Youth Catchers Gear for 9 to 12 year olds: 7 Great Options for your Child

If you are looking for the best youth catchers gear for 9 to 12 year olds, then you are in the right article! Youth catchers, especially children, require the best protection when placing themselves behind the plate. Usually, an average 10-year-old can pitch a baseball up to speeds of 50 mph; thus, a direct ball contact without the proper protection would result in severe injuries.

On a typical youth baseball game, the rules of the game require catchers to don a helmet, chest protector for baseball shirt, and a pair of leg guards. However, when bought together as a bundle or individually, these gear can reach wallet-shattering prices. Therefore, we collected budget-friendly youth catcher’s gear 9 12 tailor-made for children this season!

Things to Consider Before Buying a Youth Catcher’s Gear— A Buyer’s Guide

Youth Catchers Gear 9 12

Before spending your hard-earned money on a youth catcher’s gear for 9 to 12 year-olds, one must first know the various things to consider to ensure that the product you’re buying provides top-of-the-line quality. In this light, here are the things to look for before buying a youth catcher’s gear:

  • Sizing
  • Overall Fit
  • NOCSAE Certification

Sizing

Many manufacturers such as Rawlings Catcher’s Gear produce a variety of sizes to cater to different players. These sizes often vary from youth, intermediate, and adult sizes, sometimes producing confusion among parents and buyers. To make it clear, youth sizes are for players under the age of 10. On the other hand, intermediate sizes are for players ages 10-15; meanwhile, adult sizes are for individuals aged 16 and above.

Overall Fit

The comfort and freedom of movement of a youth catcher’s gear will come from its overall fit. For example, if a youth catcher’s gear is too tight, then the range of motion a catcher can execute would be limited due to the constraint the gear provides. Therefore, buyers must keep in mind the following:

  • A chest protector shirt measures from the base of the neck down to the waist in inches.
  • A catcher’s helmet comes in either youth (12-U) or adult (13+) sizes.
  • A pair of leg guards measures from the knee down to the ankle in inches.

NOCSAE Certification

The National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment or NOCSAE aims to certify and enhance the protection an athlete gets through their equipment. In addition, a youth catcher’s gear that meets the NOCSAE standard usually provides unparalleled protection behind the plate. Therefore, we advise parents to look for equipment that meets the NOCSAE standard.

Incredible Youth Catcher’s Gear Sets from Amazon

Rawlings Renegade Series NOCSAE Baseball Catcher’s Set

Product

Brand: Rawlings

Type: Youth Catchers Gear 9 12 ages

If you’re looking for a youth catcher’s gear for athletes ages 9-12, then the Rawlings Renegade Series is an excellent option. Featuring the Renegade 2.0 helmet, redesigned chest protector, and a pair of lightweight leg guards, the Renegade Series meets the NOCSAE standard, ensuring the best protection your child can get behind the plate.

The Rawling Renegade 2.0 helmet features the COOLFLO technology, enabling players to have a cool and dry experience despite the helmet’s hockey-style design. In addition, the impact-resistant cage of the Renegade 2.0 helmet provides players with an incredible level of head protection during games.

Furthermore, the chest protector of the Rawlings Renegade Series incorporates the Arc Reactor Core technology, utilizing the impact-absorbing property of polyurethane materials combined with a polymer plate. As a result, this specification allows the chest guard to effectively disperse a ball’s force upon impact, reducing the ball’s recoil in the process. Lastly, the leg guards of the Renegade Series boasts a flexible design, allowing players to enjoy various ranges of motions necessary during games, such as squats, crouching, and lateral movements.

Specifications:

  • COOLFLO Helmet Ventilation System
  • Impact-resistant Steel Cage
  • Arc Reactor Core chest protector shirt technology
  • Triple Knee Leg Guard Construction
  • Flexible leg guard design

PROS:

  • Specifically designed for catchers ages 12 and under.
  • The pair of leg guards are both lightweight and flexible.
  • Features excellent specifications for under $200.
  • Meets the NOCSAE standard against Commotio Cordis.

CONS:

  • The sizing chart of this product is confusing; however, the set is adjustable.

Mizuno Samurai Youth Baseball Catcher’s Gear Box Set

Product

Brand: Mizuno

Type: Youth Catchers Gear 9 12 ages

Every baseball player today knows the amount of detail and quality Mizuno puts into their baseball products. Mizuno delivers this respectable reputation to catchers through the Mizuno Samurai Baseball Catcher’s Gear Box. Moreover, Mizuno has invested in high-quality materials and innovative design details to make this youth catcher’s gear stand out in the competition.

Firstly, the Mizuno Samurai Catcher’s Helmet features a strategic ventilation system that helps a player stay cool. In addition, the catcher’s helmet features a 3-layer EVA foam padding that helps the helmet dissipate ball impact away from its user’s head. Moreover, the steel mask increase the overall protection a catcher gets from this helmet.

Secondly, the Mizuno Samurai chest protector features a combination of low rebound foam and a grippy surface. Altogether, this combination lessens the overall rebound of balls upon impact, helping catchers to effectively field pitches. Lastly, the Mizuno Samurai shin guards feature the DRYLITE and shin grip inner lining, allowing players to benefit from the sweat-wicking fabrics and secure fit of the Mizuno Samurai.

Specifications:

  • Strategic Ventilation System for Helmets
  • Low Rebound Chest Protector Foam
  • Airmesh Lining
  • Patented Mizuno K-Pad
  • DRYLITE and Shin Grip Inner Lining for Shin Guards

PROS:

  • Features an extra strap on the shin guard to keep the ankle guards in place.
  • Fielding is easier because of the combination of low rebound foam and grippy surface.
  • Features a soft helmet interior that doubles as an impact-absorbing layer.
  • The Samurai Chest Protector is lightweight, making it excellent for young players.s

CONS:

  • The Samurai Youth features excellent specifications; however, it doesn’t meet the NOCSAE standard.

All-Star League Series Baseball Youth Catcher’s Gear Set

Product

Brand: All-Star

Type: Beginner’s Youth Catchers Gear 9 12

Specifically designed for beginners, the All-Star League Series Catcher’s Gear Set features beginner-friendly specifications without breaking the bank. Featuring entry-level specifications, this All-Star Catcher’s Gear is an excellent choice for a child’s first catcher’s gear set.

The All-Star League Catcher’s Helmet features dual-density foam liners and an impact-resistant ABS plastic shell, providing overall protection without compromising comfort. In addition, the I-Bar steel cage allows catchers to have a wider field of vision while being protected against rogue balls.

Furthermore, the All-Star League Chest Protector provides players with the AEGIS Microbe Shield, eliminating bacteria on its surface 24/7. Moreover, the chest protector also features a fully adjustable Y-Back Harness, allowing users to adjust the fit of the gear according to their preference. Lastly, the All-Star Leg Guards features a full wing shin padding and curved instep to provide users with unparalleled comfort behind the plate.

Specifications:

  • Dual-density helmet foam liner
  • I-Bar Steel Cage
  • AEGIS Microbe Shield fabrics
  • Full wing shin padding
  • Curved leg guard instep

PROS:

  • The All-Star League Series Chest Protector meets the NOCSAE standard.
  • Features beginner-friendly specifications.
  • The All-Star League Series Helmet comes with a free throat guard.
  • Excellent for children ages 9-12.

CONS:

  • The All-Star League catcher’s helmet lacks ample ventilation in comparison to other offerings in this list.

EASTON GAMETIME Baseball Catchers Equipment Box Set

Product

Brand: Easton

Type: Youth Catchers Gear 9 12

Excellent for catchers looking for a top-of-the-line catcher’s gear set, the Easton Gametime Youth Catcher’s Gear does not disappoint. Featuring the elite mask, chest protector, and leg guards, buyers will surely get the bang for their buck with the Easton Gametime Catcher’s Set.

Firstly, the Easton Gametime Catcher’s Helmet incorporates an ABS plastic shell material that features strategically placed vents, providing players with increased airflow and protection during games. In addition, the Gametime Helmet utilizes the BioDri moisture control liners that help eliminate the irritating feeling of sweat for a more comfortable playing experience.

Secondly, the Easton Gametime Chest Protector boasts an impact-absorbing foam in the ab area of the product. Furthermore, this foam helps the chest protector minimize the rebound of incoming baseballs while effectively redirecting the force away from the wearer. Lastly, the Easton Gametime Leg Guards features a reinforced wide knee design, allowing players to benefit from a more stable fit when moving.

Specifications:

  • Solid ABS Plastic Shell Helmet Material
  • Meets the NOCSAE standard
  • Integrated Impact Absorbing AB Foam
  • BioDri Moisture Wicking Fabrics
  • Wide Knee Design with EVA breathable foam liner leg guards

PROS:

  • The steel cage design provides players with an enhanced field of view.
  • The ergonomic chin cup of the Gametime Helmet allows for a better fit.
  • Easton specifically designed the Easton Gametime Chest Protector to reduce ball recoil.
  • The Gametime Leg Guard’s EVA foam liner makes the product breathable and comfortable to wear.

CONS:

  • Comparatively expensive compared to other offerings within this list.

All-Star Intermediate System7 Axis Elite Travel Team Catcher’s Set

Product

Brand: All-Star

Type: Youth Catchers Gear for 12 year-olds

Ideal for intermediate catchers looking for a catcher’s gear that meets the NOCSAE standard for Commotio Cordis and safety, the All-Star Intermediate System7 Axis Elite is a perfect choice! Featuring a hockey-style catcher’s helmet, chest protector, and leg guards, the System7 Axis Elite is the ultimate package for your young catcher.

The All-Star Intermediate System7 Helmet features an impact-resistant ABS plastic shell, effectively its wearer from rogue pitches. In addition, the Durable I-Bar steel mask of the System7 helmet improves the overall visibility of the gear. Most importantly, the All-Star Intermediate System 7 helmet meets the NOCSAE standard for safety.

Furthermore, the All-Star Intermediate System7 Chest Protector features internal protective PE plates that absorb the force of baseballs upon impact. Moreover, the diamond vents on the back of the chest protector provide excellent breathability during games. Lastly, the Leg Guards of the All-Star System7 features the LINQ pivoting hinge system to provide catchers with incredible mobility and range of motion.

Specifications:

  • High-impact ABS Plastic Helmet Shell
  • I-Bar Steel Mask
  • Internal PE Protective Plates
  • Diamond Vents
  • LINQ Pivoting Hinge System

PROS:

  • The chest protector features the DeltaFlex harness for a form-fitting fit.
  • The LINQ Pivoting Hinge System allows for better mobility during games.
  • The helmet’s liner is removable, allowing catchers to easily clean the interior.
  • The helmet and chest protector both meet the NOCSAE standard for safety.

CONS:

  • Not ideal for buyers within a tight budget.

Rawlings Velo 2.0 NOCSAE Baseball Catcher’s Set

Product

Brand: Rawlings

Type: Youth Catchers Gear 9 12

The Rawlings specifically designed the Velo 2.0 for catchers ages 9 to 12. In addition, the Rawlings Velo 2.0 provides excellent protection behind the plate thanks to its innovative specifications.

Firstly, the Rawlings Velo 2.0 Helmet features an impact-resistant recessed cage, allowing catchers to see the playing area clearly, especially when tracking the ball. Furthermore, the helmet features a moisture-wicking liner that helps catchers to stay dry even on the hottest games. In addition, the mak features a three-way adjustable backplate and a redesigned chin strap, allowing players to have a customized fit.

Secondly, the chest protector feature impact-absorbing foams integrated into the Arc Reactor Core technology, effectively reducing the ball’s recoil for easier fielding. Moreover, the combination of polyurethane and polymer plate enables the chest protector to disperse ball impact. Finally, the triple knee leg guards feature the Advanced Impact Management System (AIMS) combined with a heat exchange foam technology, providing excellent impact dissipation and temperature control.

Specifications:

  • Moisture-wicking Helmet Liner
  • High-strength steel cage
  • Arc Reactor Core for Chest Protector
  • Dynamic Fit System
  • AIMS and Heat Exchange Foam Technology

PROS:

  • Meets the NOCSAE Standard for Safety.
  • The mask provides an excellent fit because of its innovative backplate and chin strap.
  • The recessed cage provides better visibility for ball tracking.
  • Features lightweight leg guards with an excellent ventilation system.

CONS:

  • The white and gray colorway of the Velo 2.0 stains easily.

Under Armour PTH Victory Series Catching Kit

Product

Brand: Under Armour

Type: Youth Catchers Gear 9 12

If you’re looking for an all-around youth catcher’s gear for your child, then the Under Armour PTH Victory Series is an excellent choice for you! Incorporating innovative specifications on its chest protector, leg guards, and helmet, the Under Armour PTH Victory Set provides users with high-end performance.

Moreover, the Under Armour PTH Victory Catcher’s Helmet features an ABS plastic shell paired with an I-Bar Vision Steel Cage, providing players with excellent overall head protection behind the plate. In addition, Under Armour incorporates a breathable and moisture-wicking liner inside the helmet, providing catchers with a comfortable feel.

Furthermore, the Under Armour PTH Chest Protector features moldable plastic inserts on the throat, chest, and shoulders, effectively dispersing a ball’s impact while staying secure on the body of its wearer. Plus, the AEGIS Microbe Shield protects the chest protector from bacteria, eliminating odor and itch when worn. Lastly, the Under Armour PTH Leg Guards features high-impact plastic components that come with large vent holes to make the gear comfortable to wear.

Specifications:

  • ABS Plastic Shell helmet material
  • I-Bar Vision Steel Cage
  • Moldable Plastic Inserts for Chest Protector
  • Four-point adjustable chest protector harness
  • Mobile Double Knee Design Leg Guards

PROS:

  • Comes with a free throat guard and knee savers.
  • Features moisture-wicking and antimicrobial fabrics.
  • The catcher’s helmet comes with a free and attachable throat guard.
  • Meets the NOCSAE standard for safety.

CONS:

  • Features low-quality Velcro helmet straps.

Frequently Asked Questions about Youth Catcher’s Gear

Q: What is the best catcher gear for youth baseball?

We specifically designed this article to feature the best youth baseball catcher’s gear; however, there will be always a gear above the rest. With this in hand, we recommend All-Star Intermediate System7 Axis Elite as the best youth catcher’s gear for ages 9-12.

Q: How do I know what size catcher’ gear to buy?

Typically, a catcher’s helmet only has two types of sizing that fits most wearers— adult and youth sizings. Meanwhile, owners can get their chest protector size by measuring the area between their neck base down to their waist in inches. Lastly, the measurement between the knee cap and the ankle in inches is the size of leg guards.

Q: How do you measure kids' catcher’s gear?

Similarly, a kid’s catcher’s gear is measured the same way as an adult catcher’s gear. Firstly, a catcher’s helmet features a one-size-fits-most design. Secondly, a chest protector shirt measures from the base of the neck down to the waist in inches. Lastly, leg guards measure from the middle of the knee down to the ankle in inches.

Q: What age is intermediate catcher’s gear for?

An intermediate-sized catcher’s gear is specifically designed for catchers ages 10-15 years old.

Q: What catcher’s gear do pros wear?

In the MLB, catchers wear gear from the top manufacturers such as All-Star, Rawlings, Louisville Slugger, Easton, Wilson, and Mizuno.

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