Have you ever felt lost in a sea of softball gloves? Finding the right one can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack!
Choosing a 13-inch fastpitch softball glove is a big deal. It affects your catching, throwing, and overall game. Many players struggle to find the perfect fit and feel. They’re unsure about the right size, leather, and features. Too small, and you’ll miss catches. Too big, and your throws will be slow.
This post will guide you through the process. You’ll learn about the key features of a great 13-inch fastpitch softball glove. We’ll help you avoid common mistakes. You’ll discover how to choose a glove that fits perfectly and improves your game. Finding the 13-inch fastpitch softball glove can be challenging, but we’ve made it simple for you.
Let’s dive into the details and find your perfect glove!
Our Top 5 13 Inch Fastpitch Softball Glove Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 13 Inch Fastpitch Softball Glove Detailed Reviews
1. Easton
Rating: 9.4/10
The Easton Fundamental Fastpitch Softball Glove comes in sizes 12″ and 13″, offering several stylish color options. It’s designed for young players just starting out in fastpitch softball. This glove provides a good balance of affordability and decent quality. It’s a great choice for practice and games.
What We Like:
- Affordable price: It won’t break the bank, making it accessible to many players.
- Comfortable fit: Many reviewers mentioned a comfortable feel, especially for younger players.
- Durable construction: The glove seems to hold up well to regular use.
- Variety of styles: Players can choose a glove that matches their personal style.
- Good for beginners: It’s a solid choice for players new to the sport.
What Could Be Improved:
- Breaking in time: Some players reported needing more time to break in the glove for optimal performance.
- Limited features: It lacks some of the advanced features found in higher-priced gloves.
- Leather quality: The leather might not be as high-quality as more expensive options.
The Easton Fundamental Fastpitch Softball Glove is a practical and budget-friendly option. It’s perfect for young players starting their fastpitch journey. We recommend it for its value and ease of use.
2. Mizuno GMVP1300PF4W MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove 13″
Rating: 8.4/10
The Mizuno GMVP1300PF4W MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove is a 13-inch glove with an H-web, designed for right-handed throwers. It’s white and grey, a classic color combination. This glove aims to provide a great balance of comfort, durability, and performance for serious fastpitch players. It’s made by Mizuno, a well-known and trusted brand in sports equipment.
What We Like:
- The leather feels incredibly soft and supple right out of the box. It’s comfortable to wear for extended periods.
- The H-web design offers a great pocket for catching a variety of pitches.
- The glove breaks in quickly, making it game-ready sooner.
- It’s durable and will withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
- Mizuno’s reputation for quality is definitely evident here.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point is higher than some other softball gloves on the market.
- Some players might find the glove a bit stiff initially, even after the break-in period.
- Finding this specific glove in stock can sometimes be challenging.
Overall, the Mizuno GMVP1300PF4W is a high-quality fastpitch softball glove. It offers excellent performance and comfort for serious players. However, the price and availability should be considered.
This glove is a great choice for players who prioritize quality and performance, but budget and availability may impact your decision.
3. Rawlings
Rating: 9.2/10
The Rawlings R9 Fastpitch Softball Glove comes in sizes 11.5″ to 13″ and several different styles. It’s designed for serious fastpitch players who want a reliable glove. This glove offers a good balance of comfort and performance. It’s a popular choice among players of all skill levels.
What We Like:
- Excellent feel: The leather is soft and supple, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. Players find it easy to close the glove securely.
- Durable Construction: This glove is built to last. Rawlings uses high-quality materials, so it can withstand regular use and tough games.
- Great for various positions: The different sizes (11.5″, 12″, 12.5″, and 13″) accommodate players at various positions, such as infield, outfield, and catcher.
- Good Value: Considering its quality and durability, the Rawlings R9 offers good value for the price.
- Variety of Styles: Players can choose a glove that matches their personal preferences. Different styles offer various color options and designs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Break-in time: Some players report needing a significant break-in period before the glove feels perfectly comfortable. This requires consistent use and conditioning.
- Price point: While offering good value, the price might be a bit high for some younger players or those on a tight budget.
Overall, the Rawlings R9 Fastpitch Softball Glove is a strong contender for serious players. It provides excellent performance and durability. However, potential buyers should consider the break-in time and price before purchasing.
4. Franklin Sports Girls Softball Glove-Women’s Windmill Fastpitch+Slowpitch Softball Glove-Right and Left Hand-Adult
Rating: 8.8/10
The Franklin Sports Girls Softball Glove is a versatile glove designed for both fastpitch and slowpitch softball. It’s available for both right-handed and left-handed players. This glove aims to provide a comfortable and reliable option for adult women and girls playing softball at various skill levels.
What We Like:
- Versatility: This glove works well for both fastpitch and slowpitch, making it a great choice for players who participate in different leagues or play casually.
- Comfortable Fit: Many reviewers praised the glove’s comfortable fit for adult hands. It feels good even during extended use.
- Durability: The leather or synthetic leather (depending on the specific model) seems to hold up well to regular use. It resists wear and tear.
- Affordable Price: This glove offers good value for the money. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality too much.
- Available for Both Hands: The glove comes in both right-hand and left-hand throws, ensuring a proper fit for all players.
What Could Be Improved:
- Break-in Time: Some users mentioned that the glove required a longer break-in period than expected. It might feel stiff initially.
- Material Quality (Some Models): Depending on the specific version purchased, the material quality can vary. Some models might feel less durable than others.
- Limited Sizing Options: The available sizes might not suit every player perfectly. Finding the right fit is important for comfort and performance.
Overall, the Franklin Sports Girls Softball Glove provides a decent balance of features and affordability. It’s a solid choice for recreational players and those on a budget. However, potential buyers should carefully consider the break-in time and material quality before purchasing.
5. Mizuno GMVP1300PF3 MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Gloves
Rating: 8.6/10
The Mizuno GMVP1300PF3 MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove is a 13-inch, right-handed throw glove with a cool black tartan web. It’s designed for serious fastpitch players who want a high-quality glove for catching hard-hit balls. This glove offers a great combination of comfort, durability, and performance.
What We Like:
- The glove feels incredibly comfortable. It’s soft and supple, making it easy to break in.
- The 13-inch size is perfect for many players, offering a good balance of coverage and maneuverability.
- Mizuno’s reputation for quality shines through. This glove is durable and made to last.
- The black tartan web looks awesome! It adds a stylish touch to this already great glove.
- The glove’s design helps players make quick, clean catches.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point is a bit high. It’s an investment, but the quality justifies the cost for many.
- Some players might find the break-in period a little long. It takes some time to get the glove perfectly molded to your hand.
Overall, the Mizuno GMVP1300PF3 MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove is a top-notch piece of equipment. It’s a great choice for dedicated fastpitch players who want a glove that performs at a high level. The excellent quality and stylish design make it worth the investment.
Finding the Perfect 13-Inch Fastpitch Softball Glove
Choosing the right softball glove can make a big difference in your game. A 13-inch glove is a popular size for many fastpitch players, offering a good balance of size and versatility. This guide will help you find the perfect glove for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
- Size: A 13-inch glove is a good all-around size. It’s big enough to catch hard-hit balls but not too big to be cumbersome.
- Pattern: Different patterns affect how the glove fits your hand and how easily you can make catches. Try out different patterns to see what feels best.
- Pocket: The pocket is where the ball lands. Look for a deep, well-formed pocket that closes securely. A deep pocket helps you secure the ball.
- Webbing: The webbing between the thumb and pinky finger affects how you see the ball. Different web patterns offer different views. Consider your preference.
- Flexibility: A glove should be stiff at first, but it needs to break in and become more flexible over time. This makes catching easier.
- Comfort: A comfortable glove will feel good in your hand and allow you to play longer without discomfort.
Important Materials
The materials used in a glove affect its durability and performance.
- Leather: Full-grain leather is the best. It’s durable and forms to your hand. It’s expensive but lasts a long time.
- Synthetic Leather: This is a more affordable option. It’s not as durable as full-grain leather, but it’s still a good choice for many players.
- Lining: The lining should be soft and comfortable. It should also help to absorb sweat.
Factors Affecting Quality
Several things impact a glove’s quality and longevity.
- Construction: Well-stitched gloves last longer. Look for even stitching and strong seams.
- Padding: Good padding protects your hand from hard-hit balls. More padding often means more comfort.
- Break-in Process: All gloves need a break-in period. Proper break-in methods extend a glove’s life. Follow manufacturer instructions.
- Price: Higher-priced gloves often use better materials and construction. They’re usually more durable.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use your glove.
- Position: Different positions require different glove sizes and patterns. A shortstop might prefer a smaller glove than a catcher.
- Skill Level: Beginners might want a more affordable glove. Experienced players may want a higher-quality glove for better performance.
- Game Frequency: If you play often, invest in a durable glove that can handle the wear and tear.
- Maintenance: Proper care extends your glove’s life. Clean and condition it regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: How do I break in my new glove? A: Use a glove mallet or conditioner. Catch and throw a soft ball repeatedly. This softens the leather.
- Q: What’s the difference between a 12.5-inch and a 13-inch glove? A: A 13-inch glove is slightly larger, offering a bigger catching surface.
- Q: How often should I clean my glove? A: Clean your glove after each use with a damp cloth. Condition it periodically.
- Q: Can I use a 13-inch glove for any position? A: Yes, but some positions might benefit from a slightly larger or smaller glove.
- Q: What type of leather is best? A: Full-grain leather is the most durable but also the most expensive.
- Q: How important is the webbing? A: The webbing affects your view of the ball. Experiment to find what you prefer.
- Q: How do I choose the right pocket depth? A: A deeper pocket helps secure the ball, but a shallower pocket might be faster for some players.
- Q: Should I buy a used glove? A: Used gloves can be a good deal, but carefully inspect them for wear and tear.
- Q: What’s the best way to store my glove? A: Store it in a cool, dry place, preferably with a glove shaper to maintain its shape.
- Q: How long will my glove last? A: With proper care, a high-quality glove can last for many years.
In conclusion, every product comes with its own unique set of features and benefits, and its value ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. We hope this review has helped you gain a clear understanding of whether this product aligns with your expectations. Remember, making an informed choice ensures you get the best experience possible.
If you have any questions or thoughts about this product, feel free to share them in the comments section. Your feedback not only helps us but also assists fellow readers in making better decisions. Thank you for reading.