How to Find My Size for Catcher's Equipment

A catcher is the most vulnerable player on a baseball team -- essentially the target of fast-moving baseballs, adjacent to a swinging bat and vulnerable to home-plate collisions. A catcher needs protective equipment and it's important that it fits properly. Poorly fitting equipment can result in discomfort, restricted movement and compromised protection. Sizing catcher's equipment can be done by taking a few quick body measurements and selecting appropriate gear from a baseball outfitter or sporting goods store.

Things You'll Need

  • Flexible cloth tape measure
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a catcher's mitt. Place your hand inside the mitt and slightly fan your fingers, making sure they can move slightly. A good mitt allows wiggle room for fingers but still has a snug fit. Catcher's mitts are measured by circumference in half-inch increments. Size 30 to 31 will fit most youth players; adults generally fit up to a size 34.5. Keep in mind that new mitts may be difficult to manipulate until broken in.

    • 2

      Measure the circumference of your head using a cloth measuring tape. Position the tape around the forehead, just above the ears and around to the occipital bone -- the slight bump on the back of the head. Jot down the measurement in inches and cross-reference with a helmet sizing chart. For example: head circumference of 21.5 to 22 inches is considered a helmet size 6-7/8 or 7, otherwise referred to as a medium.

      Note that face masks may be regulated by your league or school. Some require goalie-style helmets with an integrated mask to protect the entire head. Others allow slip-on masks over the helmet. If so, try on the mask and ensure that you have a full field of vision, and that the mask covers your entire face while fitting snugly over the helmet. Helmets are often paired with a mask at baseball outfitters or sporting goods stores.

    • 3

      Measure your torso from the upper part of the sternum to your navel. Note the measurement in inches to select a properly fitting chest protector. For young catchers, the measurement may be slightly longer because some youth leagues require a chest-guard tail. Select the chest protector with the matching torso-length measurements as noted on the equipment's size description.

    • 4

      Measure your shin bone from the center of the kneecap to the bottom of the shin, just above the ankle, to determine the length for knee and shin protectors. Select the shin protectors with the matching measurements as noted on the equipment's size description.