What gear to buy for a Metro East 10U player

Step one: which bat stamp does your league allow?

Youth bats carry a certification stamp. Many rec and Little League programs require the USA Baseball stamp. Many travel tournaments allow USSSA (1.15 BPF) bats. A USSSA-only bat can be illegal in a USA Baseball league, and the reverse is not always allowed either.

Do not guess. Ask your league or coach which stamp they use, and check the tournament rules if you are playing travel ball. Your league's rule is the one that counts, not this page.

Sizing the bat

Most 10U players swing something around 28 to 30 inches. If the barrel drops when your kid holds the bat straight out to the side for a few seconds, it is too heavy. A lighter bat they can control beats a longer bat they cannot.

The must-haves

• Glove: about 10.5 to 11.5 inches for most infield and outfield spots. A broken-in mid-priced glove beats a stiff expensive one.
• Batting helmet with face guard if your league requires it (many do).
• Molded rubber cleats. Check league rules; metal spikes are usually not allowed at this age.
• Bat bag, water bottle, and baseball pants in the team color.

Where to save money

Buy used gloves and helmets that still fit and pass safety stickers. Kids outgrow bats every one or two seasons, so a used bat with the right stamp is a smart buy too. Spend on the bat only once you know your league's rule and your kid's size.

Where to shop

We may earn a commission if you buy through the links below. It does not change the price you pay, and we only point to stores that list the bat certification clearly.

• JustBats: Filter by USSSA or USA Baseball stamp and by length. (Partner link coming soon.)
• X Bats: Wood and youth wood models. (Partner link coming soon.)
• Baseball Monkey: Bats, gloves and bat trade-in credit. (Partner link coming soon.)

Use Bench Coach once the gear is sorted

Gear does not make the player; reps do. Bench Coach builds free hitting and fielding practice plans for 10U teams in under a minute.