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The Wilson EZ Gear 2.0 Catcher’s Gear Kit is designed for younger players, especially those aged 5 to 7 in the Small/Medium size. The kit includes a helmet, chest protector, and leg guards, all made with a durable premium-grade ABS shell, which offers solid protection while keeping the gear lightweight at around 2.77 kilograms. This weight is manageable for kids in this age range, helping avoid fatigue during play. The helmet features venting technology that helps keep the head cool, an important comfort factor during long games.
Adjustability is a strong point here, with a QuickChange system and multiple adjustment points on the chest protector and leg guards, allowing a good fit for growing children and ease when putting the gear on or taking it off. Padding is form-fitting and the chest protector even includes removable shoulder caps, adding some customization and extra protection. The hook and loop closures are simple and secure, which helps young players handle the gear independently. While the ventilation is decent, it is not as extensive as some higher-end kits, which might be a consideration in very hot conditions.
The size recommendations are clear, but users looking for gear beyond the Small/Medium or Large/Extra Large options may find the choices limited. This kit serves as a solid entry-level option for youth catchers, balancing protection, comfort, and adjustability well, making it suitable for beginners or younger players who need reliable gear without extra complexity.
The Rawlings VELO 2.0 Catcher's Set is designed specifically for youth baseball players aged 12 and under, making it perfectly sized for this age group. This set includes a catcher's helmet, chest protector, and leg guards, all designed with the young athlete's safety and comfort in mind. The helmet features a high-strength, impact-resistant cage and a moisture-wicking liner that enhances ventilation, keeping the player cool.
The chest protector utilizes Arc Reactor Core technology to absorb impact, blending polyurethane with a polymer plate to disperse force, adding an extra layer of safety during the game. Additionally, the leg guards offer triple-knee protection for better coverage and mobility. The set's adjustability is another strong point, with the helmet's three-way adjustable back plate and redesigned chin strap providing a customized fit. This feature ensures that the gear stays secure and comfortable during play.
The set's total weight of 7 pounds may be slightly heavy for some younger players, potentially affecting their agility. The material used, primarily plastic and polyurethane, offers durability but can contribute to the weight. The ventilation and breathability features are well-designed to reduce overheating, a common issue for catchers during games. In terms of aesthetics, the white and silver color combination is modern and appealing. It's a solid choice for parents looking for reliable and safe catcher's gear for their young athletes, with minor drawbacks in weight and potentially bulky feel for smaller frames.
The Rawlings Renegade 2.0 Youth Catcher's Set is specifically designed for athletes aged 12 and under, making it a suitable option for young baseball players. One of its major strengths is the exceptional ventilation provided by the Coolflo hockey-style helmet, which helps keep players cool during games. The helmet's high-strength and impact-resistant design, along with the cage, offer significant safety and improved visibility, instilling confidence in young catchers.
The chest protector is NOCSAE certified and utilizes Arc Reactor Core technology for optimal impact absorption, combining polyurethane and polymer to disperse force efficiently. This is crucial for protection during play. The set includes a helmet, chest protector, and leg guards, all sized appropriately for youth players (helmet: 6 1⁄2 in. – 7 in., chest protector: 14 in., leg guards: 13 in.). The padding is well-designed to ensure comfort while providing necessary protection.
Adjustability is covered with hook and loop closures, allowing for a snug fit on various body shapes. However, at 8.1 pounds, some younger players might find the weight a bit heavy, which could affect ease of movement. The material, primarily ABS plastic, is durable but might not be as comfortable as some softer materials. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Renegade 2.0 set is best suited for young baseball enthusiasts looking for reliable and safe gear.