Do You Really Need Batting Gloves for Baseball and Softball? A Coach’s Perspective

As a coach who’s worked with ballplayers from Little League to travel teams, I often get the same question from parents and players: “Are batting gloves really necessary?”

Short answer: not required, but for most young players, batting gloves offer a real advantage—especially when it comes to comfort, performance, and confidence at the plate. If you’re shopping for new gear or just trying to decide what your player truly needs, here’s some helpful information based on years of experience.

1. Batting Gloves Help Prevent Blisters

Whether your player is hitting off a tee, taking BP, or stepping in during games, repeated swings—especially with high-end bats with tacky grips—can wear down the skin fast. Batting gloves create a barrier between the bat and the hands, helping to prevent painful blisters and keeping kids on the field. When looking at any product, it’s important to consider how well it protects, not just how it looks.

2. They Help Cut Down the Sting on Cold Days

We’ve all seen that look on a kid’s face after they catch one off the end of the bat on a chilly morning. The sting can be enough to shake their confidence. Batting gloves offer just enough padding to absorb some of the vibration, keeping young hitters more comfortable and focused on their swing mechanics. That comfort can directly impact performance, especially during early spring or late fall games.

3. Bat Tack and Pine Tar? Gloves Keep Hands Clean

As players grow and advance, they’ll start using grip enhancers like bat tack or pine tar. They work—but they’re messy. Batting gloves allow players to use those substances without coating their bare hands. It’s a simple way to improve grip and keep your player’s durability in check by protecting their skin over the course of a long season.

4. The Right Fit Matters—A Lot

Here’s a tip I always share: poorly fitting batting gloves can do more harm than good. If they’re too loose, they bunch up or slide, and that can mess with grip strength and swing timing. When you’re ready to purchase, make sure to review sizing guides carefully. If you’re browsing a website, look for gloves that are designed to fit snugly while still allowing full range of motion.

5. Some Gloves Come with Performance-Boosting Features

Not all gloves are created equal. Some models are designed with unique features like a web between the thumb and index finger—something I’ve seen help hitters keep a relaxed, controlled grip. Others offer thumb protection or added reinforcement in high-wear areas. These features enhance performance and can be a smart choice as your player begins to develop more advanced mechanics.

6. Wrist Support from Longer Cuffs

Some batting gloves now come with longer cuffs that offer a bit of wrist stabilization. While they’re not a substitute for athletic taping, they can add confidence and a slight boost in support. If your player has had past wrist issues or just wants extra security at the plate, it might be worth considering this product feature.

7. Back-of-Hand Protection for Safety

I’m pretty old school as a coach, and I don’t always love all the protective gear kids wear today. But, when it comes to hand protection, you have to take it seriously. Certain gloves now include padding on the back of the hand—great for players who crowd the plate or face faster pitching. One pitch up and in can cause serious injury, so a glove with this kind of protection adds peace of mind. That kind of durability matters just as much as any stat line.

8. Confidence Is a Real Advantage

It’s all in the name of the drip.

Let’s not underestimate how important it is for a young athlete to feel confident. Sometimes, just putting on a new pair of batting gloves in their favorite color is all it takes to make them stand a little taller at the plate. That mental edge matters. Many gloves also come in a wide variety of colors and styles, so you can sort by look and function when browsing any gear website.

So—Does Your Player Need Batting Gloves?

Technically? No. They’re certainly not needed equipment for tee ballers or other little players. But if they’re serious about the game—or even just playing regularly—batting gloves are absolutely worth considering. They protect the hands, enhance grip, boost performance, and, in many cases, increase a player’s confidence. Learn more about the top batting gloves with our list of the Best Batting Gloves for Baseball.