As a catcher your catchers mitt is one of the most important pieces of equipment you will ever purchase. It protects you and enables you to do your job effectively. That’s why you should take your time and ensure you are buying the right one for your game. Below I am going to share with you 5 things to keep in mind when buying a catchers mitt.
You Get What You Pay For
This is very important. You will run into a lot of very inexpensive mitts that might appeal to your wallet. But understand this is a situation where you get what you pay for. Yes, catchers mitt’s can be expensive. There is no doubt about it. But would you rather purchase a cheap one and have to replace it several times a year or would you rather by a quality one that costs a little more but will last longer? I am sure you would opt for the latter.
Check The Quality Of The Leather
The quality of the leather is very important. A flimsy glove is an effective glove. You ask any pitcher and they will tell you they can’t stand when their glove gets too flimsy. When you buy a cheap catchers mitt you can expect this to happen. That’s because cheap leather will quickly lose its strength and its shape. When this happens it becomes very difficult for you to catch the ball.
Quality leather stays stronger longer and it lasts longer. It gives you a nice popping sound when you catch the baseball. Its a sound every catcher loves.
Palm Protection
When a baseball is thrown it will be coming at you hard and fast. Catching the ball can send a tingling sensation through your hand. That’s how hard a baseball can hit your hand. When you buy a catchers mitt make sure it has adequate palm protection. The amount of protection you get is all a matter of personal preference. Some like extra padding while some don’t.
Break In Time
How long will it take you to break in the new glove? This is a very important question to ask. Each model is made differently and will have a different amount of break in time. Some are broken in a bit before they leave the factory. Others aren’t broken in at all. Just like palm protection, break in time is a matter of preference. Some guys want a glove that doesn’t require a lot of break in time. Others prefer one they completely break in themselves.
Who Made It?
The last thing you want to keep in mind is who made the glove. There are four big companies known for making catchers mitts for the pros. They are All-Star, Wilson Gloves, Rawlings and of course Louisville Slugger. When you buy a glove from these companies you know you are getting a high quality product. Yes they are more expensive, but they are well worth it. They will last longer and the strong leather will help you make fewer mistakes.
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