The baseball catcher may be the most underrated player on any team.
It’s easy to think that all they have to do is sit there and catch the ball. But in reality, they’re working with the pitcher to make pitch selections, helping protect the second and third base from stolen bags, and tagging runners before they can make it home.
And all of these duties require them to have the right catcher’s helmet for protection. But with so many options on the market, how can you know how to make the right choice?
To answer that, let’s break down why the helmet is so important, what qualities to look for in the best catcher’s gear, and a few of the finest selections available right now.
Read on!
Importance of the Right Catcher’s Helmet
If you’ve ever watched a game, you’ve no doubt seen a foul fall glance off the bat and right into the catcher’s mask or helmet. So without some form of head or face protection, catchers would be at massive risk of injury every pitch.
But what’s the difference between the catcher’s mask vs. helmet? And which is safer?
It’s a trick question because a player needs both. A maskless helmet like the batter wears would leave the whole face vulnerable. And even the safest catcher’s mask would leave the head vulnerable to a swung bat.
The modern catchers helmet is usually a one-piece helmet that provides complete shielding around the ears and back of the head.
So knowing what a modern, to-quality helmet for catchers looks like, here are some of the best ones on the market.
1. Mizuno G4 Samurai Baseball Catcher’s Helmet
The Mizuno Samurai takes its name from its inspiration. Modeled after the helmet of the medieval samurai, it will make any catcher feel ready for battle.
Its rigid outer shell provides complete protection for the top, sides, and back of the head, along with the neck and jaw regions. And the inner surface is padded with three layers of EVA foam to absorb the force of any impact.
2. All-Star System Seven Catchers Helmet
With a design that lives up to its name, the All-Star System Seven is the perfect fusion of protection and performance.
Its sturdy ABS outer shell has a reinforced forehead to help protect the player from any impacts. And its patented I-Bar Vision steel cage allows for the maximum field of view while shielding the face.
3. Rawlings Velo Baseball Catcher’s Helmet
As stylish as it is affordable, the Rawlings Velo is a great helmet for entry-level play.
This hockey-style helmet provides full head, face, and neck shielding. And its Coolflo air vents system will have the player catching in comfort.
4. Easton Gametime Catcher’s Helmet
The Easton Gametime provides maximum comfort, helping any catcher play their best.
At the same time, the glossy outer shell is made from thermoplastic ABS material to provide top-tier protection. And the open-design steel mask fully shields the face while delivering minimal obstruction.
Always Use the Best Catcher’s Gear
If you’re looking for a catcher’s helmet or mask, the good news is that today’s equipment far outpaces the gear that players of yesteryear had to make do with. Modern equipment is much lighter, helping to alleviate neck strain and fatigue. But thanks to modern materials, top-quality equipment is safer than ever.
But the key phrase there is “top-quality.” Whether it’s baseball, football, or any other sport, you always want to invest in top-of-the-line equipment.
Follow our latest sports news to stay up-to-date on the best gear available.
