measure Baseball Glove Size
Baseball glove sizes are measured in inches from the top of the index finger, down along the glove, to the center of the heel of the glove. This measurement determines the glove's catching surface area. A properly sized glove allows the player to close the glove easily around the ball while maintaining control and protection.
Important: Glove size differs from hand size. A player with a 7-inch hand typically needs a 10-11 inch youth glove for infield play, not a 7-inch glove.
Glove Sizes by Baseball Position
| Position | Youth Size (Ages 4-12) | Teen/Adult Size (13+) | Design Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infield | 9" - 11.5" | 11.25" - 12" | Shallow pocket for quick ball transfer |
| Outfield | 10.5" - 12" | 12.5" - 13" | Deep pocket for fly ball catches |
| Pitcher | 10.5" - 12" | 11.5" - 12.5" | Closed webbing to hide grip |
| Catcher | 29" - 32" circumference | 32.5" - 34.5" circumference | Mitt design with heavy padding |
Youth vs Adult Baseball Gloves: Key Differences
Youth baseball gloves are specifically designed for smaller hands and developing players. They feature:
- Lighter weight - Easier for young players to control and close
- Pre-formed pockets - Less break-in time required
- Smaller finger stalls - Better fit for children's hands
- More flexible leather - Easier to squeeze and catch
Adult gloves use stiffer, more durable leather that requires proper break-in but lasts multiple seasons. Never use an oversized adult glove on a youth player—it prevents proper technique development and increases injury risk.
Catcher Mitt Sizing Explained
Unlike other positions, catcher's mitts are measured by circumference (around the glove's outer edge) rather than length. This is because catchers need maximum surface area to receive pitches, not catching depth.
| Age Group | Circumference | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Youth (7-12 years) | 29" - 32" | Little League, Rec Ball |
| Teen (13-15 years) | 32" - 33.5" | Middle School, Junior Varsity |
| Adult (16+ years) | 33" - 34.5" | High School, College, Pro |
When to Size Up or Down Your Baseball Glove
SIZE UP IF:
- Player is between recommended age ranges
- Playing outfield (need extra reach)
- Fast-growing youth player (ages 9-13)
- Advanced skill level for age
- Hand measurement is at upper range
SIZE DOWN IF:
- First-time player or beginner
- Playing infield (need quick release)
- Small hands or petite build
- Younger player in age bracket
- Difficulty closing larger gloves
Common Baseball Glove Sizing Mistakes
Avoid these mistakes when choosing a baseball glove:
- Buying too large: Parents often buy oversized gloves thinking kids will "grow into them." This ruins fielding mechanics and can cause hand injuries. A glove that's too large is impossible to close properly.
- Using adult gloves for youth: Adult gloves are too heavy and stiff for young players. Youth-specific gloves are designed for easier catching and control.
- Ignoring position requirements: An outfield glove won't work well for infield play. Each position has specific pocket depth and webbing design needs.
- Confusing mitt with glove sizing: Catcher's mitts and first base mitts use different measurements (circumference) than fielder's gloves (length).
- Not considering skill level: Beginners need more forgiving, pre-broken-in gloves. Competitive players can handle stiffer, performance-grade gloves.
How to Check for Proper Glove Fit
When trying on a baseball glove, check these key fit indicators:
- Finger length: Player's fingers should reach within 1 inch of the end of the finger stalls. If there's 2+ inches of empty space, the glove is too large.
- Closing ability: Player should be able to fully close the glove around a ball without strain. If they struggle to squeeze it shut, it's too big or stiff.
- Wrist security: The glove should feel snug around the wrist without cutting off circulation. Use the wrist strap for adjustable fit.
- Weight balance: Player should be able to hold the glove extended for 30+ seconds without arm fatigue. Heavy gloves slow reaction time.
- Break-in potential: New gloves should close to about 50-70% immediately. If it won't close at all, it's wrong size or needs extensive break-in.
Baseball Glove Size FAQs
What size baseball glove should a 10-year-old use?
A 10-year-old typically needs a 10.5" to 11.5" glove for infield, 11.5" to 12" for outfield, and 11" to 11.5" for pitching. The exact size depends on hand size and position. Use our calculator above for personalized recommendations.
What's the difference between a baseball glove and a mitt?
A glove has individual finger stalls and is used by infielders, outfielders, and pitchers. A mitt has a single pocket without finger separations and is used by catchers and first basemen. Mitts are measured by circumference, gloves by length.
Can a youth player use an adult baseball glove?
No. Adult gloves are too heavy, large, and stiff for youth players. This leads to poor technique, dropped balls, and potential hand injuries. Always use age-appropriate youth gloves until the player reaches high school age (14-15 years) with fully developed hands.
How do I measure my hand for a baseball glove?
Measure from the base of your palm (wrist crease) to the tip of your middle finger in inches. This measurement helps determine if you're at the upper or lower end of the recommended size range for your age and position.
What size glove do MLB players use?
MLB infielders typically use 11.25" to 12" gloves, outfielders use 12.5" to 13", and catchers use 32.5" to 34.5" circumference mitts. Professional players often prefer slightly smaller gloves than recreational players for maximum control and quick ball transfer.
Should I buy a bigger glove so my child can grow into it?
No. An oversized glove ruins fielding mechanics and makes catching nearly impossible for young players. Buy the correct size for their current age and upgrade as they grow. Proper fit is essential for skill development and safety.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Baseball Glove?
Use our calculator above to get exact size recommendations for any player, position, and skill level. Stop guessing and start catching with confidence!