Rawlings 11.5” Youth GG Elite Series Glove — Honest Review
An honest review of the Rawlings 11.5” Youth GG Elite Series glove—fit, feel, durability, and whether it’s worth the price for young infielders.
2/7/20262 min read
The Rawlings 11.5” Youth GG Elite Series Glove is one of those gloves parents usually look at when their child has moved past the beginner stage but isn’t ready for a full adult glove yet. At around the $150 price point, it’s fair to ask whether this glove is actually worth the upgrade or if it’s just paying for the Rawlings name.
👉 Check the current price of the Rawlings 11.5” Youth GG Elite Glove at Dick’s Sporting Goods
Here’s the honest breakdown.
What This Glove Actually Is
This glove sits in the “step-up youth” category. It’s not a soft, floppy starter glove, and it’s not a stiff, heavy pro glove either. Rawlings designed the GG Elite line to give young players a more structured pocket, better leather quality, and longer lifespan than entry-level youth gloves.
The 11.5” size makes it best suited for infield positions like second base, shortstop, and third base.
How It Feels Out of the Box
Out of the box, this glove feels noticeably firmer than cheap youth gloves. That’s a good thing — but only for the right kid.
It will not feel game-ready immediately
It does require break-in
Younger kids with weaker hands may struggle to close it at first
Once broken in, though, the glove holds its shape well and forms a solid pocket that actually helps with clean catches.
Who This Glove Is Good For
This glove makes sense if:
Your child is roughly 9–13 years old
They’ve already played at least one full season
They’re playing primarily infield
You’re upgrading from a $40–$70 starter glove
For this type of player, the GG Elite feels like a real baseball glove, not a toy.
Who This Glove Is NOT For
This is where a lot of parents make mistakes.
This glove is not ideal if:
Your child is playing T-ball or coach pitch
This is their first-ever glove
You want something soft and ready to use immediately
In those cases, a cheaper, softer glove will honestly lead to a better experience.
What Parents Usually Like
From feedback and hands-on expectations, parents tend to like:
The durability — it doesn’t fall apart after one season
The defined pocket once broken in
The classic tan/camel look, which hides dirt well and looks “serious”
That it can last multiple seasons as a child grows
The Real Downsides
Being honest:
Break-in takes time and effort
It’s expensive if your child quits baseball quickly
Not forgiving for very young or casual players
Those aren’t deal-breakers — they just mean this glove isn’t universal.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
The Rawlings 11.5” Youth GG Elite Series Glove is worth the money only if your child is ready for it. For a developing youth infielder who’s already committed to the game, it’s a solid upgrade that offers better control, durability, and long-term value than beginner gloves.
If your child is just starting out, skip it.
If your child is growing into the game, this glove makes sense.
You can find this glove at Dick’s Sporting Goods, where it’s commonly stocked in the tan/camel color along with other variations.
👉 View the Rawlings 11.5” Youth GG Elite Series Glove at Dick’s Sporting Goods
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