Most people are not sure if they can buy catcher’s gear online that will still fit the way it is supposed to.  It is not all that difficult if you know how to properly measure the catcher and read the product descriptions carefully.  If you notice, the gear is all listed in sizes and most are measured in inches.  It is important to know where to measure and what measurements to use when you are buying catcher’s gear online.  If you are able to try on another catcher’s equipment; that can also give you a good base point to start.  Also, be aware that each manufacturer can has its own measurements for their gear.  What may be one supplier’s 13” model could be the equivalent of another manufacturer’s 15” model.  Make sure you read the sizing charts carefully before ordering.  While most places will take returns, usually the shipping is your responsibility.  I cannot stress enough that proper measurement and reading how each product is sized is the key to any purchase you make online.

Many people think they know what gear catchers need, but there are many smaller things that they forget.  The three most important pieces of gear are of course the helmet, chest protector and leg guards.  I think it is very important that each catcher have at least their own helmet.   A good fitting helmet is essential for any catcher to be successful.  Make sure that is never falls down and covers the eyes.   The chest protector and leg guards don’t have to match.  The most important thing is that they fit properly.  Too many people are concerned that they must have a complete set; the reality is that there is hardly anyone who finds a complete set fitting perfectly.   You may have to try several before finding the right one.

A good glove is also very important.  Make sure that it has enough padding.  If the catcher’s hand is still stinging, I recommend using a Palmgard® type of glove which has padding where it hurts most of the time.  If you don’t have that, even a regular batting glove will help a little.  I also recommend using a throat guard that attaches to the helmet.  Another thing that many people overlook is wrist protectors.  These can be a really helpful and can also double as sweatbands.  In case you didn’t know, catchers do get mighty warm with all that gear on.

It is also a good idea to get some type of protection for the toes of the cleats since catchers tend to wear theirs out faster than most other players besides pitchers.    I also have previously mentioned that a rolling bag is a must for most catchers, young and old.   I prefer a bag that has separate compartments and is not too big so that the catcher can lug their own gear.

When putting the catcher’s gear away it is very important to not just throw everything into one big bag and getting everything dirty.  I usually recommend that you get a large enough bag that also has compartments to store things separately.  It is very good to have a bag to put your helmet into when you finish catching as well.   Your glove should be put away with a ball wrapped inside to help keep its shape.  If you have a bag for that too, it will keep it much better.  I think rolling bags should be a requirement for all youth catchers.  It is much easier if they can be self sufficient and they will feel better about themselves if they can take care of bringing their own bag into the dugout.   The chest protector should not be folded tightly, try to put the leg guards in first, then gently mold the chest protector over them.  By putting the gear away in an orderly fashion, you will see that it will last you much longer and will continue to make the player look good for many months.

The first thing you need to remember when choosing catcher’s gear is that it is very important that the gear fit now.  I know it can be a little expensive and you want to buy something that they can grow into, but safety is always a concern.  If you buy gear made for older children, your youngster could trip over the bottom and hurt themselves.  You should try to buy gear that is appropriate for the age group, but you also need to consider your child’s height and weight.  I have seen some 9 year olds that fit into adult gear and also seen some 15 year olds that still wear youth size.  Age is only one factor you should take into consideration.  If you know your child is large for his age, then go up to the next size.  It is always better to try gear on if possible even if it is a friend’s set.  If you can find out if that particular size seems good, that makes your online shopping easier.  Remember, you cannot choose catcher’s gear based on just the age of your child.