Fitting Thumb Guards: A Guide to Catcher’s Gear

Learn how to custom fit your EvoShield Catcher’s Thumb Guard.

The EvoShield Catcher’s Thumb Guard offers lightweight protection with Gel-to-Shell Technology, an innovative material that molds to the user for a perfectly custom fit behind the plate. These thumb guards, designed to wrap around a catcher’s thumb and be worn inside a catcher’s mitt, deliver unparalleled protection so backstops can frame every fastball and get the called third strike.

It is critical to properly fit your thumb protection. Ill-fitting protective equipment can result in discomfort behind the plate and lead to potential injury if a pitch or foul ball hits your thumb. The catcher’s thumb guard is available in small and large sizes. The large size features 4.5” of shield coverage, and the small guard features 3.25” of shield coverage.

Catcher’s Thumb Guard Size Chart

When fitting the catcher’s thumb guard, check to make sure you have all necessary materials – one guard and one gauze roll. Schedule at least 20 minutes to complete the fitting process, and do not open the foil pack for your Gel-to-Shell thumb guard until you are ready to begin. When ready to fit the catcher’s thumb guard, follow these steps.

Fitting Catcher’s Thumb Guards

1. Rip it. Open the foil pack and remove your thumb guard. Gel-to-Shell Technology is air-activated. It will be flexible at first before gradually hardening into a custom-fitting protective shield.

2. Fit it. Tightly pinch the guard around the top knuckle of your glove hand thumb.

3. Tightly wrap the gauze roll around the thumb guard from the top of the thumb to the palm.

4. Smooth the edges of the guard around your hand to prevent flaring.
5. Wait 10 minutes. Allow the thumb guard to harden. For a true custom fit, limit any movement.

6. Put on your glove. With the thumb guard still wrapped around your glove hand, put your hand inside the glove.
7. Wait 10 minutes. Allow the thumb guard to harden while you wear the glove.

1. Remove your glove. Unwrap the gauze.
2. Wear it. After completing the molding process, your guard is ready for action. Set up behind the plate and frame every pitch with the newly fitted catcher’s thumb guard. For best results, allow the guard to sit and cure overnight before first use after fitting.

After fitting your catcher’s thumb guard, pair it with a full set of EvoShield Pro-SRZ Catcher’s Gear and set up behind home plate with the only set of gear that moves with you. Want to create a unique look on the field? Pick up Gel-to-Shell Lower Leg Guards in your team colors or choose your favorite color for a style all your own.

For more information on how to properly size and fit your baseball and softball protective gear, check out our guides to fitting Catcher’s Chest Protectors and fitting Catcher’s Leg Guards.