Baseball, softball, and T-ball: what a first season needs
Most first-season families overbuy here. The glove is the one thing worth getting right. Bats are the one thing worth checking before you buy.
Before the first practice
- See options on Amazon for Glove sized for your kid (opens in new tab)
Glove sized for your kid
Youth gloves are sized in inches. Have your kid try one on if you can; too big is the most common mistake.
- See options on Amazon for Baseball or softball pants, belt, socks (opens in new tab)
Baseball or softball pants, belt, socks
Your team will tell you the color.
- See options on Amazon for Cleats (opens in new tab)
Cleats
Molded (rubber) cleats are the safe pick. Some youth leagues don't allow metal spikes.
Can wait, or ask first
- See options on Amazon for Bat that meets your league's rule (opens in new tab)
Bat that meets your league's rule
Many youth baseball leagues require a bat with the USA Baseball stamp, and fastpitch has its own standards. Ask before you buy, because a bat that isn't allowed can't be used.
- See options on Amazon for Batting helmet (opens in new tab)
Batting helmet
Often provided by the team at younger ages. Ask first.
- See options on Amazon for Bat bag (opens in new tab)
Bat bag
Nice to have once you've got a bat and helmet to carry.
- See options on Amazon for Softball fielder's mask (opens in new tab)
Softball fielder's mask
Some fastpitch leagues require one for infielders or pitchers. Ask your coach.
Buying used
Gloves and bats show up used all the time. Just check a used bat against your league's rule.
Find a program
Baseball programs in Kenosha County · Softball programs in Kenosha County · T-Ball programs in Kenosha County