Fit
Youth vs adult sizing
Youth gear isn't just smaller — the finger stalls, wrist openings and hinge stiffness are built for smaller, weaker hands.
3 min read
What actually differs
- Finger stalls are shorter and narrower, so young fingers reach the end and can control the glove.
- The wrist opening is smaller, so the glove doesn't slide off during a swing or a catch.
- The leather and hinge are softer, so a player with less hand strength can close it.
- Overall weight is lower, which matters more than most parents expect over a full game.
The mistake to avoid
Buying an adult glove for a young player "to grow into" usually means a season of dropped balls. The player can't close it, so the ball pops out, and they learn to catch with two hands out of necessity rather than technique. Fit the athlete now and move up when their hand and strength move up.
When to move to adult sizing
Typically somewhere around 13–14, but strength matters more than birthday. If the player can close an adult glove one-handed with the ball in the pocket and hold it there, they're ready. If they can't, they aren't — regardless of age.
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.