Source: Blog – Alliance for American Manufacturing
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 27: A general view of the flyover on Opening Day between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park on March 27, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Photo by Samuel Corum/Getty Images
Baseball season is in full swing. These American-made game-day essentials will make it the best yet.
The crack of the bat. The smell of fresh-cut grass. The first bite of a ballpark hot dog. Baseball isn’t just a game — it’s a feeling, a tradition, a piece of American history that ties generations together. From handcrafted gloves to stadium snacks, here’s your lineup of classic baseball must-haves, all proudly made in the USA.
The Perfect Glove: Nokona
Nothing says baseball like a well-worn glove, and Nokona has been crafting high-quality leather gloves in Nocona, Texas, since 1934. Unlike mass-produced gloves, Nokona’s are handcrafted using premium American leather, making them a favorite among serious players who appreciate durability and craftsmanship.
The True On-Field Cap: New Era
Every Major League Baseball (MLB) player’s on-field cap is made in Miami, Fla., under contract with New Era. While MLB mandates that official on-field caps be Made in the USA, retail options have become more limited since New Era closed its longtime factory in Derby, N.Y., in 2019, and outsourced production to China and Vietnam. This has made it harder for fans who want to support their team while buying American-made. If you’re lucky enough to find one of the on-field caps available for purchase, you’ll be getting an authentic piece of American craftsmanship.
Shades for the Bleachers: American Optical
A sunny day at the ballpark calls for serious eye protection. American Optical, made in Chicago, Ill., has been producing high-quality sunglasses since 1833. Worn by astronauts and military pilots, these shades are built to last—perfect for long innings under the sun.
Hard-Sided Coolers: Keeping Your Drinks Cold
No tailgate or backyard baseball game is complete without an ice-cold drink, and these coolers ensure your refreshments stay frosty for all nine innings:
Igloo (Katy, Texas) – One of the most trusted names in coolers, producing many models domestically
Coleman (Wichita, Kan.) – A classic brand with a long history of making rugged coolers in the U.S.
Wyld Gear (Casper, Wyo.) – A newer brand known for high-performance coolers built for adventure
ORCA (Middle Tennessee) – A family-owned company producing durable, roto-molded coolers for tailgates and outdoor fun
Portable Charcoal Grill: Meco’s Americana Grills
If you’re tailgating, you need a solid, portable grill to cook up those brats and burgers before first pitch. Meco’s Americana Grills, made in Greenville, Tenn., offer a compact, easy-to-use grilling experience that’s perfect for game day.
Classic Cups: Solo Cup & Tervis Tumbler
What’s a baseball tailgate without a red Solo Cup? These iconic party cups are made at various manufacturing facilities throughout the U.S. and remain a staple for any game-day gathering. For a reusable option, Tervis tumblers, made in Venice, Fla., partner with the MLB to feature team logos on their insulated drinkware.
Game-Day Snacks: A Winning Lineup
You’ve got to love these classic baseball snacks:
Dot’s Pretzels – A fan-favorite pretzel made in the heartland
Cracker Jacks – The caramel popcorn and peanut treat that’s been a baseball tradition since the 1890s. Yes, with the prize inside!
Planter’s Peanuts – A ballpark staple for generations
Tailgate Chairs: Lawn Chair USA
Nothing beats the old-school aluminum webbed lawn chair. Lawn Chair USA, based in Fort Pierce, Florida, makes lightweight, durable, retro-style chairs – perfect for gathering around the grill before the game. They even sell attachable cup holders – another must have for the ultimate setup.
Flying the American Flag: Annin Flagmakers
Baseball and patriotism go hand in hand. Make sure your flag is American made with Annin Flagmakers, one of the oldest flag manufacturers in America. High-quality flags are made in Coshocton, Ohio and South Boston and Cobbs Creek, Virginia.
Tailgate Game: KAN-JAM
KAN-JAM, made in Western New York, is the perfect game to keep the energy high before first pitch. This fast-paced disc game is easy to set up, fun for all ages, and a great way to pass time in the parking lot.
Team Store: Topps Baseball Cards
During the seventh-inning stretch, visit the fan shop and pick up a pack of trading cards by Fanatics brand Topps, who has been producing cards for over 70 years. According to their website, the cards are still made in the USA.
As our own Jeff Bonior recently wrote, even baseball bats have a strong American-made legacy, with the most popular pro-level bats coming from Louisville Slugger, Marucci, and Victus. That same dedication to quality craftsmanship extends to every piece of gear that makes game day special.
Baseball is a sport built on tradition, skill and community — just like American manufacturing. Whether you’re playing catch in the backyard, tailgating before the big game, or cheering from the stands, choosing Made in the USA products helps keep those traditions alive. Much like singing “Sweet Caroline“ at Fenway Park or hearing “Go Cubs Go” at Wrigley, choosing American-made baseball essentials connects us to a deeper tradition — one that celebrates not just the game, but the people and craftsmanship behind it.
Let’s play ball!
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