Ever felt completely lost in a sea of baseball gloves? Choosing the right one can feel like trying to hit a curveball in the dark!
Finding the perfect 11 inch baseball glove is tricky. Many players struggle to understand the differences between sizes and what features really matter. They worry about buying a glove that’s too big, too small, or just plain uncomfortable. This leads to frustration and maybe even a disappointing game.
This guide will help you navigate the world of 11 inch baseball gloves. You’ll learn about the key features to consider, different glove types, and how to find the best fit for your position and playing style. We’ll make choosing your glove easy and fun.
Finding the 11 inch baseball glove can be challenging, but we’ve made it simple for you. Let’s dive into the details and get you ready to catch that perfect game-winning fly ball!
Our Top 5 11 Inch Baseball Glove Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 11 Inch Baseball Glove Detailed Reviews
1. Rawlings
Rating: 9.4/10
The Rawlings Select PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove is a popular choice for young ballplayers. It comes in several sizes (10.5″ to 12.25″) and styles, mirroring professional models. This glove aims to provide a lightweight feel with durable construction, making it ideal for practice and games.
What We Like:
- Lightweight design makes it easy for young players to handle.
- Durable construction withstands regular use.
- Pro-style patterns look and feel great.
- Several sizes accommodate players of different ages and hand sizes.
- The leather breaks in nicely over time.
- Many color options exist.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point might be a bit high for some families.
- Some players report needing extra time to break in the glove.
- Availability can vary depending on the specific style and size.
Overall, the Rawlings Select PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove is a solid choice for serious young baseball players. It offers a great balance of performance and style, although the price and break-in time are factors to consider.
We recommend checking availability and comparing prices before purchasing.
2. Rawlings
Rating: 9.4/10
The Rawlings Sure Catch T-Ball & Youth Baseball Glove is a great option for young baseball players. It comes in sizes 9.5″ to 11.5″, ensuring a good fit for kids of different ages and hand sizes. Rawlings is a well-known brand, so you know you’re getting quality. This glove is designed for both t-ball and youth baseball, making it a versatile choice. Many kids will find this glove easy to use and comfortable.
What We Like:
- It’s affordable. Parents will appreciate the reasonable price.
- The glove is durable. It can withstand lots of use.
- It’s easy for young players to close and catch balls.
- The different sizes ensure a proper fit for many kids.
- Rawlings makes quality sports equipment, so you trust the brand.
What Could Be Improved::
- Some kids might find the leather a little stiff at first.
- The glove’s break-in period could be shorter.
- More color options would be nice.
Overall, the Rawlings Sure Catch glove is a solid choice for young baseball players. It offers a good balance of quality, affordability, and ease of use. It’s a dependable glove that will help your child learn to love the game.
3. WILSON A500 Youth Baseball Gloves
Rating: 8.6/10
The WILSON A500 Youth Baseball Gloves are designed for young ballplayers. They offer a good balance of affordability and quality. These gloves help young players develop proper fielding techniques and build confidence on the field. They come in various sizes to fit different-sized hands.
What We Like:
- The A500 gloves are surprisingly durable for the price. They withstand many practices and games.
- They are lightweight. This makes catching easier for younger players.
- The leather is soft and forms well to a player’s hand. This improves comfort and control.
- Wilson’s reputation for quality gives parents peace of mind.
- Many sizes are available. This ensures a proper fit for different ages and hand sizes.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users reported that the laces could break with heavy use. Regular inspection is recommended.
- The glove’s break-in period can be a little long. Players need time to soften the leather.
- The color options are limited. More color choices would be nice.
The WILSON A500 Youth Baseball Gloves are a solid choice for young players. They offer excellent value for their price. These gloves help young players develop good baseball skills.
4. Mizuno Prospect PowerClose Youth Baseball Glove Series I V-Flex Notch I Parashock Palm Pad I ButterSoft Palm Liner
Rating: 9.2/10
The Mizuno Prospect PowerClose Youth Baseball Glove is a great option for young ballplayers. It features several cool technologies designed to improve comfort and performance. The V-Flex Notch helps with a quicker close, the Parashock Palm Pad cushions impacts, and the ButterSoft Palm Liner feels incredibly soft on the hands. This glove helps young players develop their skills and have fun on the field.
What We Like:
- The PowerClose design makes catching easier.
- The V-Flex Notch provides a fast and flexible close.
- The Parashock Palm Pad absorbs impact and protects the hand.
- The ButterSoft Palm Liner feels comfortable and helps break in the glove quickly.
- It’s designed for youth players, offering a great fit and feel.
- Mizuno makes high-quality gloves known for their durability.
What Could Be Improved::
- The price might be a bit high for some families.
- Some players might find the glove a little stiff initially; it needs breaking in.
- More color options would be nice.
Overall, the Mizuno Prospect PowerClose Youth Baseball Glove is a top-notch choice for serious young players. The features help improve performance, while the comfort encourages kids to play more and practice their skills. It’s a worthwhile investment if you want a durable and high-performing glove.
5. Franklin Sports Baseball + Softball Gloves – Field Master Adult + Youth Baseball + Softball Gloves – Right Hand + Left Hand Gloves – Infield + Outfield Mitts – Multiple Sizes + Colors
Rating: 9.0/10
The Franklin Sports Field Master gloves offer a great value for both adult and youth baseball and softball players. This set includes right-handed and left-handed gloves, perfect for infield or outfield positions. They come in multiple sizes and colors, so you can find the perfect fit and style. These gloves are designed for players of all skill levels, from beginners to more experienced athletes.
What We Like:
- The gloves are available in many sizes, fitting both kids and adults.
- They offer a good balance of affordability and quality.
- The variety of colors lets players personalize their gear.
- They’re suitable for both infield and outfield play.
- Separate gloves are included for both left and right-handed players.
What Could Be Improved::
- Some users reported that the leather felt a bit stiff initially.
- Breaking them in requires some time and effort.
- The durability might vary depending on usage.
- More padding could improve comfort and protection.
Overall, the Franklin Sports Field Master gloves provide a decent option for players looking for affordable and versatile baseball and softball gloves. They are a good choice for practice and casual games.
They’re not top-of-the-line professional-grade, but they offer solid performance for the price.
Finding the Perfect 11-Inch Baseball Glove: A Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right baseball glove is crucial for young players. An 11-inch glove is a popular size for many youth and some adult players. This guide helps you find the perfect fit.
Key Features to Consider
- Size: 11 inches is a good size for many players, but make sure it fits your hand comfortably. A glove that’s too big or too small will make catching difficult.
- Material: The glove’s material affects its durability and feel. Leather is generally better, but some synthetic materials are also good options.
- Pattern: The glove’s pattern impacts how the glove forms to your hand and how easily you can catch the ball. Different patterns suit different playing styles.
- Webbing: The webbing is the area between the thumb and pinky finger. Different webbing designs offer various levels of visibility and ball control.
- Closure: The glove’s closure (laces or straps) should be secure and easy to adjust. A good closure helps you get a tight fit.
Important Materials
Baseball gloves are made from various materials. Leather gloves are generally more expensive but last longer and feel better over time. They break in nicely, conforming to your hand. Synthetic leather is a cheaper alternative. It’s durable and easier to care for. However, it might not feel as good or last as long as genuine leather. The lining material inside the glove should be soft and comfortable.
Factors Affecting Glove Quality
- Leather Quality: Higher-quality leather is more durable and forms better to your hand. Look for supple, strong leather.
- Stitching: Strong, even stitching keeps the glove together. Loose or uneven stitching is a sign of poor quality.
- Construction: A well-constructed glove will have reinforced areas in high-stress points. This makes it more resistant to wear and tear.
- Padding: Good padding helps absorb the impact of the ball, protecting your hand.
- Price: While price isn’t everything, a higher price often reflects better materials and construction.
User Experience and Use Cases
An 11-inch glove is versatile. It’s suitable for infield and outfield positions, especially for younger players. The size is manageable for catching ground balls and fly balls. Proper breaking in is crucial for a comfortable and effective glove. This involves regular use and conditioning. The glove should fit snugly but not be too tight. You should be able to close it easily, but it shouldn’t feel loose.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What positions is an 11-inch glove good for? A: An 11-inch glove is good for many positions, including infield and outfield positions for younger players.
- Q: How do I break in a new glove? A: Use a glove conditioner and repeatedly catch and throw a ball with it. This softens the leather and forms it to your hand.
- Q: What’s the difference between leather and synthetic leather gloves? A: Leather gloves are more durable and feel better over time, but they are more expensive. Synthetic leather is more affordable but may not last as long.
- Q: How important is the glove’s pattern? A: The pattern affects how the glove fits and how easily you can catch the ball. Experiment to find a pattern that works for you.
- Q: What type of webbing should I look for? A: Different webbing types offer different levels of ball visibility and control. Consider your playing style when choosing.
- Q: How do I clean my glove? A: Use a soft brush or cloth and a leather cleaner specifically designed for baseball gloves. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Q: My glove is too stiff. What can I do? A: Use a glove conditioner and break it in by repeatedly catching and throwing a ball with it.
- Q: Is an 11-inch glove too big for a child? A: It might be, depending on the child’s hand size. Measure their hand and compare it to glove size charts.
- Q: How long will an 11-inch glove last? A: With proper care, a quality glove can last for several years. The materials and construction will affect its lifespan.
- Q: Where can I buy a good 11-inch baseball glove? A: Sporting goods stores, both online and in person, are good places to find a wide selection.
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.