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Summer Trends in High School Baseball: Insights from Hoshi Tetsuya
This summer, we spoke with Hoshi Tetsuya, manager of Baseman Tachikawa, a renowned baseball specialty store. Known for his expertise in baseball equipment, Tetsuya shared his observations on the latest trends in the high school baseball world.
The Rise of White Clothing
This summer, the trend towards white clothing has become even more prevalent. The shift was particularly noticeable when Koryo changed to white hats and undershirts.
“I guess Koryo probably has the numbers right,” says Tetsuya. “The difference in body temperature between traditional black and white helmets is significant. I get the impression that white helmets are becoming more common not only at Koryo but across the board.” In fact, 20 of the 49 representative schools wore white helmets. The gloves were also overwhelmingly white, with 370 of the 441 starting players from all representative schools, or about 84%, wearing white gloves.
Breathable Gloves
The gloves Tetsuya observed had mesh on the back, making them very breathable. “People who sweat a lot on their hands appreciate the breathability of these gloves,” he notes. Cutters gloves, in particular, are gaining popularity due to their incredible grip. Originally designed for American football receivers, these gloves are made by a company that understands the importance of a secure grip.
The Popularity of Cutters Gloves
Cutters gloves are almost double the price of other manufacturers, costing around 6,000 yen compared to 3,000 yen. However, they are still widely available in stores. Tetsuya was first introduced to Cutters gloves by a player who asked him to stock them. “They are said to be very durable, so I don’t think they are that expensive,” he says.
The Importance of Grip in Hot Weather
In the sweltering summer heat, it’s essential to have a secure grip on the bat. “It’s certainly difficult to keep from slipping due to sweat when it’s this hot,” Tetsuya observes. The right gloves can make all the difference in a player’s performance.