Have you ever felt like your softball glove was more of a weight than a help? Finding the right fit is super important, especially for young players.
Many young players struggle to find a fastpitch softball glove that fits their small hands properly. Big gloves are awkward and uncomfortable. They can make catching harder, not easier! This makes choosing a glove really confusing.
This blog post will help you navigate the world of fastpitch softball gloves. We’ll show you what to look for in a glove designed for small hands. You’ll learn about different sizes, materials, and features. We’ll even give you some tips to help you make the best choice.
Finding the perfect fastpitch softball glove for small hands can be challenging, but we’ve made it simple for you. Let’s dive in and find your perfect fit!
Our Top 5 Fastpitch Softball Glove For Small Hands Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Fastpitch Softball Glove For Small Hands Detailed Reviews
1. 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.
What We Like:
- The glove is reasonably priced, making it accessible to many players.
- It’s designed for both fastpitch and slowpitch, offering versatility.
- The glove comes in both right-handed and left-handed versions.
- Many users find it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
- Its design helps with catching the ball securely.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users report that the glove needs significant breaking in before optimal performance.
- Durability may vary; some gloves show wear and tear faster than others.
- The leather quality could be improved for a more premium feel.
- Sizing might not be consistent across all gloves; double-checking sizing charts is recommended.
This Franklin Sports softball glove offers a good value for its price. It’s a decent option for recreational players. However, serious players might want a more premium glove.
It’s a solid choice for casual use.
2. Easton
Rating: 9.4/10
The Easton Fundamental Fastpitch Softball Glove comes in sizes 12″ and 13″, and several colors. It’s designed for young players starting out in fastpitch softball. This glove offers a good balance of affordability and quality, making it a popular choice for beginners. It’s a great glove to learn the basics of catching and fielding.
What We Like:
- Affordable Price: It won’t break the bank, making it accessible to many players.
- Comfortable Fit: The glove feels good on the hand, even for smaller players.
- Durable Construction: It’s made to withstand regular use and practice sessions.
- Multiple Styles/Colors: Players can choose a glove that matches their style.
- Good for Beginners: Its simple design makes it easy to learn to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Break-In: It may need more time to break in compared to more expensive gloves. You’ll need to work at softening it up.
- Leather Quality: The leather isn’t as high quality as professional-level gloves. It’s more basic.
- Sizing: Some players might find the sizing a little off. Always try it on if possible.
The Easton Fundamental Fastpitch Softball Glove is a solid option for young players starting their fastpitch journey. While it might lack some features of higher-priced gloves, its affordability and comfortable fit make it a great value. It’s a good choice for learning the game.
3. WILSON 2022 A700 Fastpitch Softball Glove Series
Rating: 9.2/10
The WILSON 2022 A700 Fastpitch Softball Glove Series offers a great option for players looking for a reliable and comfortable glove. This series includes several different models, each designed with specific features for different playing positions. They’re known for their excellent feel and ability to help players make great catches. Many softball players use them for games and practices.
What We Like:
- Superior Comfort: The gloves feel great on your hand. They’re designed to be comfortable for extended use.
- Excellent Performance: The A700 series helps players catch balls easily. The design improves the player’s ability to make great plays.
- Durable Construction: These gloves are built to last. They can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
- Variety of Sizes: Wilson offers different sizes, so players of all ages and positions can find a perfect fit.
What Could Be Improved:
- Price Point: The A700 series is more expensive than some other gloves. This might make it unaffordable for some players.
- Break-in Time: Like most high-quality gloves, these require some break-in time before they feel perfect. This can take several weeks of use.
Overall, the WILSON 2022 A700 Fastpitch Softball Glove Series is a solid choice for serious softball players. The excellent performance and comfort make it worth considering, even with the higher price tag. It’s a worthwhile investment for players who want a high-quality glove.
4. Franklin Sports Fastpitch Softball Glove – Field Master Fastpitch + Softball Mitt – Womens + Girls Righty Glove – Adult + Youth Softball Gloves – White + Grey
Rating: 9.0/10
The Franklin Sports Fastpitch Softball Glove is a great option for women and girls who play softball. It comes in a stylish white and grey color. This glove is designed for both adult and youth players. It’s a right-handed glove, perfect for catching those fastballs! The glove is part of the Field Master line, known for its durability and performance.
What We Like:
- The glove feels comfortable and fits well. Many players find it easy to break in.
- It’s surprisingly durable for the price. It can handle regular use.
- The design looks great. The white and grey is attractive.
- This glove is suitable for both adults and youth players. You can find the right fit for your hand size.
- Many customers praised its good value for the money.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users reported that the glove could be a little stiff when it’s new. Breaking it in takes time.
- The padding could be slightly better for absorbing hard-hit balls.
- More color options would be nice.
Overall, the Franklin Sports Fastpitch Softball Glove provides excellent performance for its price. It’s a solid choice for recreational and competitive players alike.
It’s a good glove, especially considering the cost.
5. Rawlings Sure Catch Youth Softball Glove
Rating: 9.4/10
The Rawlings Sure Catch Youth Softball Glove comes in sizes 10″ to 12.5″, offering a glove for every young player. It’s designed for comfortable play and reliable catches. This glove boasts several stylish options, letting players find the perfect look. Many young softball players love this glove!
What We Like:
- Great Value: The Rawlings Sure Catch offers excellent quality at a reasonable price. Parents appreciate this.
- Comfortable Fit: The gloves are designed to fit comfortably, even during long games. Young players will find them easy to wear.
- Durable Construction: These gloves stand up to regular use. They’re built to last. They can handle lots of catches.
- Variety of Sizes: Finding the right size is important. The range of sizes ensures a good fit for players of all ages and hand sizes.
- Stylish Designs: The different styles and colors appeal to young players. They want to look good on the field!
What Could Be Improved:
- Break-in Time: Like most new gloves, it takes some time to break it in for optimal performance. This might require some extra effort.
- Limited Color Options in Some Sizes: Not every color is available in every size. This might be frustrating for some buyers.
Overall, the Rawlings Sure Catch Youth Softball Glove is a solid choice for young softball players. It provides a good balance of quality, comfort, and affordability. We highly recommend it!
Finding the Perfect Fastpitch Softball Glove for Small Hands
Choosing the right softball glove can make a huge difference in your game. If you have small hands, finding a glove that fits comfortably and performs well is even more important. This guide will help you find the perfect fastpitch softball glove.
Key Features to Look For
- Size: Look for gloves specifically designed for youth or smaller adults. Sizes 10.5 inches and below are usually best for small hands. Try the glove on before buying!
- Pattern: A closed back or modified closed back pattern often fits smaller hands better. These designs reduce the overall size of the glove.
- Soft Leather: Softer leather breaks in faster and more easily conforms to your hand. This makes it more comfortable to use immediately.
- Comfortable Lining: A soft, breathable lining inside the glove will prevent blisters and keep your hands comfortable during long games.
- Webbing: The webbing is the part between your fingers. A smaller, simpler webbing design is usually better for smaller gloves and easier to close.
- Durability: Check for reinforced stitching, especially in high-stress areas like the thumb and heel. A durable glove lasts longer.
Important Materials
The materials used affect a glove’s feel, durability, and price. Here’s what to consider:
- Leather: Full-grain leather is the most durable but also the most expensive. It breaks in slowly but will last for years. Steerhide is a good alternative, offering a balance of durability and cost.
- Synthetic Leather: Synthetic materials are cheaper and break in quickly. They might not last as long as leather, but they are a good option for beginners.
- Lining: Look for moisture-wicking linings that help keep your hands dry and comfortable. Some gloves have padded linings for extra comfort.
Factors Affecting Glove Quality
Several things can affect how long your glove lasts and how well it performs.
- Stitching: Strong, even stitching is essential. Loose or uneven stitching can lead to the glove falling apart quickly.
- Construction: Well-constructed gloves have reinforced seams and strong materials. Poorly constructed gloves may break down faster.
- Leather Quality: Thicker, higher-quality leather resists wear and tear better than thinner, lower-quality leather.
- Proper Care: Regular cleaning and conditioning will extend the life of your glove. Always let it air dry after use.
User Experience and Use Cases
Your glove should feel like an extension of your hand. A good fit is crucial for comfort and performance. A glove that’s too big or too small will hinder your ability to catch and throw properly.
- Breaking in the Glove: New gloves are stiff. You need to break them in to make them more flexible and comfortable. You can do this by using a glove mallet or by repeatedly catching and throwing a soft ball.
- Catching and Throwing: A well-fitting glove will help you catch the ball securely and make accurate throws. A poorly fitting glove can lead to dropped catches and inaccurate throws.
- Playing Positions: The best glove for you also depends on your position. Infielders usually prefer smaller gloves, while outfielders often prefer larger ones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What size glove should I get? A: For small hands, look for gloves sized 10.5 inches or smaller. Try several on to find the best fit.
Q: How do I break in a new glove? A: Use a glove mallet, catch and throw a soft ball repeatedly, or use a glove conditioner to soften the leather.
Q: What’s the difference between leather and synthetic leather? A: Leather is more durable and long-lasting but more expensive. Synthetic leather is cheaper but may not last as long.
Q: How do I clean my softball glove? A: Wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. Use a glove cleaner and conditioner periodically.
Q: How important is the glove’s webbing? A: The webbing’s design affects how easily you can close the glove. Simpler designs are often better for smaller hands.
Q: What is a closed-back glove? A: A closed-back glove has less material around the wrist, generally resulting in a tighter fit, better suited for smaller hands.
Q: Can I return a glove if it doesn’t fit? A: Check the store’s return policy before purchasing. Many stores allow returns if the glove is unused.
Q: How much should I expect to spend? A: Prices vary widely. Expect to pay more for higher-quality leather gloves.
Q: What is a modified closed-back glove? A: It’s a compromise between a fully closed back and a standard open back. It often provides a snug fit without being overly restrictive.
Q: Does the color of the glove matter? A: No, the color is purely a matter of personal preference. Choose a color you like!
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.