Junior Cricket Pads & Gloves: What to Look For
Pads and gloves are two of the most commonly mis‑sized pieces of equipment for young cricketers. When they don’t fit properly, they can restrict movement, feel uncomfortable, and even knock a player’s confidence, especially as they begin transitioning from softball to hardball cricket, where protection and mobility matter even more. Getting the right fit early helps juniors move freely, stay protected, and develop good habits at the crease that will support them for years to come.
Choosing the Right Junior Pads
1. Length Matters Most
The very first thing to get right is pad length. A correctly sized junior pad should comfortably cover:
- The ankle
- The shin
- The knee roll
…but it should not reach up into the thigh. Pads that are too long make running awkward, interfere with footwork, and can cause juniors to stand unnaturally at the crease. Pads that are too short leave key areas exposed and reduce confidence when facing the ball. Getting the length right instantly improves comfort, mobility, and safety.
2. Straps & Fit
Junior players benefit from pads designed specifically for smaller legs, with features such as:
- Narrower straps that sit comfortably without digging in
- Soft, flexible padding that protects without feeling bulky
- A snug calf wrap that keeps the pad secure during movement
Pads should stay in place without twisting, slipping, or needing constant adjustment. If a junior is always fiddling with their pads, it’s a clear sign the fit isn’t right.
3. Weight & Mobility
Pads should feel:
- Light
- Easy to run in
- Secure and stable
Heavy pads slow footwork, make batting feel harder than it needs to be, and can discourage juniors from moving confidently. Lightweight pads help young players move naturally, react quickly, and build trust in their equipment.
Choosing the Right Junior Gloves
1. Finger Fit
Junior gloves are designed with smaller hands in mind, offering:
- Smaller finger compartments for a snug, controlled feel
- Soft padding that protects without restricting movement
- A comfortable wrist fit that supports grip and control
A glove that’s too big makes it difficult for juniors to hold the bat properly and can lead to poor technique. A glove that fits well feels secure, natural, and confidence‑boosting.
2. Grip & Flexibility
Good junior gloves should feel:
- Flexible
- Comfortable
- Secure around the hand and wrist
Juniors should be able to close their hand naturally without resistance. If the glove feels stiff, oversized, or awkward, it will affect their grip, timing, and overall confidence at the crease.
3. Protection
Look for gloves with:
- Strong finger protection
- Good palm padding
- A reinforced thumb area
These features protect young hands from impact while still allowing freedom of movement. The right gloves help juniors play their shots without hesitation.
Coach’s Tip
If pads or gloves feel bulky, oversized, or constantly need adjusting, technique almost always suffers. When protective gear fits comfortably and moves naturally with the player, confidence grows instantly, and so does performance. The right fit doesn’t just keep juniors safe; it helps them enjoy the game more and develop strong habits from the very start.
