PARENT’S CHECKLIST
First season: buy the essentials first
Before filling a cart, get the team’s equipment list. Some teams provide shared bats, helmets, or catching equipment; others expect families to supply them.
Updated September 3, 2026 · Independent research
01 / BEFORE YOU BUY
Ask these questions first
What does the team provide? What must each player bring? Which bat rules apply? Are there footwear or uniform requirements? Can new players try team equipment before buying? Write down the answers so shared equipment does not become an unnecessary duplicate purchase.
02 / BEFORE YOU BUY
Build the personal gear list
Start with a glove that fits, the required uniform and footwear, water, and any personal protective equipment the team or league requires. If buying a helmet, follow the manufacturer’s fitting instructions and confirm the league’s certification requirements. Label the gear with a name or initials.
03 / BEFORE YOU BUY
Set a separate catcher’s budget
If your player will catch, confirm access to a correctly fitting helmet, chest protector, leg guards, catcher’s mitt, and any required additional protection. Check a team set’s fit and condition with the coach. Do not assume a bundled set includes every item needed.
04 / BEFORE YOU BUY
Wait on optional extras
Ask what problem an upgrade would solve before buying another bat, a practice net, or extra training accessories. Attend a few practices, then decide with the coach what would be useful. For a tee, measure the desired contact height before comparing models.
05 / BEFORE YOU BUY
Recheck before the first practice
Try the full outfit and equipment at home. Confirm the practice location, pack water, and check that the player can identify their bag. Keep receipts and return deadlines together so an incorrect size can be dealt with promptly.
Put the guide to work
Examples to compare, not price rankings. Check the seller for current cost, selected size, and availability.
RAWLINGS
Mark of a Pro Light
11-inch • youth fit
A youth infield model with a leather shell and Pro H web. A starting point for a fit check, rather than a size prescription.
Check throwing hand and whether your player can comfortably close it.
RAWLINGS
Mark of a Pro Light 11.5
11.5-inch • basket web
The larger option in this pair uses a basket web and Youth Pro Taper fit. Compare it on your player’s hand before choosing.
This linked variant is for a right-handed thrower. Verify size and stock.
RAWLINGS
NXT Pink / Columbia Blue
11.5-inch • youth ContoUR fit
A pink-and-blue infield pattern with a narrower youth hand opening. The color stands out, but wrist security, closure, position, and break-in should still decide the fit.
The linked variant is for a right-handed thrower. Verify throwing hand, current stock, and that the player can close it comfortably.