FAQ

We make two models — here's how to choose:

Launchpad OG

• Fits most players ages 13+
• Slightly smaller profile than the Max
• Designed for hitters who prefer the bat to sit slightly deeper in the hand
• More narrow bat channel — works best with thinner bat handles and softball bats

Launchpad Max

• Recommended for most players high school and above
• Designed for hitters who prefer the bat to sit slightly further out in the fingers
• Wider bat channel — built for wood bats and thicker bat grips

If you're still not sure, the Max is the most popular choice for high school and older players. For younger players or softball hitters, the OG is typically the better fit. Reach out and we'll point you in the right direction.

Currently, models come in only one size, but they are made to fit a wide range of players.

Please note that neither model is designed specifically for youth players, however we know there are many young players (as young as 10) who use and love Launchpad.

At first, Launchpad may feel tight when you put it on over your knuckle. It is built to fit snugly so you don't ever have to readjust it while at bat, and it will loosen up a bit with wear, as well.

You also can thermoform your Launchpad by putting it in hot water and stretching the thumb loop. Very few players find this necessary - but if you do, just be careful!

Ultimately, if the fit isn't right for you, we'll make it right! Just see our return policy.

Yes. The Launchpad Thumb Guard is legal at all levels of play.

• ✅ Little League Baseball — Legal
• ✅ Travel ball / AAU — Legal
• ✅ High school (NFHS) — Legal
• ✅ NCAA — Legal
• ✅ Professional — Legal

There was some confusion in the baseball community in 2025 about thumb guard legality at the youth level. That's been resolved — thumb guards are explicitly permitted under current Little League regulations.

Launchpad's patented design has a number of unique benefits.

1. It provides wide, wraparound protection. The thumb absorbs a massive amount of impact from mis-hits, jammed pitches, and off-center contact. Launchpad is patented specifically to cushion that impact and reduce the sting, bruising, and long-term wear that hitters deal with. Unlike other guards, the bat channel wraps around the bat and provides protection up into the base of your thumb and index finger.

2. It improves your grip and mechanics. The guard encourages proper hand placement on the bat — finger-on-the-bat, not thumb-death-grip — which leads to better bat control, quicker release through the zone, and more consistent contact. The bat channel allows you to relax your top hand while maintaining control, and the pivot point helps maximize the whip of your bat.

This is the reason it's patented, and the reason serious players at every level use it.

Give it a couple sessions. Most players feel comfortable within 2–3 batting practice sessions. Some feel it immediately. 

What to expect: the first time you put it on, it may feel unfamiliar. That's normal — your hands have muscle memory built around your current grip. The guard is subtly adjusting that grip to be more mechanically sound, and your hands will adapt quickly.

Don't judge it after one swing. Give it real reps!

Launchpad is made from a material blend that is designed to hold its shape through a full season of use and beyond. Unlike softer foam-based guards on the market, it doesn't compress or deform over time.

You will notice that Launchpad gains some flexibility in the thumb loop with repeated use, but it will never become flimsy or so flexible that it doesn't stay in place.

Yes — and most players do. Launchpad is designed to work with or without batting gloves.

If you're wearing gloves, it may be a bit harder to get Launchpad over your knuckle - but that's intention. We want it to stay in place.

Rotating it slightly can help, and then you can lock it into place once it's on! Also note that the thumb loop will gain some flexibility with wear.

If the fit isn't right or it's not what you expected, we'll exchange it or make it right. We want you in the right product, not stuck with the wrong one.

You can view our return policy and find a link to where you can request a return here.

We'd love to hear from you! Just send us a note at support@launchpadthumbguard.com