For Little League, an Under Armour catcher’s glove offers a great blend of durability, comfort, and performance, helping young players develop their skills with confidence and protection. Choosing the right UA glove can make a big difference in game day and practice success.
Stepping behind the plate as a catcher is a huge responsibility, and having the right gear makes all the difference. For young ballplayers in Little League, the catcher’s glove isn’t just an accessory; it’s their primary tool for stopping pitches, framing the ball, and protecting their hand. Many parents and young players ask, “Which Under Armour catcher’s glove is best for Little League?” It can be a little confusing with so many options out there. This guide is here to simplify that for you. We’ll break down everything you need to know to pick an Under Armour catcher’s glove that fits just right and helps your young slugger excel. Get ready to learn about key features, sizing tips, and the best models to consider, so you can make a confident choice and get your player ready for the season!
Why Under Armour for Little League Catchers?
Under Armour has built a strong reputation across all sports for producing high-quality, innovative gear. When it comes to baseball, they offer equipment designed for performance, durability, and player comfort. For Little League catchers, this translates into gloves that are often:
- Durable: Made with quality leather and reinforced stitching to withstand the rigors of frequent use and impact.
- Comfortable: Featuring padded interiors and ergonomic designs to minimize sting and maximize comfort for young hands.
- Performance-Oriented: Designed with specific pocket depths and lacing to help young catchers secure pitches and develop good technique.
- Sized Appropriately: Under Armour offers gloves in sizes suitable for younger players, ensuring a good fit from the start.
Choosing an Under Armour glove means investing in a piece of equipment that’s built to last and support your child’s development behind the dish.
Understanding Catcher’s Glove Anatomy
Before diving into specific Under Armour models, it’s helpful to know the parts of a catcher’s glove. Understanding these components will help you appreciate the design and features of each glove:
- Webbing: The part that connects the thumb and index finger. For catchers, this is usually a deep pocket found in a closed or basket web to hide pitches and secure the ball.
- Heel: The bottom part of the glove, where the ball lands when caught. A well-padded heel is crucial for absorbing impact.
- Palm: The main catching surface. A good palm offers cushioning and a deep pocket for control.
- Finger Stalls: The individual pockets for the player’s fingers. These should fit snugly but comfortably.
- Cuff: The wrist closure. Adjustable straps are common, allowing a custom fit that secures the glove to the hand.
- Padding: The internal cushioning that protects the hand from the force of the ball.
The design of these elements directly impacts how well a catcher can receive pitches, how protected their hand is, and how easily they can develop their catching skills. For Little League, these features need to be balanced for both protection and ease of use.
Key Features to Look For in an Under Armour Little League Catcher’s Glove
When selecting an Under Armour glove for your young catcher, keep these essential features in mind:
Material Quality
Most good catcher’s gloves are made from leather. For Little League, you’ll often find gloves with:
- Genuine Leather: Offers good durability and will mold to the player’s hand over time.
- Synthetic Leather: Often lighter and requires less break-in time, making it a good option for younger players who might struggle with very stiff gloves.
Under Armour typically uses high-quality materials that strike a good balance between feel and resilience.
Pocket Depth
A deep pocket is crucial for a catcher’s glove. It helps:
- Secure the ball, preventing dropped pitches.
- Conceal the ball from the umpire (for framing pitches).
- Provide confidence to the pitcher that their pitches will be caught.
For Little League, a moderately deep pocket is ideal – not so deep that it’s hard to close, but deep enough to secure the ball.
Padding and Protection
Catching, especially at high speeds, can be tough on a young player’s hand. Look for:
- Adequate Palm Padding: This absorbs the majority of the ball’s impact.
- Finger/Knuckle Padding: Provides additional protection in key areas.
Under Armour often incorporates enhanced padding in their catcher’s mitts to minimize sting and protect developing hands.
Glove Size
For Little League, catcher’s mitts typically range from 30 to 32 inches. Why such a large size? Catcher’s mitts are spherical and don’t have individual finger stalls like fielder’s gloves, so the circumference measurement is used. A larger size helps create that deep, forgiving pocket needed to catch fast pitches.
- 30-31 inches: Often suitable for younger Little League players (ages 7-9) or those with smaller hands.
- 31-32 inches: Generally a good fit for older Little League players (ages 10-12) or those with larger hands.
It’s crucial to try gloves on if possible, or at least ensure a good return policy if buying online.
Break-In Period
Some gloves come “game ready,” meaning they’re softer and require minimal break-in. Others are stiffer and require more time to become pliable. For younger players, a glove that’s easier to close is usually preferred. Under Armour often offers gloves with varying degrees of break-in required, so check product descriptions.
Top Under Armour Catcher’s Gloves for Little League (Examples)
While specific model availability can change, Under Armour consistently offers excellent options for young catchers. Here are some common lines and what to expect:
Under Armour UACM Series
This series often focuses on providing a balanced glove for developing players. You might find models with:
- Durable steerhide or pigskin leather.
- Pre-curved finger designs for a more natural feel.
- Deep pockets and reinforced webbing.
- Adjustable wrist straps for a secure fit.
These are often designed to be relatively easy to break in, making them a solid choice for most Little League catchers.
Under Armour Clean Up Series (May include catcher models)
While the “Clean Up” designation often applies to fielders’ gloves, Under Armour’s philosophy of player comfort and performance extends across their lines. If a catcher’s mitt bears this branding, expect emphasis on:
- Soft, supple leather for a quicker break-in.
- Lightweight construction for agile movement.
- Comfortable linings and padding.
Under Armour Youth Series
Under Armour often has dedicated “Youth” models. These are specifically engineered for younger players:
- Smaller Sizing: Typically in the 30-32 inch range.
- Easier Break-In: Prioritizing immediate playability.
- Enhanced Padding: Focused on protecting young hands.
- User-Friendly Designs: To help young players develop proper catching habits.
Comparing Glove Features
Here’s a look at how different glove characteristics might compare, keeping in mind that specific product details will vary:
| Feature | Typical for L.L. UA Glove (Easier Break-in) | Typical for L.L. UA Glove (More Durable/Performance) |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Softer steerhide or synthetic blend | Steerhide or Kip leather |
| Pocket Depth | Moderate, easy to close | Deep, secure |
| Break-In Time | Minimal (Game Ready) | Moderate |
| Padding | Good, balanced | Enhanced for maximum protection |
| Weight | Lighter | Slightly heavier |
| Target Age/Skill | Younger players, beginners | Older L.L. players, developing catchers |
Remember to always check the specific product description for the model you’re considering. For detailed glove care and maintenance, the MLB official site offers excellent advice.
How to Properly Size a Little League Catcher’s Glove
Getting the right size is arguably the most critical step. An ill-fitting glove can hinder performance and even cause discomfort. Here’s how to find the right fit for an Under Armour catcher’s mitt:
- Measure the Circumference: As mentioned, catcher’s mitts are measured by circumference. A common method is to use a tailor’s tape measure. Measure from the heel of the glove, up around the fingers, and back to the heel. Alternatively, you can measure the circumference of the ball you’ll be catching (e.g., a typical Little League ball) and add a few inches to estimate the glove size needed.
- Check the Recommended Age/Size Chart: Most glove manufacturers, including Under Armour, provide size charts linking age groups or hand sizes to glove dimensions. For Little League, this often falls between 30 and 32 inches.
- Consider Hand Size: Even within the same age group, children have different hand sizes. A player with smaller hands might need a glove on the lower end of the recommended range, while a larger-handed player might opt for a larger size, even if they are younger.
- The “Hand-in-Glove” Test: If possible, have the player try the glove on. Their hand should fit comfortably inside. There should be some room for adjustment with the wrist strap, but not so much that the hand slides around.
- Feel the Pocket: Once the hand is in, the player should be able to close the glove around a baseball. It shouldn’t feel too stiff or too loose. The pocket should feel natural to close.
Sizing Tips Table
| Player Age (Approx.) | Recommended Glove Size (Inches) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 7-8 years | 30 – 30.5 | Focus on ease of closure. |
| 9-10 years | 30.5 – 31 | Good balance of size and flexibility. |
| 11-12 years | 31 – 32 | Larger size for more control and pocket. |
Remember that kids grow! If you’re between sizes, leaning slightly larger might offer more longevity, but ensure it doesn’t impede performance.
Breaking In Your Under Armour Catcher’s Glove
Even “game ready” gloves benefit from a proper break-in to maximize feel, flexibility, and longevity. Here’s a friendly approach to breaking in an Under Armour catcher’s glove:
Method 1: The Gentle Approach (Recommended for Young Players)
This method prioritizes comfort and immediate use while gradually shaping the glove.
- Play Catch: The best way to break in any glove is to use it! Engage in light catch sessions with your child. Focus on catching pop flies and ground balls to get a feel for the glove’s pocket.
- Glove Mallet or Soft Object: Gently tap the pocket area with a glove mallet or a rolled-up towel. This helps soften the leather without being too aggressive.
- Squeeze and Close: Regularly practice closing the glove with a ball inside. This builds muscle memory and shapes the pocket.
- Stuffing (Optional): You can loosely stuff the glove with baseballs or a clean sock overnight. This gently encourages the pocket shape. Avoid over-stuffing, which can distort the glove.
Method 2: The “Glove Oil” Method (Use Sparingly)
If your glove seems particularly stiff, a small amount of specialized glove oil can help.
- Apply Sparingly: Use a very small amount of glove conditioner or oil (like neatsfoot oil or a specific baseball glove oil). Apply it to the palm and pocket area with a soft cloth.
- Work It In: Gently massage the oil into the leather.
- Pound the Pocket: Use a glove mallet or soft object to pound the pocket, helping the oil penetrate and soften the leather.
- Play Catch: Immediately afterward, get out and play catch. This is crucial to shape the glove while it’s pliable.
- Wipe Off Excess: Ensure no excess oil remains, as it can stain uniforms.
Caution: Over-oiling can make the leather too soft, potentially leading to premature wear or difficulty controlling the ball. Always follow product instructions and err on the side of less oil.
Important Break-In Tips:
- Avoid the Oven/Microwave: These methods can dry out and damage the leather, making it brittle.
- Consistency is Key: Short, frequent sessions are better than one long, intense one.
- Focus on the Pocket: Concentrate break-in efforts on the main catching area.
For a comprehensive guide on glove care and break-in, check out resources like Wilson’s official guide, which offers great general advice applicable to most brands.
Caring for Your Under Armour Catcher’s Glove
A well-cared-for glove lasts longer and performs better. Here’s how to keep your Under Armour catcher’s mitt in top shape:
- Keep it Dry: Avoid getting the glove excessively wet. If it does get wet, let it air dry naturally away from direct heat.
- Clean Regularly: Wipe down the glove with a slightly damp cloth after games or practices to remove dirt and sweat. You can use a specialized leather cleaner sparingly if needed.
- Condition Periodically: Apply a small amount of glove conditioner or oil a few times per season (or as needed, based on your climate and glove usage). Always wipe off excess.
- Store Properly: Don’t leave your glove in a hot car or cramped equipment bag. Store it in a cool, dry place. You can gently bend it into a closed position and place a ball in the pocket, then wrap it with the wrist strap or a glove wrap to maintain its shape.
- Avoid Extreme Heat: Never expose your glove to direct heat sources like ovens, microwaves, or radiators, as this will dry out and crack the leather.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the best Under Armour catcher’s glove for a 9-year-old in Little League?
For a 9-year-old, a good starting point would be an Under Armour catcher’s glove in the 30.5 to 31-inch range. Look for models specifically designed for youth players, which often feature softer leather for easier break-in and enhanced padding for comfort and protection.
Q2: How do I know if the glove is too big or too small?
A glove is too big if the player’s hand slides around inside even with the wrist strap tightened, making it hard to control. A glove is too small if the player’s fingers are crammed in, the palm feels tight, or they can’t fully close the glove around a ball.
Q3: How long does an Under Armour catcher’s glove typically last in Little League?
With proper care and consistent use, a good quality Under Armour catcher’s glove can last for several seasons, easily through the Little League years. Durability depends on the materials used, how well it’s maintained, and the intensity of play.
Q4: Can I use a regular fielder’s glove for catching in Little League?
While possible for very casual play, it’s not recommended. Catcher’s mitts are specifically designed with a deep pocket and heavy padding to absorb the impact of