Ever felt completely lost staring at a wall of softball gloves? Picking the right one can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack!
Finding the perfect infield softball glove is super important. A bad glove can make catching grounders a nightmare, leading to missed plays and frustration. Too stiff, and it hurts your hands. Too big, and you can’t make quick grabs. Too small, and you drop everything.
This guide will help you avoid that glove-buying headache. We’ll break down everything you need to know to find the *best* infield softball glove for *your* game. You’ll learn about different glove sizes, materials, and features. We’ll even give you some tips on breaking in your new glove.
Ready to ditch the glove frustration and find your perfect fit? Let’s dive into the world of infield softball gloves!
Our Top 5 Infield Softball Glove Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Easton | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
 | WILSON 2024 A1000 Infield Fastpitch Softball Gloves – 11.75″ and 12″ | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
 | Easton | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
 | WILSON 2022 A700 Fastpitch Softball Glove Series | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
 | Rawlings | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Infield Softball Glove Detailed Reviews
1. 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 and feels great. This glove is made with high-quality materials, promising durability and comfort for long games and practices.
What We Like:
- The Ghost NX feels incredibly soft and comfortable right out of the box. Players won’t need to break it in for too long.
- It’s lightweight, making it easy to handle and reducing fatigue during long games.
- The design is sleek and stylish. Many players love the different color options.
- The glove offers excellent pocket depth, helping players secure catches.
- Easton’s reputation for quality is reflected in this glove’s durability. It should last many seasons.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point might be a bit high for some players.
- Some players may find the glove a little stiff initially, even though it breaks in quickly.
- Finding the perfect size and color might be difficult depending on availability in stores.
Overall, the Easton Ghost NX is a top-performing fastpitch softball glove. It offers a great combination of comfort, durability, and style. It’s a worthy investment for dedicated players who want a high-quality glove.
This glove will help you improve your game!
2. WILSON 2024 A1000 Infield Fastpitch Softball Gloves – 11.75″ and 12″
Rating: 8.6/10
The WILSON 2024 A1000 Infield Fastpitch Softball Gloves are a great option for serious young softball players. These gloves come in two sizes, 11.75″ and 12″, and are designed for right-handed throwers. They’re made for infield play, meaning they’re smaller and quicker than outfield gloves. These gloves promise durability and comfort for players who use them often.
What We Like:
- The leather feels high-quality and durable. It will last a long time.
- The gloves break in nicely, providing a comfortable fit after some use.
- The smaller size makes for quick reactions in the infield. It’s perfect for snagging ground balls.
- Wilson is a trusted brand known for making great sporting goods.
- Two sizes offer a choice to better fit a player’s hand.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point might be a bit high for some families.
- Finding the right size could be tricky without trying them on. Online ordering is tough.
- Some initial stiffness is expected, requiring a break-in period.
Overall, the WILSON 2024 A1000 Infield Fastpitch Softball Gloves are a solid investment for dedicated softball players. They offer excellent quality and performance but might require careful consideration of price and sizing.
3. 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 looking for a reliable glove to help them improve their game. This glove provides a good balance between price and performance, making it a popular choice for many.
What We Like:
- Affordable Price: The Easton Fundamental glove is budget-friendly, making it accessible to a wider range of players.
- Comfortable Fit: Many players find the glove comfortable and easy to break in.
- Durable Construction: The glove is made to last, even with regular use.
- Variety of Styles: Players can choose from several colors and designs.
- Good for Beginners: Its design is well-suited for players just starting out in fastpitch.
What Could Be Improved:
- Leather Quality: The leather might not be as high-quality as more expensive gloves. It may require more breaking-in time.
- Limited Sizing: Only two sizes are offered, which may not fit every player.
- Padding: Some players might prefer more padding in the palm for better impact absorption.
The Easton Fundamental Fastpitch Softball Glove is a solid option for young players or those on a budget. While it might not have all the features of top-of-the-line gloves, it offers good value for its price. It provides a comfortable fit and decent durability.
It’s a great glove to start with!
4. WILSON 2022 A700 Fastpitch Softball Glove Series
Rating: 9.2/10
The WILSON 2022 A700 Fastpitch Softball Glove Series offers a great option for serious softball players. These gloves come in various sizes, making them suitable for players of all ages and positions. They are designed for comfort and performance on the field. Many players find the A700 series to be a reliable choice for catching fastballs and making tough plays.
What We Like:
- The gloves feel comfortable and break in quickly.
- They offer excellent durability; they can withstand many games and practices.
- The A700 series provides good pocket depth, making it easy to secure the ball.
- Wilson’s reputation for quality is evident in these gloves.
- Many players appreciate the glove’s lightweight design.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point might be a bit high for some players.
- Finding the specific size you need can sometimes be difficult; certain sizes sell out quickly.
- Some users report the leather could be softer initially.
Overall, the WILSON 2022 A700 Fastpitch Softball Glove Series is a solid choice for players looking for a reliable and comfortable glove. The quality justifies the cost for many, but availability and price should be considered.
The A700 series gets a thumbs up from us.
5. Rawlings
Rating: 9.4/10
The Rawlings Player Preferred Adult Ball Glove is a popular choice for baseball and slow-pitch softball players. It comes in many styles, so you can find one that fits your hand perfectly. This glove is designed for players who want a high-quality glove without breaking the bank. It’s known for its comfortable feel and durability.
What We Like:
- The glove feels great. It’s comfortable to wear for hours.
- It’s durable. This glove can handle many games and practices.
- The price is reasonable. You get a lot of glove for your money.
- Many styles are available. You can find a glove that matches your position and playing style.
- The leather breaks in nicely. It becomes even more comfortable over time.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some players find the glove a little stiff at first. It requires some time to break in completely.
- The color options could be more varied. More color choices would be nice.
- Sizing might be a little tricky. It’s important to check the size chart carefully before ordering.
Overall, the Rawlings Player Preferred Adult Ball Glove is a solid choice for adult players. It offers a good balance of comfort, durability, and affordability. It’s a great glove for regular use.
This glove is a strong contender for your next baseball or softball season.
Choosing the Right Infield Softball Glove: A Buyer’s Guide
Picking the perfect infield softball glove can feel overwhelming. There are so many choices! But don’t worry, this guide will help you find the glove that’s right for you. We’ll cover the key features, materials, and things to watch out for.
Key Features to Look For
- Size: Infield gloves are generally smaller than outfield gloves. 11.5 inches to 12.5 inches is common for younger players or those with smaller hands. Older players or those with larger hands might prefer 11.75 inches to 12.75 inches.
- Pattern: Different patterns affect how the glove feels and how easily you can catch the ball. Try several patterns to find what you like best.
- Webbing: The webbing is the part between your thumb and pinky finger. It affects how you see the ball. Closed webs are great for quicker plays, while open webs give you a better view of the ball.
- Material: The glove’s material affects its durability and how it feels. We’ll discuss materials in more detail below.
- Price: Prices vary greatly. A more expensive glove isn’t always better. Consider your skill level and how often you play.
Important Glove Materials
The materials used in your glove directly affect its performance and lifespan.
- Leather: Full-grain leather is the best. It’s durable and forms to your hand well. It is expensive, but worth the price for frequent players.
- Synthetic Leather: A more affordable option that is still pretty durable. It might not last as long as full-grain leather.
- Lining: The lining is the inside of the glove. A comfortable lining reduces chafing and makes the glove more pleasant to use. Look for soft, breathable linings.
Factors Affecting Glove Quality
- Construction: A well-constructed glove will have strong stitching and durable materials. Examine the seams carefully.
- Break-in: All new gloves need to break-in. This softens the leather and makes it more comfortable to use. The process takes time and effort.
- Padding: Padding protects your hands. More padding equals more comfort, but may make the glove feel bulkier.
- Flexibility: A glove that’s too stiff is difficult to use. A glove that’s too flexible might not provide enough support.
User Experience and Use Cases
Your glove should fit your playing style and skill level.
- Beginners: Start with a moderately priced glove made of synthetic leather. A smaller size is usually easier to handle.
- Experienced Players: Experienced players might prefer a full-grain leather glove for its superior durability and feel. They often choose a glove based on their preferred playing style and position.
- Different Positions: Infield gloves are designed for various positions like shortstop, second base, and first base. The best glove for you depends on your position and playing style.
- Maintenance: Proper care extends the life of your glove. Condition your glove regularly to keep the leather soft and supple.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: How do I break in my new glove? A: Use a glove mallet or ball to work the leather. You can also wear it around the house or while watching TV.
- Q: What size glove should I get? A: It depends on your hand size and playing position. Try different sizes in a store before you buy.
- Q: What type of leather is best? A: Full-grain leather is the most durable, but synthetic leather is more affordable.
- Q: How much should I spend? A: Prices range widely. Set a budget based on your skill level and how often you play.
- Q: How often should I condition my glove? A: Condition your glove regularly, especially in dry climates. This prevents cracking and keeps the leather soft.
- Q: What’s the difference between open and closed webbing? A: Open webbing gives you a better view of the ball. Closed webbing is better for quick plays.
- Q: Can I use an outfield glove for infield? A: You could, but it’s not ideal. Outfield gloves are bigger and less maneuverable.
- Q: What is a glove mallet used for? A: A glove mallet is used to help break in a new glove more quickly and efficiently.
- Q: How do I clean my softball glove? A: Use a soft cloth and a mild soap to clean dirt and grime. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Q: Where can I buy a good quality infield softball glove? A: Sporting goods stores, online retailers, and some department stores carry a wide selection of softball gloves.
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.