How To Choose A New Fastpitch Softball Glove

There are many choices in Fastpitch Softball Gloves today. It can be very confusing to choose the best glove for you with all the sizes, styles, materials and models available today.
Fastpitch Softball Gloves generally have a larger pattern (length) than a baseball glove because the ball is larger. A deeper pocket is usually designed into a softball glove as well. Akadema, one of the most exciting new glove manufacturers; designed some Women's and Girls Fastpitch Softball gloves with smaller finger slots. The distance between the thumb and index finger is shorter to accommodate a smaller hand.

One important thing to know is that you should not buy a glove that your child can “grow into”. The glove needs to fit properly and be the proper length (this is usually called the Pattern size of the glove) to allow them to develop proper fielding mechanics and not cheat by having a longer glove. A proper fitting glove will also help the beginning player feel more confident because the glove is snug on the hand and easier to manage and won’t keep falling off.
Remember, a six or eight year old child has a pretty small hand and not as strong as those 14A level players on the next field over.

Let's start by deciding what Position you Normally play. This can help determine the size or pattern of the glove. Most kids will play several positions to start with so a Utility glove may be the best choice for beginners. Below is a quick view chart to get you started.

Glove Size ----- Softball Position

14.5 inch -------- Outfield - Men

14 inch ----------- Outfield - Men

13.5 inch -------- Outfield

13 inch ----------- Utility

12.75 inch ------- Utility

12.5 inch -------- Utility

12 inch ----------- Infield

11.75 inch ------- 2nd Base/Youth

11.5 inch -------- Youth

11 inch ----------- Youth

10.5 inch -------- Youth

9.5 inch ---------- Youth/6-8 yrs

How To Measure a Glove

Fastpitch Softball Gloves and First Base Mitts are measured from the top of the index finger of the glove down along the inside of the pocket and out to the heal of the glove. Fastpitch gloves will typically measure from 12 inches to 14.5 inches with youth sizes being smaller.
You should use a flexible tape measure or a length of lace or string. This is so while measuring it can lay in the palm of the glove as it measures giving you an accurate measurement. Measure from the highest point of the index finger.

Catchers Mitts are measured around the circumference of the mitt. All gloves and mitts are measured in inches typically. A Fastpitch Softball Catchers Mitt will measure in the 33 inch to 34.5 inch range. Youth sizes can be smaller.

I still don’t understand what size my kid is! Parents of a beginning player can ask your coach, or have your child try on some of the other kid's gloves to see how they fit. Measure those gloves using the techniques above then look at the chart and read the rest of this article for more tips. Most gloves have the size labeled somewhere on the glove.

Fastpitch Softball Gloves don’t have to be expensive. Good quality gloves that will help your child learn the game and play well are available under $40. Gloves for the serious competitive player to college player can range from under $100 to over $200. So there is a lot of choice out there.

Oufielders: Normally, Fastpitch Softball Outfielders like a larger glove in the 12.5" to 14" pattern. This gives them a deeper pocket and a longer glove to snag that ball from going over the fence or diving to catch one with an outstretched arm. A longer glove makes ball transfer a little slower but the extra catching area is usually a plus for outfielders.
There are designs with open webs in an "H", a "T" and other patterns. This allows you to see the ball as you hold the glove out for a high fly. Closed web designs are also available for outfield use. Some players prefer the closed web to help block the sun.

Infielders: Generally, Fastpitch Softball Infielders prefer a smaller pattern,in the 12" to 12.5" range. This smaller size allows a quicker grab and quicker transfer of the ball to the throwing hand.
There are some new designs that are almost fingerless. These allow you to scoop up that ground ball even quicker.
Sometimes an infielder prefers an open web like the outfielders and sometimes they like them closed to provide more stopping power and control.

Pitchers Usually like a glove that has a closed web. This allows them to hide the ball longer in the glove. Pitchers sometimes like a longer pattern like an outfielder to hide the ball. There are Fastpitch Softball Pitchers gloves designed by professional players. These sometimes have features such as less lacing or no knots on the outside to protect the leg when they slap the glove against it on the release of the ball. I know, pitchers can be weird about things.

First Baseman Mitts are similar to a regular fielders glove but have more of a mitt shape to them. They don't have fingers, but instead have a thin but stiff pad that runs around the circumference of the glove. They are usually larger to help scoop up those "bad" throws. This larger size gives them more control to catch the softball with. There are still a lot of first basewomen that use a standard fielders glove also.
It is not required to use a First Base Mitt if you play first base but you can not use a First Base or Catchers Mitt at any other fielding position.

Catchers Mitts are probably the most specific and don't look much like the other gloves. They are kind of round in shape and are measured by the circumference of the mitt. Fastpitch Softball Catchers Mitts usually are in the 33" to 34.5" range. They sometimes have added or special palm padding to help with the sting of a really fast pitcher.
Today's Fastpitch Catchers mitt is larger and shallower than it used to be making it more flexible and similar to a First base mitt. This allows for quicker ball transfer, which is essential in this very quick game of Fastpitch Softball.

Web Styles:

Open Web gloves are typically preferred by the middle infielders, first basemen and some outfielders. This Open Web helps hold the ball better and allows you to transfer the ball quicker. These are Fastpitch Gloves with a "T" or "H" web design. There are many variations of these webs.

Closed Web gloves usually preferred by Pitchers, third and some outfielders allows the ball to be hidden from the batter and also gives better support when catching an outfield fly or line drive.
This web type basically means you can't see through it. These would be the "Beehive" or "Spiral Lock" type webs. There are many variations of these webs.

Open Back or Closed Back

Open Back gloves are usually a little cooler and lighter. They can be fitted more snugly on the wrist. There are different methods for adjusting the strap; Velcro and D-rings are common methods.

Closed Back gloves usually just have a hole for your index finger to slip through. Some have a Velcro strap or D-ring to help adjust the size and make it a more snug fit.

Most Fastpitch Softball gloves should be worn with a batting glove on the hand. This will help keep moisture from the inside of the glove. This can also help take the sting out of hard throws and adjust the fit of the glove. Change the batting glove if it becomes wet. Some leagues don't allow the pitcher to wear a batting glove. Supposedly it distracts the batter.

Materials

Most of today's gloves are made from a top-quality leather. There are some cheaper brands that use mostly synthetic materials. These are not going to last nearly as long as a quality leather glove but may be all you need at the moment.

A good quality Fastpitch Softball glove will be made of Steerhide, Cowhide, Buffalo hide, Kip leather (a younger or smaller steer), pigskins or other exotic animal hides.
Steerhide is generally the better material and it comes in several variations. Buffalo hide is good too but usually is much stiffer, so it requires a lot more break in. Manufacturers will tan the hide and give it brand names. This is a subject for another article.
Higher end, higher quality gloves usually are made from heavier leathers that help them last longer and perform differently and better.

Remember to take care of your new glove and it will take care of you on the field. Use only manufacturer suggested glove conditioners, if it gets wet then dry it with a towel and let it air dry – never use a hair dryer. Then you can apply a small amount of conditioner if necessary.
When the game is over, wipe the dirt from your glove and any excess moisture. Put a ball in the pocket and tie it with a length of pre-wrap just like you use to hold your hair back.

About the Author

BHenks is a fastpitch softball enthusiast and has been involved in fastpitch softball and baseball for 20 years as a parent and coach. For more information on this subject and others please visit http://www.BuyFastpitchGloves.com for some of the best fastpitch softball gloves and related accessories. Talk about Fastpitch Softball over at http://fastpitchsoftballtalk.blogspot.com/

NWT Easton Synergy Fastpitch Womens Softball SYFP 2000 Catchers Mitt Glove RHT US $69.99

WILSON Genuine Leather A360 Oversized Pocket Softball Glove RH Mitt 13 ES13 US $25.00

Rawlings SG96 Premium Softball Mitt Glove Left Throw 133 4 Excellent Cond US $49.99

EASTON EX1400 BASE BALL SOFTBALL LEATHER GLOVE MITT RIGHT HAND THROW US $19.98

EASTON Pro 11 Infield INF Leather Baseball Softball glove mitt made in the USA US $30.00

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BASEBALL SOFTBALL GLOVE MITT FIELD Silver European Charm Bead fit for bracelet US $9.95

NWT EASTON BASEBALL SOFTBALL GLOVE MITT 13 INCH RIGHT HAND RLX300B LEATHER WOW US $34.99

BASEBALL SOFTBALL GLOVE MITT PROFESSIONAL TOP GRADE COWHIDE POWERSPORT FOR LEFTY US $16.95

Akadema AJB 74 RT 12 in Ladies Softball Fielders Glove Mitt Reg US $80.00

BASEBALL MOM Street Sign bat mitt glove gift softball team trophy award player US $7.99

Wilson Softball Glove Mitt A360 125 US $12.99

Cooper Pro Diamond Series Softball Glove Mitt 330V 115 US $9.99

RCO 13 LEFT HAND PREMIUM LEATHER WORTH SOFTBALL GLOVE MITT US $14.99

Mizuno MZ1320 13 Adult Softball Glove Mitt US $21.45

Easton 13 Slow pitch softball right hand throw glove mitt 13inch Redline NEW US $25.99

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RAWLINGS LEFT Handed Pink Black T Ball Baseball Softball Mitt 9 Glove Girls US $19.99

Baseball Softball Teeball Glove Mitt Boys Girls 105 Inches Youth Leather Field US $3.99

Akadema 34 in Fast Pitch Softball Catcher Mitt Glove US $86.90

BASEBALL Street Sign bat mitt glove softball new gift team coach game player US $7.99

New Wilson Fastpitch Softball 125 Mitt Glove with over sized pocket US $35.00

BRAND NEW WOMENS LOUSVILLE SLUGGER SOFTBALL GLOVE MITT GTPS 125 NEW WITH TAGS US $39.99

Vintage WILSON Softball Signature First Baseman Baseball Glove Mitt US $9.99

WILSON AD700 Right Handed Leather Baseball Softball Glove Mitt 12 1 2 US $9.99

Softball Glove Mitt article

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Softball Glove Mitt

what is the best way to break in a new baseball glove (catchers mitt)?

wilson a2000 kip leather

I would suggest trying some glove conditioner to help soften the pocket. You'll also need to play catch a lot, and try using a "glove sock" or some heavy rubber bands wrapped around the glove while keeping a baseball in the pocket when you're not using it.

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Easton Catchers Glove Used US $20.00

RAWLINGS GGCM41L 34 GOLD GLOVE LEGEND PROFESSIONAL PATTERN CATCHERS MITT NWT US $32.88

LEFT HAND THROWER RAWLINGS GGCMG 325 GOLD GLOVE GAMER CATCHERS MITT NWT US $31.00

RAWLINGS RCM30T FULL SIZE YOUTH CATCHERS MITT JOE MAUER BASEBALL GLOVE US $31.00

Vintage Baseball Catchers Mit Glove Mac Gregor Gold Smith C Great fro Display US $9.99

Mizuno Baseball Catchers Glove Prospect Series US $7.95

Used Franklin 4609 9 ½ inch Baseball Softball Glove Catchers Leather Laced US $.99

TPX Omaha youth catchers glove 315inch RHT OSCM Select Series Bruise Gard US $10.50

Baseball Catchers Glove Cooper Diamond Deluxe 652 US $9.50

Old Rare Vintage 1940s Baseball Catcher Mitt Glove Ashtray Silver Occupied Japan US $74.99

Denkert Catchers Glove Del Crandel Model M 229 US $15.00

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WILSON A2000 A2403 1791 ST 325 INCH BASEBALL CATCHERS MITT GLOVE 1791ST US $125.50

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Heaton Helite 5 Catcher Goalie Hockey Glove Mitt Large 6700 US $19.99

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Tips on How to Become a Better Catcher

There is only one everyone in every baseball diversion that can be the catcher. If you have been preferred for this blemish, or are running towards education someone to be real as the catcher, you can pursue some simple guidelines to help. By aware what the basics are for being the catcher, you can help to make a difference on the scoreboard of the sport.

With any catcher, they will want to make steady that they are about five to ten feet from the home foot line. Whether someone is up to bat, or whether they are running from third build, staying this far will help the catcher. It would first give them the ability to halt unharmed away from the guise who is running or from the sphere thumping them at a nearer race. It will also give them the ability to use the area and time to see precisely where the globe is free to hit.

When you are footing and waiting at the sphere, you will want to make persuading that you are in a stand that allows your body to scheme the best. This will first mean care the feet in one rank that allows you to move your glove familiar or backward. This will also help you to see precisely where the sphere is pending from. You will also want to be slightly bent to clutch the sphere more effectively. If the globe launch up advanced, it will be easier to move your glove to obstacle it. If the globe reduce, you can move to your knees to scoop it up at a quicker tempo.

By following these two techniques, you can then learn how to sock different types of balls more effectively. For example, if the sphere is a low pitch, you will want to make positive to fastener it before it hits the ground. This means that you will have to tender your glove to more effectively fastener the globe. If it is a getting ball, you will want to use a slightly different method. Usually, you won't have to move your glove, but basically contrive your body to ensure that the ball is fixed and is definite as a strike.

Even though you are behind home corrupt, the responsibilities for the catcher are just as important as anyone else, and can make a difference in charming or losing a plucky. If you are learning to play the stand of catcher, then decision out what the essential techniques and the different possibilities for each play are can help you to get the ball just when you want it.

About the Author

Want to find out about cricket facts and cricket gloves? Get tips from the Cricket Rules website.

Catchers Glove

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Catchers Glove

What kind of glove person are you?

I'm a Rawlings guy myself, I'm also an Easton Bat guy and a Franklin batting glove guy as well.

Glove: Mitzuno

Batting Gloves: Franklin

Bat: DeMarini or Easton

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1 PR Rawlings Upperhand Batting Gloves Large White US $18.50

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1 PR Rawlings Workhorse Batting Gloves LARGE L Maroon US $24.50

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Catch A Steal On Catchers Gloves

You are about to discover the information you have been searching for. I hope you discover it helpful.

Catchers gloves can run you hundreds of dollars, so you want make sure you're investing your currency wisely. Your new mitt should not just grab your eye and wow you with its rich leather. There are a bundle of other things you should take into consideration when you're picking out your glove. These include your size, the amount you project to play, the level that you can play at, and, of course, your budget.

For example, if you're a hardcore participant who can't think of being anywhere else on the diamond besides squatting behind home plate, then there's no doubt that you should invest in a solid catchers mitt.

However, if you play in a rec league on the weekends, or on the company team every year, you may desire to reconsider, especially if you shift around the infield. In this case, a weekend warrior similar to yourself may contemplate buying a utility glove, which is larger than a conventional infielder glove but not quite as big as an outfield or catchers mitt.

Again, when it comes to cost, the same fundamental rule applies. If you're only looking for catchers gloves to mess about with once in a while, you may contemplate a professional grade glove a bit pricy. Then again, high end gloves from companies like Nokona and Rawlings are far more durable than a cheapie you can buy for $20. Sure, high quality baseball gloves cost more, but they will last longer, handle better, and work superior.

Once you figure out what make and model you want, head to the store. You want to absolutely stick your hands in a glove to see if it really is for you. You don't want an uncomfortable glove affecting how you play in a game. Part of the perfect feel for catchers gloves comes from your age and body size. A "pattern size" determines how large a glove is.

This measures from the glove's heel at your wrist to the glove's top on the palm side near your fingers. Youth gloves measure from 8 inches to a foot, while adults have a 12 to 13 inch extent.

(A bit on first base mitts). The Good Professional Baseball First Base Mitts are designed with the professional and collegian baseball player in mind. Good baseball first base gloves provide superior performance for players of all ages and abilities.

So that's the information I have on that subject. I hope it was helpful and you were able to get something out of it.

About the Author

William Smith lives in Florida with his wife and three cats. William writes frequently on many subjects that may be of interest to all. Discover all the joys and secrets of baseball at
Baseball's Holy Grail

Rawlings Batting Gloves

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Rawlings Batting Gloves

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Wilson A2000 Catchers Mitt Pro Stock A2403 Pudge 325 Japan AHO US $149.00

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Catchers Mitt

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Catchers Mitt