Quick Summary: An Under Armour catcher’s mitt set provides a starter package of essential protective gear for young ballplayers. It typically includes a durable mitt, a helmet, a chest protector, and leg guards designed for safety, comfort, and performance. This set is a great way for beginners to get equipped and ready for the game.

Under Armour Catchers Mitt Set: Your Essential Gear Guide

Getting started in baseball is exciting, and for aspiring catchers, having the right gear makes all the difference. Many young players wonder about the best way to get all the necessary equipment. It can feel overwhelming to pick out individual pieces, especially when you’re new to the game. But don’t worry! We’re here to simplify things and get you ready to step behind the plate with confidence.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about an Under Armour catcher’s mitt set – what it is, what’s inside, and why it’s a smart choice for beginners. We’ll cover why each piece is crucial for safety and performance, offering tips on choosing the right fit and caring for your gear. Let’s get you geared up and ready to play!

Why a Catcher’s Mitt Set?

The catcher is a vital position on any baseball team. They not only block pitches and frame strikes but also communicate with their pitcher and outfielders. Because of the demanding nature of the position, catchers are exposed to more impacts than any other player on the field. This is why specialized protective equipment is absolutely essential.

An Under Armour catcher’s mitt set is designed with this in mind. It bundles the most critical pieces of equipment a beginner catcher needs into one convenient package. This often includes the catcher’s mitt itself, a protective helmet, a chest protector, and leg guards. Buying a set ensures you have a compatible collection of gear that meets safety standards and is ideally sized for younger players.

What’s Typically Included in an Under Armour Catcher’s Mitt Set?

While sets can vary slightly, a typical Under Armour catcher’s mitt set is built to provide comprehensive protection. Here are the core components you can expect:

• Catcher’s Mitt: This is no ordinary baseball glove. It’s heavily padded and specifically shaped to help catch fast pitches.
• Catcher’s Helmet: Essential for protecting the head and face from errant pitches, foul balls, and collisions.
• Chest Protector: This padded vest guards the torso against direct impacts from pitches and stray balls.
• Leg Guards: These wrap-around guards protect the shins, knees, and feet, which are frequently exposed to foul tips and impacts during blocking.

Under Armour is known for its innovative designs and durable materials, making their catcher’s gear a reliable choice for players serious about improving their game while staying safe.

The Catcher’s Mitt: Your Primary Tool

The catcher’s mitt is the heart of a catcher’s gear. Unlike a fielder’s glove, a catcher’s mitt is round and lacks individual finger stalls. This design helps create a larger, more padded surface area for receiving pitches. Under Armour mitts are crafted with specific features to enhance performance and comfort.

Key mitt features to look for include:

• Deep Pocket: A deeper pocket helps secure the ball, preventing it from popping out. For beginners, a mitt with a well-defined pocket is crucial for learning to catch properly.
• Padding: Quality padding is vital to absorb the shock of high-velocity pitches. Under Armour uses specialized padding technologies to reduce impact and protect the player’s hand.
• Material: Most good catcher’s mitts are made from genuine leather or high-quality synthetic materials. Leather offers durability and molds to the player’s hand over time.
• Break-in Period: All catcher’s mitts require a break-in period. Beginners should understand that a new mitt will feel stiff and needs time and effort to become pliable and game-ready.

For junior players, an Under Armour catcher’s mitt set will often feature a mitt designed for smaller hands and a slightly softer feel for easier closing. This helps young players develop good catching habits from the start.

The Catcher’s Helmet: Protecting Your Head and Face

Safety is paramount, and the catcher’s helmet is one of the most critical pieces of protective equipment. It shields the player’s face, head, and jaw from foul balls, wild pitches, and collisions at home plate. A well-designed catcher’s helmet offers robust protection without significantly hindering vision or mobility.

Features of a good catcher’s helmet:

• Cage Design: The metal cage is designed with specific bar spacing to offer excellent visibility while protecting the face from impact.
• Padding: Internal padding absorbs shock and provides a comfortable fit. Look for moisture-wicking liners to help keep the player cool and dry.
• Fit: A snug, secure fit is crucial. The helmet should not shift or wobble during play. Many helmets offer adjustable straps or padding systems for a custom fit.
• Ventilation: Good airflow helps prevent overheating, which can be a significant issue during long games or practices.

Under Armour helmets are typically designed with a lightweight yet strong construction, and often incorporate advanced ventilation systems. When selecting a set, ensure the helmet is appropriately sized for the player’s head, as this is non-negotiable for safety.

The Chest Protector: Shielding Your Torso

The chest protector is designed to absorb the impact of pitches that get past the mitt or bat, protecting vital organs and the sternum. It also provides a barrier against foul balls that might ricochet toward the catcher’s body.

What to expect from a chest protector:

• Coverage: It should cover the chest, abdomen, and upper back adequately. Some models offer extended coverage for the collarbone area.
• Padding and Material: High-density foam or multiple layers of padding are used to dissipate impact energy. The outer shell is usually made of durable plastic or ballistic nylon.
• Fit and Straps: Adjustable straps are essential for a secure and comfortable fit. The protector should stay in place when the player moves.
• Flexibility: While protective, the chest protector should allow for good range of motion, enabling the catcher to move freely behind the plate.

Under Armour chest protectors often feature ergonomic designs that contour to the body, offering protection without sacrificing mobility. Many are designed with ventilation channels as well.

Leg Guards: Protecting Lower Extremities

Leg guards are crucial for protecting the shins, knees, and feet, which are frequently in the line of fire for foul tips and wild pitches. They are designed to be worn over the player’s pants and cleats.

Key aspects of catcher’s leg guards:

• Coverage: They typically consist of two shin guards and two knee savers (or a connected knee/shin guard). The shin guards should extend from the top of the foot to just below the knee.
• Padding: Thick, impact-absorbing padding is standard. Some guards offer reinforced padding at the knee and shin, areas that take the brunt of impacts.
• Straps: Multiple adjustable straps ensure the guards stay securely in place throughout the game.
• Ventilation: Many modern leg guards incorporate vents or channeled padding to improve airflow and reduce heat buildup.
• Mobility: While robust, good leg guards allow for bending and squatting without restriction.

Under Armour’s leg guards are designed to offer maximum protection with a focus on comfort and allowing for natural movement as a catcher crouches and stands.

Choosing the Right Fit for Beginner Gear

For beginner and youth players, getting the right fit is non-negotiable. Gear that is too large can be cumbersome and less protective, while gear that is too small won’t offer adequate coverage. Under Armour catcher’s mitt sets are often designed with youth sizes in mind.

Sizing Your Catcher’s Mitt

Catcher’s mitts are measured by their circumference. For youth players, you’ll typically find mitts ranging from 28 to 32 inches. A general guide:

• T-Ball/Little League (ages 5-8): 28-30 inches
• Youth (ages 8-12): 30-32 inches
• Intermediate/High School: 32-34 inches

It’s best to have the young player try on the mitt. They should be able to close it around a baseball, even if it’s a bit stiff initially. Their hand should fit snugly into the glove liner without being too tight.

Sizing the Rest of the Gear

Helmet: Measure the circumference of the player’s head, typically an inch above the eyebrows. Compare this to the sizing chart provided by the manufacturer. Most youth catcher’s helmets have adjustable systems.

Chest Protector and Leg Guards: These are usually sized by height. For chest protectors, the length is measured from the base of the neck to the waist. Leg guards are measured from the knee down to the foot. Always consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart. It’s better to have gear that is slightly larger and adjustable than too small.

When purchasing an Under Armour set, look for specific youth sizing options. These are tailored to the dimensions of younger players, ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience.

Breaking In Your New Catcher’s Mitt

A new catcher’s mitt, whether it’s part of a set or purchased separately, needs to be broken in. This process softens the leather and helps the mitt conform to the player’s hand, making it easier to catch and control pitches.

Tips for Breaking In Your Mitt

1. Play Catch: The best way to break in a mitt is to use it. Regularly playing catch, especially with a partner, will help the leather flex.
2. Use Mitt Oil or Conditioner: Apply a specialized baseball glove oil or conditioner to the pocket and webbing. This softens the leather and keeps it from drying out. Apply sparingly; too much can make the glove heavy or greasy.
3. Palmer Method: Place a baseball (or a catcher’s mitt sized ball) deep in the pocket. Wrap the mitt tightly around the ball with rubber bands or a glove strap. Leave it overnight or for a few days. This helps shape the pocket.
4. Molding and Manipulation: Continuously open and close the mitt with your hand. Imagine you are catching balls and closing the mitt. This builds muscle memory and further softens the leather.
5. Avoid Extreme Methods: Do not bake your mitt in an oven or microwave. This can damage the leather, padding, and stitching, ultimately ruining the mitt.

Patience is key. A proper break-in can take several weeks of consistent use. For younger players, getting help from a coach or parent can make this process more effective and enjoyable.

Maintaining Your Under Armour Catcher’s Gear

Just like any sports equipment, proper care will extend the life of your Under Armour catcher’s gear and ensure it remains protective and functional.

Cleaning and Care

• Mitt: After each use, wipe down the mitt with a clean, dry cloth to remove dirt and moisture. Apply glove conditioner periodically, especially if the leather feels dry. Store the mitt in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Helmet: Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth. Clean the interior padding with mild soap and water, then allow it to air dry completely.
• Chest Protector and Leg Guards: These can typically be wiped down with a damp cloth. For stubborn grime, use mild soap and water. Ensure all straps are dry before storing.

Always allow gear to air dry completely before storing it in a bag to prevent mildew and odor buildup. For more detailed care instructions, consult the specific product manuals that came with your Under Armour set.

Why Under Armour Stands Out for Young Catchers

Under Armour has built a reputation for performance-driven athletic wear, and their baseball gear is no exception. For beginner catchers, their catcher’s mitt sets offer several advantages:

• Quality Construction: Under Armour products are known for their durability and high-quality materials, ensuring the gear can withstand the rigors of the game.
• Performance Features: While designed for beginners, the gear incorporates technologies that aid in performance, such as good padding for shock absorption and ergonomic designs for comfort and mobility.
• Brand Trust: Many young athletes look up to professional players who wear Under Armour. Using gear from a trusted brand can inspire confidence and excitement for the game.
• Safety Standards: Under Armour gear meets or exceeds industry safety standards, giving parents and coaches peace of mind.

For parents and coaches seeking reliable, safe, and effective equipment for a budding catcher, an Under Armour set is a solid investment.

Alternatives to Ready-Made Sets

While a catcher’s mitt set is incredibly convenient, some players or families might prefer to build their catcher’s gear collection piece by piece. This can be a good option if a player already owns some equipment, or if they have very specific preferences.

If you decide to buy individually, consider these points:

• Customization: You can select each item based on brand, specific features, and budget.
• Gradual Investment: You can spread the cost of equipment over time.
• Specific Needs: As a player grows or develops, they might need to upgrade individual pieces sooner than others.

However, for a beginner, the simplicity and value of a complete set like the Under Armour catcher’s mitt set often make it the most practical starting point.

Essential Skills for Young Catchers

Beyond having the right equipment, young catchers need to develop fundamental skills. Here are a few drills and tips that can help:

Basic Pitching Drills for Catchers

• Receiving Drills: Practice catching in different stances – blocking, receiving pitches on the rise, and receiving pitches low. Focus on soft hands and closing the mitt quickly.
• Blocking Drills: Work on getting in front of the ball. A simple drill involves having a coach roll or toss balls gently towards the catcher, who practices blocking them with their body. Ensure they keep their glove down to catch any bad hops.
• Throwing Drills: A catcher must have a strong, accurate arm. Practice quick transitions from catching to throwing. Start with short-distance throws to a target and gradually increase the distance. Focus on footwork and a compact throwing motion.

For more in-depth training strategies, resources like the USA Baseball Player Development website offer excellent coaching tips and drills for players of all ages.

FAQ: Your Catcher’s Gear Questions Answered

Q1: How do I know if my child has outgrown their catcher’s gear?

A1: If the helmet no longer fits securely, the chest protector doesn’t provide full coverage down to the waist, or the leg guards don’t extend properly over their cleats and secure comfortably, it’s likely time for an upgrade. Also, check if the mitt feels too small to close around a ball.

Q2: Can I use an adult-sized mitt for my young child?

A2: No, it’s not recommended. Adult mitts are too large and stiff for young hands, making it difficult to close and catch the ball. A proper-sized youth mitt is crucial for learning good catching habits and for safety.

Q3: How important is the break-in period for a catcher’s mitt?

A3: It’s extremely important. A properly broken-in mitt is more pliable, making it easier to close around pitches, improving control, and reducing hand fatigue and sting. The Catcher’s mitt is a different beast than a fielder’s glove and requires significant break-in time.

Q4: How often should catcher’s gear be replaced?

A4: This depends on usage and how quickly the player grows. Protective gear like helmets and chest protectors can last several seasons if well-maintained. Mitts wear out faster with constant use; they might need replacement every 1-3 years for frequent players. Inspect gear regularly for cracks, tears, or excessive wear.

Q5: Are Under Armour catcher’s sets good for competitive leagues?

A5: Yes, Under Armour provides quality equipment that meets safety standards for most leagues. While elite players may opt for higher-end individual pieces as they advance, an Under Armour set is an excellent and reliable starting point for competitive youth leagues.

Q6: What’s the difference between a youth catcher’s mitt and a fielder’s glove?

A6: Catcher’s mitts are rounder, more padded, and have a deeper pocket to help absorb and secure fast pitches. Fielder’s gloves have individual finger stalls and are shaped differently for scooping ground balls and catching fly balls. They are not interchangeable for their intended positions.