Essential Baseball Equipment Buying Guide

Baseball catcher

Did you know that American gold miners introduced baseball to Australia? Yes, they played the game on their free days to introduce Australians to the sport. Baseball is now enjoyed by approximately 500 million people worldwide. The Australian Baseball League is a professional baseball league that is home to some of the most successful clubs in the country, including the Adelaide Giants, Melbourne Aces, Auckland Tuatara, and Brisbane Bandits.   

However, like with any other sport, competitors must be careful and protect themselves from harsh hits and injuries. This is when safety gear comes in handy. That is a necessary component of the entire system, and players cannot perform without it.   

Gloves  

Baseball player catching a ball with baseball glove
Source: pinetarpress.com

One of the first items you’ll need to purchase is a baseball glove. There are several glove manufacturers nowadays, which means you have more options as a buyer. They can come in a variety of forms, sizes, and colours, as well as diverse applications and patterns. Gloves for children are often less expensive and of inferior quality. Adult gloves, on the other hand, are more expensive and made of higher-quality materials. Leather is one of the most commonly utilised materials.  

How Do I Know What Size Baseball Glove I Need?  

Making sure the glove is the right size for your hand—neither too large nor too small—is the first step. It won’t make much of a difference if you go 1.5cm larger or smaller. Without a doubt, if you have the correct glove for the right position, you will be successful. Because no two gloves are identical, attempt to determine the position first. The catcher, for example, needs adequate padding and protection, as well as bigger catchers mitts. The first baseman’s glove features a curved end and no finger holes. The middle infield requires flexible gloves, whereas the third baseman needs a larger glove pocket to make a better catch.  

Helmets   

Baseball player wearing a helmet
Source: pinetarpress.com

In a baseball game, a batting helmet is required. Even if you’re just having fun, safety should never be overlooked. It is one of the top baseball protective equipment aspects for keeping you secure and unhurt. You don’t want a ball travelling at 100km/h to collide with your skull. It has the potential to inflict catastrophic injuries and possibly lifelong harm. So, if you’re going to go inside the batter’s box, wear a helmet. Unfortunately, it took Ray Chapman’s passing for helmets to be made a requirement for all baseball games.  

Fortunately, helmets have improved and are now safer than ever. In the striking position, there are options for every skill level. They are composed of durable, robust plastic and have cushioning inside to give both comfort and safety. Colours and models may differ from one manufacturer to the next. You may choose between single or double earflaps, as well as those with protective face protection. The last one provides additional protection for your face, particularly the mouth and jaw region, which are frequently injured.  

Chest Protectors and Leg Guards   

The chest protector’s function is to protect the chest, shoulders, neck, and stomach from pitches and fouls. It’s constructed of tough, foam-like material for protection, and there’s a mesh on the inside to keep the player cool. Always measure from the base of your neck to your waist when purchasing clothing. Your size will be determined by the measurement. For example, if your measurement is 38cm, you will be a size 38. It’s a straightforward and quick technique, and if you don’t believe your measurements, you can always ask the store employees to do it for you.  

A leg guard is another essential element of baseball protective equipment. The primary goal is to keep the knees, ankles, and shins safe at all times. However, it also offers support and comfort to the kneeling catcher. It runs from just above your knee to the top of your cleat. They contain soft cushioning on the inside to keep you comfy and a durable plastic shell on the outside to keep you safe from any blows. Leg guards are measured in the same way as chest guards are. Measure from the top of your cleat to the top of your knee.  

Cleats 

Baseball player with baseball cleats
Source: scheels.com

You’ll need the iconic cleats if you’re going to be sprinting around on grass and dirt for a baseball game. Young athletes use rubber cleats, which do not grip the ground as well as metal cleats but are far safer. Metal cleats give greater traction for middle schoolers and elder generations. They come in a variety of forms and sizes, and you may even have them customised and personalised. You may wear whatever you want until your coach says everyone on the squad must wear the same cleats.  

When comparing them to conventional shoes, there is no difference in size. However, at first, they could seem a little odd and unsettling. That’s why it’s a good idea to try on a few pairs to discover which one fits you best. It may take some getting used to, but you’ll have the hang of it in no time.  

To Sum Up  

There’s a reason baseball is so popular. It’s one of the most thrilling and intriguing sports available. However, if you want to play baseball properly, you must have the necessary baseball safety equipment. From catchers mitts to helmets and leg guards, you just need the correct size and a little patience to experiment with a few different designs to find the ideal gear, which is not a very difficult task.

Leave a Comment