How to Choose the Best Catchers’ Gear
A child that plays baseball needs to be protected with the right catcher’s gear. You need to make sure the equipment and accessories are protective and comfortable. If you go shopping with a list of necessary items, more questions must be answered, like how to find the correct size, what are knee savers, and which chest protectors have the approval of the youth leagues of your location.
What is the essential catcher’s gear?
A catcher’s gear consists of a mask, chest protector, leg guards, and a mitt. The most important piece is the helmet, but all parts contribute to security. No one can play as a catcher without a good selection of pieces for protection. You can find these at a good price (and even some discount). In this article, we will help you make a list of the gear sets and accessories a catcher needs to play anything from fastpitch softball to all-star baseball.
What is an old-school catcher’s helmet?
This is a traditional, old-school two-piece mask. It consists of a baseball skull cap worn back and a separate mask strapped over the top. It consists of a metal cage with foam padding that fits against the forehead and chin.
Geena Davis made this helmet memorable in this scene. Nevertheless, this gear is on its way out because both ears and the sides of the head are exposed to foul balls from pitches or a hitter’s backswing at the plate.
How does a hockey-style mask work?
Today, any all-star catcher and softball coach would prefer a newer, more protective set. This gear is modeled after hockey goalie equipment. It was first used by Charlie O’Brien in 1996. These products now are mandated by most youth leagues.
What are the advantages of an EvoShield Mask and Helmet?
At Windpact we have worked hard to develop a mask and helmet that absorbs impact at the highest performance.
The Pro-SRZ Catcher’s Helmet features a Windpact shock-absorbing padding system that disperses impact energy, a durable steel facemask designed for maximum field of vision, and an innovative design for a better fit and performance.
It features:
- Windpact’s Crash Cloud™ technology absorbs and disperses impact energy, giving you greater protection and comfort.
- Durable steel facemask engineered for maximum field of vision and enhanced impact protection.
- This helmet is certified by SEI to meet the NOCSAE® standard for baseball/softball catcher’s helmets.
- The pad does not absorb microbes, making it easy to clean.
You can find shopping options in the official EvoShield online store or at Dick’s Sporting Goods.
The Pro-SRZ Catcher’s Facemask is designed with Windpact’s Crash Cloud™ technology, a no-slip harness, and a durable steel frame shaped for maximum field of vision, the Pro-SRZ™ Catcher’s Facemask offers the perfect blend of comfort and protection.
It features:
- Windpact’s Crash Cloud™ technology absorbs and disperses impact energy, giving you greater protection and comfort.
- Durable steel facemask engineered for maximum field of vision and enhanced impact protection.
- Adjustable neoprene harness designed to hold mask in place.
- The pad does not absorb microbes, making it easy to clean.
You can find shopping options in the official EvoShield online store or at Dick’s Sporting Goods.
What should I know when buying a catcher’s mask?
If you are looking to choose the best catcher’s gear, you have to balance three things: safety, comfort, and fit. Brands may differ, but most use steel or other metal strong enough to withstand being hit by balls and bats alike. Make a close checkout for no dents in the metal if you buy used gear sets for a lower price.
The shell material must all be made of high-impact plastic or polycarbonate. The price may vary, as well as the reviews of different brands. A safe choice is to look for a strong but light shell. One of the rewards is to choose the color!
What happens to a catcher’s visibility in their hockey-style gear?
Catchers need excellent visibility, both in front and peripherally. This hockey-style gear curves around the face to improve visibility in all directions. The hockey-style brands are harder to throw off but provide excellent visibility.
After doing some searches and comparing the price of these accessories, the hockey-style helmets are generally more expensive. Some players may argue the two-piece mask is more ventilated and allows for better throwing off when scrambling for the ball in the dirt. Nevertheless, hockey-style helmet technology has safety improvements that outbalance the reviews older gear might get. Search the reviews for catchers gear. You will find these types of products have the best performance of all, so they are the best option for catcher positions in baseball and softball games, no matter the ages of the players.
How must the inside of the catcher’s mask be?
The inside can be made of foam. These products must contribute to comfort, but must be able to absorb impact and prevent concussions and head injuries. If you do some searches, you might find discounts and reviews. When making your selection, never forget it must absorb the most impact and feel comfortable.
How do I find the best fit and price when buying catchers gear?
When you place an order for baseball or softball sets through a website, you still need to fit your order when it arrives. Make sure the site allows for easy returns for their customer in case the pieces do not fit your kid. Some sites offer a selection using children’s ages, but this might not always be accurate. People usually search for girls’ masks in smaller sizes. Make sure you never add extra foam to a baseball catcher’s mask.
Which are the sizes for a catchers’ mask?
EvoShield, Wilson, Under Armour, Easton, and other brands use different sizes. Some offer broad-sized categories like youth/intermediate/adult, while others like batting helmets use head sizes. The majority of hockey-style masks have a backplate with straps that can further adjust the fit at the back.
How to measure catchers gear?
You want the mask to fit snug, like a baseball cap, but not very tight. When your child tries it on, the mask should move with their head. It should never bounce around. Do not buy a bigger one for them to grow into. This piece of equipment needs to fit properly to provide the most protection.
How do I find out my child’s head circumference for a mask fit if I order online through a site?
Start by measuring your child’s head circumference by using a soft measuring tape or a string. Wrap it around the head above the eyebrows and ears. Then convert the head circumference into the mask size.
Should I compare my kid’s catcher’s gear with other kids on their team?
Another good idea while in the search for catcher’s gear is to have your child try on her team masks. Ask if they can wear it during practice. This is better than trying it on in the store because children can actually feel what it’s like to catch and throw with it on.
What certifications make a good catcher’s mask?
To ensure the best information when it comes to safety, always search for a list of certifications, especially the one by NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment). If a mask is approved, it will have the logo stamped on the outer shell. NOCSAE approval is required by various youth and professional leagues including the NFHS, the MLB, and the NCAA.
Remember to look for a hockey-style helmet, NOCSAE certified, made with high quality, impact padding. This combination will keep players safe and comfortable.
Which is the best chest protector?
When ensuring protection for catcher’s gear, do not forget on your list to search for a chest protector. Catchers are at risk without these pieces. Chest protectors are required for all. Both Wilson and Easton brands make them but search for information and reviews on their performance. Double-check with your team what chest protector is best for their catcher’s gear when they are playing on the plate.
How can I help my kid take care of his catcher’s gear?
A chest protector can come with a bag, making it easier to put everything away when the team has done playing. You can also sew a big canvas bag for them to place everything together when the practice is done.
How to order leg guards and knee savers?
Shin guards are essential for softball and baseball players. Check the information while buying leg guards and knees set online. You can probably buy these as a set, together with its bag. Knees need to be protected also. The leg guards need to feel good, not like something players cannot wait to rip off. It can take some trial and error. If you order leg guards online through a site, and you are not sure about the size, double-check the manufacturers’ policies for customer returns and loyal discounts.