Players should have the following equipment:
Baseball (Fielding) Glove — 10-11.5” is most common, with 10.5-11” infield glove generally working best for most ages. Majors players should consider up to a 11.5” glove, which can still be large. Catcher’s gloves are available from FCKLL, but if you choose to purchase, most youth sizes (not intermediate size) should work fine. The same size guidance is true with first baseman’s trapper gloves. Most mainstay brands offer good youth gloves without breaking the bank. If you’re seeking a higher-end glove consider Bradley for youth sizes, and for larger sizes Wilson A1000, A2000, or A2K, Rawlings Heart of the Hide or 44 Gloves as solid choices that will last though middle/high school.
Protective Cups — All male players at the A Level and above are required to wear protective athletic cups. If comfort is a concern, please try the flexible comfort cups such as Youper or Comfy Cups brands.
Sliding Shorts — these are optional, but helpful at level AA and above where sliding is more common. These are worn under baseball pants and offer protection from “raspberries” and other skin irritation which commonly happens when sliding. They also hold protective cups.
Batting Helmet — While FCKLL teams are outfitted with league-provided helmets, many players choose to wear their own helmet. Please be sure of a snug fit, and the helmet must meet NOSCAE certification standards.
Baseball Cap — FCKLL will provide players with a team hat, typically provided by our sponsor the Washington Nationals. However, during the early season, parents should provide players with a cap to wear to practice.
Water Bottle — Please make sure players bring water to practices. Coaches will not provide water.
Cleats — we highly recommend cleats for level AA and above. Metal cleats are NOT allowed in Little League play.
Bat — Only USA certified baseball bats or wood bats are allowed in Little League play. No USSSA or uncertified bats are allowed. FCKLL provides bats to all teams. Should you wish to purchase a bat and need help with sizing, here is a rough starting point:
Tee - specialty tee bats, typically 26” 16oz.
Level A - speciality tee bats (same as tee). Up to 27” 17oz or larger players.
Level AA - 27-28” 17-18oz.
Level AAA - 27-29” 17-19oz.
Majors - 28-30” 18-20oz.
The most important aspect of selecting a bat is to ensure the player can quickly and powerfully swing the bat. Generally err on the smaller vs larger side if between sizes.
Batting gloves — these are optional, but can help with grip and preventing blisters. Youth sizes are available.
The league outfits all teams with specialty gear such as catcher’s gear, catcher’s glove, first aid kits, baseballs, and other practice equipment. If you choose to purchase your own youth catcher's gear, please make sure the catcher's helmet is NOSCAE certified to meeting Little League's compliance standards.