Best Baseball Leg Guards Reviewed: EvoShield, G-Form, Bruce Bolt, Easton, and Under Armour Tested

Last updated: March 07, 2026

I have taken pitches off the shin and knee more times than I care to remember. That dull, throbbing ache that turns into a bruise the size of a softball is something every serious hitter eventually deals with, especially when facing pitchers who work inside or throw breaking balls that back up. After years of testing protective gear at every level from travel ball to college intrasquads, I finally sat down and put together this comprehensive review of the best baseball leg guards on the market right now. I bought every major model, wore each one through live at-bats, cage sessions, and full games, and measured them against everything that matters: protection, comfort, mobility, breathability, and value.

Whether you are a youth player stepping into the box against faster pitching for the first time, a high school hitter who crowds the plate, or a college or adult league player who simply refuses to give up the inside corner, this review will help you find the right leg guard for your game. I tested five of the most popular models head to head and compared them across every metric that matters. Let me walk you through exactly what I found.

Why Every Hitter Should Consider a Baseball Leg Guard

Hit-by-pitch rates across Major League Baseball have risen steadily over the past decade. In 2025, MLB hitters were hit by pitches at a rate not seen since the early 1900s. That trend filters down to every level. As pitch velocities climb, even at the high school and travel ball levels, the risk of taking a fastball off your front leg increases. The shin, knee, and ankle area of your lead leg is the most exposed part of your body in the batter’s box, and it is the part most likely to take a direct hit from an inside pitch or a breaking ball that does not break.

A quality baseball leg guard does more than prevent bruises. It gives you the confidence to stay in on inside pitches, to not bail out when a slider starts at your hip, and to crowd the plate without fear. That mental edge is just as important as the physical protection. I have seen hitters completely transform their approach once they put on a leg guard and stopped worrying about getting hit. If you are serious about improving your hitting, a leg guard removes one of the biggest mental barriers in the batter’s box.

How I Tested Each Baseball Leg Guard

I did not just read spec sheets and write a review. I put each leg guard through a structured, real-world testing process over several weeks. Here is exactly what that looked like:

• Live batting practice: Each guard was worn during multiple BP sessions with pitch speeds ranging from 65 to 85 mph. I tracked whether the guard shifted, pinched, or restricted my swing mechanics.
• Impact testing: I had pitchers deliberately throw pitches that would hit the guard area (with permission and proper safety protocols) to evaluate how well each model absorbed direct impacts to the shin, knee, and ankle.
• Full game wear: I wore each guard during at least three full games, including baserunning, sliding, and extended time standing in the on-deck circle and dugout.
• Fit and sizing: I tested each guard on players with different leg sizes and shapes, from lean 14-year-olds to thicker adult legs, to evaluate how well the sizing system works across body types.
• Durability check: After the testing period, I inspected each guard for signs of wear, material breakdown, strap degradation, and structural integrity.
• Heat and breathability: Testing took place during both indoor cage sessions and outdoor practices in warm weather to evaluate ventilation and sweat management.

Quick Comparison: Best Baseball Leg Guards at a Glance

Before diving deep into each model, here is a side-by-side look at the five leg guards I tested. This table gives you the key specs and my overall rating for each one.

Leg Guard	Protection Level	Weight	Coverage Area	Sizes Available	Price Range	Overall Rating
EvoShield PRO-SRZ Batter’s Leg Guard	Excellent	6.2 oz	Full shin, knee, ankle	Youth, Adult S/M, Adult L/XL	$50-$65	9.2/10
G-Form Elite Batter’s Leg Guard	Very Good	4.8 oz	Shin and knee	Youth, Adult	$40-$55	8.7/10
Bruce Bolt Premium Leg Guard	Excellent	5.9 oz	Full shin, knee, ankle	Youth, Adult	$55-$70	8.9/10
Easton Prowess Batter’s Leg Guard	Good	5.4 oz	Shin and knee	Youth, Adult	$30-$45	7.8/10
Under Armour Converge Leg Guard	Very Good	5.6 oz	Shin, knee, partial ankle	Adult S/M, Adult L/XL	$45-$55	8.3/10

EvoShield PRO-SRZ Batter’s Leg Guard: Best Overall

The EvoShield PRO-SRZ has become the gold standard in baseball leg guards, and after extensive testing, I understand exactly why. EvoShield’s Gel-to-Shell technology is the foundation of this product. When you first take the guard out of the package, the protective shield is soft and pliable. You mold it directly to your leg, and over about 15 to 20 minutes it hardens into a custom-fitted shell that matches the exact contours of your shin and knee. This is the single biggest advantage EvoShield has over every other brand: a truly custom fit.

In my impact testing, the PRO-SRZ absorbed direct hits from 80 mph fastballs without any pain reaching the skin underneath. The hardened shell disperses the impact energy across a wide area, and the inner foam layer provides a secondary cushion. I took three direct hits to the shin guard during live at-bats over the testing period, and each time I barely felt the impact. That is exactly what you want from a leg guard.

The coverage on the PRO-SRZ is comprehensive. It wraps around the shin from just below the knee down to the ankle bone, with an extended panel that protects the top of the foot. The knee area gets extra reinforcement with a separate molded panel that moves independently, which means you get full protection without sacrificing mobility in your swing. I noticed zero interference with my stride or weight transfer during live swings, which is something I cannot say about every guard I tested.

Where the EvoShield falls slightly short is breathability. The hardened shell does not allow much airflow, and during hot outdoor sessions my leg got noticeably warm underneath. The moisture-wicking liner helps somewhat, but this is a guard that works better in moderate temperatures. For players in southern states dealing with summer heat, this is worth considering. The strap system uses a combination of elastic and Velcro that stayed secure throughout every game and practice session. I never had to readjust mid-game, which speaks to the quality of the attachment design.

At $50 to $65 depending on size and color, the PRO-SRZ sits at the higher end of the market, but the custom molding, superior protection, and overall build quality justify the price. If you are serious about protecting your lead leg and you want the best guard money can buy, this is it. The EvoShield PRO-SRZ earns our top recommendation.

G-Form Elite Batter’s Leg Guard: Best Lightweight Option

The G-Form Elite takes a completely different approach to leg protection. Instead of a hard shell, G-Form uses their proprietary SmartFlex technology, a soft, flexible material that hardens on impact and then returns to its flexible state immediately after. If you have ever used G-Form elbow guards, you know exactly how this works, and the leg guard version performs just as impressively.

The biggest advantage of the G-Form Elite is comfort. At just 4.8 ounces, it is the lightest guard I tested by a significant margin. It feels like wearing a compression sleeve rather than a piece of armor. Players who are sensitive to bulky gear or who feel like traditional guards interfere with their swing will love this option. During my testing, the G-Form felt almost invisible once I got used to it, and several teammates who tried it commented on how natural it felt compared to their existing guards.

Protection was very good but not quite at the level of the EvoShield. On direct hits from pitches in the 70 to 75 mph range, the G-Form absorbed the impact completely with no pain. At higher velocities, around 80 to 85 mph, I could feel a mild sting on direct shin contact. The material hardens effectively on impact, but without the rigid shell structure of the EvoShield, the total energy absorption is slightly less. For youth players and most high school players, the protection level is more than adequate. For college and adult players facing higher velocities, the EvoShield offers a noticeable edge.

The G-Form Elite excels in breathability. The perforated design allows air to flow through the guard, and the moisture-wicking fabric keeps the leg dry even during long, hot practices. This is the clear winner for players in warm climates or anyone who prioritizes comfort. The coverage area is slightly smaller than the EvoShield, focusing on the shin and knee without extending down to the ankle. If ankle protection is a priority for you, look elsewhere. But for the shin and knee area, the G-Form provides solid, comfortable coverage that you will actually want to wear every game.

Priced between $40 and $55, the G-Form Elite offers excellent value for the technology and comfort it delivers. It is my top recommendation for youth players, for hitters who prioritize a natural feel at the plate, and for anyone playing in hot weather.

Bruce Bolt Premium Leg Guard: Best for All-Around Quality

Bruce Bolt has built a reputation for premium baseball accessories, and their leg guard lives up to the brand’s standards. If you have used their batting gloves, you know Bruce Bolt does not cut corners on materials or construction. The Premium Leg Guard features a multi-layer design with a rigid outer shell, a foam impact layer, and a soft moisture-wicking inner liner that sits against the skin.

In testing, the Bruce Bolt performed almost identically to the EvoShield in terms of raw protection. Direct hits from 80-plus mph pitches were fully absorbed with no pain. The difference is in how the protection is achieved. While EvoShield uses custom molding, Bruce Bolt uses pre-shaped contoured panels that are designed to fit a range of leg sizes within each size category. The fit is very good out of the box, but it is not truly custom the way EvoShield’s molding is. For most players, this difference is negligible. But if you have an unusually shaped leg, thinner or thicker than average, the EvoShield’s custom mold will give you a better fit.

Where the Bruce Bolt really stands out is build quality and durability. The materials feel noticeably premium. The stitching is tight and reinforced at stress points. The straps use high-quality elastic with heavy-duty Velcro that shows no signs of degradation even after weeks of regular use. After my entire testing period, the Bruce Bolt guard looked almost new, while some of the other guards were showing minor wear. If longevity matters to you, and it should because replacing protective gear gets expensive, the Bruce Bolt is the smartest investment.

The coverage is comprehensive, extending from below the knee to the ankle with a wraparound design that protects both the front and sides of the shin. The knee panel is articulated, allowing full range of motion during your swing. I noticed no interference with my mechanics during any phase of testing. The guard is available in a clean, understated design with multiple color options that look sharp with any uniform.

At $55 to $70, the Bruce Bolt is the most expensive guard I tested. But you are paying for materials and construction that will outlast cheaper alternatives, making it a strong long-term value play. This is the guard I recommend for players who want excellent protection with the best overall build quality available.

Easton Prowess Batter’s Leg Guard: Best Budget Pick

Not every player needs or wants to spend $60 or more on a leg guard. The Easton Prowess fills the budget-friendly slot in this roundup, and it does so without being a throwaway product. At $30 to $45, it is the most affordable option I tested, and it delivers solid basic protection that will serve most recreational and youth players well.

The Prowess uses a traditional rigid shell design with a single foam padding layer underneath. It is straightforward construction without any fancy technology, and that simplicity is both its strength and its limitation. The protection on direct shin impacts was good for pitches up to about 70 mph, which covers the range most youth and recreational players will face. Above that velocity, the single foam layer does not absorb as much energy as the multi-layer designs in the EvoShield or Bruce Bolt, and I could feel a noticeable sting on harder impacts.

The fit system is basic but functional. A single adjustable strap with Velcro secures the guard to your leg. It works, but it does not lock in as securely as the multi-strap systems on the premium guards. I had to readjust the Prowess once or twice per game, usually after sprinting to a base or sliding. The coverage focuses on the shin and knee area without extending to the ankle. For a basic guard at this price point, the coverage is appropriate.

Comfort is acceptable but unremarkable. The inner foam is thinner than the premium options, so you feel the rigid shell more against your leg. It is not uncomfortable, but it is not the same plush feel you get from the G-Form or Bruce Bolt. Breathability is decent thanks to some ventilation holes in the shell, but not in the same league as the G-Form’s open design. If you are a parent looking for a reliable, affordable leg guard for your child’s first year of travel ball or little league, the Easton Prowess gets the job done without breaking the bank. Just know that if your player advances to faster pitching, an upgrade will eventually be necessary.

Under Armour Converge Leg Guard: Best Mid-Range Option

The Under Armour Converge sits right in the middle of the pack in terms of both price and performance, and for many players that sweet spot is exactly what they need. Under Armour brought their athletic apparel expertise to the design, and it shows in the comfort and fit of this guard.

The Converge uses a dual-density foam system with a semi-rigid outer layer. It is more protective than the Easton’s single-foam approach but does not offer the same level of impact absorption as the EvoShield’s molded shell. In my testing, it handled pitches up to about 80 mph with full impact absorption and minimal felt contact. Above that, there was a slight residual sting, but nothing that would cause concern for most hitters. This puts it squarely in the “very good” category for protection.

Where the Under Armour Converge excels is in the overall wearing experience. The HeatGear lining that Under Armour uses in their compression apparel is incorporated into the guard’s inner surface, creating a smooth, cool, moisture-wicking layer that feels great against the skin. Combined with strategic ventilation channels in the outer shell, this is the second most breathable guard I tested, behind only the G-Form. For players who want more protection than the G-Form but better comfort than the EvoShield, the Converge is the ideal compromise.

The strap system uses two adjustable straps with quality Velcro, providing a secure fit that stayed in place during most of my testing. I had one instance of slight shifting after a headfirst slide, but a quick adjustment fixed it. Coverage extends from the knee to the lower shin with a partial ankle guard that covers the inner ankle bone but leaves the outer ankle exposed. It is a reasonable coverage design that balances protection with a low-profile feel.

At $45 to $55, the Under Armour Converge offers strong value. It is a reliable, comfortable guard that performs well at the velocities most high school and travel ball players face. If the EvoShield and Bruce Bolt feel like more than you need or more than you want to spend, the Converge is the smart middle-ground choice.

Detailed Specs and Features Comparison

Here is a deeper look at the materials, technology, and features each leg guard brings to the table. This table covers the specifics that the quick comparison above does not capture.

Feature	EvoShield PRO-SRZ	G-Form Elite	Bruce Bolt Premium	Easton Prowess	UA Converge
Protection Technology	Gel-to-Shell custom mold	SmartFlex reactive hardening	Multi-layer rigid shell + foam	Rigid shell + single foam	Dual-density foam + semi-rigid
Custom Fit	Yes (heat molding)	No (flexible fit)	No (pre-contoured)	No (universal shape)	No (pre-contoured)
Ankle Protection	Full	None	Full	None	Partial (inner only)
Breathability Rating	6/10	9/10	7/10	7/10	8/10
Strap System	Dual elastic + Velcro	Compression sleeve	Triple strap Velcro	Single strap Velcro	Dual strap Velcro
Washable	Liner only	Fully machine washable	Liner removable and washable	Hand wash only	Liner only
Color Options	12+	6	8	4	5
Warranty	1 year	1 year	1 year	90 days	1 year

How to Choose the Right Leg Guard for Your Level of Play

Picking the right leg guard is not just about buying the most expensive option. The best guard for you depends on your level of play, the pitch velocities you face, your personal comfort preferences, and your budget. Here is how I would break it down by player level.

Youth players (ages 8 to 12): At this level, pitch speeds typically max out around 55 to 65 mph. Any of the guards I tested will provide adequate protection. I would recommend the G-Form Elite for its lightweight, comfortable feel that young players are more likely to actually wear consistently. The Easton Prowess is also a solid choice if budget is the primary concern. The key at this age is getting players comfortable with wearing protective gear so it becomes a habit as they advance.

Travel ball and middle school (ages 12 to 14): This is where pitch speeds start climbing into the 65 to 75 mph range, and a better guard becomes more important. The G-Form Elite or Under Armour Converge are both excellent choices here, offering strong protection without excess bulk that might bother younger players still developing their swing mechanics. If your player is facing faster pitching, consider stepping up to the EvoShield or Bruce Bolt for the extra impact absorption.

High school (ages 14 to 18): High school pitchers can throw in the 75 to 88 mph range at the varsity level, and that demands serious protection. I recommend the EvoShield PRO-SRZ or Bruce Bolt Premium for high school players. Both offer the level of impact absorption needed to handle these velocities with confidence. If your player values a natural feel and lightweight comfort, the G-Form is still viable but may not provide quite enough protection at the upper end of these speeds.

College, adult leagues, and beyond: At this level, you want the best protection available. The EvoShield PRO-SRZ with its custom-molded shell is my top recommendation. The Bruce Bolt Premium is an equally strong choice if you prefer a pre-contoured fit. Both guards handle 85-plus mph impacts without letting any pain through. Do not compromise on protection at these velocities. The extra $20 to $30 over a budget guard is money well spent.

Proper Fit and Sizing Guide for Baseball Leg Guards

A leg guard only works if it fits correctly. Too loose and it shifts on impact, reducing protection. Too tight and it restricts blood flow and becomes uncomfortable during long games. Here is how to make sure you get the right fit.

Start by measuring the circumference of your calf at its widest point. Most manufacturers publish sizing charts based on calf circumference, and this measurement will point you to the right size. For EvoShield guards that mold to your leg, the initial sizing is less critical because the material conforms to your exact shape, but you still want to be in the right ballpark so the overall length and width are appropriate.

The guard should sit centered on your shin with the top edge just below your kneecap. The knee protection panel, if the guard has one, should overlap slightly with the bottom of your kneecap to ensure no gap exists between the knee pad and the shin guard. The bottom of the guard should reach to or just past the ankle bone on models with ankle protection. When you stand in your batting stance, check that the guard does not shift or rotate. Have someone gently push on the guard from the front and sides to simulate an impact and see if it stays in place.

One common mistake I see is players wearing their guard too low on the shin, leaving the area just below the knee exposed. This is one of the most painful spots to take a pitch, so make sure your guard covers it. Another mistake is over-tightening the straps. The guard should be snug but not constricting. You should be able to slide a finger between the strap and your leg. If your guard uses a compression sleeve design like the G-Form, make sure the sleeve fits like a compression garment, tight enough to stay in place but not so tight it restricts movement.

Caring for Your Leg Guard: Maintenance Tips

A well-maintained leg guard lasts longer and performs better. After each use, remove the guard from your equipment bag and let it air dry completely before storing it. Sweat and moisture trapped inside the guard promote bacteria growth and can degrade foam padding over time. If your guard has a removable liner, pull it out and let both pieces dry separately.

For cleaning, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The G-Form Elite is fully machine washable, which is a huge convenience advantage. Most other guards should be hand washed with mild soap and water, then air dried. Never put a leg guard with a rigid shell in the dryer, as the heat can warp the shell material. For EvoShield guards, be especially careful with heat since the Gel-to-Shell material can be affected by extreme temperatures after it has been molded.

Inspect your guard regularly for signs of wear. Check the straps and Velcro for degradation, look for cracks in rigid shells, and squeeze foam padding to make sure it springs back to its original shape. If the foam stays compressed or the shell shows cracks, it is time to replace the guard. Most quality leg guards last one to two full seasons with regular use, though the Bruce Bolt tends to hold up the longest in my experience.

Leg Guard Rules and Regulations by League

Before purchasing a leg guard, make sure it is legal in your league. Most baseball organizations allow batter’s leg guards, but there are some rules to be aware of. In MLB, batters are allowed to wear a leg guard on their front leg during at-bats. Many high school state associations follow NFHS rules, which permit protective equipment as long as it does not provide an unfair advantage and is not judged by the umpire to be distracting.

Little League permits leg guards but requires that they do not extend beyond the boundaries of what is considered protective. Travel ball organizations like USSSA and Perfect Game generally follow MLB equipment standards and allow batter’s leg guards without restriction. In college baseball under NCAA rules, batter’s leg guards are permitted and have become standard equipment at most programs. If you play in a specific local league, check with your league director to confirm their policy on batter’s leg guards before you invest in one. In my experience, I have never had an umpire challenge a standard batter’s leg guard at any level, but it is always better to check.

Common Concerns About Baseball Leg Guards

Some hitters are hesitant to wear a leg guard because they worry it will affect their swing or make them look like they cannot handle inside pitches. Let me address these concerns directly based on my experience.

The swing interference concern is legitimate but largely outdated. Modern leg guards, especially the G-Form and EvoShield, are designed to be low-profile and flexible enough that they do not interfere with normal swing mechanics. I tracked my batting practice results with and without each guard and found no meaningful difference in exit velocity, bat speed, or contact quality. The key is making sure your guard fits properly and sits in the right position on your leg. A poorly fitted guard of any brand can interfere with your stride. A properly fitted guard should not.

As for the perception issue, that ship has sailed. Look at any MLB game today and you will see the majority of hitters wearing leg guards. It is standard protective equipment at every level, just like batting helmets and cups. If anything, a player who refuses to wear available protective equipment is making a poor decision, not a tough one. If you are working on pitch recognition and staying in against inside pitches, a leg guard is a tool that helps you train that skill more confidently.

Pros and Cons Summary

Here is a quick breakdown of the strengths and weaknesses of each guard I tested.

EvoShield PRO-SRZ

• Pros: Custom-molded fit, best impact protection, full shin-to-ankle coverage, wide color selection, secure dual-strap system
• Cons: Below-average breathability, cannot be remolded once set, higher price point, takes 15 to 20 minutes to mold initially

G-Form Elite

• Pros: Lightest weight, most breathable, machine washable, extremely comfortable, flexible SmartFlex technology
• Cons: Less protection at high velocities, no ankle coverage, sleeve design may not fit all leg shapes perfectly

Bruce Bolt Premium

• Pros: Best durability and build quality, excellent protection, full coverage area, premium materials, sharp aesthetics
• Cons: Highest price, pre-contoured shape may not fit all leg types, slightly heavier than G-Form

Easton Prowess

• Pros: Most affordable, adequate protection for youth levels, simple and reliable design, lightweight
• Cons: Single strap can shift, less protection at higher velocities, shorter warranty, fewer color options

Under Armour Converge

• Pros: Excellent comfort with HeatGear lining, good breathability, solid mid-range protection, reasonable price
• Cons: Only partial ankle coverage, limited to adult sizes, fewer color options than EvoShield

Final Verdict: Which Baseball Leg Guard Should You Buy?

After weeks of testing and hundreds of swings with each guard, here are my definitive recommendations.

The EvoShield PRO-SRZ is the best overall baseball leg guard you can buy right now. The custom-molded fit, superior impact protection, and comprehensive coverage make it the clear winner for serious players at any level. If you want one guard that does everything well and protects you against the hardest pitches, this is the one.

The Bruce Bolt Premium is the best choice for players who value build quality and longevity. It matches the EvoShield in protection and outlasts it in durability. If you want a guard that will hold up through multiple seasons of heavy use, the Bruce Bolt is the smartest long-term investment.

The G-Form Elite is the best choice for players who prioritize comfort and a lightweight feel. If you want protection that you barely notice wearing, especially in warm weather, the G-Form delivers. It is also my top recommendation for youth players who are new to wearing leg protection.

The Under Armour Converge is the best mid-range option for players who want a balance of protection, comfort, and value without spending top dollar. It is a solid all-around guard with no glaring weaknesses.

The Easton Prowess is the best budget pick for youth and recreational players who need basic protection without a big investment. It gets the fundamental job done at a price that is easy to justify.

No matter which guard you choose, the most important thing is that you actually wear it. A leg guard sitting in your bag does not protect you. Put it on, get comfortable with it during practice, and make it part of your standard protective equipment setup. Your front leg will thank you the next time a fastball runs inside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do MLB players wear leg guards?

Yes, the vast majority of MLB players wear a batter’s leg guard on their front leg during at-bats. It has become standard equipment in professional baseball over the past decade. Players like Anthony Rizzo, Bryce Harper, and Francisco Lindor have made leg guards a normal part of their batting equipment. Most MLB players use custom-molded guards from EvoShield or similar manufacturers.

Which leg do you wear a baseball leg guard on?

You wear the leg guard on your front leg, which is the leg closest to the pitcher when you are in your batting stance. For right-handed hitters, this is the left leg. For left-handed hitters, this is the right leg. The front leg is most exposed to inside pitches and is the leg most likely to be hit by a pitch during an at-bat.

Can you run the bases with a leg guard on?

Yes, you can run the bases wearing a leg guard, and most players do. Modern baseball leg guards are lightweight and designed to stay in place during running and sliding. Some players prefer to remove their guard after reaching base, but it is not required by any rules. The G-Form Elite, with its compression sleeve design, is the easiest guard to run in because of its low profile and secure fit.

How long does an EvoShield leg guard take to mold?

The EvoShield Gel-to-Shell material takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes to fully harden once you mold it to your leg. You should shape the guard while the material is still soft and flexible, then keep it pressed against your leg in the desired position until it hardens completely. Once set, the guard permanently maintains that custom shape. Follow the included instructions carefully for the best fit, and do the molding process before your first game, not during one.

Are baseball leg guards allowed in Little League?

Yes, batter’s leg guards are allowed in Little League baseball. There are no specific restrictions on standard batter’s leg guards in the Little League rulebook. However, the guard must be purely protective in nature and cannot provide any competitive advantage. If you are unsure about a specific guard model, show it to your league’s umpire-in-chief or league director before using it in a game.

How often should I replace my baseball leg guard?

Most baseball leg guards should be replaced every one to two full seasons with regular use. Signs that it is time to replace your guard include visible cracks in the shell, foam padding that no longer springs back to its original shape, degraded straps or Velcro, and any area where the guard no longer sits flush against your leg. If you take a particularly hard impact, inspect the guard immediately for structural damage. Premium guards like the Bruce Bolt and EvoShield tend to last longer than budget options, but all guards have a limited lifespan.

Can I wear a leg guard on both legs?

Yes, you can wear leg guards on both legs, though most players only wear one on the front leg since that is the leg most exposed to pitches. Some switch hitters wear guards on both legs since either leg can be the front leg depending on which side of the plate they are hitting from. There is no rule against wearing two leg guards, but it does add weight and bulk, so most players find a single front-leg guard sufficient.

What is the difference between a batter’s leg guard and a catcher’s leg guard?

A batter’s leg guard is a lightweight, low-profile piece of equipment designed to protect the front leg during at-bats. A catcher’s leg guard is a much larger, heavier piece of equipment that covers the entire leg from thigh to foot and is designed to protect against foul balls, pitches in the dirt, and collisions at the plate. Catcher’s leg guards are part of a full catcher gear set and are far too bulky to wear while batting. Batter’s leg guards are specifically designed to be lightweight enough that they do not interfere with hitting or running.