Yusei Kikuchi: What Glove & Cleats Does He Use? (2026)
Yusei Kikuchi's Complete Gear List
Here is a complete breakdown of the baseball equipment and brands Yusei Kikuchi trusts on the field.
- Glove: King of the Hill (K.O.H)
- Cleats: New Balance
Yusei Kikuchi currently uses a King of the Hill (K.O.H) glove, and New Balance cleats. His reliance on bespoke Japanese craftsmanship and high-traction footwear supports a high-intensity delivery that combines 95+ mph heat with a devastating slider, allowing him to maintain consistency as a frontline left-handed starter.
Yusei Kikuchi’s Glove: King of the Hill (K.O.H)
Yusei Kikuchi takes the mound with a highly specialized glove from King of the Hill (K.O.H), a brand deeply connected to his own mission of supporting craftsmanship in his home prefecture of Iwate, Japan. This glove is designed specifically for the rigors of pitching at the highest level, featuring a deep pocket and a solid web that helps Kikuchi conceal his grips from opposing hitters. The bespoke nature of the K.O.H brand ensures that every aspect of the glove is tailored to his high-effort delivery, providing the stability and confidence he needs to execute his 95+ mph fastball and sharp breaking stuff.
Yusei Kikuchi’s Cleats: New Balance
On his feet, Kikuchi relies on New Balance metal cleats to provide the necessary traction and stability for his explosive pitching motion. The switch to New Balance has allowed him to handle the harder, more compact mounds found in Major League ballparks with greater efficiency. These cleats are engineered to maximize energy transfer from his lower body into his delivery, helping him maintain consistent velocity and control throughout his starts. For a pitcher who generates significant force from his back-leg drive, the reliable grip of metal spikes is a non-negotiable requirement.
Yusei Kikuchi’s Expert Insights
Yusei Kikuchi’s gear selection reflects a sophisticated “philosophy of precision” that blends personal tradition with modern performance technology. By founding his own glove line through King of the Hill, he ensures that his most vital tool is perfectly aligned with his mechanics and heritage. Simultaneously, his reliance on New Balance cleats demonstrates a practical approach to maximizing his lower-body power and stability on the mound. This combination of bespoke craftsmanship and elite athletic technology allows Kikuchi to maintain the consistency and intensity required to succeed as a front-line starter in the MLB.
Note: This list is based on my own research. Players frequently change or test new gear throughout the season. Some items may not be available for general sale; if so, I provide links to similar products. Some links are affiliate links — as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
