Catching is the hardest-working job on the field. You squat for every pitch, block balls in the dirt, pop up to throw, and do it all again inning after inning. So the mitt on your hand matters more than almost any other piece of gear. That's why we built the Genesis Gloves Catcher's Mitt from Japanese Kip leather, a material known for being light and supple while still holding up to the pounding a catcher's mitt takes.
What Makes Kip Leather Different
Kip is leather from younger, smaller cattle. Compared with the steerhide used in many mitts, the hide is thinner and has a tighter, finer grain. That combination is the secret: thinner leather means less weight, and the tight grain keeps it strong and helps the pocket hold its shape. Japanese Kip is also known for its smooth, soft feel right out of the box.
Less Fatigue Over Long Games
A catcher's mitt is bigger and more heavily padded than a fielder's glove, so it naturally carries more weight. Every bit you save adds up when you're holding the mitt up as a target for a hundred-plus pitches. A lighter mitt puts less strain on your wrist and forearm, which can make a real difference late in a game, at the end of a long practice, or during the second game of a doubleheader. When your glove hand isn't worn out, it's easier to stay sharp, frame pitches steadily, and react to the ball in the dirt.
Quicker Transfers
When a runner takes off, a catcher has a split second to get the ball out of the mitt and into the throwing hand. A lighter, more supple mitt is easier to move and close, so the exchange can feel quicker and more natural. Kip leather's flexibility helps the pocket give a little as the ball arrives while still letting you find the ball fast. For catchers working on their pop time, every bit of quickness helps.
An Easier Break-In
Traditional catcher's mitts have a reputation for being stiff as a board, sometimes taking a long time before they're game-ready. Kip is more supple than heavy steerhide, so it shapes more easily and with less fighting. It still needs a real break-in. Nothing beats catching a lot of pitches. But you'll likely find the mitt starts to feel like yours sooner.
If you want a head start, our optional Genesis Glove Break-In Service can help get your mitt closer to game-ready before it reaches you.
Comfort for Young Catchers
Parents, this one's for you. Young catchers are still building hand and arm strength, and a heavy, stiff mitt can be discouraging. It's hard to close, tiring to hold up, and tough to control. A lighter, more flexible mitt can help a young player feel more confident behind the plate, catch the ball cleanly, and enjoy the position. That confidence can go a long way toward helping them stick with it and improve.
Light Doesn't Mean Flimsy
It's fair to wonder whether a lighter mitt can take a beating. Kip's tight grain is what makes it strong for its weight, and it's known for resisting stretching and holding its pocket shape over time. Inside, the Genesis Catcher's Mitt uses quality padding to cushion each pitch without deadening the feel of the catch. You get protection where you need it without lugging around extra weight.
Keeping Your Mitt in Shape
- Condition lightly. Kip is already supple, so a light coat a couple of times a season is usually enough.
- No heat or steam. Avoid microwaves, ovens, and steaming. Heat can damage the leather fibers.
- Dry it naturally. If it gets wet, wipe it down and let it air-dry at room temperature.
- Store it with a ball in the pocket to help it keep its shape between games.
Get Behind the Plate With Genesis
The Genesis Gloves Catcher's Mitt is made from Japanese Kip leather, available in right- or left-hand throw, and ships new with tags with free U.S. shipping from our home in Kentucky. If you have questions about fit or which hand to order, just reach out. We're happy to help your catcher find the right mitt.