Have you ever watched a pro fastpitch game and marveled at the lightning-fast reflexes of the third baseman? They make incredible plays look easy!
But finding the right glove to help *you* make those plays? That’s a whole different ball game. Choosing a fastpitch softball glove for 3rd base can be tricky. There are so many sizes, patterns, and materials to consider. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and end up with a glove that doesn’t fit or perform well.
This guide will help you navigate the world of fastpitch softball gloves. You’ll learn about the key features to look for in a third base glove. We’ll also discuss different glove styles and brands. You’ll discover how to choose a glove that fits perfectly and helps you improve your skills.
Finding the perfect fastpitch softball glove for 3rd base can be challenging, but we’ve made it simple for you. Let’s dive in and find the glove of your dreams!
Our Top 5 Fastpitch Softball Glove For 3Rd Base Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Mizuno GXF50FPW2 MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball First Base Mitt 13″ | 8.4/10 | Check Price |
 | Easton | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
 | Rawlings | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
 | Rawlings | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
 | Mizuno GXF50FPW2 MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball First Base Mitt 13″ | 8.2/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Fastpitch Softball Glove For 3Rd Base Detailed Reviews
1. Mizuno GXF50FPW2 MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball First Base Mitt 13″
Rating: 8.4/10
The Mizuno GXF50FPW2 MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball First Base Mitt is a serious piece of equipment for serious players. This 13-inch mitt is designed for right-handed throwers and comes in a sharp white and grey color scheme. It’s built for first base, promising durability and comfort during intense games. This mitt is made for players who value quality and performance.
What We Like:
- The leather is high-quality and feels durable. It should last a long time.
- The 13-inch size is perfect for scooping up those ground balls at first base.
- The mitt breaks in nicely, providing a comfortable fit after some use. It feels great on your hand.
- The padding offers excellent protection from hard-hit balls. Your hand will stay safe.
- Mizuno’s reputation for quality is well-deserved. You’re getting a reliable product.
What Could Be Improved::
- The price point is a bit high. It’s a significant investment.
- The break-in period could be shorter for some players. It might take some time to get used to.
- More color options would be nice. Some players prefer different colors.
The Mizuno GXF50FPW2 MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball First Base Mitt is a top-notch mitt for serious players. While the price is high, the quality and performance justify the cost for many. It’s a solid choice for any dedicated first baseman.
2. Easton
Rating: 9.0/10
The Easton Ghost NX Fastpitch Softball Glove comes in sizes 11.75″ to 13″ and several cool colors. It’s designed for serious fastpitch players who want a glove that performs well. This glove promises a comfortable fit and reliable performance on the field. It uses high-quality materials for durability.
What We Like:
- The Ghost NX feels incredibly soft and comfortable right out of the box. Many players appreciate this feature.
- Its lightweight design helps players move quickly. This makes it easier to react to fast-moving balls.
- Easton used durable materials. This glove should last for a long time.
- The glove breaks in quickly. You won’t have to spend weeks softening it up.
- The multiple sizes accommodate players of different ages and hand sizes.
What Could Be Improved::
- The price point is a bit high for some players. It is an investment.
- Some players find the lacing a little too tight initially. This tight lacing might require some additional breaking in.
- Finding the exact color you want might be difficult. Popular colors sell out fast.
The Easton Ghost NX is a solid choice for competitive fastpitch players. It offers comfort, durability, and excellent performance. However, be prepared for the price tag and potential availability issues.
3. Rawlings
Rating: 9.4/10
The Rawlings Shut Out Youth Softball Glove comes in sizes 11.5″ to 12.5″, offering various styles to fit different players. It’s designed for young softball players who want a reliable glove for practices and games. This glove aims to provide a good balance of comfort, durability, and affordability.
What We Like:
- The glove feels comfortable and fits well. Many young players find it easy to break in.
- It’s surprisingly durable for its price. The leather holds up well to regular use.
- Rawlings is a trusted brand, so you know you’re getting a quality product.
- Several color options exist, letting players personalize their gear.
- The price point makes it accessible to many families.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some players report needing more time to break it in fully. It might feel stiff at first.
- The padding could be slightly thicker for improved impact absorption.
- The lacing could be more durable for longer-lasting use.
- A wider range of sizes might appeal to more players.
Overall, the Rawlings Shut Out Youth Softball Glove is a solid choice for young softball players. It provides good value for the money. It’s a great option for players starting out or needing a dependable glove at a reasonable cost.
4. Rawlings
Rating: 9.4/10
The Rawlings Liberty Advanced Fastpitch Softball Glove comes in sizes 11.75″ to 13.25″ and several styles. It’s designed for serious fastpitch players who want a high-quality glove. This glove promises comfort and performance on the field.
What We Like:
- The leather is soft and durable. It breaks in nicely.
- The glove provides excellent comfort. Players report feeling less hand fatigue.
- It offers great pocket depth for secure catches. The ball stays put.
- Many players appreciate the multiple color options. They can find a glove that matches their style.
- Rawlings is a trusted brand. You know you’re getting a quality product.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point is higher than some other gloves. It’s an investment.
- Some players found the glove a little stiff initially. It needs some breaking in.
- Finding the perfect size and style can be tricky. Check the sizing chart carefully.
The Rawlings Liberty Advanced Fastpitch Softball Glove is a great option for dedicated players. It offers superior performance, but it’s important to consider the price and breaking-in time.
The glove’s quality makes it a worthwhile purchase for many.
5. Mizuno GXF50FPW2 MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball First Base Mitt 13″
Rating: 8.2/10
The Mizuno GXF50FPW2 MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball First Base Mitt is a serious piece of equipment for young athletes. This 13-inch mitt is designed for left-handed throwers and comes in a sharp white and grey color scheme. It’s built for first base, promising comfort and reliable performance during intense games. It’s made by Mizuno, a brand known for quality sports gear.
What We Like:
- The mitt feels incredibly comfortable. It’s well-padded and fits snugly.
- The leather is durable. It should last through many seasons of play.
- It’s designed specifically for first base. This means the pocket is perfectly positioned for quick scoops.
- The 13-inch size is ideal for many young players. It offers a good balance of coverage and maneuverability.
- Mizuno’s reputation for quality shines through. This mitt feels like a premium product.
What Could Be Improved::
- The price point might be a bit high for some budgets. It’s an investment.
- Some users reported needing a break-in period. The leather can be stiff at first.
- Finding this mitt in stock can be challenging. Availability may vary depending on the retailer.
Overall, the Mizuno GXF50FPW2 MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball First Base Mitt is a top-tier option for serious young softball players. It offers excellent performance and comfort, although the price and availability are factors to consider.
It’s a great mitt, but buyers should plan ahead.
Finding the Perfect Fastpitch Softball Glove for 3rd Base
Third base is a hot spot in fastpitch softball! You need a glove that’s up to the challenge. This guide will help you find the perfect glove for your position.
Key Features to Look For
- Size: Third basemen usually prefer a 11.5-inch to 12.5-inch glove. Larger gloves give you more surface area to catch hot grounders. Smaller gloves can be quicker for throws.
- Pattern: A closed back pattern is common. This provides extra support and stability. A modified trap-eze pattern is also popular. It offers a large pocket for catching.
- Pocket: The pocket is where the ball lands. You want a deep pocket that’s easy to close. A shallow pocket might make catching tough.
- Durability: Look for high-quality leather or synthetic materials. Stitching should be strong. A durable glove will last longer.
- Comfort: A comfortable glove fits your hand well. It should feel natural. A glove that’s too tight or too loose will be uncomfortable.
- Flexibility: A glove needs to be flexible. This helps you catch the ball easily. A stiff glove will be difficult to use.
Important Materials
- Leather: Full-grain leather is top-of-the-line. It’s durable and forms to your hand. It’s also expensive. Steerhide leather is a good, more affordable option.
- Synthetic Leather: This is a cheaper alternative. It’s durable, but might not form to your hand as well as leather. It’s a good choice for starting players.
- Lining: The lining inside the glove affects comfort. Soft lining is more comfortable. Some gloves use moisture-wicking materials to keep your hand dry.
- Webbing: The webbing between the fingers is important. It helps you close the glove easily. A strong, durable webbing is essential.
Factors Affecting Glove Quality
The quality of a fastpitch softball glove is influenced by several factors. The type of leather or synthetic material used greatly impacts durability and feel. Strong stitching is crucial to prevent the glove from falling apart. The design of the pocket and pattern directly affect how easily you catch the ball. A well-designed glove will be comfortable and easy to use.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good third base glove is your best friend on the field. It needs to help you make those crucial plays. You need to feel confident when you’re fielding a ground ball or making a quick throw to first. A comfortable glove lets you focus on the game instead of your equipment. The right glove will help you become a better third baseman.
Third basemen face a lot of hard-hit ground balls. You need a glove that can handle it. You also need a glove that’s comfortable for long games. A well-broken-in glove will perform better and be much more comfortable.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What size glove should I get? A: 11.5-inch to 12.5-inch is standard for third base.
- Q: Is leather or synthetic better? A: Leather is more durable but more expensive. Synthetic is a good budget option.
- Q: How do I break in my glove? A: Use a glove mallet or conditioner. Catch balls repeatedly.
- Q: How important is the pocket? A: A deep, easily closable pocket is essential for catching.
- Q: What’s a closed-back glove? A: It provides extra support and stability.
- Q: Should I get a new or used glove? A: New gloves are better but more expensive. Used gloves can be a good bargain if they are in great condition.
- Q: How do I clean my glove? A: Use a soft brush and glove cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Q: How often should I replace my glove? A: It depends on use and care. A high-quality glove can last for several seasons.
- Q: What’s the best way to store my glove? A: Store it in a cool, dry place. Use a glove storage bag to protect it.
- Q: Can I customize my glove? A: Yes, many companies offer customization options, like adding your name or initials.
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.