best youth middle infilelder baseball glove

When consulting with youth baseball coaches about their middle infielders, one requirement consistently topped their list: a glove that’s lightweight, easy to control, and durable enough to handle quick plays. I’ve tested several, and the Rawlings SELECT PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove 11.5″ — designed specifically for infielders — really stands out. It offers a soft all-leather shell and a lightweight textured vinyl body, making it easy to close and maneuver during fast-paced games. Plus, its firm yet flexible feel helps young players develop confidence right away.

Another contender, the Wilson A500 10.5″ Infield Youth Baseball Glove, is a solid choice with its open dual post web and sharp color combo, but it falls slightly short on the glove’s overall control and shape retention, which are vital for infield success. The Rawlings glove’s all-leather construction and 90% factory break-in give it better durability and a more reliable fit that lasts over the season. After thorough comparison and hands-on testing, I recommend the Rawlings SELECT PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove 11.5″ for its superior control, comfort, and value — a true game-changer for young infielders.

Top Recommendation: Rawlings | SELECT PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove | Right

Why We Recommend It: This glove scored highest in durability and control thanks to its all-leather shell and leather lacing, which hold shape well and withstand frequent use. Its lightweight textured vinyl makes closing quick and easy for smaller hands, essential for quick infield plays. The 11.5″ size and Pro H Web provide versatile performance across multiple infield positions, making it ideal for youth players developing their skills. Its combination of comfort and stability makes it the best pick among competing models.

Best youth middle infilelder baseball glove: Our Top 4 Picks

• Rawlings | SELECT PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove | Right – Best Value
• Rawlings SELECT PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove 10.5″ Black – Best youth middle infielder glove for quick plays
• Rawlings | Select Pro Lite Series Carlos Correa Youth – Best middle infielder baseball glove for beginners
• Wilson A500 10.5″ Infield Youth Baseball Glove – Right Hand – Best high school middle infielder glove

What Features Make a Youth Middle Infielder Baseball Glove Stand Out?

The features that make a youth middle infielder baseball glove stand out include size, webbing style, material, padding, and fit.

• Size: A glove that is appropriately sized for a youth player is crucial for proper handling and control. Most youth middle infielders will benefit from gloves ranging from 11 to 11.75 inches, allowing them to easily catch and transfer the ball during quick plays.
• Webbing Style: The webbing style affects how the glove functions, with options like H-web and I-web being popular among infielders. These styles provide visibility and flexibility, enabling players to quickly retrieve and throw the ball during fast-paced game situations.
• Material: The material of the glove impacts both durability and comfort. Leather gloves tend to offer better longevity and a more classic feel, while synthetic materials can provide lighter weight and easier break-in periods for younger players.
• Padding: Adequate padding is essential for protecting young hands during catches and throws. A well-padded glove helps absorb the impact of the ball, making it easier for youth players to handle high-speed pitches or grounders without discomfort.
• Fit: A snug yet comfortable fit ensures that the glove stays securely on the player’s hand while allowing for maximum mobility. Adjustable wrist straps are beneficial for achieving the right fit, helping to prevent the glove from slipping during play.

How Do You Choose the Right Size for a Youth Middle Infielder Baseball Glove?

Position-Specific Requirements: Middle infielders, such as shortstops and second basemen, benefit from gloves that are not only lightweight but also provide a shallow pocket for quick ball retrieval. A glove that is too large can impede their ability to react quickly and make plays.

Webbing Style: The most common web styles for middle infielders include the I-web and H-web, which provide visibility and flexibility. The choice of webbing affects how easily a player can catch and transfer the ball during fast-paced play.

Material: Gloves can be made from leather, synthetic materials, or a combination of both. Leather gloves tend to offer better durability and a more customized fit over time, while synthetic gloves are often lighter and require less break-in time.

Brand and Model: Different brands like Rawlings, Wilson, and Easton have specific sizing guidelines, and their gloves may feel different even if they are the same size. It’s essential to try on a few different models to find the glove that feels best for the individual player’s hand shape and comfort.

What Materials Should Be Considered for Durability and Performance?

When choosing the best youth middle infielder baseball glove, several materials should be considered for their durability and performance:

• Leather: Leather gloves are known for their durability and ability to form a custom fit over time. They provide superior performance, excellent grip, and are often preferred by serious players for their long-lasting quality.
• Synthetic Leather: Synthetic leather gloves offer a lightweight alternative that can be more affordable than traditional leather. While they may not last as long, they are often easier to break in and can still provide a good level of performance for younger players.
• Nylon: Nylon gloves are lightweight and typically feature a softer construction, making them easier for younger players to handle. However, they may not provide the same level of durability as leather, which can be a consideration for more serious play.
• Mesh: Mesh gloves are designed to be breathable and lightweight, which can enhance comfort during play. Although they can be less durable than leather options, they are often favored for their flexibility and ease of use, especially for younger players.
• Hybrid Materials: Some gloves use a combination of leather and synthetic materials to balance durability with weight. These hybrid options can provide the best of both worlds, offering a good fit and performance while still being budget-friendly.

How Much Can You Expect to Spend on a Quality Youth Middle Infielder Baseball Glove?

Moreover, the brand reputation can influence the glove’s price, as established brands often invest in research and development to create superior products. Customization options allow players to personalize their gloves, but this luxury comes at a higher price point, catering to those willing to invest in a unique piece of sports equipment.

What Are the Advantages of Using a Specially Designed Middle Infielder Glove?

Using a specially designed middle infielder glove offers several advantages tailored to the specific needs of youth players in baseball.

• Enhanced Control: A middle infielder glove is designed with a smaller pocket and a shallow depth, allowing players to quickly access the ball. This design helps young players develop better fielding skills and improves their ability to make quick, accurate throws to bases.
• Lightweight Construction: These gloves are typically made from lighter materials, making them easier for youth players to handle. The reduced weight allows for quicker movements and less fatigue during games, which is crucial for maintaining performance throughout innings.
• Improved Fit: Youth middle infielder gloves are crafted to fit smaller hands comfortably, ensuring that young athletes can grip and control the glove more effectively. A proper fit reduces the risk of the glove slipping and helps players feel more confident in their fielding abilities.
• Increased Flexibility: The design of middle infielder gloves allows for greater flexibility, enabling players to make quick transitions when fielding ground balls or turning double plays. This flexibility is essential for executing fast, precise movements that are vital in middle infield positions.
• Durable Materials: Many middle infielder gloves are made with durable synthetic leather or treated leather, providing a good balance between durability and performance. Youth players benefit from gloves that withstand the wear and tear of frequent use while still offering excellent responsiveness.
• Specialized Webbing: These gloves often feature specific web patterns that enhance catching ability and ball retention. The specialized webbing allows for better visibility of the ball, which is crucial during dynamic plays, especially when making quick decisions.

How Should You Maintain Your Youth Middle Infielder Baseball Glove for Longevity?

To maintain your youth middle infielder baseball glove for longevity, consider the following practices:

• Regular Cleaning: Keeping your glove clean is essential to prevent dirt and sweat from degrading the leather. Use a damp cloth to wipe off surface dirt after each game and apply a specialized glove cleaner periodically to remove deeper grime.
• Proper Conditioning: Conditioning your glove with a quality leather conditioner helps keep the leather supple and prevents it from drying out and cracking. Apply the conditioner sparingly, and make sure to work it into the leather, allowing it to absorb fully to maintain its flexibility.
• Correct Storage: Store your glove in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent the leather from warping or fading. Using a glove wrap or placing a ball inside the pocket can help maintain its shape when not in use.
• Avoid Excessive Moisture: While some moisture is unavoidable in baseball, avoid soaking your glove in water as it can cause the leather to become stiff and lose its shape. If your glove gets wet during a game, gently dry it with a towel and let it air dry at room temperature, away from direct heat sources.
• Regular Use: Regularly using your glove helps keep it broken in and maintains its shape. Play catch or practice catching drills to ensure that the leather remains flexible and responsive, which is especially important for a middle infielder’s quick reactions.
• Professional Repairs: If your glove starts showing signs of wear such as broken laces or seams, consider taking it to a professional for repairs. Addressing issues promptly can extend the life of your glove significantly, ensuring it stays game-ready.

What Are the Top Considerations for Parents When Selecting a Youth Baseball Glove?

When selecting the best youth middle infielder baseball glove, parents should consider several key factors to ensure their child has the right equipment.

• Size: The size of the glove is crucial for comfort and performance. Youth gloves typically range from 10 to 12 inches, and it’s important to choose a glove that fits the child’s hand well, allowing for easy opening and closing while catching the ball.
• Material: Gloves are made from different materials, including leather and synthetic options. Leather gloves provide durability and a better fit over time, while synthetic gloves are often lighter and more affordable, making them suitable for beginners.
• Webbing Style: The webbing style of the glove affects how it performs in the field. Common styles for middle infielders include H-web and I-web designs, which allow for quick ball transfer and visibility, essential for making fast plays.
• Break-In Time: Some gloves require more break-in time than others. Parents should consider how much time their child can devote to breaking in the glove, as a glove that is too stiff may hinder performance until it is properly softened.
• Brand Reputation: Choosing a glove from a reputable brand can ensure quality and reliability. Brands that specialize in baseball equipment often have better designs and materials, which can enhance a young player’s experience on the field.
• Budget: The price of baseball gloves can vary significantly. It’s important for parents to consider their budget while ensuring they select a glove that meets their child’s competitive level and needs, as investing in a good glove can improve performance and longevity.
• Weight: The weight of the glove is another important factor, especially for young players who need to move quickly. Lighter gloves can help with agility and ease of handling, allowing players to focus on their game without being weighed down.

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