Quick Summary: Choosing the right Rawlings catcher’s mitt for high school is key for performance and comfort. This guide will help you select a mitt that fits your hand, offers excellent protection, and will last through your season. We cover sizes, materials, and features to make your decision easy.

Rawlings Catchers Mitt for High School: Your Essential Guide

Finding the perfect catcher’s mitt for high school baseball can feel like a tough game. A good mitt is more than just equipment; it’s your best friend behind the plate, absorbing fast pitches and helping you make quick plays. If your mitt feels clunky, doesn’t close well, or just isn’t comfortable, it can seriously affect your game. But don’t worry! Picking the right Rawlings catcher’s mitt is simpler than you think. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from hand size to pocket depth, so you can step behind the plate with confidence.

Why Rawlings and Why a Catcher’s Mitt?

Rawlings is a name synonymous with quality baseball gear. For generations, they’ve been crafting gloves trusted by players at every level, from Little League to the pros. When it comes to catcher’s mitts, Rawlings offers a range of models designed for the unique demands of the position.

A catcher’s mitt is built differently than a fielder’s glove. It’s heavily padded to protect your hand from impact, and it has a larger, rounder pocket designed for quick transfers and securing pitches. Unlike a baseball glove with individual finger stalls, a catcher’s mitt is like a mitt, with no separate finger stalls. This design allows for maximum cushioning and a solid barrier between your hand and the ball.

Key Features to Look For in a High School Catcher’s Mitt

When you’re evaluating a Rawlings catcher’s mitt for high school, several features stand out. Understanding these will help you zero in on the best option for you.

Size Matters: Finger and Hand Dimensions

The size of a catcher’s mitt is measured by its circumference, typically ranging from 32 inches to 35 inches. For high school players, the sweet spot often lies between 33 and 34 inches.

Why this range? It offers a good balance:

• 33-inch mitts: Great for younger or smaller-framed high school players, or those who play on a smaller field. They offer a good balance of control and coverage, allowing for quicker transfers.
• 34-inch mitts: Ideal for most high school players. This size provides a larger catching surface, which is helpful for catching fast pitches and framing the ball. It’s a versatile size that accommodates a wide range of player build.
• 35-inch mitts: Usually preferred by more experienced, physically larger high school players or those who want maximum reach and a very deep pocket.

It’s not just about the overall size, but also how it fits your hand. A mitt that’s too big can be hard to close, while one that’s too small won’t offer enough protection. You should be able to get at least two fingers into the pinky stall and one or two into the thumb stall, with the heel of your hand resting comfortably in the pocket.

Material: Leather Quality and Durability

The material of your mitt significantly impacts its feel, durability, and break-in period. Rawlings uses a few different types of leather:

• Full-grain Leather: This is the highest quality leather. It’s durable, molds well to your hand over time, and offers excellent protection. Mitts made from full-grain leather have a longer break-in period but will last for years and develop a custom feel. High-end Rawlings mitts often feature premium full-grain steerhide.
• Top-grain Leather: Still a very good option, top-grain leather is also durable and offers good performance. It might have a slightly shorter break-in period than full-grain leather.
• Cowhide Leather: A common choice for more affordable mitts. It’s durable but might be stiffer and require more effort to break in. It’s a solid choice for beginners or as a backup mitt.

For high school, aiming for a mitt with at least top-grain or full-grain leather is recommended for its longevity and feel. You want a mitt that can handle the rigors of a season, including countless pitches.

Pocket Depth: Securing the Pitch

The pocket is the part of the mitt where the ball lands. A deeper pocket is crucial for a catcher. It helps:

• Secure pitches: A deeper pocket makes it harder for the ball to pop out after hitting the mitt.
• Conceal the pitch: It helps the catcher “frame” pitches, making them look like strikes to the umpire.
• Absorb impact: The depth, combined with padding, helps cushion the shock of each pitch.

Most Rawlings catcher’s mitts designed for serious play will have a medium-deep to deep pocket. During the break-in process, you’ll want to work on developing this pocket to be as effective as possible.

Lacing and Padding: Protection and Control

The lacing on your mitt helps hold its shape and provides structural integrity. Good quality leather lacing is essential for durability. The padding in the mitt, particularly in the heel and index finger areas, is critical for absorbing the impact of fast pitches. Rawlings employs various padding technologies to enhance comfort and protection.

Cushioning and Break-in

A new catcher’s mitt, especially one made of high-quality leather, will be stiff. It needs to be broken in so it conforms to your hand and forms a proper pocket. Rawlings mitts vary in how quickly they break in. Some models are designed for a quicker break-in (“game-ready”), while others require more time and effort. The break-in process is a vital step to making your mitt truly yours.

Popular Rawlings Catcher’s Mitt Models for High Schoolers

Rawlings offers several lines of catcher’s mitts that are excellent choices for high school players. Here’s a look at some popular options, often distinguished by their series and features:

The Rawlings glove and mitt catalog provides a comprehensive overview, but here are a few key series to consider:

Rawlings R9 Series

The R9 series is often a great starting point. These mitts are generally designed with a quicker break-in period in mind, making them suitable for players who want to get their glove game-ready faster. They typically feature:

• Material: Often made from a blend of full-grain and cowhide leather, offering durability and a softer feel than stiffer mitts.
• Padding: Decent padding for protection.
• Pocket: Usually a medium-deep pocket.
• Target Player: Good for beginners to intermediate players who value a faster break-in without sacrificing too much quality.

Rawlings Heart of the Hide Series

The Heart of the Hide (HOH) series is a step up. These mitts are constructed from premium full-grain steerhide and are designed for serious players. They are known for their:

• Material: Premium full-grain steerhide leather, chosen for its durability and ability to form a custom fit.
• Padding: Enhanced padding for superior impact absorption.
• Pocket: Often feature a deeper pocket for better pitch control and concealment.
• Break-in: They require a more significant break-in period but are built to last and perform at a high level for many seasons.
• Target Player: Ideal for intermediate to advanced high school players and those who are committed to the game.

Rawlings Pro Preferred Series

The Pro Preferred series represents the pinnacle of Rawlings craftsmanship, using Kip leather for an exceptionally soft feel and quick break-in. These are top-tier mitts:

• Material: Kip leather, which is lighter, softer, and stronger than steerhide, allowing for a faster break-in period with excellent durability.
• Padding: Advanced padding systems for maximum comfort and protection.
• Pocket: Designed for optimal performance and pitch framing.
• Break-in: Relatively quick break-in due to the Kip leather.
• Target Player: For the advanced high school catcher seeking pro-level performance and feel.

Rawlings Select Pro Lite Series

This series often targets younger or developing players, offering a lighter weight and a softer feel for easier closure. While excellent for younger players, some high schoolers might find the durability or protection less than the HOH or Pro Preferred series for the demands of competitive play.

Here’s a quick comparison table for popular Rawlings catcher’s mitt series:

Series	Material	Break-in Time	Durability	Target Player
R9	Full-grain/Cowhide	Moderate	Good	Beginner to Intermediate
Heart of the Hide	Premium Full-Grain Steerhide	Longer	Excellent	Intermediate to Advanced
Pro Preferred	Kip Leather	Faster than HOH	Excellent	Advanced High School / Pro-level
Select Pro Lite	Soft Leather (often cowhide blends)	Fast	Good	Younger / Developing Players

How to Break In Your Rawlings Catcher’s Mitt

A new catcher’s mitt is stiff and needs conditioning to become a responsive tool. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Inspect the Mitt: Check for any dry spots or stiffness in the leather.
2. Apply Mitt Oil/Conditioner (Sparingly): Use a good quality baseball glove conditioner or specialized mitt oil. Apply a thin, even layer to the inside and outside of the leather. Avoid over-oiling, as it can make the glove too heavy and damage the leather. Work it into the palm and pocket area.
3. Shape the Mitt: Use a glove mallet or your fist to pound the pocket area. This helps soften the leather and create the desired shape.
4. The “Pillow Method”: Place the mitt face down. Put a baseball or a softball directly in the pocket. Wrap the mitt snugly around the ball with rubber bands or a glove wrap. Leave it overnight. This helps form and maintain the pocket’s shape. Repeat this for several days/weeks.
5. Play Catch: The best way to break in a mitt is to use it. Throw a ball into it repeatedly. Focus on catching the ball in the pocket.
6. “Mitt Squeeze” Drill: With the mitt on your hand, practice opening and closing it. This builds the muscles needed for a strong grip and helps the mitt conform to your hand’s movement.
7. Hot Water Treatment (Use with Caution): Some players use a mild hot water treatment. Soak the pocket area for a few minutes, then immediately work the mitt, apply conditioner, and shape it with a ball. Caution: Excessive heat can damage leather. This should be a last resort and done very carefully.

Never bake your mitt in an oven or microwave. This will permanently damage the leather and its performance.

Choosing Between Left and Right Hand Throw

This is a crucial detail for any baseball player. Your “hand throw” designation refers to the hand you throw with. Your mitt will go on the opposite hand.

• Right-Hand Throw: You throw with your right hand, so you’ll wear the catcher’s mitt on your left hand.
• Left-Hand Throw: You throw with your left hand, so you’ll wear the catcher’s mitt on your right hand.

Most players are right-handed throwers, so catcher’s mitts for right-hand throwers (worn on the left hand) are much more common. If you are a left-handed thrower, you might find fewer options available, but Rawlings does offer select models for this need.

Essential Accessories for Your Catcher’s Mitt

While the mitt is the star, a few accessories can enhance its life and your performance:

• Glove Conditioner/Oil: As mentioned, essential for breaking in and maintaining the leather. Brands like Wilson, Nokona, and of course Rawlings offer great options.
• Glove Mallet: Helps in pounding the pocket and shaping the mitt without damaging your hand.
• Glove Wrap/Bag: Many come with a bag or can be secured with large rubber bands to maintain shape during storage or travel.

Maintaining Your Rawlings Catcher’s Mitt

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your mitt and keep it performing at its best:

• Clean Regularly: Wipe down the mitt after use to remove dirt and sweat.
• Condition Periodically: Apply glove conditioner every few weeks, or more often if the leather seems dry, especially during long seasons or in dry climates.
• Store Properly: Don’t leave your mitt in a hot car or a damp equipment bag. Store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in its bag and with a ball in the pocket to maintain its shape.
• Avoid Over-Oiling: Too much oil can make the mitt heavy, greasy, and can even degrade the leather over time.

For more in-depth advice on glove care, resources like MLB.com offers general glove care tips that apply to catcher’s mitts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the best size Rawlings catcher’s mitt for a high school freshman?

A1: For most high school freshmen, a 33-inch or 34-inch catcher’s mitt is a good starting point. A 33-inch offers more control, while a 34-inch provides a larger catching surface. It’s best to try them on if possible.

Q2: How long does it take to break in a Rawlings Heart of the Hide catcher’s mitt?

A2: A Rawlings Heart of the Hide mitt, made from premium steerhide, typically requires a significant break-in period. Expect anywhere from 2-6 weeks of consistent conditioning, play, and shaping, depending on your efforts.

Q3: Can I use my adult catcher’s mitt for high school?

A3: Yes, if the adult mitt fits your hand properly and is a suitable size (e.g., 33-34 inches), it can be used. The key is a secure fit and proper function. Smaller adult mitts or those designed for specific pro players might also work if they are within the 33-34 inch range.

Q4: Is it okay for my catcher’s mitt to be a little stiff at first?

A4: Absolutely! Most high-quality catcher’s mitts, especially those made from premium leather, will be stiff when new. This is normal and a sign of durable material. The break-in process is designed to soften it and mold it to your hand and playing style.

Q5: Do I need a catcher’s mitt that is specifically for fastpitch or baseball?

A5: Yes. While they look similar, catcher’s mitts are designed differently for baseball and fastpitch softball due to the ball size and pitching speeds. This guide focuses on baseball catcher’s mitts. Ensure you select one made for baseball if that’s your sport.

Q6: How important is padding in a high school catcher’s mitt?

A6: Padding is extremely important for a catcher’s mitt. It absorbs the impact of fast pitches, protecting your hand and wrist from injury. Rawlings incorporates various padding technologies in their mitts to ensure optimal protection and comfort.

Conclusion

Selecting the right Rawlings catcher’s mitt for high school is a critical decision that impacts your comfort, confidence, and performance behind the plate. By understanding glove sizes, leather quality, pocket depth, and the importance of a proper break-in, you can make an informed choice. Whether you opt for the quick readiness of the R9, the proven performance of the Heart of the Hide, or the elite feel of the Pro Preferred series, Rawlings offers exceptional gear designed to help you excel.

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