The Best Youth Baseball Catcher’s Mitts: A Guide to Top Picks for Young Athletes

March 12, 2025

As a young baseball player steps into the catcher’s role, one of the most important pieces of equipment they’ll need is a reliable and comfortable catcher’s mitt. A well-fitting mitt not only enhances performance but also ensures safety and confidence behind the plate. Choosing the right mitt can be overwhelming with so many options on the market, but fear not! We’ve compiled a list of the best youth baseball catcher’s mitts to help your little athlete excel.

1. Rawlings R9 Series Youth Catcher's Mitt (32”)

Rawlings is a trusted name in the baseball world, and their R9 Series Youth Catcher’s Mitt is a great option for younger players just getting started. This mitt is designed for comfort and durability, with a soft leather shell that allows for easier break-in and better performance. The 32-inch size provides the right balance of control and coverage for young catchers.

Key Features:

Soft, durable leather
Closed web for a secure pocket
Easy-to-break-in design
Recommended for players aged 8-12

2. Wilson A500 Youth Catcher's Mitt (32")

The Wilson A500 series is known for its construction and performance, and the youth catchers mitt of the series is no exception. Featuring Wilson’s Top Grain leather, this mitt is both lightweight and durable, offering young players a great feel and control behind the plate. The 32-inch size is ideal for youth catchers looking to take their game to the next level.

Key Features:

Top Grain leather for durability
Lightweight and responsive
A web design that offers a deep pocket
Great for players aged 9-12

3. Mizuno Prospect Series Youth Catcher's Mitt (32.5")

Mizuno’s Prospect Series GXC105 is a fantastic choice for players new to catching. The mitt is designed with a PowerClose technology that makes it easier for young athletes to close the glove and catch the ball securely. The 32.5-inch size is ideal for players in the 9-12 age range. Plus, it comes with a pre-oiled leather that helps with break-in time, making it more player-friendly.

Key Features:

PowerClose technology for easy closing
Soft, pre-oiled leather for quick break-in
Lightweight and comfortable design
Ideal for players aged 8-12
Mizuno Prospect - GXC112 - 31.5” model available for ages 7-9

4. Easton Future Elite Series Youth Catcher's Mitt (32.5")

Easton’s Future Elite series is designed with younger players in mind, offering a flexible and lightweight feel. The Future Elite mitt is a great option for first-time catchers, featuring a soft, durable leather shell that makes it easier for players to break in the mitt and get started quickly. The 32.5-inch size ensures young athletes have the right balance of size and flexibility.

Key Features:

Flex Notch Closure System for easy opening and closing
Soft leather shell for easy break-in
Lightweight and comfortable design
Ideal for players aged 9-12

5. All Star Top Star Youth Catcher's Mitt (31.5")

The All Star Top Star Youth Catcher’s Mitt is a solid, affordable option for players looking to get serious about catching. It features a durable leather construction and a deep pocket for better ball control. The mitt is designed to provide a snug fit, making it perfect for younger catchers who want a comfortable, secure feel.

Key Features:

Durable leather construction
Deep pocket for control and security
Comfortable fit for youth players
Ideal for players aged 9-12

6. Rawlings Sandlot Youth Catcher's Mitt (33")

Rawlings’ Sandlot is renowned for its high-quality for a great price.. The 33-inch Sandlot Catcher’s Mitt is made from Full Grain leather and features a solid, structured design that offers excellent ball control and durability. It's ideal for older youth players who are looking for great performance at a very reasonable price.

Key Features:

Full Grain leather for durability
Deep pocket for enhanced ball control
Structured design for optimal performance
Recommended for players aged 12-15

7. All-Star System 7 Youth Catcher's Mitt (32.5")

All-Star’s System 7 mitts are a favorite among catchers of all ages, and their youth model doesn’t disappoint. The System 7 mitt is made from high-quality leather and features a dual-wilson web that offers excellent ball control and a secure pocket. It also has a comfortable, padded wrist for added comfort during those long innings behind the plate.

Key Features:

High-quality leather construction
Dual-wilson web for secure ball control
Padded wrist for extra comfort
Ideal for players aged 10-14

8. All Star Future Star Youth Catcher’s Mitt (31.5")

The All Star Future Star model is an excellent choice for younger players who need a mitt that is easy to handle and offers solid durability. It features a soft synthetic leather construction, which makes it easier for young players to break in and get used to. The 31.5-inch size is perfect for youth catchers beginning to play competitively.

Key Features:

Soft synthetic leather construction for easy break-in
Lightweight and flexible design
Great for younger, first-time catchers
Ideal for players aged 8-12

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right catcher’s mitt for your young athlete is essential for their performance and safety on the field. Each of the mitts listed above offers unique features that can help make the game more enjoyable and effective for your child. When selecting a mitt, consider factors like size, fit, and construction to ensure it meets your young catcher’s needs. Whether they’re just starting out or advancing their skills, a quality catcher’s mitt is the key to helping them excel behind the plate.

Make sure to test the mitt on the field and consider breaking it in before game day. A comfortable, well-fitted mitt will boost their confidence and improve their overall performance, helping them become a standout player!