Tom, I recently went thru this for a fall birthday. DD turned 9 and specs at 4' 8"/72#. I did as a couple others mentioned--shopped the 'net and pieced her own 'set' together. Ended up getting the 12" Schutt chest protector, youth large Easton Synergy fastpitch leg guards, and the small Easton Synergy fastpitch mask. I think I spent just under $170 to my door thru sales and am very happy with the quality of each piece. I'd rate the piece-meal 'set' as significantly higher quality and fit than the starter-kit versions and I feel it was money well spent on hassle/headache/frustration prevention, but that's just my opinion. I could have gotten the same quality for less if color was no concern, but I wanted something pretty universal and at least reasonably matching--ie no green leg guards or red helmet.
She's proud of 'her gear' and I understand you wanting to outfit your DD. Mine wants to be 'the' catcher more than ever now that she has gear, and it is actually paying for itself. She volunteers to catch pitchers at their weekly lessons and afterwards gets a 'freebie' hitting lesson for an hour with the group of 3-4. It often includes pick-up and drop off service at the house by the paying parents whose daughters she catches. Why didn't I think of this sooner!! LOL
Pics in the thread linked below, post #10. Absolutely LOVE the fit of the Schutt chest protector. Have fun!
VW
http://www.discussfastpitch.com/softball-catching/4309-fastening-my-lawnchair-belt.html
She's proud of 'her gear' and I understand you wanting to outfit your DD. Mine wants to be 'the' catcher more than ever now that she has gear, and it is actually paying for itself. She volunteers to catch pitchers at their weekly lessons and afterwards gets a 'freebie' hitting lesson for an hour with the group of 3-4. It often includes pick-up and drop off service at the house by the paying parents whose daughters she catches. Why didn't I think of this sooner!! LOL
Pics in the thread linked below, post #10. Absolutely LOVE the fit of the Schutt chest protector. Have fun!
VW
http://www.discussfastpitch.com/softball-catching/4309-fastening-my-lawnchair-belt.html