How to Size Catcher's Gear for Kids

Catching is the most demanding position in youth baseball. Little League catchers must have a tough and tenacious mentality to endure getting bombarded with wild pitches and foul balls. They gear up each game willing to endure a true battle on the field. It is crucial for these young athletes to be properly protected in order to avoid injury. Thus, sizing the catcher's equipment to fit them appropriately is important. While trying on different brands of equipment, there are a few sizing tips to remember.

• 1

  Measure the catcher's body length to determine what size of gear is appropriate. This measurement should be from the belly button to the top of the sternum or breastbone. The chest protector should cover all of this area. For youth players, it must also have a tail to protect the groin area.

  Make sure that the player tries the chest protector on. It should fit snugly, but should be comfortable and not get in the player's way. If the measurements do not come out right, try on something by the age recommendation.

• 2

  Measure the leg from the center of the kneecap to the bottom of the shin. Pick the leg guards with this measurement as a guide. Have the player try the shin guards on and squat. The guards should fully cover the knee. Shin guards with double knees are especially comfortable and more protective.

  Make sure that the knee guards fit snugly and are comfortable. The player should be able to move about freely and easily. Again, if the guards don't fit by your measurements, try on something by the age recommendations.

• 3

  Measure the circumference of the player's head just above the ears to determine the size of the catcher's helmet. Use this measurement to select helmets to try on. A catcher's helmet should fit comfortably and should not be too tight or too loose. It should cover the entire head and face and should not move when the player moves her head. It is also important for the mask to have a throat guard for maximum protection.

  A player must try on a variety of catcher's helmets in order to pick the one that feels best to him. This is probably the most crucial item to select. The player must be able to get the helmet on and off easily and be able to see through the mask, as well.