Before the beginning of another season, teams and players assess their gear to see if they’re still safe for use. As a baseball player or team, it is at this point that you note the gears that need replacement. You also note the equipment you don’t have but would be necessary for the new season. Accordingly, before visiting the store to shop for the gear, you need to know which is better for your protection and performance. This information helps you get good value for money. To help you, this article provides five tips to make your purchasing process easy.
Consult Your Baseball Team or League
Nothing hurts like spending hard-earned money to purchase a garment only to be rejected by the authorities. Observing the regulations for baseball equipment such as bats and spikes is essential. For instance, if you’re an amateur, you should go for a short and light bat. It will enable you to swing and hit the ball correctly. One tip when shopping for a bat is to hold it off the side. If you can’t handle it comfortably, switch to a less heavy one. Different leagues and teams have different regulations. Therefore, find out the equipment that your sports organization recommends.
Get the Correct Chest Protector
The armor material of your chest protector should be durable and look like foam. It should also align with your body curves to protect you fully. In addition, its interior should have a mesh-like material that keeps you cool as you play. Remember that high-quality chest guards are a bit expensive. They are also soft and light to make your body movements easier. Resist the temptation of saving some coins, as you’ll end up with heavy and hard gear of poor quality. Aside from material, do not forget the size. Fortunately, this isn’t complicated or challenging since you’ll only need to know your measurements. The best way to know your size would be by determining the length in inches between your waist and neck. For instance, if you measure 13 inches, you should take a chest guard size 13.
Find the Right Baseball Bat
Bats are available in a variety of materials. The wooden ones are made from various trees, such as birch and ash, each producing different qualities. Most of them come with a three-drop which makes them standard. On the other hand, metallic bats are made from alloys and aluminum. They are not easily broken, and they’re usable at any temperature. There are also composite bats. These are more friendly to the hands since they have low vibration. Even if you make poor contact, you’ll only feel a little stinging. However, you have to spend more on them, and you’ll have to make 150-200 hits to break in. Another option is the hybrid bats. They have slight vibration since their handles are made of composite material. They also feature alloy barrels; hence no break in time is required. Check out the miken freak primo supermax reviews to see if it’s a bat that can take your performance to the next level.
Check the Durability of the Gear
You should consider if the equipment will serve you for more than one season. These gears are expensive, and it is not economical to purchase new ones every season. However, baseball’s nature makes equipment wear out or break quickly. Therefore, you need to reserve some money to renew them when the need arises. This is a matter of your safety; you should never take it lightly.
Find the Suitable Leg Guards
You’ll have to kneel for longer when you play in the catcher position. Therefore, find proper leg guards for more comfort. A great guard should stretch from your knee to the cleat. In addition, it should have a soft lining on the interior and a hard shell on the outside. This way, you’ll be safe from injury. You should also buy the correct size. Measure your lower leg in inches to determine the suitable size for you. For instance, if you measure 15 inches, go for a size 15-leg guard.
Now that you have the tips for buying new gear, nothing should hold you back. Unlike other sports, baseball requires more protective equipment. However, not everyone can pay for them at once unless they’re under a club. It should not stop you from getting the best equipment. Whenever you visit a store, always remember the above tips.
