Softball Glove Guide Part I: How to Select the Ideal Softball Glove
Whether you’re looking for a high-end leather glove or a budget-friendly synthetic, it’s important to find one that’s designed for your position and, at the very least, won’t fall apart mid-season. The following are the most important glove fundamentals to remember when shopping for a new glove.
Keep in mind that because the player throws with their left hand, left-hand throw (LFT) gloves are worn on the right hand. On the left hand, RFT gloves are worn. Most glove manufacturers will make their models available in both right-handed and left-handed versions. It is also a Best Men’s Softball Gloves.
It’s that time of year again when the weather is just right for playing a game of softball with your friends. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, it’s important to have the proper equipment if you want to perform your best. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the best men’s softball gloves on the market today.
We’ll discuss some of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a new glove, and provide some recommendations for both high-end and budget-friendly options. So whether you need a new LFT or RFT glove, we’ve got you covered!
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Material of best men’s softball gloves
The type of material used and the price point typically go hand in hand. Full-grain leather, for example, commands a premium. Leather gloves are ideal because they fit the player’s hand perfectly and last a long time. Leather gloves take time to break in, but like fine wine, they improve with age. Synthetic gloves are less expensive and a good choice for newcomers to the sport as well as casual players who aren’t overly competitive.
Size of best men’s softball gloves
The size of the glove is perhaps the most important feature of all. The length of the glove from the tip of the index finger slot to the end of the glove that rests on the wrist is measured in inches (referred to as the heel). For catcher gloves, the method of measurement is different. To better display the catching area of the glove, the circumference rather than the length is measured.
To make it easy to open and close either type of glove, you want a good fit between your hand size and the glove. When fielding and catching, a well-fitting glove provides a secure pocket to hold the ball. If your hand is too loose, it will move around in the mitt, making defensive innings difficult.
Web of best men’s softball gloves
The web is the term for the catching area of the glove, also known as the “pocket,” and it is the most distinguishing feature of gloves. Manufacturers of gloves have come up with a wide range of fancy webbing designs, but they all fall into one of two categories. The first is the open web mitt, which features an “I” or “H” design with leather pieces woven into the rest of the mitt with leather lacing.
Infielders prefer this glove because it allows them to transfer the ball quickly. Closed web mitts, which are all one solid piece across and provide a more rigid catching area for the player, are the other option. The majority of players prefer an open back because it makes it easier to track the ball into the mitt. Pitchers frequently use a closed web design to keep the opposing team’s grips hidden.
Back of best men’s softball gloves
The mitt’s backing is either closed or open, just like the webbing. An open glove exposes the top of your wrist and allows for a wider range of motion. Infielders typically prefer this. Closed-back gloves are preferred by outfielders because they provide more wrist support for those laser beam line drives. A finger slot for the index finger is sometimes included in closed-back gloves, which some players prefer.
Wrist Adjustment of best men’s softball gloves
The wrist adjustment is purely a matter of personal taste. The wrist adjustment design used by most glove manufacturers is either Velcro or a D-Ring. A lace-up or buckle wrist adjuster is found on a few gloves. Adjusting with Velcro is the quickest and most convenient method. D-Rings don’t wear out like Velcro, but they are a little more difficult to re-adjust.
Break-In
The factory and player break-ins are usually listed on the list of product details provided by the manufacturer. The bottom line is that you don’t want to go out on the field the day after buying a 100 percent player break-in glove because fielding balls with an ultra-stiff glove will be a nightmare. A wicked bouncer will most likely bounce off the glove and smack you in the face.
A good rule of thumb is that the higher the leather grade, the stiffer the glove. It’s a good idea to use glove oil and play catch with a brand new high-grade leather glove before game day.
Softball Glove Guide Part II: Glove Design by Position
Infield Gloves
Gloves for infielders are designed to help players quickly transition from fielding to throwing to delivery. The only exception is gloves for the first base, which you can find in the section below. They have a deeper pocket than conventional gloves and are shorter.
The pocket’s webbing is commonly made out of an I-web, H-web, post-web, or a modified Trap-eze pocket. The only position that will occasionally wear a closed web is the third base because they are more likely to get heavier hits, which a closed pocket can take better than an open pocket. Softball infield gloves are typically 11.5 to 12.5 inches long.
Pitchers should be aware that there are gloves designed specifically for pitchers that are significantly lighter than standard gloves. Pitchers, unlike other infield positions, are usually unconcerned about their performance. As a result, their primary concern is comfort, as they will be catching the catcher’s return balls. Pitchers use a closed web to disguise their pitches from the prying eyes of the opposing team’s hitter and coaches at the professional level.
Outfield Gloves
High-flying balls, line drives, the rare amazing diving catch, and in-the-hole grounders are all caught with outfielder gloves. For an enormous pocket, these gloves are longer and feature deeper finger slots. Trapeze and H-web are the two most common web designs, both of which provide a space for the player to track the ball while still blocking the light to a large extent.
Closed webs are more prevalent in the outfield in softball to adjust for the softball’s size. When making diving plays, the fingers are strengthened to assist maintain the ball in the glove. Softball outfield gloves are typically 12 to 14 inches long.
First Base Gloves
These appear to be a cross between a fielder’s and a catcher’s mitt. The first base glove, like the catcher’s mitt, had a little extra padding to handle throws with some heat on them. However, these gloves are longer than a catcher’s or infielder’s mitt to aid the first player in extending and reining in wild catches. They’re also built to be more durable than the average mitt, preventing the fingers from flopping back.
Because it is difficult for smaller hands to close the larger glove, players usually start wearing these special gloves when they are 12 years old or older. Best Men’s Softball Gloves come in sizes ranging from 12 to 14 inches.
Catcher’s Mitts
Catcher’s gloves are a different breed of glove entirely. They differ from other positions in that they do not have finger slots that are cut separately. They also include padding to protect the catcher’s hand from fast pitches throughout the game. Because of the extra material used in their construction, catcher’s mitts are very stiff off the shelf.
Catchers frequently purchase a new mitt months before they intend to retire the old one, giving the new mitt time to break in during practice. A closed web pocket area is found on almost all catchers’ mitts to provide a firm, unyielding wall to rein in pitcher throws. Softball catchers’ mitts range in circumference from 31.5 to 35 inches and are slightly larger (about 1 inch) than baseball catchers’ mitts to compensate for the larger softball.
We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for a new slowpitch Best Men’s Softball Gloves and need some help narrowing down your options. We’ll take a closer look at the best men’s softball gloves in this article. We delve deeper into the main advantages and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each slowpitch glove. Finally, we’ll address a few frequently asked questions about slowpitch softball gloves. Have fun!
1. Mizuno MVP Prime 13″ Slowpitch Softball Glove
The Mizuno MVP Prime SE series is designed for players who want to improve their game.
The MVP Prime SE slowpitch softball glove has Center Pocket shaped patterns and Bio Soft Leather, as well as patent-pending Heel Flex technology, which delivers a more flexible and forgiving heel for the ultimate in feel and performance. This glove’s 13-inch length makes it ideal for almost every position on the field, making it a very flexible option. It’s really quick and simple to break in and mold to your liking.
Pros of best men’s softball gloves
- Sizing makes it viable for any position on the field.
- High levels of comfort and stability.
- Sleek black and smoke grey colorway.
- Quick and easy break-in.
Cons of best men’s softball gloves
- Can get floppy and lose its shape after heavy use.
- Lacks some padding in the palm area.
2. Mizuno Premier Series 12″ Slowpitch Softball Glove – Black/Gold
The Parashock Plus Palm Pad in this Mizuno Premier Series slowpitch softball glove helps to maximize impact absorption, while PowerLock technology is employed to deliver the quickest and most secure fit possible. The glove also has an UltraSoft Pro Palm Liner, which gives it a great feel and a soft finish.
This slowpitch softball glove is a wonderful choice for any infielder, measuring 12 inches and having a Pro-H web.
The leather is thick and sturdy, and it will last for several seasons.
Pros of best men’s softball gloves
- Very thick, durable leather
- Keeps its shape, will last multiple seasons
- Very comfortable
- Lots of padding in the palm and thumb
Cons of best men’s softball gloves
- Can take a while to break-in
- The laces are a bit flimsy
3. Mizuno MVP Prime 12.5″ Slowpitch Softball Glove – Black/Smoke
With a Center Pocket The MVP Prime not only has Designed Patterns and Bio Soft Leather, but it also has patent-pending Heel Flex technology, which gives the heel a more flexible and forgiving feel for the best in feel and performance.
Its PlusGrip Thumb adds more cushioning in the thumb slot for added comfort. This glove, which is 12.5 inches long and features a single-post web, is suitable for both infielders and outfielders. Unique site design that works well for both infielders and outfielders.
Pros of best men’s softball gloves
- Unique, stylish web style
- Plenty of padding in the palm and thumb
- Versatile sizing for either infield or outfield
- Quick break-in
Cons of best men’s softball gloves
- Laces are somewhat flimsy
- Tough to shape
4. Nokona X2 Elite X2-1300 13″ Slowpitch Softball Glove
Nokona’s X2 exceptional performance, ready-to-play, position-specific series is constructed using Nokona’s patented top-grain Stampede Steerhide and Kangaroo leathers, requiring minimum break-in time while maintaining exceptional structure and shape. A great balance of excellent quality and performance.
With a 13-inch length and a closed web design, this glove is suitable for almost every position on the field, though pitchers may prefer it, and also it is the Best Men’s Softball Gloves. The glove is super comfortable steer hide and made of kangaroo leather.
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Pros of best men’s softball gloves
- Plenty of padding in the palm and thumb
- Versatile sizing for either infield or outfield
- Comfortable, durable leather quality
Cons of best men’s softball gloves
- Can take a while to break-in
- Comes extremely stiff out of the wrapper
5. Mizuno MVP Series 13″ Slowpitch Softball Glove
Mizuno MVP slowpitch gloves are new for 2019, and they feature game-ready full-grain bio throwback leather for long-lasting durability, as well as softball-specific center pocket design patterns for the most adaptable break-in. This glove’s 13-inch length is ideal for outfielders, but it may also be utilized by infielders who like a little longer glove. This glove’s Pro-H web structure is meant to be readily broken in while remaining sturdy and durable.
This glove is made with a Parashock Plus Palm Pad to aid boost impact absorption and comes in a black coloring with Mizunos’ usual tan stitching. The glove also has an UltraSoft Pro Palm Liner, which gives it a great feel and a soft finish. Impact absorption is substantially improved with the use of a palm pad.
Pros of best men’s softball gloves
- Incredibly easy to break in and shape
- Plenty of padding in the palm
Cons of best men’s softball gloves
- Can get floppy and lose its shape after heavy use
- Lacing can become flimsy over time
6. Mizuno Premier Series 13″ Slowpitch Softball Glove
This slowpitch softball glove measures 13 inches and is ideal for outfielders, but it may also be used by infielders who prefer a little longer glove. This glove’s Pro-H web structure is meant to be readily broken in while remaining sturdy and durable.
This glove comes in a black/gold coloring with Mizunos’ traditional tan stitching, and it’s made with a Parashock Plus Palm Pad to aid with impact absorption, as well as PowerLock technology for the fastest and most secure fit. The glove also has an UltraSoft Pro Palm Liner, which gives it a great feel and a soft finish. Because of the center pocket design, you may break in and mold this glove to your liking.
Pros of best men’s softball gloves
- Very thick, durable leather
- Very comfortable
- Lots of padding in the palm and thumb
Cons of best men’s softball gloves
- Can take a while to break-in
- Comes very stiff out of the wrapper
7. Mizuno Premier Series 12.5″ Slowpitch Softball Glove
With a length of 12.5 inches and a closed web design, this glove is ideal for outfielders, but it may also be used by infielders who like a little longer glove. Even with its robust and durable leather quality, you’ll note how simple this glove is to break in.
This glove has a Parashock Plus Palm Pad to aid with impact absorption, as well as PowerLock technology for the fastest and most secure fit possible. The glove also has an UltraSoft Pro Palm Liner, which gives it a great feel and a soft finish with these Best Men’s Softball Gloves. Pitchers and infielders wanting to make rapid transfers will like the closed web design.
Pros of best men’s softball gloves
- Very comfortable on the hand
- Lots of padding in the palm and thumb
Cons of best men’s softball gloves
- Can take a while to break-in
- Comes very stiff out of the wrapper
Features to Look for When Shopping for a New Men’s Softball Glove
- The size of the glove: when shopping for a new men’s softball glove, it’s important to find one that’s the right size for your hand. Gloves are available in a variety of sizes, so be sure to try on several different models before making your purchase.
- The position of the glove: different positions require different types of gloves. For example, a catcher’s glove is much larger and features extra padding than a first baseman’s glove. Be sure to select a glove that’s designed for your specific position.
- The material of the glove: there are many different materials used in the construction of gloves, including leather, synthetic materials, and even cloth. When choosing a glove, it’s important to consider the climate in which you’ll be playing. A synthetic glove will be best suited for hot weather conditions, while a leather glove will provide more protection from the elements but is also heavier and less flexible.
Tips for Breaking in a New Men’s Softball Glove
- The best way to break in a new men’s softball glove is to use it. Simply put on the gloves and play catch with a friend or practice your fielding drills. Over time, the glove will loosen up and conform to the shape of your hand.
- If you need to speed up the process, you can use a few methods to help soften the glove. One popular method is to fill the gloves with rice and microwave them for a few minutes. This will heat the glove and help it to stretch out.
- Another way to break in a new men’s softball glove is by using a leather conditioner. Apply a small amount of conditioner to the glove and rub it in with your hands. Let the glove sit for a few hours, then repeat the process. Do this several times until the glove is soft and flexible.
FAQ
Q:1 What is the best men’s softball glove on the market today?
A: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as each player has different needs and preferences. However, we recommend checking out some of the top models from well-known brands such as Wilson, Rawlings, and Mizuno.
Q:2 I’m a left-handed thrower. Do I need a left-handed or right-handed glove?
A: Most glove manufacturers will make their models available in both right-handed and left-handed versions. Be sure to double-check before making your purchase.
Q:3 How do I break in my new men’s softball glove?
A: There are a few methods you can use to soften and break in your new men’s softball glove. One popular method is to fill the gloves with rice and microwave them for a few minutes. Another way is to use a leather conditioner. Apply a small amount of conditioner to the glove and rub it in with your hands. Let the glove sit for a few hours, then repeat the process. Do this several times until the glove is soft and flexible.
We hope you found this article helpful! If you have any additional questions, please don’t hesitate to ask in the comments section below.
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