With the perfect softball glove, you’ll be unstoppable on the field! Whether you’re a power hitter or an experienced pinch runner, having the right glove can make a huge difference. We’ve curated the best selections of softball gloves for infielders and outfielders, so you can choose with ease—all you need to do is Go for the Win! With these top-recommended gloves, enjoy supreme comfort and consistency from day one and beyond. Get ready to be blown away by this season’s best choices in softball gloves.
When purchasing a softball glove, there are several things to consider.
Things To Consider When Seeking For The Best Softball Glove
Materials
When purchasing a softball glove, the material is an important factor to consider. Leather gloves are generally preferred for both durability and comfort. They are more breathable than synthetic materials and last longer over time. Synthetic materials, however, can be more affordable and easier to break in. It’s important to choose a material that fits your playing style—if you're an outfielder looking for increased accuracy, then leather might be your best bet; if you're a catcher needing longevity, then a premium synthetic model might be the ideal pick. Whichever material you decide on, make sure it offers long-term protection without causing discomfort!
Webbing
Softball gloves come with various styles of webbing, which is important to know when purchasing the right glove for your needs. The webbing helps the glove form the pocket that holds and protects the ball when you catch it, as well as aiding in flexibility so you can move quickly and comfortably while playing. Look for a webbing pattern that offers good flexibility without compromising support and protection. Different patterns may also provide different levels of comfort; some may be tighter or looser depending on your hand size. Consider what type of webbing works best for you before making a purchase—with the right glove, you will have more confidence and accuracy on the field!
The pocket of a softball glove is one of the most important features; it impacts how you catch and handle the ball as well as your overall comfort level. A deep pocket will provide more protection but may make it difficult to remove the ball quickly. A shallow pocket, on the other hand, gives you a better chance of fielding quickly but at the expense of safety. Look for an evenly balanced pocket that allows you to easily scoop and release balls. Make sure you also consider appropriate webbing materials and types when selecting a glove. The right combination can give you an edge over opponents in tight situations!
Back
The back of the softball glove is important as it provides support and protection for your hand. The best gloves are constructed with padded leather, offering comfort while also helping to absorb shock after contact is made with the ball. It's important to look for a glove that fits your hand properly and provides adequate support; if it's too loose in the back it won't be able to provide sufficient protection when catching hard-hit balls. Additionally, many gloves have features like Velcro straps to help secure the glove on your hand for added security and stability. When purchasing a glove, make sure to examine the back closely as it plays an important role in both performance and safety!
Palm
The palm of a softball glove is an important consideration when selecting the right one. While different gloves offer varying levels of protection, comfort should always be a priority. The best gloves are those that have cushioning throughout the entire palm area to absorb impact and reduce the sting. Additionally, look for a palm that is lined with breathable fabrics like mesh or leather to keep your hand cool and prevent sweat from building up during games. When considering a glove, make sure you check its construction in the palm area, as it will play an important role in your performance!
Heel
The heel of a softball glove plays an important role in catching and fielding. It's where your fingers go when you are about to make the catch, so it's important that the construction is durably reinforced for extra support and protection. Ideally, the heel should be slightly padded and feature extra-stiff leather to provide shock absorption and reduce the sting. In addition, if you’re looking for a glove with added protection, look for models that feature a webbing design around the heel area, which can help protect against hard-hit balls as well as errant throws. Don’t forget to look at the heel of your glove too — it can play a major role in keeping you safe while playing!
Wrist Straps
The wrist straps of a softball glove are just as important as the pocket. The strap, or closure system, should fit comfortably and securely on your wrist, and provide support during quick movements on the field. Most gloves feature two adjustable straps—a Velcro or buckle closure and an adjustable loop at the base of the thumb. Both of these components play a role in keeping the glove secure so it doesn’t fall off when catching a ball or throwing it quickly to first base. Additionally, consider that if a glove is too tight around the wrist, you may lose some mobility, which can impact how well you catch balls—make sure to find one that fits comfortably but also secures your hand in place!
When buying a softball glove, it's important to know what features are important and to ensure that your glove has them. Make sure you look at the pocket size to make sure it suits your hand size and catching needs; pay attention to the heel of the glove for added protection; and make sure the wrist straps fit comfortably and securely. Ask yourself, are you looking for a fastpitch glove, slowpitch glove, infield glove, or youth softball glove.
Purchasing a glove with these qualities will improve your game performance and help keep you safe while playing! It should be noted as well that the best fastpitch softball glove is not always the most expensive one.
How We Select The Best Softball Glove For You
You want to buy a new softball glove, but don't know where to start. You've read a few reviews, but they're all over the place, and it's hard to tell which gloves are actually good.
It's tough finding the right softball glove - there are so many different brands and models out there. Not to mention, all the reviews can be confusing.
We did all the legwork for you! After reading through thousands of Amazon reviews, we found the best softball gloves for this season. Whether you're looking for an infielder's glove or an outfielders mitt, we've got you covered.
Here Is Our Picks...
Why We Selected It
If you're wanting to raise your level of play, the Franklin Sports Softball glove is the perfect choice for players of all ages and skill levels. It features an ergonomic design that allows for a comfy fit on your hand. The deep pocket makes sure balls stay secure during games, and the protective heel padding adds durability and increases comfort while playing.
With this glove, you can improve your game performance without sacrificing comfort or safety! Upgrade your equipment today. We're sure you won't be disappointed!
And Here's More
It's made with lightweight, thick, soft synthetic leather that offers superior breathability, keeping your hands cool during intense moments in the game. It is made to approximate the durability and function of a real leather glove without requiring a lengthy break-in time.
The contour fit system features adjustable loops at the base of your thumb for extra support while making catches, as well as a reinforced wrist area, to provide increased stability. This system is designed to accommodate all players.
The hand-formed pocket is deep enough to prevent loose balls and provides maximum comfort with a responsive feel for making scoops and catches without drops.
This glove has an open backhand orientation, which allows maximum freedom of motion and flexibility when playing softball.
The Franklin Sports Softball Glove is available in sizes ranging from 10.5 to 14 and for both right-hand and left-hand players.
Why We Selected It
Are you a softball enthusiast looking for the perfect glove to take your game to the next level? If so, the Rawlings - Sure Catch Softball Glove is here to up your game. With its ultra-lightweight design and sure-grip palm lining, this glove gives you lightning-fast ball capture while providing superior control in any weather condition.
The Sure Catch molds to your hand with minimal break-in time, so you can pick up the glove and play without wasting time. Plus, with updated colors and detailed stitching, this glove looks as good as it performs. So grab your Rawlings - Sure Catch Softball Glove and take on every challenge with confidence and style! Check it out today, you won't be sorry!
And Here's More
The Rawlings - Sure Catch Softball Glove is designed to make your softball game easier. It has an all-leather shell and padded finger linings for comfort, while ZeroShock sting reduction technology keeps your hand safe during play. With Sure Catch technology, this glove has a basket web pattern that makes it simpler to open and close.
The youth pro taper fit, padded Velcro wrist strap, and ZeroShock sting reduction technology all contribute to the glove's ability to be changed for the greatest possible fit around the wrist and hand.
The lightweight 12-ounce design and minimal break-in time also make this glove perfect for players between the ages of 4 and 11.
With all these features, the Rawlings - Sure Catch Softball Glove can help you hit it out of the park in no time!
Why We Selected It
Hey, all you softball fanatics out there, are you looking for the perfect glove to give you that unbeatable edge on the field? Well, look no further than the Rawlings Liberty Advanced Softball Glove! Our glove offers superior performance and protection to ensure your best on-field performance.
This glove is designed to help alleviate hand fatigue and improve ball control while providing maximum levels of comfort and security. We use only the highest quality leather to ensure strength, durability, and longevity. And with this glove, you don't have to worry about tedious break-in time; you'll be ready to fly on the field right away!
The Liberty Advanced Softball Glove also comes with a low-profile heel that allows a full range of motion as well as our XTRA Shokrim Cushion System, which absorbs more shock from batted balls so that your hands won't get worn down. So whatever role you play in the outfield or infield, this glove will give you optimal protection and performance for every play.
Rawlings' Liberty Advanced Softball Glove is simply unbeatable when it comes to getting the edge over your opponents. So don't miss out—get yours today!
And Here's More
The Rawlings - Liberty Advanced Softball Glove features everything that utility players need, making it the perfect glove for any field position. It is made of quality full-grain leather, providing durability and longevity. The adjustable pull-strap closure allows for an optimal fit to the hand, tailored for maximum performance.
The glove comes pre-broken in with 70% factory break-in and only needs 30% player break-in; this feature makes the breaking-in period fast and painless.
Furthermore, the Rawlings - Liberty Advanced Softball Glove is available to both right-hand and left-hand players in a size 12.5 inches. Also, at only 1.44 pounds its lightweight design will ensure you enjoy every minute on the field without feeling weighed down.
Why We Selected It
Are you looking for the perfect softball glove? Look no further than the Mizuno Premier Softball Glove! This stylish and functional glove is designed to give you an edge on the field. Constructed from lightweight, all-leather materials, this durable glove offers superior comfort, protection, and control while playing. With its cantilevered web design and strategically placed shock-absorbing padding, it ensures maximum stability during play. The pre-oiled, deep welted pocket reduces ball rotation and helps maintain shape over time.
For added performance, the glove’s pattern is designed for easy break-in and a contoured fit for a better fit. The throwback strap allows for superior hand placement with a single adjustment of its dual-layer wrist-closure feature. Whether you’re playing fast-pitch or slow-pitch softball, the Mizuno Premier Softball Glove will help you improve your game by increasing your accuracy, speed, and control while out on the field.
Experience worry-free performance today with this high-quality Mizuno sporting gear! Offering incredible value, comfort, and security, grab your Mizuno Premier Softball Glove today! You won't regret it!
And Here's More
The Mizuno Premier Softball Glove is the perfect choice for any player looking for a reliable and comfortable glove. Featuring a full-grain leather shell, this glove will provide the durability needed to take on all the throws in those tight spots during game time. The butter-soft palm liner not only significantly increases the durability of the glove, but it also offers added comfort so you stay focused on refining your defensive skills.
Additionally, with its Parashock Palm Pad, you get extra protection from impact and vibration on hard-hit balls. The PowerLock closure ensures a secure fit every time you've got it on, so it won’t slip off accidentally or lose its snug fit over time.
Weighing only 1.2 pounds, this glove is lightweight enough to ensure freedom of movement in your wrist, so there’s no disruption to your ability to snag fly balls or scoop up grounders. And with a size range that extends from 12 to 14 inches, there’s an option for both left-handed and right-handed players alike!
Why We Selected It
Are you ready to take your softball game to the next level? If so, the Wilson 2022 A2000 Softball Glove is just what you need! This top-notch glove is designed to provide excellent performance and comfort, whether you’re a new player or an experienced pro.
The Wilson 2022 A2000 Softball Glove is constructed from the highest quality leather for maximum durability and longevity. Its double-palm construction provides extra stability for enhanced comfort and control. Thanks to this unique feature, your hands will stay in place no matter how hard you play! The hand-formed pocket allows easy break-in of the glove, as well as giving you greater control over every pitch or hit.
We’re sure that once you experience all of the benefits of owning the Wilson 2022 A2000 Softball Glove, there’ll be no turning back—you won't want to use anything else ever again! That’s why we guarantee that this glove will exceed all your expectations. So don’t wait—give yourself an edge on the field today with the Wilson 2021 A2000 Softball Glove—it's a decision you won't regret!
And Here's More
The Wilson 2022 A2000 Softball Glove is a must-have for all players hoping to work hard and excel in the sport. With its Pro Stock Leather and Rolled Dual Welting construction, this glove is designed to maintain its shape over time. Not only that, but it also features flat finger binding for those who play with their fingers outside the glove.
The DriLex Wrist Lining ensures a dry hand when playing, and the ComfortPro Fit makes wearing the glove comfortable and easy. All of these features come together in the manufacturing of this glove's ProLux Leather liner, which adds an incredible amount of softness.
Additionally, you won't have to worry about binding at the wrists thanks to the Comfort Sleeve feature included in this great glove! It comes in sizes 11.75 inches to 12.5 inches and weighs 1.4 pounds, making it perfect for any level player looking for quality equipment!
Best Softball Glove FAQs
Buying a softball glove can be confusing. There are so many different types and sizes, it's hard to know which one is right for you.
Not sure what type of softball glove you need? You're not alone. Most people don't know the difference between a fielder's glove and an infielder's glove.
We've put together this guide to answer the most frequently asked questions about softball gloves and provide you with more information in your search for the right softball glove for you.
What gloves do pro softball players use?
It's no secret that professional softball players take their gloves seriously. After all, the glove is a crucial piece of equipment used to help them make plays and snag those tough catches! But which gloves do pro softball players actually use? We asked some top athletes in the game, and here’s what they had to say!
According to Olympic gold medalist Cat Osterman, her glove of choice is the Worth Pro Shop Series 11.5-Inch Slowpitch Glove. This model comes with quality leather construction for durability and an adjustable Velcro strap for a custom fit that won't irritate your wrist as some stiffer models might. It's also lightweight enough for speedy transitions around the mound or outfield—perfect for anyone who needs quick reflexes on defense!
Another popular option among pros is the Louisville Slugger Proven Series 12-Inch Softball Glove. Featuring dual-post webbing designed specifically for flexibility and a superior feel during each catch or throw, it's no wonder why so many big leaguers have given this one a whirl—it just fits so naturally when handling ground balls or fly balls out in left field! Plus, its deep pocket helps absorb impact without sacrificing control from every pitch you receive.
Finally, the Easton PRO S1300FP 13-Inch Fastpitch Softball Glove has been gaining traction among star sluggers thanks to its custom palm lining system designed with comfort in mind: two layers of cushioning are strategically layered together under your hands to keep them feeling fresh even after hours of practice sessions and tightly contested games alike! It also features strategically placed perforations across its surface to promote ventilation during hot summer days on the diamond—a nice touch there for sure!
The bottom line? Professional softball players have a plethora of high-quality choices available today when shopping around for new gloves, from Osterman’s trusted Worth option to Louisville Slugger’s decade-long favorite Proven series lineup to the Rawlings Heart of the Hide—finding one that suits your unique playing style won't be too difficult at all these days.
What is a good girls softball glove?
If you’re looking for a good softball glove for girls, you’ve come to the right place! Softball gloves are designed with a girl’s hand and playing style in mind (snugger than a baseball glove), so there are lots of options to choose from. This is true whether looking for slowpitch softball gloves or fastpitch. Whether your daughter is just starting out or she's an experienced player, we've got the best advice on which glove is perfect for her. slow pitch softball gloves
Here are some tips when selecting a softball glove specifically for girls:
1) Choose a glove size that fits their hand. Gloves should fit snugly but not too tight; this ensures that they can easily make catches and throws. Generally, it’s recommended to get gloves with an 11- to 12-inch circumference, as these provide enough room while still having great control over the ball.
2) Consider position requirements: Different positions require different types of gloves; outfielders need longer ones while infielders need shorter ones because they must react faster to balls hit close by. It may be better to opt for generic models if your daughter plays multiple positions as specialized ones tend to be more versatile in terms of length and structure.
3) Go with quality materials: Make sure you look at what material the glove is made with before making any purchases, as it can determine durability and comfortability when playing catch or fielding grounders or fly balls during games or practices. Synthetic leather, kip leather (goat hide), and steer hide all work well as long as care instructions on how to maintain them properly are followed regularly.
4) Get the right features: A padded thumb sleeve with loops may prove beneficial, especially during cold weather games where grip isn't ideal because the loss of flexibility due to colder temperatures often causes hands and fingers to cramp up quickly without extra protection from padding around wrist straps or thumb loops found on most softball gloves today. In addition, other features like quick-break mitts also help prevent misalignments between index finger & thumb fingered slots, which helps maximize field speed and accuracy when catching and throwing fastballs thrown by pitchers during practices or games, respectively, given time constraints placed by umpire strike calls per inning, etc.
Are expensive softball gloves worth it?
Absolutely! Expensive softball gloves are definitely worth the investment, especially if you're an avid player or looking to take your game to the next level.
When it comes to basic glove construction, more expensive gloves tend to offer better quality materials that are sturdier and longer-lasting than their budget counterparts. The leather used is usually well broken in and ready for use right away, saving you time and additional break-in effort. Depending on the brand of the glove, some also feature special lacing patterns that increase the pocket depth and maintain strength. Additionally, high-end gloves often come with extra padding on the palm or thumb.
On top of increased comfort levels due to superior craftsmanship and materials used, higher-end gloves also provide superior protection against errant throws as well as other ways in which a fielder can be injured, like diving stops and collisions at home plate. Your hand will thank you after a long day of manning second base thanks to innovative web technology and changes in manufacturing processes that result in lighter-weight yet stronger leathers!
In short, if you intend to take your softball career seriously, investing in a high-quality glove is essential. Trust us when we say that having a premium product by your side boosts performance simply by building confidence alone!
Is a 12.5 glove good for softball?
With so many different options for softball gloves, it can be tough to know where to start. The 12.5” model is a great option for players looking for the perfect combination of comfort and protection. It's an ideal glove choice for both beginners and seasoned players alike!
It all starts with the size, which in this case is 12.5”. This size works well if you have small or medium-sized hands and ensures that your fingers don't extend beyond the end of the glove when secured tight around your hand. It also provides enough surface area to catch those faster-moving pitches but still allows plenty of flexibility as you scoop up grounders and line drives.
Ultimately though, it’ll come down to personal preference when selecting your softball glove—try on different styles and sizes until one feels right before finally making your purchase! 12.5 inches may be an ideal size for some players, but remember there's no one-size-fits-all solution—experiment until you find the perfect fit!
How do I choose a softball glove?
Choosing the right softball glove is an important decision. It can mean the difference between a great game and an embarrassing one! Here's what you need to know when selecting your glove:
1. Know Your Position: Different positions require different types of gloves, so make sure you choose a style that best suits your position. For example, catchers need thick gloves with added webbing for extra protection, whereas infielders may prefer thinner, lighter gloves for faster maneuverability.
2. Style Matters: There are two main styles of softball gloves: conventional (closed-back) and open-back designs. Closed-back models have uniform padding all around the pocket area. They provide protection from hard-hit balls striking your hand because of additional padding surrounding the pocket area. Open-back models have openings in their pockets, which offers improved mobility but decreases overall protection against hard-hit balls that might hit your hand or fingers when fielding them in play.
3. Think Comfort: You’ll be wearing this glove for hours at a time on game day, so make sure it fits comfortably on your hand and is easy to break in using some leather oil or conditioner if needed! The more comfortable it is, the better you’ll perform during those long games!
4 Size It Up: Softball players typically wear larger mitt sizes than baseball players as they require increased width, depth, and length because softballs are bigger than baseballs by approximately 40%. Knowing what size will fit best depends heavily on how large or small your hands are, along with preferences like tightness versus roominess, etc., so try out various sizes before settling on one—if available—or-use some rough measurements to get an approximate idea before buying online or from a store nearby.
5 Weigh In On Quality: A good quality glove isn’t cheap; however, good materials will usually last longer and add value down the line over cheaper fabrics with reduced durability levels compared to more expensive ones—leather included here! If money’s not scarce, then go ahead and buy yourself one without hesitating too much; otherwise, look closer into higher quality alternatives used by professionals under special promotions offered online, just scratching further into those promotions if possible (you never know!).
What size gloves do high school girls use for softball?
With softball becoming increasingly popular among high school girls, it’s important for them to have a glove that fits correctly and offers plenty of protection. Most high school girls will wear an 11- or 12-inch glove for infield positions (pitcher, catcher, first base) and a 12-13-inch glove for outfield positions, and 32.5" or more for a catcher's mitt.
It’s also worth noting that many brands offer girl-specific models, which are designed with female hands in mind. Additionally, if you don’t want to stretch out your pocket too much closer to the center of the hand, which some players like, many companies make gloves with extra long fingers as well!
What size glove is best for first base?
If you’re a first baseman looking for the best glove to help you excel on the diamond, your number one priority should be finding a glove that fits your hand size. A good fit means improved control and accuracy when it comes to catching or scooping balls out of the dirt. But with such a wide range of sizes available, how do you know which size is best?
The most popular gloves used by first basemen are 11-1/2-inch models, which give them extra reach over traditional 10-1/2-inch gloves. This added length makes it easier for them to extend their arms in order to catch throws from infielders or scoop up low throws across the bag without having too much extra material in the way. Most manufacturers will also have youth softball gloves in sizes between 9 and 10 inches if you're looking for something tailored toward younger players or those with smaller hands.
How often should you oil a softball glove?
If you're an avid softball player, oiling your glove is one of the most important maintenance tasks that you can do. But it's also important to know how often you should be doing it—too much oil and the glove will become slow and heavy, but too little could make it stiff and brittle.
So how often should you oil a softball glove? The answer depends on how often you use it. Generally, if your glove is seeing some hard-core playing time (at least twice a week or so), then giving it a good rubdown with some glove oil every 10–15 days is appropriate. When applying the oil, be sure to get into all of those hidden folds of leather—that's where dirt and grime accumulate over time! And don't forget to give both sides of your pocket a nice massage with the special mitts they sell in sporting goods stores; this will help keep everything flexible and responsive when fielding hot grounders.
For those who only play occasionally (once or twice per month), once-a-month care should suffice for keeping your glove in top condition. Give each side a few pumps of baseball- or softball-specific oils such as Wilson Premium Glove Oil or Rawlings Glove Care Kit, massage deeply into all areas including the palm side laces and inner lining, and then wipe away any excess with a cloth or towel to prevent overoiling.
What is the difference between a slow pitch and fast pitch glove?
Ah, the eternal debate between fast-pitch and slow-pitch gloves! When it comes to choosing the right glove setup for your game, it's important to understand the difference between these two types of gloves.
Fast-Pitch Gloves: The best fastpitch softball gloves are specifically designed with smaller finger stalls as well as a more shallow pocket depth that allow for a faster release time. The use of thinner materials in most fastpitch gloves also helps keep them light while adding stability and reducing fatigue. They're great if you’re involved in any form of hard or aggressive pitching where you need quick reaction time and fewer mistakes.
Slow-Pitch Gloves: Slow-pitch gloves tend to have thicker palm linings and deeper pockets with larger finger stalls that help absorb shock from contact with the ball better than their fast-pitch counterparts. This is why they have become popular among recreational players who don’t need all the speed but may benefit from extra coverage on their hands when making catches or delivering pitches with less force behind them.
The bottom line is that both options have their merits depending on your style of play, so make sure you do your research before taking any plunge into buying either type of glove setup — and never underestimate how having the right one can improve your game!
Does it matter if you use a softball glove for baseball?
Yes, it definitely matters if you use a baseball glove for softball! While some players may feel comfortable enough to play in either game with the same mitt, there are key differences between the two types of gloves that can help increase your performance at each sport.
Softball gloves have pockets that are larger, more webbing between fingers, and have thicker padding than baseball gloves. This is because in many levels of softball pitching is done underhand which requires a larger pocket and softer leather so that batters can scoop up grounders easier. Additionally, pitchers need to be able to grip the ball better for stronger throws.
By contrast, baseball gloves offer firmer leather which helps provide greater control when catching thrown balls or snagging flyballs in the outfield during games. Baseball gloves also tend to feature augmented finger stalls as well as narrower pockets which allow for quicker transfers from glove (catching) hand to throwing hand when making defensive plays.
So while it’s possible to play either game with an all-purpose type of glove or even one designed specifically for softball or baseball - depending on your skill level – investing in equipment tailored specifically towards one type will improve your overall performance.
Here Is Our Recommendation for the Best Softball Glove
If you’re looking for the best softball glove, there are many options on the market. From brands like Rawlings, Mizuno, and Franklin Sports, you can find gloves with features such as contour fit systems, adjustable loops at the base of your thumb for extra support, reinforced wrist areas for increased stability, and lightweight material that offers superior breathability.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which softball glove best fits your needs and caters to your level of play. Now that you have our guide to assist you, you are in a position to make a smart purchase. No matter what glove you choose, it will surely help you bring your A-game to the field.
And don’t forget to tap the button below each of our picks to check prices and read more reviews from verified Amazon customers!
Thanks for reading, and happy shopping!
Ashton Tucker
Ashton Tucker
Ashton Tucker
