Invested $2000+ To Find The Best Baseball Chest Protector!

Last Updated on July 24, 2023

Yes, in the last 3 years, I’ve invested a total of $2095 (excluding shipping charge.) and finally, I found the best baseball chest protector! It’s Rawlings Velo 2.0 without any doubt. The chest guard is actually a full set of catcher gear including leg and helmet also. 

Without this, there are 6 more baseball chest protectors that I tested for either my son or trainees of my academy. These are manufactured by some of the best baseball sporting brands, including Under Armour, Easton, All-Star (used by 20%+ MLB players), Mizuno, EvoShield, and ChamPro.

Most of these are suitable for players aged between 7 to 16 and above. Some are suitable for beginner catcher and some are for professional league players. To get your right match, go through the detailed review section.  

Comparison Chart of the 7 Best Baseball Chest Protectors 

Name	Highlighted Features	Purchase Link
Under Armour PTH Victory Series Catching Kit	● Suggested Age: 7-16 years Weight: 5.88 lbs (whole package) ● Color: Red, black, blue, navy blue ● Included Items: Helmet, chest protector, leg and throat guards	Purchase Link
Easton Gametime Baseball Catcher’s Chest Protector	● Suggested Age: 9-15 years Weight: 1.2 lbs. ● Color: Red, black, blue, navy blue ● Included Items: Shoulder cap	Purchase Link
All-Star Player’s Series Baseball and Softball Catcher Chest Protector	● Suggested Age: 12-16 years ● Weight: 2 lbs. ● Color: Red, black, blue, navy blue ● Included Items: Helmet, leg guards	Purchase Link
ChamPro Optimus MVP Baseball Chest Protector	● Suggested Age: 9 to 15 years ● Weight: 0.63 lbs. ● Color: Black, navy, royal blue, red ● Included Items: Only chest protector	Purchase Link
Rawlings Velo 2.0 Baseball Catcher’s Protector Set	● Suggested Age: 12 to 15+ years ● Weight: 7 lbs. (whole package) ● Color: Black, green, red, royal blue, navy blue, star-striped ● Included Items: Hockey-style helmet, chest protector, and triple-knee leg guards	Purchase Link
Mizuno Samurai Youth Baseball Chest Protector	● Suggested Age: 9-12 years Weight: 1 lb. ● Color: Black, purple, green, blue, navy blue, red, orange, and yellow ● Included Items: Only chest protector	Purchase Link
Evoshield Pro-SRZ™ Catcher’s Chest Protector	● Suggested Age: 10 to 16+ years ● Weight: 3.27 lbs. ● Color: Charcoal ● Included Items: Only chest guard	Purchase Link

Best Baseball Chest Protectors 

Below I’ve shared my detailed experience with these 7 baseball chest protectors. I’ve also mentioned what the odds are about each gear. Consider them before placing your order.

Under Armour PTH Victory Series Catching Kit

Highlighted Features

• Model: PTH Victory 
• Suggested Age: 7-16 years
• Weight: 5.88 lbs (whole package)
• Color: Red, black, blue, navy blue
• Included Items: Helmet, chest protector, leg and throat guards

I never compromise the quality when it comes to buying baseball equipment for my son, no matter if it’s gonna cost me around 300 bucks. As he showed significant improvements in the 4 years of his baseball career, I wanted to give him the best baseball chest protector. And as planned, I bought it last summer. 

So, when planning this Under Armour PTH Victory catcher kit came into my sight. Once the brand captured 23% of the sports shoes market. Besides, I’ve used some baseball cleats from the manufacturer.

It includes a helmet, chest protector, leg guards, and throat guard, offering complete protection on the field. 

“BTW, the kit meets the NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) standard, ensuring the safety and quality of the gear.”

If talking about the design of the chest protector, it’s a blend of superior protection and a professional look.

The youth baseball rib protector and leg guards have ample padding to absorb impact. So, no matter even if it’s Aroldis Chapman on the pitching side, your kid is safe. 

Without the safety, I also liked the comfort measures. For instance, the placements of the padding and the joints are quite precise, which made it easy to tie up and wear for a longer period. 

The gear is constructed with nylon, foam, and plastic materials, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance.

Lastly, the catcher kit is designed for young players aged 7 to 16. Besides, the chest protector has an adjustability feature, so players can get a customized fit. 

Why Did I Choose Under Armour PTH Victory?

• Solid construction of nylon, plastic, and foam
• Sufficient padding placement for required safety
• Adjustable laces for getting a customized fitting
• Backed by a year of warranty

Things to Consider Before Buying 

The only problem that I faced was the left shoulder padding was missing. However, since it came with a warranty, I talked to the CS and they changed it within a week. 

Easton Gametime Baseball Catcher’s Chest Protector

Highlighted Features

• Model: Gametime
• Suggested Age: 9-15 years
• Weight: 1.2 lbs.
• Color: Red, black, blue, navy blue
• Included Items: Shoulder cap 

As a seasoned baseball coach and the owner of an esteemed baseball academy, recently, I had the opportunity to test this Easton Gametime catcher’s chest protector. Thanks to Jimmy for giving me the gear for this review purpose.

Why I always feel confident about Easton’s products is the brand itself. The California-based sports equipment manufacturer has 100+ years of success story. However, my experience with this Gametime chest protector was a blend of good and a little bad. Let’s start with the positives. 

In general, chest protectors only cover the chest and belly area. But this one features an extra foam-made shoulder cap, which is ejectable. 

For me, it was super-functional for impact absorption. Besides, catchers can change the placement according to their hand orientation.

I also liked the 4-point adjustable webbing strap design. It ensures players get a tight and secure fit, providing stability and minimizing movement during play.

“Even for durability, this is one of the best chest protectors below $100. The price is less than their premium chest protectors series like Easton Elite X and Pro X, yet, there are no quality compromises.”

Since catchers have to be in their steel position longer than other baseball players, their gear should be more comfortable, especially the chest protector. And that’s where I couldn’t complain much. 

It excels in this regard with adjustable straps that allow for a customizable fit, Besides it doesn’t restrict movements. The foam padding provides additional comfort. 

But the only downside is its bulkiness. Maybe it’s because of the steel inset waist clip. Players aged 9-10, may find it a worry.

During our testing, I found the foam ab padding effectively absorbed impacts. So, trainees can confidently block balls without feeling excessive force.

Like their other series, Easton made this one also for an all-age group of baseball players, ranging from 9 to 15 and above. The sizes include Youth, Intermediate, and Adult. 

Why Did I Choose the Easton Gametim?

• Excellent impact absorption for pitching speed up to 70 miles/hour
• Adjustable shoulder cap for increased mobility
• Secure and customizable fit for different age groups
• Meets all sorts of NOCSAE standards
• Sturdy construction and durable materials

Things to Consider Before Buying 

The bulkiness may be a concern for some young players. Besides, straps may require additional adjustments for certain body types.

All-Star Player’s Series Baseball and Softball Catcher Chest Protector

Highlighted Features

• Model: Player
• Suggested Age: 12-16 years
• Weight: 2 lbs.
• Color: Red, black, blue, navy blue
• Included Items: Helmet, leg guards

Back in 2021, after the pandemic, my son decided to try his skill as a catcher. He was 12 at that time. So, I bought this All-star Player’s Series full kit for him as it was the most budget baseball catcher’s chest protector set then. 

“In my experience, their S7 Axis is the best gig if considering the built quality. But the chest protector itself costs around $300. And it didn’t make sense as my son just wanted to explore the niche.”

Anyway, I received the whole set after 7 days. It came with a helmet, leg+knee guard, and the inner for the area. 

When it comes to quality, it’s good for beginner catchers. They made the outer area with ‎Polyvinyl Chloride, having foam inside the cover. Assuming the young pitchers’ tossing speed, it did the safety job perfectly. 

Because of the streamlined design, it ensures enough ventilation. It’s a good mark for summer sweaty strugglers.

I suggest this All-Star chest protector for players of 5.2 to 5.8 feet who have regular body size and weight. And there are 3 more color options available but those cost higher. 

“If you already don’t need the leg guard and helmet, you can buy the All-Star Players series chest protector separately.”

Why Did I Choose the All-Star Player’s Series?

• Made with durable PVC plastic shell
• Suitable for both softball and baseball catchers 
• Provide adequate ventilation for air and water 
• Very much suggested for the budget-friendly price 

Things to Consider Before Buying 

It didn’t come with a bag though when I ordered it was mentioned in the advertisement banner. That made me a bit disappointed. However, I bought a catcher bag separately from another brand.

ChamPro Optimus MVP Baseball Chest Protector

Highlighted Features

• Model: Optimus MVP
• Suggested Age: 9 to 15 years
• Weight: 0.63 lbs.
• Color: Black, navy, royal blue, red
• Included Items: Only chest protector 

8 months ago, I got this ChamPro Optimus chest protector from Alex (a nerd who joined my academy a year back.) He told me his dad first brought an All-star S7 Axis but the chest protector didn’t fit him well, it was way bigger. 

Then he ordered this narrow-fitting chest protector to try his luck and no doubt he was satisfied. He wanted me to just test the durability. 

So, I did a week of durability tests. The overall shield is sturdy enough to save players from the extreme impact of balls. 

ChamPro designed this with special mold material that helps it absorb and spread out the impact. Even when I got hit hard with a foul tip, it saved me without leaving any discomfort or injury.

Comfort is crucial for any athlete, and CHAMPRO understood that perfectly. Hence, they added an adjustable, stretchy back harness to make sure it fits securely, allowing me to put on and take off the chest protector easily. 

I was a bit skeptical about the braided nylon binding and thought it won’t last long. But I was wrong as Alex is still using the catcher kit. 

Another good aspect of the design was the hardware, made of nickel-plated steel, was resistant to rust. Therefore, the clips stayed strong and dependable even after countless games and exposure to different weather conditions. 

The tail (it’s detachable) and shoulder cap offered a great solution for customization. Whether I wanted a more streamlined look or extra coverage, I could adjust the chest protector to my liking. 

Style may not be everything, but having options is always nice. The Optimus MVP came in a range of attractive colors: black, navy blue, royal blue, and scarlet red. He chose the scarlet red version because it matched his team’s colors.

Why Did I Choose the ChamPro Optimus?

• Sturdy shield for extreme impact protection
• Comfortable fit with adjustable back harness
• Durable design with long-lasting braided nylon binding
• Rust-resistant hardware for reliable performance
• Customizable with detachable tail and shoulder cap

Things to Consider Before Buying 

An online customer complained that he didn’t receive the shoulder cap. If you face the consequence, make sure to ask for a return or replacement. 

Rawlings Velo 2.0 Baseball Catcher’s Protector Set 

Highlighted Features

• Model: Velo 2.0
• Suggested Age: 12 to 15+ years
• Weight: 7 lbs. (whole package)
• Color: Black, green, red, royal blue, navy blue, star-striped
• Included Items: Hockey-style helmet, chest protector, and triple-knee leg guards

The Velo 2.0 catcher protection kit is the most recent purchase for my son. I saw its previous version but didn’t order it as many people complained about excessive sweating when wearing the chest protector. But the issue is resolved in this edition. 

Without the chest guard, there are other gears such as leg guards and a helmet with several notable features.

“You can order the Rawlings Velo 2.0 chest guard only if the full-set price is out of your budget.”

The heat exchange technology in the chest protector ensures my son gets the utmost comfort. This feature is also available in the leg guard. In addition, the leg guard has an over-the-shoe elastic strap on the toe flap which improved the fit and offered better protection. 

On a short note, the helmet features a moisture-wicking liner, it kept my son cool even during intense games. 

Talking more about the chest guard the 4 adjustable straps make it easier to get the proper fitting in every angle. Though he has used it only for 2 months now, the strap glue seemed to be long-lasting. 

Aside from these, both I and my son were impressed with how it absorbed impacts while dampening the ball rebound for better control. To match biological physics perfectly, Rawlings did some extra initiatives in design. 

You’ll see that there are different sections of padding levels to match the belly, chest, and sideways in the best way. That’s why, investing in a global brand is wise even though the price is high. 

Furthermore, the chest protector featured Arc Reactor Core technology, which blended impact-absorbing foam with a polymer plate. This combination dispersed forceful impact and provided excellent protection. 

Why Did I Choose Rawlings Velo 2.0?

• Heat exchange technology in the chest protector and leg guards
• Arc Reactor Core technology in the chest protector offers excellent impact absorption and protection
• Different sections of padding in the chest protector for tailored protection
• Comes with a helmet, and leg guards

Things to Consider Before Buying 

The chest guard is lightweight, but the leg guard is a bit weighty. Otherwise, there weren’t any notable drawbacks. 

Mizuno Samurai Youth Baseball Chest Protector

Highlighted Features

• Model: Samurai 
• Suggested Age: 9-12 years
• Weight: 1 lb.
• Color: Black, purple, green, blue, navy blue, red, orange, and yellow
• Included Items: Only chest protector

2 years ago, as the coach of a youth baseball academy, I was approached by Bill. He was looking for a chest protector where he can add his name. Therefore, I suggested to him this Mizuno chest protector. Besides, at that time, this Mizuno Samurai was a good value for money for early-stage catchers. 

“The PNP (Personalized Name Plate) area is available on the back of the chest protector.”

Last week, I asked him for his after-use feedback as I was short-listing all the best baseball chest protectors.

According to him, he’s just in love with its rebound foam construction. He was hit by several wild pitches and the guard was able to serve the purpose properly. So, no doubt about the performance. 

Since it’s a bit of a backdated model, it doesn’t come with a dedicated heart guard. However, the thicker padding it features can resist any fast pitch.

If you also want this chest guard to use for softball, you can (both for fastpitch and slowpitch.) 

Based on his experience, it’s suitable for players weighing around 60 lbs. The adjustable straps allow for a customized fit, ensuring maximum protection and comfort. 

“However, it’s worth noting that some minor adjustments, such as taping the straps, may be necessary to achieve an ideal fit for players at the lower end of the weight spectrum.”

Overall,  its lightweight design, personalized features, and exceptional protection make it an ideal choice for players aged 9 to 12. 

Why Did I Choose Mizuno Samurai?

• Low rebound foam keeps balls close to minimize passed balls and wild pitches.
• PNP personalized nameplate avoids identity confusion among teammates.
• Suitable for both baseball and fastpitch softball.
• Thick padding provides superior protection.
• Adjustable straps for a customizable fit.

Things to Consider Before Buying 

The size limit is the key drawback. So, it may require adjustments for smaller players. In addition, the chest protector padding sticks out slightly, causing potential helmet snags.

Evoshield Pro-SRZ™ Catcher’s Chest Protector

Highlighted Features

• Model: Pro-SRZ
• Suggested Age: 10 to 16+ years
• Weight: 3.27 lbs.
• Color: Charcoal 
• Included Items: Only chest guard

One of my students recently qualified for the 16u. He actually bought this EvoShield chest protector for the main event. I was confident about the quality as I tried EvoShield’s other gear earlier. 

Though the company is a new player on the ground compared to others, its product lines always have something innovative. 

“For example, their all protective gear comes with Gel-to-Shell technology. Basically, this allows for more secure and custom fitting with the advanced strapping system.”

However, because of this trait, their products are pretty expensive. The same goes for this Pro-SRZ chest protector(which costs around $200.) 

The EvoShield chest protector boasts several notable features that make it stand out from other options on the market, for instance, the fidlock buckle. It has a magnet with a slide-release mechanism. During the testing, it was effortless to put on and take off the chest protector.

There’s a moldable abdominal wire that ensures that the protector stays securely in place, providing optimal protection and freedom of movement.

The chest protector is suggested for players aged 10 to 16 and above. But I felt it’s slightly heavy for younger or smaller players. 

Rather than that, it’s best suited for intermediate to professional players who require advanced protection. It’s also a NOCSAE chest protector.

Why Did I Choose EvoShield Pro-SRZ?

• Excellent protection and confidence on the field.
• Lightweight design for enhanced mobility and agility.
• Easy on/off functionality with the fidlock buckle.
• Customizable fit for maximum comfort and security.
• NOCSAE certified for adherence to safety standards.

Things to Consider Before Buying 

At this price point, you can get a full catcher kit from other companies. Unless you’ve a professional event or a big pocket, I don’t think it’s worth the investment. The heavyweight is also a concern for weak bodies. 

Bonus Recommendation 

• All-Star Intermediate System7 Axis Chest Protector
• Easton Elite X Baseball Catcher’s Chest Protector
• Rawlings Renegade Series Baseball Catcher’s Set 
• Wilson C1K Baseball Chest Protector 

Which Size of Baseball Chest Protector Should You Purchase? 

A properly fitting chest protector provides optimal protection while allowing the player to move comfortably on the field. So, choosing the right size is crucial. Let’s learn which sizes are suitable based on different age groups. 

Youth Sizes

For players in the age range of 5 to 8 years old, youth-sized chest protectors are appropriate. These chest protectors are specifically designed to fit chest sizes ranging from 24 to 29 inches. 

Intermediate Sizes

As players progress to the age range of 9 to 12 years old, they require intermediate-sized chest protectors. These chest protectors are designed to fit chest sizes ranging from 29 to 34 inches. 

Adult Sizes

Players who are 13 years old and above should opt for adult-sized chest protectors. These chest guards can typically accommodate chest sizes ranging from 34 to 50 inches.

How Do You Measure for Baseball Chest Protectors?

To determine the correct size of your baseball chest protector, you need to take three key measurements: chest circumference, torso length, and shoulder width.

Chest Circumference

Using a flexible measuring tape, measure the circumference of your chest just below the armpits. Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight. Take note of this measurement in inches or centimeters.

Torso Length

Measure the distance between the top of your sternum (the notch at the base of your neck) and your waistline. This measurement will provide an estimate of your torso length. 

Shoulder Width

With your arms relaxed at your sides, measure the distance between the outside edges of your shoulders. Ensure the tape is straight and level across your back. Note down this measurement as well.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What chest protectors do MLB catchers wear?

There are no accurate data. But as far as a survey done by WhatProsWear, most starter catchers in the MLB wear Nike’s chest protectors, accounting for around 53%. With 20% players’ preference, at the second most popular position, I found, All-Star. 

The list was followed by other well-known brands such as Easton (10%), Rawlings (7%) Force3 (7%), and EvoShield (3%.)

What is a catcher’s chest protector made of?

Catchers’ chest protectors are typically made of a combination of foam padding and a durable outer shell. The foam padding provides impact absorption. 

On the contrary, the outer shell offers protection against hard hits and foul balls. Based on the brand and intended age group, it can be made of plastic, steel, or both.

Do MLB catchers wear throat guards?

Yes, most MLB catchers do wear throat guards for additional safety for the vulnerable area around the neck and throat. Throat guards are attached to the catcher’s mask or helmet. 

In general, these are made of plastic or metal and are designed to deflect impact from foul balls or errant pitches. 

Wrapping Up

That’s actually the conclusion of my review about the best baseball chest protectors in my last 3 years. When choosing a chest protector, make sure to prioritize safety, comfort, and proper fit. 

Get your size of the chest circumference, torso length, and shoulder width before ordering your favorite. If this is for beginners or first-timers, I suggest not investing in high-budget gigs. Pick something that’s less than $150. 

Hopefully, it helped you find the best match for your requirements.  

Check out more about catcher’s gear:

5 Best Catchers Mitt After Use Review By a Real Coach

7 Best Fastpitch Softball Catchers Mitt Blew Baseball Coach’s Mind!