Looking to Buy the Best Rawlings Youth Baseball Glove. Check Out These Top Picks

Looking to Buy the Best Rawlings Youth Baseball Glove. Check Out These Top Picks

Materials – Leather Types and Quality

When it comes to finding the best Rawlings youth baseball glove, one of the most important factors to consider is the type and quality of leather used. Rawlings uses several premium leathers across their gloves lines including Pro Preferred, Heart of the Hide, and Reserve Pro. The Pro Preferred gloves feature full-grain kip leather, providing great durability and a quick break-in time. Heart of the Hide uses top 5% of steer hides, offering a nice balance of stiffness and flexibility right out of the wrapper. For more budget-friendly options, the Reserve Pro incorporates a synthetic leather palm with pigskin shell, still providing a decent feel at a lower price point.

Padding – Palm and Finger Lining

Having adequate padding in the palm and fingers can help reduce sting and improve comfort, especially for younger players getting acclimated to the sport. Many Rawlings youth models incorporate lightweight padding in the palm area as well as on the index finger and lower hand pinky finger. This helps dampen the ball on impact while allowing the player to still feel the glove and ball. Some of the top-end Pro Preferred and Heart of the Hide gloves even include memory foam padding for optimal shock absorption.

Web Types – Closed, Open, Hybrid

The web design – open, closed or hybrid – also factors into glove performance and position suitability. Open webs promote snagging fly balls in the outfield while closed webs provide a deeper pocket for infielders. Many Rawlings youth gloves come in both open and closed web options. The hybrid webs give a versatile mix of snagging capability and pocket depth. Popular hybrid styles from Rawlings include the RCS (reduced closed slot) and the trapeze web.

Sizes – Position-Specific and Age Recommendations

Choosing the right size glove for your child’s age and position is key for comfort, control and optimal performance. Rawlings offers youth glove sizes ranging from 9 inches to 13 inches measured from the bottom of the index finger across the palm to the outer glove edge. Generally smaller sizes, around 9-11 inches, work well for tee-ballers and young infielders. As kids get into the 10-12 age range, moving up to 11-12.5 inch gloves provides a better fit for infielders and outfielders. For older youth players around 12-15 years old, 12.5-13 inch gloves help handle bigger ball sizes while allowing room to grow.

Breaking In – Proper Techniques to Form Pocket

While high quality leather will naturally break-in over time, there are some pro tips to properly break-in a new Rawlings youth glove to form the optimal pocket shape. Rubbing a mallet firmly over the palm and using a ball in the pocket helps loosen the leather fibers. Applying glove oil or conditioner, playing catch frequently, and storing a ball in the pocket when not in use will also help expedite the break-in time to get the glove game-ready faster.

Price Range – Budget to Premium Options

Rawlings offers youth baseball gloves across a wide spectrum of budget ranges – from value-minded recreational gloves under $50 to pro-level models over $200. The low-cost Rawlings Players Series provides quality leather gloves perfect for casual play or tryouts. In the $70-120 range, gloves like the Rawlings Select Pro and RCS Pro models offer premium feel at an accessible price point. And for top-notch youth gloves, the Heart of Hide and Pro Preferred lines provide pro performance and materials for $150+. Considering budget along with your child’s needs and skill level helps narrow the options.

Popular Models – Pro Preferred, Heart of Hide, etc.

Within their expansive youth glove lineup, Rawlings offers several model series to suit different positions, skill levels and budgets. Here are some of the most popular Rawlings youth glove models:

– Pro Preferred Yadier Molina – Premium catcher’s mitt with Molina’s input, great for advanced youth catchers
– Heart of the Hide Dual Core – Fast break-in with pro-level performance, ideal for infielders
– RCS Pro – Hybrid web with quality leather, versatile for all positions
– Select Pro – Durable synthetic leather shell, good choice for outfield
– Players Series – Value-focused recreational glove line for beginners

Positions – Infield, Outfield, Pitcher, Catcher

Rawlings designs specific gloves for each position, maximizing performance while allowing for growth. For young infielders, 11.5-12.5 inch Heart of the Hide or RCS gloves with closed webs form ideal pocket depths for scooping grounders. Outfielders benefit from 12-13 inch open web Select Pro or Players Series allowing for expanded range. On the mound, the 11.5 inch Players Series with closed web fosters ball control. Behind the plate, the 32.5 inch Pro Preferred Yadi catcher’s mitt provides a large pocket for framing pitches.

Reviews – Pros and Cons from Real Owners

Checking out reviews from other parents and players can provide helpful insights into the real-world performance of Rawlings youth gloves. Common pros often cited are the high quality leather delivering a quick break-in time, durable construction withstanding seasons of use, and excellent customer service standing behind the product. In terms of cons, some note the premium gloves can be on the pricier side. Others mention wishing the finger linings were more padded on some of the lower-end models. But overall, Rawlings consistently earns praise for making gloves that help young players succeed.

Brand Comparisons – Rawlings vs Wilson, Mizuno, etc.

Compared to other popular glove brands like Wilson and Mizuno, Rawlings is widely regarded as an industry leader in crafting youth baseball mitts. Rawlings focuses extensively on researching glove fit, sizing, materials and construction specifically tailored to young players. This gives them an edge in designing gloves that promote skill development and comfort. Their pro-level Heart of the Hide and Pro Preferred gloves are unmatched in quality and performance at the youth level. Rawlings also offers a wider range of sizes and position-specific gloves to precisely fit growing kids. If investing in a long-lasting glove with proven quality, Rawlings is a trusted choice.

Where to Buy – Online and Local Retailers

Rawlings youth baseball gloves can be purchased from a variety of major retailers online and locally. Large sports stores like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Modell’s, and Academy Sports all carry a decent selection of Rawlings youth gloves. For wider choices, popular online retailers like BaseballMonkey.com, BaseballExpress.com and JustBallGloves.com offer all the top Rawlings youth models. Local pro shops and sporting goods stores also often carry popular gloves to demo in person. And Rawlings.com allows you to order direct from the manufacturer.

Warranties and Returns – Policies and Protections

Rawlings youth gloves are backed by manufacturer warranties to protect against defects. Heart of the Hide gloves carry a 1-year manufacture warranty while more premium Pro Preferred gloves come with a 100-day warranty. These cover defects in materials and workmanship. Most retailers also allow returns within 30-90 days on unused gloves, providing time to ensure proper fit and feel. Just save all original tags and packaging. Be sure to check return policies from specific merchants.

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Padding – Palm and Finger Lining

Proper padding is crucial in a youth baseball glove, helping absorb ball impact and reduce sting. Rawlings uses specific padding systems to make catching comfortable. In their premium Pro Preferred line, Rawlings incorporates 3D padding technology featuring multiple layers of foam and memory foam. This high-end padding eliminates hand sting and conforms perfectly to the player’s hand. The Heart of the Hide models utilize Rawlings’ lightweight Poron XRD palm padding which adequately dampens impact while maintaining a responsive feel.

On many youth glove models, Rawlings adds extra padding in key areas prone to impact. The lower palm heel receives additional foam cushioning on gloves like the RCS Pro and Select Pro series. index fingers are lined with extra padding to protect young players learning proper catching techniques. The Players Series recreational gloves incorporate lightweight foam in the palm, index finger and lower pinky finger. While minimal, this strategic padding helps reduce sting on missed catches and errant throws common with beginners.

Finding the right amount of padding comes down to position, skill level and personal preference. More padding provides comfort but can reduce feel. Elite level youth players may prefer gloves with minimal padding like Pro Preferred models, maximizing responsiveness when catching 90+ mph fastballs and hard hit liners. Recreational players benefit from extra foam protection as they learn proper catching technique. Ultimately, trying different thicknesses of palm and finger padding ensures finding the ideal glove providing protection without compromising performance.

Catcher’s Mitts – Extra Padding for Demanding Position

Due to the demands of the catcher position – blocking pitches, constant impacts, and framing – extra padding is critical in youth catcher’s mitts. The Pro Preferred Yadi catcher’s mitt incorporates 3D padding with memory foam for maximum impact absorption on wild pitches. Multi-layer foam protects the vulnerable index fingers of young backstops. On more affordable models like the RCS catcher’s mitt, stacked foam padding helps withstand repetitive wear-and-tear behind the plate.

Players Series – Lightweight Foam for Recreational Use

For casual youth play, Rawlings equips their low-cost Players Series fielding gloves and mitts with a lightweight foam padding system. In the palm, index finger, and lower hand, thin foam lining helps take the edge off the ball’s sting without sacrificing responsiveness. While minimal, this entry-level padding helps introduce beginners to fielding fundamentals while allowing capability to catch line drives and hard throws as skills improve.

Trying Out Thickness for Fit

The thickness of padding can impact the overall fit and feel of a glove, especially for smaller hands. Well-padded youth gloves may fit snugger at first compared to lightly-lined models. Be sure to try on different padding thicknesses, like the Pro Preferred vs Heart of the Hide gloves, to get the ideal roomy and protective fit. Breaking in the glove forms around the hand over time. But starting with proper padding allows for comfort right from the first catch.

While premium leather gives Rawlings youth gloves their signature feel and performance, smart padding adds protection. From minimal foam in recreational gloves to pro-level memory foam in top-tier mitts, Rawlings’ strategic palm and finger padding reduces sting while optimizing responsiveness. This gives developing young players the confidence to field anything hit their way.

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Web Types – Closed, Open, Hybrid

The web design – either closed, open or a hybrid – is an important factor affecting glove performance and position suitability. Rawlings crafts specific web patterns for each youth glove series to match young players’ developing skills.

Closed webs feature tightly-woven leather strips joining the thumb and finger stalls. This forms a deeper pocket with greater ball control, ideal for youth infielders scooping up grounders. Top closed web gloves like the Pro Preferred J2 models have minimal spaces between laces, creating a trapeze-style pocket. Budget-friendly options like the Players Series feature wider closed web patterns, offering decent ball control at a recreational level.

For youth outfielders, open web gloves provide optimal expansion for snagging fly balls on the run. Rawlings designs open webs with wide gaps between the leather lacing, expanding the glove opening up to 30% more than closed webs. This allows young players to reach for balls in every direction. The Select Pro series and Heart of the Hide models offer pro-quality open webs for serious youth fielders.

Hybrid web gloves combine the control of closed webs with the flexibility of open webs. Rawlings signature RCS web has a closed outer edge and open inner lacing, providing a versatile mix of snagging and scooping capabilities. The Pro Preferred and RCS Pro lines incorporate these hybrid webs, maximizing utility for multi-position youth players.

Transitioning Web Types by Age

The optimal web design often changes as players get older and take on new positions. Young infielders may start with closed webs for maximum control when learning to field grounders. Around 10-12 years old, switching to a hybrid web allows greater flexibility while maintaining pocket depth. Outfielders can begin with hybrid webs to expand their range, then transition to true open webs for snagging high flies by 12+ years old.

Trying Out Webs In-Store

When shopping for a new youth glove, testing different web types in-store can help players discover the right design. Bringing a ball allows throwing into the pocket and feeling how openly or confining different webs perform. Closed webs should provide a deep, secure pocket while open webs expand smoothly. Store associates can also offer web recommendations based on playing experience and positional needs.

Impacts of Web Shape on Performance

The web shape fine-tunes a glove’s capabilities and requires adapting playing techniques. Closed web gloves call for more two-hand catches with the glove palm up. Open webs allow for one-hand snags with the palm facing out. Hybrid webs give the versatility to use either catching style. Training with a new web type develops proper habits tailored to the glove’s ideal performance.

Rawlings offers expertly designed webs on their youth gloves to match young players’ positions and developmental levels. From closed webs developing fielding fundamentals to open webs expanding range, Rawlings’ web shapes align with kids’ skills. This gives growing athletes the tools to succeed as infielders, outfielders and all-around players.

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Sizes – Position-Specific and Age Recommendations

Choosing the properly sized glove is crucial for comfort, control and maximizing performance. Rawlings offers youth models ranging from 9 inches up to 13 inches, precisely fitted to developing hands.

For beginning players around 4-8 years old, 9-10 inch gloves work well. These smaller models provide light control for introduction to fielding fundamentals. As kids approach 8-10 years old, moving up to 10-11 inch gloves aids incatching larger baseballs. This size range accommodates infielders and outfielders learning more advanced techniques.

Once in the 10-12 year old range, gloves sizes of 11-12 inches suit burgeoning adolescent hands. Narrower fit 11.5 inch models help infielders handle grounders while 12 inch gloves with longer fingers assist outfielders in tracking flies. For older youth players around 12-15 years old, 12.5-13 inch gloves provide a comfortable fit with room to grow.

Trying On For Fit

Due to variations in developmental rates, two players the same age may need different size gloves for ideal fit. Trying on different sizes at a store allows wiggle room to test snugness. Inserting the lower hand into the pinky and ring finger stalls tests overall roominess. For infielders, trying to touch the glove tip with the throwing hand checks dexterity. Outfielders can test reach by seeing how far back the glove hand pinky extends.

Position-Specific Sizing Tips

Along with age, optimal glove size differs by player position. For young infielders, smaller 11.5 inch models provide quick control of balls. Outfielders rely on longer 12.5+ inch gloves to expand reach on deep flies. Pitchers benefit from 11.5-12 inch sizes offering both dexterity and expanded pockets. Catchers need wider mitt designs, usually around 32.5 inches for flexibility. Considering a child’s position narrows down sizing.

Allowing Room to Grow

When deciding between two similar sizes, opting slightly larger provides room for growth. While a snug fit can increase control initially, hands rapidly grow through adolescence. Choosing the next size up ensures getting multiple seasons of use from one glove. Tighter fits can always be compensated for by wearing a batting glove on the hand in the glove.

With their extensive sizing options, Rawlings ensures every young player fields a glove matching their current hand size and skill level. Careful sizing paired with quality craftsmanship gives developing athletes the tools to hone fundamentals and talents season after season.

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Breaking In – Proper Techniques to Form Pocket

While high quality leather naturally breaks in over time, using specific techniques speeds up forming the optimal pocket shape. Proper break-in improves pliability, conforms the glove to the player’s hand, and develops the desired fielding performance.

One of the best break-in methods is playing regular catch or taking batting practice with the new glove. Catching many balls wears in the palm and pocket areas through consistent use. Soft toss and grounders hit right at the glove focus the impact for targeted shaping. Using the glove in actual game action also trains proper pocket molding.

In addition to regular fielding use, applying conditioners keeps the leather supple during break-in. Rubbing conditioner into the palm, pocket and outer seams permeates the full leather surface. Rawlings recommends using their Glovolium Oil or Heart of the Hide Oil to penetrate glove fibers while maintaining stiffness. Avoid over-softening the leather too early.

Glove mallet tools specifically made for break-in can accelerate forming a pro pocket. Applying mallet strikes to the palm and along each finger stall compresses and loosens the leather. Focusing on pocket areas produces the desired creasing and shape. Be careful not to over-strike any single spot.

Player-Specific Pocket Molding

Each athlete develops their own preferred pocket shape through personal use. Regularly catching balls on a specific glove spot trains that pocket wear. Breaking in a glove to match an individual’s fielding style optimizes performance.

Storing a Ball in Shape

Once the desired pocket molding is achieved, storing a ball inside the pocket when not in use preserves the shape. This maintains the exact pocket contour between uses. Youth infielders benefit most from retaining precise pocket depth.

Avoiding Common Break-In Mistakes

Patience is key during break-in to avoid overdoing it. Forcing too much manual shaping can damage leather and ruin the glove. Let natural use do most of the work. Go slow with mallet strikes instead of pounding. And limit moisture – don’t soak the glove or use excessive oils.

With smart techniques tailored to each player’s position and style, breaking in a Rawlings youth glove strikes the perfect balance between game-ready shape and lasting quality.

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Price Range – Budget to Premium Options

Rawlings delivers quality youth gloves across a wide spectrum of budget ranges – from value-focused recreational mitts to pro-level models. Prices run the gamut from under $50 up to over $200.

For entry-level play, the Rawlings Players Series provides durable leather gloves from $35-$55. While basic, they allow young athletes to learn fundamentals affordably. Step up to the $60-$100 tier and the RCS Pro and Select Pro models offer premium materials and craftsmanship with accessible pricing.

In the $100-$150 range, gloves like the Heart of Hide, Primo and Revo Wrap bring pro-caliber construction within reach for serious players. These premium gloves perform at the highest levels while optimizing longevity.

At the top end, the Pro Preferred line delivers the same gloves worn by MLB stars for $180-$250. From kip leather to exacting quality control, these represent the pinnacle of Rawlings’ engineering.

Used Gloves for Additional Savings

For parents trying to balance quality and affordability, shopping used gloves can provide big savings. Many Rawlings youth models hold up extremely well over multiple seasons. Gently used Heart of the Hide or Pro Preferred gloves often resell for 40-60% less than new.

Sales Around the Holidays

Timing purchases around peak sale seasons can net extra discounts. Retailers often run glove promotions during the holidays when shopping activity increases. Rawlings closeout models and prior year gloves see major markdowns as well.

Splitting Costs with Teammates

For top-shelf gloves beyond a family’s budget, players can team up with teammates to split costs. Groups of two or three players combining savings can afford higher price points together. This allows more kids to experience elite gloves.

While performance comes first, Rawlings keeps costs reasonable for families. Their array of pricing tiers and value deals make it possible for all enthusiastic young athletes to field quality leather gloves.

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Popular Models – Pro Preferred, Heart of Hide, etc.

Within their wide selection, several Rawlings youth glove lines stand out as top choices across positions, skill levels and budgets.

The Pro Preferred series represents the cream of the crop for elite players. Constructed from full-grain kip leather, these pro-level gloves offer unmatched quality and performance. The Pro Preferred models also incorporate advanced technical features like 3D padding and forming processes that optimize break-in.

Nearly matching the Pro Preferred, Rawlings’ Heart of the Hide gloves provide durability and performance at a more accessible price point. Crafted from the top 5% of steer hides, Heart of the Hide leather rivals Pro Preferred in feel and longevity after break-in. Serious players who want pro-quality at a mid-tier cost choose Heart of the Hide gloves.

For balanced utility across positions, the RCS Pro line shines for all-around use. Rawlings’ RCS web shape blends the snug pocket of closed webs with added flexibility. Meanwhile, quality full-grain leather provides a responsive feel from Day 1. The RCS Pro models offer premium quality without breaking the bank.

Lineups Tailored to Positions

Within each model line, Rawlings optimizes gloves for specific positions. Their Pro Preferred catcher’s mitts like the Yadi models provide unmatched protection and ball control behind the plate. Pro Preferred infielders benefit from quicker break-in and shaping for ideal pocket depth. For outfielders, Heart of the Hide models crafted with Pro Grade lacing expand the glove’s web and range.

Signature Pro Player Editions

Teaming with pros like Kris Bryant, Manny Machado and Hunter Pence, Rawlings translates star players’ insights into youth glove designs. These Pro Player Editions adapt pro-preferred shaping, materials and technical elements to the developing hands and skills of youth athletes.

Limited Edition Styles

Rawlings issues special limited run gloves that garner collector interest beyond performance. Recent examples include the colorful Players Series ‘Pigeon’ gloves as well as the wood grain-print Heart of the Hide models. These unique designs sell out quickly.

From trusted models passed down for generations to next-gen technical innovations, Rawlings’ lineup offers the right solution for every young athlete. Their benchmark glove lines withstand the test of time by maximizing comfort, control and craftsmanship.

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Positions – Infield, Outfield, Pitcher, Catcher

Rawlings optimizes glove designs, sizes and features specifically for each position’s demands at the youth level. This guides players to models fitting their skills.

For infielders, smaller 11.5 inch gloves improve control on short hops and quick transfers. Patterns like the Pro Preferred J2 feature closed webs and deep pockets to scoop grounders. Heart of the Hide models boast durable leathers and quick break-in to form around small hands. Youth infielders also appreciate padding on index fingers and palms to dampen sting.

Outfielders rely on longer 12.5+ inch gloves for maximum reach on fly balls. Rawlings Select Pro and Heart of the Hide patterns incorporate open webs, expanding the glove opening up to 5 inches wider than closed web designs. This allows young outfielders to chase down balls in the gaps. Softer leathers also improve snagging balls away from the body.

On the mound, pitchers need increased pocket depth yet flexible break-in allowing ball concealment and free finger motion. Rawlings’ RCS Pro gloves blend deep pockets with agile break-in, ideal for honing multiple pitch grips and arm slots. Heart of the Hide models work well also thanks to moldable inner paddings.

For catchers, wider mitt patterns and thicker padding help withstand constant impacts. Rawlings’ Pro Preferred Yadier Molina catcher’s mitt protects young backstops with 3D foam padding. Wider mitt shapes and longer fingers allow for framing pitches above and below the zone.

Training Models vs Game Models

Many players use a different glove for training versus games. Infielders may break in smaller training gloves for hundreds of reps, developing quick hands and pocket dexterity. Game models offer more padding and pocket depth. Outfielders train with larger gloves to expand reach then opt for snugger game gloves.

Utility Players Benefit from Adjustable Models

Multi-positional players need versatile gloves allowing adjustments. Models with swappable thumb loops or adjustable finger stalls like some Heart of the Hide gloves adapt as players shift positions.

Understanding youth positional demands allows zeroing in on the optimal Rawlings glove. Their position-specific designs give young athletes the right tools to excel on the diamond.

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Reviews – Pros and Cons from Real Owners

Looking at Rawlings youth glove reviews from real players and parents provides useful feedback on how the mitts perform in action. Common pros and cons give insights into real-world benefits and drawbacks.

In terms of positives, Rawlings earns consistent praise for the high-quality leather leading to quick break-in times. Many mention their glove felt game-ready after just a few practices, allowing several seasons of prime performance. The construction quality also garners kudos for durability over multiple years of youth play.

Owners frequently cite the deep, contoured pocket shapes as a major plus. Comments mention the pocket design provides ideal ball control and security, especially on infielder models. Rawlings’ foam padding technologies also receive positive feedback for eliminating sting while allowing glove responsiveness.

Regarding negatives, some owners of lower-end models like the Players Series note the leather can be stiff and take longer to break in. A few reviews complain of lacking padding on index fingers and heels. But these drawbacks primarily appear on Rawlings’ budget-friendly gloves under $50.

Across price points, sizing issues occasionally arise in reviews. Some mention gloves running too narrow or small for larger hands. Trying on different sizes in-store helps avoid ill-fitting gloves. And details like loose stitching appear in isolated cases.

Consistent Praise for Performance and Quality

While minor flaws affect certain models, Rawlings enjoys widespread acclaim for optimizing youth glove performance. The overall sentiment shows their unmatched leather quality, pocket design, and padding technologies excel at fostering skill growth.

By listening to hands-on input from young players, Rawlings ensures every glove maximizes comfort, control and confidence. This helps athletes focus on developing talents rather than gear.

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Brand Comparisons – Rawlings vs Wilson, Mizuno, etc.

How do Rawlings youth gloves stack up against competing brands like Wilson, Mizuno and Nokona? Evaluating construction, leather quality, and performance differences helps identify Rawlings’ advantages.

A key separator is Rawlings’ focus on position-specific glove patterns, sizes and features tailored specifically to developing youth players. Rawlings studies how young athletes of each age and position optimally control and catch balls. This expertise gets translated into glove designs promoting skill progression.

Rawlings also sets itself apart with a wider range of youth specific leathers rather than simply shrinking pro offerings. Proprietary leathers like Heart of the Hide balance stiffness with flexibility to accommodate younger hands. Advanced Pro Preferred leather provides unmatched longevity and performance at the youth level.

In terms of padding and pocket technology, Rawlings again differentiates with designs benefitting youth improvement. 3D foam padding eliminates sting while allowing ball feedback. Pocket shapes enhance ball control as young infielders and outfielders master techniques.

Rival brands match some of these innovations in their highest-end gloves. But Rawlings maintains advantages implementing youth-focused engineering across entire product lines. This shows their commitment to fostering young talent.

Closing the Performance Gap

By studying and addressing youth needs, Rawlings delivers pro-level gloves scaled to developing players. Their focus narrows the gap between youth and pro gear. Young Rawlings athletes gain tools to maximize growth rather than impeding progress.

Earning Trust of a New Generation

These athlete-centered engineering insights earn Rawlings loyalty from parents, coaches and young players. Families trust Rawlings gloves will safely enhance skills rather than hinder techniques. This youth-focused commitment cements Rawlings’ reputation.

Their mastery translating glove technology to growing athletes makes Rawlings the benchmark against which other brands are measured. When investing in long-term quality, Rawlings retains the edge.

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Where to Buy – Online and Local Retailers

Rawlings offers their full selection of youth baseball gloves through a wide range of retailers, both online and in-store. This makes sizing, comparing and purchasing convenient.

For local shopping, major national sporting goods chains almost always carry Rawlings gloves. Dick’s Sporting Goods, Modell’s, Academy Sports, and Sports Authority offer adequate choices to try on in-person. Selections focus on the most popular models tailored to various positions and skill levels.

More niche local shops like independent pro shops and family-owned stores can provide knowledgeable expertise guiding you to ideal gloves. These specialty retailers may allow field-testing gloves to precisely gauge fit and performance.

Online, Rawlings youth gloves can be found on massive general sporting goods websites like BaseballMonkey.com, BaseballExpress.com, and JustBallGloves.com. These sites carry the full Rawlings catalog, allowing you to comparison shop by price, features and sizing variables.

Checking Rawlings Website for Closeouts

Rawlings.com offers all current glove models at full retail pricing. But their website also lists closeout and discounted gloves, letting you score deals on discontinued or overstock items. These can offer substantial savings on premium gloves.

Scouring Resale Sites

Gently used Rawlings gloves are always available on resale sites like SidelineSwap.com, PlayItAgainSports.com and eBay. If willing to buy secondhand, big discounts can be found on nearly new gloves.

With broad availability through major national retailers and niche specialists, finding the right Rawlings youth glove is convenient. Trying gloves instore and online ensures the best fit, feel and performance.

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Warranties and Returns – Policies and Protections

Rawlings offers warranty coverage and return periods to protect baseball families against defects and ill-fitting gloves. Understanding these protections brings confidence.

For manufacturing defects, Rawlings provides at least a standard 1-year warranty across all gloves. Premium models like Pro Preferred extend coverage to 100 days from purchase against defects in materials and construction.

To claim warranties, save your receipt and original product tags. Contact Rawlings customer service with a detailed description of the defect. If determining the glove resulted from a manufacturing error, Rawlings will repair or replace it.

Beyond warranties, most major retailers allow returns of unused gloves within 30-90 days of purchase. Trying gloves in the field during this period ensures optimal fit and feel before committing.

Returning gloves must be in like-new condition with intact tags and original packaging. Carefully read return terms from specific merchants. Online purchases typically allow 30 days for returns while in-store buys often get 90 days.

Common Sense Precautions

Take reasonable care when inspecting and trying gloves to keep them in new condition. Only use for light catch or hitting soft toss into the pocket. Don’t wear to games or use extensively until confident in fit and closing the return period.

Avoiding Return Abuse

Refrain from excessive returns or exploiting policies. This raises costs for everyone. Only return ill-fitting gloves still in new condition. Don’t purchase multiple sizes planning to return all but one.

Rawlings and authorized retailers provide sensible protections on youth baseball gloves. When purchasing high-end gloves, the peace of mind is worthwhile.

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Glove Care – Cleaning, Conditioning and Storage

Properly caring for a Rawlings youth glove ensures peak performance and longevity season after season. Simple habits make gloves last years longer.

For cleaning, gently wipe down the glove exterior with a damp cloth to remove accumulated dirt after games or practices. Use mild leather cleaners like Rawlings’ Glovolium to clean deeper stains and salt marks from sweat. Avoid over-washing which can dry out leather.

Conditioning applies protective oils to maintain suppleness. Use all-natural glove conditioners like mink oil a few times per season, more frequently in dry climates. Massage conditioner into the palm, fingers and webbing. Rawlings’ Heart of the Hide oil conditions without over-softening.

Storing the glove properly optimizes break-in and prevents deformation. Keep a ball in the pocket when not in use to preserve shape. Store gloves away from direct heat or sunlight which dries leather. If possible, keep gloves in climate controlled spaces.

Preventing Mold and Mildew

Ensure gloves fully air dry after games before storage to avoid mold buildup. If signs of mildew appear, gently clean with a leather cleaner then condition to restore suppleness.

Protection from Pets

Keep gloves safely out of reach from pets when not using. Dog chewing or cat claws can quickly damage leather.

Offseason Maintenance

Before offseason storage, thoroughly clean and condition your glove. Store in a ball pocket shape away from heat or cold. Some periodic conditioning during the offseason ensures a game-ready glove come spring.

With regular care and maintenance built into equipment routines, Rawlings youth gloves deliver years of reliable performance. Taking these basic steps enhances both glove lifespan and your child’s enjoyment.

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Customization – Personalization and Modifications

Beyond off-the-shelf models, Rawlings offers glove customization through limited edition designs, personalization options, and mods allowing players to tailor fit.

Limited runs like the Players Series ‘Pigeon’ gloves or engraved Heart of the Hide series add flair through unique stylings and graphics. Rawlings also partners with pros like Manny Machado on signature gloves translating star preferences into one-of-a-kind youth versions.

For personalization, Rawlings allows adding name embroidery on many gloves. This puts a custom mark on a favorite glove. Some models also permit choosing colors for webbing, binding and embroidered logos.

Modifying gloves to optimize fit involves inserts, padding and lace adjustments. Thicker aftermarket pads can tighten finger slots or boost palm protection. Lace mods like removing outer pinky loops cater to individual hand sizes.

Seeking Pro Customizers

For extreme modifications, specialty companies offer custom glove building and reconstructions. Businesses like Marucci, Akadema and Ballgloves.com re-lace, re-web and completely rework gloves to each player’s ideal specs.

Trying Before Buying Custom

Since custom gloves lack return options, make sure any significant changes will truly improve fit and feel before undertaking expensive modifications.

Color Restrictions in Leagues

Check your league’s glove color rules before seeking flashy custom designs. Many youth leagues only permit natural leather tones during games.

With Rawlings’ wide range of custom and personalized offerings, young players can field a glove as unique as they are. A custom glove makes a keepsake commemorating baseball memories.

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Choosing What’s Right For You – Key Factors to Consider

With Rawlings’ breadth of youth glove options, narrowing selections involves prioritizing key factors like position, age, price, and customization needs.

Start with position-specific requirements. Infielders need shallow pocket designs optimizing ball control and quick transfers. Outfielders rely on deeper pockets and open webs for added reach. Pitchers and catchers need specially designed mitts tailored to their defensive demands.

Consider age and skill level. Younger recreational players need durable gloves with padding to build confidence. Elite teenagers need pro-quality leather and patterns perfecting their defensive techniques.

Set a budget balancing affordability and performance. Rawlings spans price tiers from $50 to $250+ to accommodate any family. Prioritize quality leather and proper fit over frills.

Factor in customization interests. Limited editions add flair to gloves. Personalization builds bonds. Modifications can optimize individual fit. But custom options cost more and can’t be returned.

Trying Before Buying

Test prospective gloves by fielding balls during batting practice or warmups. Ensure proper pocket collapse, break-in potential and overall control before purchasing.

Consulting Experts

Seek input from coaches, sporting goods associates and players with experience. Their insights help vet options based on direct glove knowledge.

Focusing on Proper Fit

No matter the features, an improperly sized or shaped glove will hinder skills. Confirm the right fit based on age, hand size and comfort.

With Rawlings offering the industry’s broadest range of youth specific gloves, focus on fit first and the performance benefits will follow.