Little League Catcher Gear: Essential Easton Brands
Choosing the right catcher’s gear is crucial for young players’ safety and performance. Easton offers a fantastic range of high-quality, protective Little League catcher’s gear specifically designed for young athletes. This guide breaks down everything a beginner catcher needs, focusing on why Easton is a top choice.
Welcome to the diamond, future catchers! Stepping behind the plate is one of the most exciting and important jobs in baseball. But before you can call the signs and block those wild pitches, you need the right gear to keep you safe and confident. It can feel a bit overwhelming at first, trying to figure out exactly what you need. Don’t worry! We’re going to walk through the essential Little League catcher’s gear, with a special look at the trusted brands from Easton. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for to protect yourself and play your best.
Why Easton for Little League Catchers?
Easton has been a trusted name in baseball for decades, known for its commitment to innovation, durability, and performance. When it comes to youth gear, Easton understands the unique needs of young players. Their Little League catcher’s gear is designed with:
- Safety First: Easton prioritizes protecting young athletes with advanced padding and impact-absorbing technology.
- Comfort & Fit: Gear that moves with the player, allowing for flexibility and agility behind the plate.
- Durability: Built to withstand the rigors of a season, game after game.
- Age-Appropriate Design: Sized and styled specifically for the smaller frames and developmental needs of Little League players.
The Essential Little League Catcher’s Gear Checklist
Every catcher needs a core set of equipment to perform effectively and safely. Let’s break down each piece, focusing on why it’s important and what to look for in an Easton model.
1. Catcher’s Mask (or Helmet with Facemask)
This is arguably the most critical piece of equipment. The mask protects the face, eyes, and head from pitches, foul balls, and collisions. For Little League, a lightweight yet sturdy option is key.
- What to Look For:
- Fit: The mask should fit snugly without being too tight. There should be no gaps around the forehead or chin.
- Protection: Ensure it has sturdy metal or reinforced plastic bars that meet safety standards.
- Visibility: The cage should allow for a clear, unobstructed view of the pitcher and the field.
- Comfort: Padded lining helps absorb shock and prevents chafing.
Easton offers several youth-sized masks and catcher’s helmet combos perfect for Little League. Their designs often feature lightweight steel cages and comfortable foam padding. Some models are integrated helmet/mask systems, which offer a simplified and secure fit for younger players.
2. Catcher’s Chest Protector
The chest protector guards the torso from foul tips and direct impacts. It needs to be flexible enough to allow for throwing and blocking but offer ample protection.
- What to Look For:
- Coverage: It should cover the chest, sternum, and upper abdomen. Look for longer models that extend down to protect the stomach area.
- Padding: High-density foam or multi-layer padding absorbs impact effectively.
- Straps: Adjustable straps are essential for a secure, personalized fit. They should keep the protector in place even during quick movements.
- Breathability: Some protectors have ventilation to help keep young players cool.
Easton’s youth chest protectors are designed with articulated plates for better flexibility and venting for airflow. They typically feature durable outer shells and soft, shock-absorbing inner padding. The adjustable back straps make it easy to get a secure fit that won’t shift.
3. Catcher’s Leg Guards
These are designed to protect the shins, knees, and feet from foul balls, errant pitches, and impacts when blocking. They are often the bulkiest piece of gear, but essential for preventing injury.
- What to Look For:
- Coverage: They should extend from just below the knee down to the toe. The shin and knee caps are the primary target areas for protection.
- Fit & Straps: Multiple adjustable straps ensure the guards stay in place. They should be snug but not so tight that they restrict movement.
- Articulation: Look for guards that bend at the knee and ankle, allowing for natural leg movement when squatting and moving.
- Padding: Thick, impact-resistant padding is crucial.
Easton’s youth leg guards often feature a triple-knee design for enhanced protection and flexibility. They use durable materials and robust padding, with easy-to-use strap systems for a secure fit. Some models even include a detachable toe flap for added protection.
4. Catcher’s Mitt
A catcher’s mitt is very different from a fielder’s glove. It’s larger, more padded, and has a deeper pocket designed specifically to catch fast pitches and help secure the ball.
- What to Look For:
- Size: For Little League, mitts typically range from 30 to 33 inches. A larger mitt makes it easier to frame pitches and secure the ball.
- Padding: Significant padding is needed to absorb the impact of fast pitches.
- Pocket Depth: A deep pocket helps with ball retention.
- Material: Genuine leather offers the best durability and feel, but takes longer to break in. Synthetic materials can be lighter and easier to break in initially.
- Break-in: Even with minimal break-in, a catcher’s mitt requires time to mold to the catcher’s hand.
Easton offers a variety of youth catcher’s mitts. Their designs often incorporate premium leather for durability and a comfortable feel, with specialized padding systems. Many models feature quick-break-in designs or technologies to help speed up the process, which is great for younger players.
5. Catcher’s Helmet/Skull Cap (Optional but Recommended)
While many catcher’s masks are integrated into helmets, some players prefer to wear a separate skull cap or helmet liner underneath their mask for added comfort and a bit more protection.
- What to Look For:
- Fit: It should fit comfortably under the mask without making it too tight or shifting.
- Padding: Extra foam provides cushioning and helps absorb vibration.
- Moisture-Wicking: Materials that pull sweat away from the head can improve comfort.
Easton offers padded skull caps and helmet liners that can enhance the comfort and fit of their masks. These are great for players who tend to sweat a lot or want that extra layer of padding.
6. Throat Protector
A small but vital piece of equipment that attaches to the mask to protect the throat and neck area from foul balls or errant pitches that might slip through.
- What to Look For:
- Length: It should extend far enough down to cover the vulnerable throat area.
- Attachment: Ensure it securely attaches to the catcher’s mask.
- Material: Durable plastic is typical.
Many Easton catcher’s masks come with an integrated throat protector, or they have compatible models that can be easily attached. Always check if your mask includes one or if it needs to be purchased separately.
7. Sliding Shorts/Compression Gear
While not exclusively “catcher’s gear,” sliding shorts or compression shorts are highly recommended for catchers. They provide a bit of padding for comfort when squatting and can offer some protection against turf burn if a catcher has to move out of position.
- What to Look For:
- Padding: Look for models with strategically placed, lightweight padding in key areas like the hips.
- Fit: Compression fit helps support muscles and reduce fatigue.
- Moisture-Wicking: As always, fabric that manages sweat is a big plus.
Easton produces a range of athletic compression gear that is suitable for this purpose. It’s about enhancing comfort and providing a slight protective buffer.
Easton Catcher’s Gear Sets for Little League
For parents and coaches looking for a convenient solution, Easton offers complete catcher’s gear sets specifically designed for Little League. These sets typically include a mask, chest protector, and leg guards, all sized for younger players.
Buying a set can be a great option because:
- Coordinated Fit: The pieces are designed to work together, ensuring proper coverage and fit.
- Value: Sets often provide a cost savings compared to purchasing individual items.
- Convenience: Everything a young catcher needs is included in one package, simplifying the shopping process.
Easton youth catcher’s sets are a popular choice because they combine their trusted protective technology into an easy-to-purchase bundle. They are designed for players aged roughly 7-12, but as always, checking the specific size recommendations is important.
Sizing Your Little League Catcher’s Gear
Proper sizing is paramount for both safety and performance. Ill-fitting gear can be dangerous, either by not offering enough protection or by hindering a player’s movement. Here’s a general guide, but always refer to the specific sizing charts provided by Easton for each product.
Mask Sizing
Masks are often sized by head circumference. Measure around the widest part of your child’s head. Some masks are “one size fits most” for youth leagues, while others have specific size ranges.
Chest Protector Sizing
Chest protector sizing is typically based on chest circumference or height/weight. It’s important that the protector covers the sternum down to the abdomen without being too restrictive.
Leg Guard Sizing
Leg guards are usually sized by shin length (from kneecap to ankle) or overall height. They should protect the entire shin and knee, with the bottom extending to cover the top of the foot/shoe.
Mitt Sizing
Mitt size (in inches) is usually measured from the heel of the pocket to the tip of the index finger opening. For Little League, diameters around 30-33 inches are common. A good way to check fit is to have the player try it on and see if they can comfortably close their hand around a ball in the pocket.
Easton’s website and reputable sporting goods retailers will have detailed sizing charts. Don’t hesitate to try gear on in person if possible!
Breaking In Your Easton Catcher’s Mitt
A catcher’s mitt, especially one made of leather, needs a break-in period to become pliable and form to the catcher’s hand shape. This is crucial for developing a soft feel, a deep pocket, and the ability to secure pitches.
Here’s how to speed up the process:
- Glove Mallet or Your Fist: Gently pound the pocket area of the mitt to soften the leather.
- Technique Work: Have someone throw baseballs (gently at first) into the pocket. This helps mold it to the ball. Practice closing the mitt.
- Pocket Pad/Glove Wrap: Some players use a special pad or simply wrap the mitt tightly around a baseball with a rubber band or glove wrap overnight. This encourages the pocket to form.
- Glove Oil/Conditioner: Use a small amount of specialized glove oil or conditioner on the leather, especially in the pocket. Be careful not to over-apply, as too much can make the glove heavy or greasy. Follow product instructions carefully.
- Consistent Use: The best way to break in a mitt is through regular use during practice and games.
Easton often incorporates features into their youth mitts to make them more “game-ready,” but a conscientious catcher will still put in the work to make it truly their own.
Maintaining Your Catcher’s Gear
Proper care will extend the life of your Easton catcher’s gear, ensure it continues to provide optimal protection, and keep it hygienic.
- After Every Use:
- Wipe Down: Use a damp cloth to wipe down masks, chest protectors, and leg guards to remove dirt and sweat.
- Air Out: Never store gear in a closed bag while it’s still damp. Let all pieces air out completely to prevent odors and mildew.
- Mitt Care: If your mitt is wet from sweat, remove it from your bag to dry.
- Regular Cleaning:
- Mask/Plastic Components: Mild soap and water are usually sufficient. Ensure all soap residue is rinsed off.
- Chest Protector/Leg Guards: Check care labels, but most can be wiped down. Removable padding might be hand-washable.
- Catcher’s Mitt: Follow break-in maintenance. Clean the leather with a slightly damp cloth, apply a small amount of conditioner as needed, and store properly. Avoid getting leather excessively wet.
Investing in a gear bag with good ventilation can also help. Keeping gear clean and dry is one of the easiest ways to prevent damage and maintain sanitation.
Beyond the Gear: Catcher’s Mindset and Training
While having the right Easton gear is crucial, it’s also important to remember that being a great catcher involves more than just equipment. A strong mindset and dedicated training are key.
- Confidence: Trust your gear and your training. Believe in your ability to block and frame.
- Communication: Talk to your pitcher and fielders. Call out plays and be a leader.
- Awareness: Always know where runners are and be ready to make a play.
- Blocking Drills: Practice getting in front of the ball consistently.
- Throwing Technique: Work on quick transitions from catching to throwing.
- Game Management: Learn to anticipate plays and manage the game from behind the plate.
For more on developing these skills, check out resources from organizations like Little League International, which often publishes training tips and advice for players and coaches. You can find great information on their official website at littleleague.org.
Frequently Asked Questions About Little League Catcher Gear
Q1: What is the most important piece of catcher’s gear for a Little League player?
A1: The catcher’s mask or helmet with a facemask is the most critical piece, as it directly protects the player’s face, eyes, and head from impacts.
Q2: How do I know if my child’s catcher’s mitt is the right size?
A2: For Little League, mitts typically range from 30-33 inches. The best way to check is to have the player try it on and see if they can comfortably close their hand around a baseball in the pocket. There should be no excessive gap.
Q3: Can a Little League catcher use adult-sized gear?
A3: It’s generally not recommended. Adult gear can be too large and cumbersome for young players, hindering their movement, fit, and potentially compromising safety if it doesn’t sit correctly. Youth-specific gear is designed for their frame.
Q4: How often should catcher’s gear be replaced?
A4: Catcher’s gear should be replaced if it shows signs of significant wear and tear, like cracks, deep gouges, loose padding, or if it no longer provides a secure fit. While durable, protective gear can wear out over time, especially with heavy use.
Q5: Do all catcher’s masks come with a throat protector?
A5: Not always. Some masks have an integrated throat protector, while others require a separate throat protector to be purchased and attached. Always check the product description before buying.
Q6: Is it okay to buy used catcher’s gear?
A6: Used gear can be an option to save money, but it needs to be thoroughly inspected. Look for any damage to the shell, padding, straps, or cage. If there are cracks, significant dents, or worn-out padding, it’s safer to buy new, especially for critical protective equipment like masks and pads.
Q7: How do I clean my catcher’s gear?
A7: Most plastic components (mask, leg guards, chest protector exterior) can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Allow all gear to air dry completely after cleaning and after every use to prevent odors and mildew.
Conclusion: Gear Up for Success!
Choosing the right Little League catcher’s gear isn’t just about looking the part; it’s about ensuring safety, building confidence, and allowing young athletes to focus on developing their skills
