As a beginner, finding the right Under Armour catchers mitt makes a huge difference. Look for models like the UA Harper or UA Clean Up series, prioritizing comfort, fit, and durability for a strong start behind the plate. This guide will help you choose the perfect one.

Under Armour Catchers Mitt Recommended: Your Essential Guide for Beginners

Standing behind the plate as a catcher is one of the most crucial roles in baseball. It requires quick reflexes, strong hands, and, most importantly, the right gear. Your catchers mitt is your best friend out there, and choosing a quality one can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting. Many young players and parents wonder, “What’s the best Under Armour catchers mitt for me?” Don’t worry; getting equipped for success behind the plate is simpler than you think. We’ll break down exactly what to look for in an Under Armour catchers mitt so you can step onto the field with confidence, ready to snag every pitch.

Why Your Catcher’s Mitt Matters

Think of your catcher’s mitt as an extension of your hand. Its primary job is to help you catch fast pitches thrown by your pitcher repeatedly, without hurting your hand. A good mitt also helps you frame pitches effectively, making them look like strikes to the umpire, and allows for a quick transfer to throw out runners. For beginners, a comfortable and well-fitting mitt is essential for developing good habits and preventing injuries. An ill-fitting or poorly designed mitt can lead to dropped balls, hand fatigue, and even long-term discomfort, hindering your progress as a catcher.

Choosing Your First Under Armour Catcher’s Mitt

Under Armour offers a range of catchers mitts, each designed with different levels of play and player needs in mind. For beginners, the focus should be on ease of use, comfort, and a good starting price point. We’ll explore some key features and popular models to help you make an informed decision.

Key Features to Consider for Beginners

When you’re new to catching, certain features will make a significant difference in your learning curve and overall experience. You don’t need the most advanced or expensive mitt right away. Instead, prioritize these:

• Size: For youth and high school players, mitt size is crucial. Younger players typically use mitts in the 30-32 inch range. High school players might move up to 32-34 inches. Ensure the mitt feels secure on your hand without being too tight or too loose.
• Break-in Period: Beginner mitts should have a shorter, easier break-in period. Look for mitts that come pre-broken-in or are made from softer leather that molds to your hand quickly.
• Padding: Ample padding is essential to protect your hand from the impact of pitches. A good amount of cushioning will make catching more comfortable, especially as pitch speeds increase.
• Pocket Depth: A slightly deeper pocket helps secure the ball after impact, reducing the chance of pop-outs.
• Glove Material: While premium leather is great, for beginners, synthetic or steerhide leathers often offer a good balance of durability, flexibility, and affordability.
• Fit and Closure: An adjustable wrist strap is a common and beneficial feature. It allows you to tighten or loosen the mitt for a custom fit as your hand grows or to ensure a snug feel.

Popular Under Armour Catcher’s Mitt Models for Beginners

Under Armour consistently produces quality gear for players at all levels. Here are a few lines that often come recommended for those just starting out:

1. Under Armour Harper Series (Youth & Adult Options)

The UA Harper line, inspired by superstar Bryce Harper, often features designs that are both stylish and functional. For catchers, these mitts tend to come with a good balance of padding and a pocket that’s not too deep, which can be easier for beginners to manage. They often use materials that offer a quicker break-in, making them game-ready faster.

Pros:

• Good balance of flexibility and protection.
• Relatively quick break-in.
• Often features comfortable lining.
• Youth sizes are readily available.

Cons:

• May not offer the same rugged durability for long-term, high-level use as more specialized models.
• Pocket can be shallower than some dedicated catcher’s mitts, requiring more practice to secure pitches consistently.

2. Under Armour Clean Up Series

The “Clean Up” designation in Under Armour’s lineup often signifies a focus on durability and performance derived from premium materials. These mitts can offer a robust feel and are built to last. While they might require a bit more break-in time than some entry-level models, they provide excellent protection and a reliable pocket once molded to your hand.

Pros:

• Durable construction built for longevity.
• Good protection due to quality padding.
• Develops a nice, custom fit with proper break-in.

Cons:

• Can require a longer break-in period compared to softer-synthetic models.
• Might be slightly heavier due to more robust materials.

3. UA Select Series (Youth Specific)

Under Armour often has a “Select” or similar series tailored specifically for younger players. These mitts are designed with smaller hand sizes and developing mechanics in mind. They typically aim for a very light feel, supreme comfort, and an easy break-in process, making them ideal for players just getting introduced to the catcher position.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight for young players.
• Designed for ease of closure and feel.
• Very fast break-in process.
• Often the most affordable option for starters.

Cons:

• Less durable for older, stronger players.
• May offer less protection against harder-thrown balls.
• Padding might be thinner.

The Glove Break-In Process: Making Your Mitt Yours

Even if you buy a mitt labeled “pre-broken-in,” every glove benefits from a little extra work to mold perfectly to your hand and pocket. A proper break-in is crucial for your mitt to perform at its best and be comfortable. Here’s how you can do it:

Step-by-Step Glove Break-In Guide

1. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need glove oil or conditioner (like Vaseline or specialized glove butter), a rubber band or glove wrap, and a heavy object (like a catchers mitt mallet or a thick book).
2. Apply Conditioner: Lightly apply your chosen glove conditioner to the inside and outside of the glove’s leather. Don’t overdo it; a thin, even coat is best. Your glove should feel conditioned, not greasy. Refer to MLB’s official glossary on equipment for general care advice.
3. Work the Pocket: Gently but firmly massage the pocket area. Flex the mitt open and closed, feeling where the folds and creases naturally form. This helps soften the leather.
4. “Oven” Method (Optional & Cautious): Some people place a small ball in the pocket, close the laces around it, and then wrap the mitt tightly. If you choose to use heat (like placing it in a warm oven on the lowest setting for a very short period or using a hair dryer on low), be extremely careful. Excessive heat can damage the leather. Glove Love offers detailed methods for breaking in gloves.
5. The Heavy Object Method: Place the mitt on a flat surface with the pocket facing up. Put a ball (or a few baseballs) in the pocket, and then place a heavy object on top of the ball and mitt. Leave it for several hours or overnight. This creates a nice shape for the pocket.
6. Play Catch: The best and most natural way to break in a mitt is to use it! Play catch with a partner, focusing on catching the ball in the pocket.
7. Repeat and Adjust: Continue conditioning and flexing your glove regularly. You’ll notice it becoming more pliable and better shaped over time.

What to Avoid During Break-In

• Microwaves and Ovens (High Heat): High heat can dry out, crack, and permanently damage the leather.
• Soaking the Glove: Never submerge your glove in water. This can ruin the leather.
• Leaving it in Direct Sunlight for Extended Periods: Similar to high heat, this can dry out and damage the leather.

Understanding Catcher’s Mitt Sizing

Getting the right size is not just about comfort; it’s about control and protection. A mitt that’s too big will be hard to close, making it difficult to transfer the ball quickly. A mitt that’s too small won’t offer enough protection or a secure pocket.

Catcher’s Mitt Size Chart by Age/Level

Here’s a general guide, but always try the mitt on if possible:

Age/Level	Recommended Size (Inches)
Youth (T-Ball to 8U)	28-30
Youth (9U to 12U)	30-32
Intermediate (13U to High School)	32-33
Adult (College/Pro Recommended)	33-34

Remember, these are guidelines. A player with larger hands might need a slightly bigger mitt, and a player with smaller hands might prefer one on the smaller end of the scale for their age group. Measuring your hand (from the tip of your middle finger to the heel of your palm) can give you an idea, but trying the mitt on is best.

Catcher’s Gear: More Than Just the Mitt

While the mitt is your primary tool, a catcher needs a full suite of protective gear to play the position safely and effectively. Under Armour also offers excellent options in these categories.

Essential Catcher’s Gear

• Helmet/Mask/Throat Protector: This is non-negotiable. It protects your head, face, and throat from pitches, foul tips, and collisions. Under Armour has developed innovative protective gear.
• Chest Protector: This shields your chest, collarbone, and stomach area from stray pitches and foul balls.
• Shin Guards: These protect your knees and shins from foul tips, wild pitches, and any accidental contact with the batter or base runners.
• Catcher’s Mitt: As we’ve discussed, your primary tool.
• Catcher’s Leg Guards (often integrated into shin guards): Protect the lower legs and ankles.
• Cup (Athletic Supporter): Essential for all players, but especially crucial for catchers who are in a vulnerable position.
• Baseball Cleats: Sturdy cleats provide traction and stability, especially important for a catcher who needs to move quickly and hold their ground.

When looking at Under Armour’s full catcher’s gear sets, you’ll often find they prioritize lightweight design, excellent impact absorption, and comfortable fit, allowing for maximum mobility behind the plate. For the most up-to-date information on protective equipment standards, consult resources from organizations like the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) at nocsae.org.

Frequently Asked Questions about Under Armour Catchers Mitts

Q1: How often do I need to condition my Under Armour catcher’s mitt?

You should apply glove conditioner lightly every few weeks, or whenever the glove feels dry, especially after heavy use or exposure to moisture. Over-conditioning can make the glove heavy and greasy, so a little goes a long way.

Q2: Can I use any oil to break in my catcher’s mitt?

While some people use household items like Vaseline, it’s best to use a dedicated glove oil or conditioner made specifically for baseball gloves. These products are formulated to condition leather without causing damage or leaving excessive residue. Examples include products from brands like Wilson, Rawlings, or specialized baseball glove conditioning brands.

Q3: Is a deeper pocket better for a beginner catcher’s mitt?

For beginners, a pocket that isn’t excessively deep is often preferable. A moderately deep pocket helps secure the ball without making it too difficult to get the mitt closed quickly for a transfer. As you develop your skills, you might prefer a deeper pocket.

Q4: How do I know if my Under Armour catcher’s mitt is the right size?

The mitt should feel snug but not constricting on your hand. You should be able to close the mitt with a ball in it, and it shouldn’t feel like it’s slipping off. The thumb and pinky stalls should fit comfortably, allowing for good control. If the laces are fully tightened and the mitt still feels loose, it’s too big.

Q5: My Under Armour mitt feels stiff. What’s the best way to soften it?

The best ways to soften a stiff mitt are to work the pocket by hand, play catch regularly, and apply a quality glove conditioner. Using a heavy object on the pocket overnight can also help considerably. Avoid extreme heat, which can damage the leather.

Q6: Should I buy an adult-sized mitt if I’m a young player who’s growing fast?

It’s generally best to buy a mitt that fits your hand and age group now. Catching with a mitt that is too big can hinder your ability to properly catch and transfer the ball, which is crucial for developing good technique. As you grow, you can size up. Most Under Armour lines offer youth models specifically designed for developing players.

Q7: What’s the difference between a catcher’s mitt and a fielder’s glove?

A catcher’s mitt is much larger, rounder, and more heavily padded than a fielder’s glove. It has no individual finger stalls (except sometimes for the thumb) and is designed to create a large, soft target for pitchers and absorb the impact of fast pitches. Fielder’s gloves have finger stalls and are designed for quick fielding and transfers.

Conclusion

Choosing your first Under Armour catcher’s mitt is an exciting step, and with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on comfort, proper sizing, and ease of break-in, you can find an Under Armour model that feels like a natural extension of your hand. Whether you opt for the Bryce Harper-inspired line, the durable Clean Up series, or a youth-specific model, remember that a little time spent breaking in your mitt and practicing will pay off immensely. A well-chosen mitt is an investment in your confidence, your performance, and your love for the game. Go out there, get your gear, and start honing those catching skills!