10 Best Youth Catchers Gloves 2026 in the United States

The Rawlings Select Pro Lite Adley Rutschman Youth Catcher’s Mitt is designed specifically for young players stepping into the catcher role. At 32 inches, the glove offers a good size for youth catchers, providing enough coverage for catching pitches effectively. Made from leather, it promises durability and a quality feel, which is important for a position that demands frequent catching and impact absorption. Its solid black webbing offers stable pocket control, essential for securing the ball.

One of the glove's standout features is its lightweight design, making it easier for kids to open and close the mitt without excessive strain. This is complemented by the Youth Pro Taper fit, which includes a smaller hand opening and lowered finger stalls to better fit smaller hands and offer improved comfort. The glove also comes mostly broken in (90% factory, 10% player break-in), meaning it’s ready to use quickly, reducing the usual stiff feel new gloves have. The solid web might limit airflow compared to open web styles, which could affect hand ventilation on hot days. Additionally, the catcher's mitt is tailored for right-hand throwers only, so left-handed throwers will need to look elsewhere.

This mitt is a great choice for youth baseball players who are serious about learning the catcher position. It balances comfort, fit, and performance well, especially for players transitioning from beginner to more competitive play. Its pro-inspired design and quality materials offer a feel that can motivate young players while supporting their development on the field.

The Mizuno Prospect GXC105 Youth Catcher's Mitt is a 32.5-inch glove designed for young baseball players, specifically for right-handed throwers. The size is optimal for youths, offering ample coverage to catch and secure the ball effectively. The glove is made of leather with a synthetic leather lining, combining durability with a comfortable feel. The ButterSoft Palm Liner enhances comfort and durability, making it suitable for competitive play. The Parashock Palm Pad is a notable feature, providing excellent protection and absorbing shock during repeated use, which is ideal for young players who may experience hand discomfort otherwise.

The Less 2 Lacing feature increases flexibility at the glove's closing axis, making it easier for young players to close the mitt around the ball. PowerClose Technology further aids in making catches easier for beginners, while the PowerLock ensures a quick and secure fit, enhancing the comfort and usability of the glove. While the glove offers a blend of durability, comfort, and features aimed at simplifying the catching process for young athletes, the break-in time might be longer since it is made of leather. However, once broken in, it promises to be a reliable mitt for young catchers.

All these features make it a strong contender for youth catchers looking to improve their game with a comfortable and durable mitt.

The Rawlings R9 Series Catcher's Mitt is a solid choice for youth and high school baseball players who need a reliable glove for catching. It comes in a 32.5-inch size, which is standard for catcher's mitts and suitable for most players in those age groups. The glove is made from soft, durable all-leather, which means it feels good right away and doesn’t require a long break-in period, allowing players to start using it confidently in games quickly. The rectangular shape and one-piece solid webbing provide a good pocket for catching fast pitches, helping with control and ball security.

Padding is thoughtfully placed with reinforced palm pads, thumb loops, and fingerback liners to protect the hand and enhance comfort, making it easier to wear for longer periods. The glove is designed with a comfort-first approach, which is important for young players who may find bulky gloves uncomfortable. It also features pro-style patterns, supporting proper catching techniques and positioning. The glove is labeled for 'right hand throw,' so it fits players who wear the glove on the left hand and throw with their right. Some players might find the size slightly large if they prefer smaller mitts, but the 32.5-inch size is typical for catchers.

The glove's quality leather construction contributes to its performance and durability. Many users have expressed satisfaction with its comfort and game-ready feel, highlighting its support for proper catching fundamentals without requiring a long break-in time.