Fit
Choosing your glove size
Glove size is measured from the top of the index finger down to the heel. Position and age drive the number more than anything else.
4 min read
Glove size is measured in inches along the outside of the glove — from the tip of the index finger, down the length of the glove, to the centre of the heel. It is not a hand measurement, so a bigger hand does not automatically mean a bigger glove.
Start with the position
Infielders want a smaller glove with a shallower pocket so the ball can be transferred out quickly. Outfielders want length and a deeper pocket to cover ground and hold the ball on the run. Pitchers want a closed web that hides the grip. Catchers and first basemen use mitts, which are measured differently — around the circumference.
General size ranges
| Position | Typical size range |
|---|---|
| Middle infield (2B / SS) | 11.25" – 11.75" |
| Third base | 11.5" – 12" |
| Pitcher | 11.75" – 12.25" |
| Outfield | 12.5" – 13" |
| First base mitt | 12.5" – 13" |
| Catcher's mitt | 31" – 34.5" circumference |
| Utility / youth all-purpose | 10.5" – 11.75" |
Ranges are starting points, not rules. Preference and hand size move players up or down within a range.
Youth sizing by age
| Age | Typical infield | Typical outfield |
|---|---|---|
| 6–8 | 9" – 10.5" | 10" – 11" |
| 9–11 | 10.5" – 11.5" | 11" – 12" |
| 12–13 | 11" – 11.75" | 11.75" – 12.5" |
| 14+ | 11.25" – 12" | 12.5" – 13" |
Buying a glove a player has to grow into usually costs them a season of clean reps. Fit the athlete you have now.
Not sure?
Email us the player's age, position, level and throwing hand. We'll give you a straight recommendation, including telling you when a cheaper or smaller glove is the right answer.
Want a straight recommendation?
Email Marques@Bushleaguebb.com with the player's age, position and level. Emails are answered by a real person, usually within one business day.