Baseball Hand Guard
Primary Materials Used
- Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU): This flexible yet incredibly durable plastic is the most common material used in the protective shell of the guard. It can withstand significant impact from a high-speed baseball .
- Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA) Foam: Found on the interior padding, EVA foam provides cushioning and comfort against the hand and wrist. It helps dissipate the force from an impact and prevents the hard outer shell from rubbing the skin .
Secondary Materials
- Neoprene or Elastic Fabrics: The sleeve or strap that secures the guard to the player’s hand is typically made from stretchable, breathable materials like neoprene to ensure a snug, comfortable fit that doesn’t hinder motion .
- Moisture-Wicking Liners: Modern guards often feature liners made of specialized polyester or other synthetic fabrics to draw sweat away from the skin, enhancing grip and comfort during play .
Custom-Molding Options
Some advanced hand guards offer a custom fit using specialized materials:
- Gel-to-Shell™ Technology: A patented material developed by Evoshield that starts as a soft, flexible pad and hardens into a protective, custom-molded shell after being exposed to air for a short period .
- Boiling/Molding Plastics: Certain guards can be submerged in hot water and then molded to the player’s exact hand shape for a personalized fit, similar to a mouth guard .
