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Youth softball glove guide
Youth softball gloves run bigger than baseball at the same age, because the ball is bigger — but the player still has to be able to close it.
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Size by age
| Age | Infield | Outfield |
|---|---|---|
| 6–8 | 9.5" – 11" | 10.5" – 11.5" |
| 9–11 | 11" – 11.75" | 11.5" – 12.5" |
| 12–13 | 11.5" – 12" | 12" – 13" |
| 14+ | 11.75" – 12.5" | 12.5" – 13.5" |
If your league still uses an 11" ball, stay at the lower end of the range until they move to 12".
Pick the web for the ball
A bigger ball needs a web that holds it. Closed, basket and dual-post webs keep the ball in the pocket; a thin open web lets it push through and sting the palm.
The close test
Same rule as baseball: ball in the pocket, squeeze one-handed, hold it. If they can't, it's too big or too stiff — buy the glove that fits the hand they have now.
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.