Unpopular opinion: kids don't need fancy sports equipment to have fun

Dec 11 min read

Everyone around me is dropping like $300+ on baseball gloves and cleats and gear and I'm just... not doing it? My kids are 7 and 9. We got them basic stuff from Dick's and they play in the backyard with neighbor kids constantly. They're having just as much fun as kids with the $500 bats.

I get that real leagues need real equipment but also I feel like we've created this culture where you need to spend money to have fun and it's weird. Maybe I'm being cheap but it just feels off to me idk

10 comments297 views

Comments(10)

PPaul W.Regular1d ago

The only time gear really matters is if they're seriously into a sport, like competitive level. For backyard play? Yeah, you're right

RRyan M.New Dad1d ago

The problem is the culture around kids' sports has gotten so expensive and intense. Your kids are having fun with neighbors for basically nothing - that's like peak childhood honestly.

MMarcus W.Regular1h ago

This isn't unpopular, it's just actually correct. The kids with the $500 bats aren't magically better at baseball. They're just kids with expensive bats. Your kids are having way more fun for way less money.

GGrant C.Regular10h ago

The $300 gloves for a 7yo is insane. They outgrow them in like one season. Basic equipment is totally fine

PPaul T.Regularjust now

This is actually a good take. Kids have fun WITH other kids, not because of expensive gear. They're just playing in the backyard - that's the point

HHank W.Regular4h ago

Dick's basics are totally fine. Also honestly? Kids lose/destroy gear constantly anyway. Might as well buy the budget version until they prove they care enough to take care of it.

VVic G.Regularjust now

I respect this take but also be prepared for when they get older and suddenly DO want the good stuff because their teammates have it. That's when the negotiation gets real.

TTerrence M.Regularjust now

You're right though. Kids at that age don't need $300 gloves. They need to play with friends and not worry about equipment. The fancy stuff comes later if they actually get serious about the sport.

HHank C.Regularjust now

I got sucked into the gear thing and regret it SO much. The $500 bat my 9yo wanted just sits there. Basic Dick's stuff is legit fine

GGabe R.Regularjust now

Agree but also - eventually your 9yo might want better glove if his friends have nicer ones and he's noticing. Gear matters at some point, just not at the start