Softball is similar to baseball. The only modifications are the size of the field and the circumference of the ball. There are nine positions in softball, and they include infield positions, outfield positions, pitcher and catcher. Infield positions are the first baseman, second baseman, third baseman, shortstop, and outfield positions, including left, right, and center fielders.
There are two types of softball, and they are slowpitch and fastpitch. In slowpitch softball, players throw the ball underarm, causing the ball to move at a slow speed of about 25 MPH. In contrast, in a fastpitch softball, the pitcher spins the ball in a windmill motion before throwing it underarm. This spinning causes the ball to move at speeds that exceed 65 MPH. all positions in softball use gloves and gloves for slowpitch and fastpitch softball are different. This difference is because the gloves have designs to suit the mode of play in each game. Slowpitch gloves have deeper pockets than fastpitch gloves because it is easier to trap balls in the web with deep pockets. Examples of fastpitch gloves include Wilson Aura, Easton Ghost Tournament Elite, Mizuno MVP prime, etc. Examples of slowpitch softball gloves include the Wilson A2000, Mizuno Classic Elite, Rawlings Liberty series.
Gloves are necessary for softball games because they improve player’s performance. Catchers and first basemen use mitts instead of gloves. Although you can use gloves and mitts interchangeably, mitts do not have separations on the fingers. Mitts have designs that make it easy to grab and keep a ball moving at high speeds. Measurement for mitts is about the circumference, and the sizes range between 31 and 34½ inches. Catcher’s mitts have the deepest pockets, and the mitt has heavy padding about its circumference. Another feature of catcher’s mitts is its lightweight design. Lightweight gloves improve player’s speeds in transferring the ball.
On the other hand, first base mitts do not have extra padding about the circumference, and the glove looks like a mixture of a catcher’s mitt and a fielding glove. Another difference is that a first base mitt’s pocket is not as deep as a catcher’s mitt. A first base mitt can be about 14 inches in length, and it is the longest of all field gloves. The extra length provides enough space for the first baseman to catch balls from the infield. Infield gloves have shorter pockets and sizes between 11¼ to 12 inches in length. This small size helps the player transfer balls quickly from the glove to the hand. Outfield gloves are long and able to catch balls at faster speeds. They have sizes ranging between 13 and 14 inches. For pitchers, there is no specific glove size. However, they use infield gloves for quick transfer of the ball and conceal the pitcher’s pitch from the opposing batter.
Different glove styles allow players to be versatile in their game. These designs include Open back, closed back, Velcro adjustment, lace adjustment, D-ring adjustment, and buckle adjustment. Gloves with an open back style have the top part of the wrist exposed, which increases flexibility—the style suits infielders. The glove covers the hand completely for closed-back style, and there is a hole for index fingers. These holes allow the players to position their fingers outside the glove, creating extra support. Outfield players prefer the Closed-back glove style. The Velcro adjustment style is the most convenient for players. It has a strap that allows players to loosen or tighten the glove in few seconds. This adjustable strap provides a custom and more secure fit to the glove. For lace adjustment, the glove has laces along the wrist, and the player can tighten the glove by pulling the laces. This adjustment takes more time than the Velcro adjustment.
In contrast, D-ring adjustment allows a quicker adjustment because you can only pull one lace to tighten the glove. This adjustment also has laces around the wrist. For buckle adjustment, there is a buckle at the back of the wrist that has a flap. The flap allows adjustment for tightening and loosening the glove and secure it.
There are different gloves from various manufacturers and models on the market. Therefore, before purchasing a glove, you have to consider several factors. These factors include the web design of the glove, the fit and position, age of player, dominant hand, cost, break-in period, and glove materials. There are two web designs for gloves, and they are the open web and closed web design. Open web design allows for better handling of the ball and also helps transfer balls quickly to the hand. This type of web design is ideal for infielders. Closed web design makes concealing the ball easier and also increases support when catching fast-moving balls. Another factor to consider when purchasing gloves is the player’s position and how comfortable the glove is. Comfortable gloves improve performance and control in players. The best fit for players is to make sure that the glove is not more than one inch longer than the fingers. Some players are right-handed, while some are left-handed. For right-handed players, left-hand throw gloves are suitable because you wear gloves on your non-dominant hand.
The break-in period and cost of gloves are also important factors when choosing a glove. Ensure you purchase that can quickly break-in. A proper broken-in glove is comfortable and feels like an extension of your hand. Regarding cost, some gloves are overpriced. There is a wide range of gloves that are durable and comfortable but also affordable. There are different materials for making gloves. They include synthetic materials, pigskin, cowhide, full-grain leather, and steer hide leather. Synthetic materials are the least durable of all glove-making materials. Only young players can use this type of glove because they will outgrow it. Pigskin and cowhide are more durable and comfortable than synthetic materials. Although cowhide is more durable than pigskin, pigskin glove is more flexible. Full-grain leather is the most common material for adult softball gloves. The gloves are durable and comfortable, but they are stiff and take time to break-in. Steer hide leather is the heaviest and most durable glove-making material. These gloves are more durable than other materials and take a lot of time to break-in. you may also be interested in Custom Softball Gloves
A review of the top eleven slowpitch gloves is provided below with regards to the factors above. Do well to follow through.
The Best Slowpitch Softball Gloves are Reviewed Below
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Below is a compilation of the best slowpitch softball gloves, considering factors such as type of leather, design, position, manufacturer, etc. Do well to follow through and see the ones that suit your needs.
1
Wilson A2000 Superskin Slowpitch Softball Glove
The Wilson A2000 Superskin glove is a product of Wilson sporting goods. This glove is from pro stock leather and is 13 inches in size. It is lightweight, easy to break-in, and has strength and durability. The strength of this glove comes from the pro stock leather and Superskin, and the glove design suits outfielders.
The glove has features such as a dual post web with a double bar, an open back, and gap welting. The dual post web gives the glove a durable pocket, and it consists of two leather straps on each finger. The Wilson A2000 has options of right-hand throw or left-hand throw. The glove comes in sizes 13 and 13.5, and it has a 1-year warranty.
Key Features:
- Pro stock leather
- Superskin
- Right-hand throw and left-hand throw
- Dual post web with double bar
- Open back
- Gap welting
Specification:
- Brand: Wilson
- Dimensions: 12 × 8 × 6 inches
- Weight: 11 ounces
Pros
- Quality leather with dual welting
- Durable material
- Light and flexible
- Break-in easily
- Suitable for both right-handed and left-handed players
- One-year warranty
Cons
- Only suitable for outfielders
- The glove comes only in size 13 and therefore not suitable for all players
2
Easton Blackstone Slowpitch Softball Glove
The Easton Blackstone glove is a product of Easton. It is an H-Web glove from cowhide leather which reinforces the web durability and reinforces the pocket. The glove is suitable for all positions, and it is 13 inches in size. The glove has a palm lining that improves the feel and makes the glove comfortable. The glove is soft and easy to open and close. There is also a selection for left-hand throw and right-hand throw gloves to suit both right-handed and left-handed players. The glove does not have a warranty, but it is very durable because of its cowhide leather.
Key Features:
- Cowhide leather
- Right-hand throw and left-hand throw glove
- H-Web
- 13 inches
Specification:
- Brand: Easton
- Package dimensions: 10.5 × 9 × 7 inches
- Package weight: 25 ounces
Pros
- Durable glove
- Suitable for all positions
- Ideal for both right-handed and left-handed players
- Easy break-in
- Palm lining increases durability
- Strong pockets from rawhide leather
Cons
- The glove is not flexible
3
Mizuno Premier Slowpitch Softball Glove
Mizuno is a leading producer of sporting goods. The Mizuno Premier Slowpitch glove is a durable, affordable, and quality glove. The glove is available in the right and left-hand throw, making it suitable for both right-handed and left-handed players. The glove has features such as a butter-soft palm-liner which improves durability and comfort. The glove has a full-grain leather palm and pigskin leather on the back to make the glove sturdy. The glove is secure because it has a power lock wrist strap. The glove is available in U-web and H-Web designs. The glove is flexible, has an easy break-in, and comes in varying lengths of 12, 12.5, 13, and 14 inches to suit player preferences
Key Features:
- U-web and H-Web designs
- Pigskin leather
- Butter soft palm-liner
- Power lock wrist strap
Specification:
- Brand: Mizuno
- Package dimensions: 12.72 × 9.76 × 7.36 inches
- Package weight: 25 ounces
Pros
- Durable and flexible glove
- Easy to break-in
- Suitable for players of all skill levels
- Ideal for both right and left-handed players
- Tough pocket
- The glove is secure with a power lock wrist strap
Cons
- Not ideal for players with large hands
4
Louisville Slugger TPS Slowpitch Softball Glove
Louisville Slugger is a top manufacturer of sports equipment such as bats, helmets, gloves, etc. They are known for producing equipment to suit player’s needs and incorporating new technologies. The Louisville Slugger TPS glove is a high-performance glove that is hot out of the wrapper. The glove has selections for both right-handed and left-handed players, and it is from top-shelf leather. The glove is suitable for both outfielders and infielders, and it comes in various sizes of 13, 13.5, and 14 inches. The glove has a dual post web design with a drawstring closure, giving the glove a classic look. The glove is durable and comes with a one-year warranty.
Key Features:
- Top shelf leather
- Drawstring closure
- Dual post web
- Left and right-hand orientation
Specification:
- Brand: Louisville Slugger
- Package dimensions: 11.42 × 11.1 × 6.61 inches
- Weight: 24 ounces
Pros
- Durable with one year warranty
- Classic look with drawstring closure and dual post web
- Suitable for both right and left-handed players
- Both outfielders and infielders can use the glove
- Variable sizes to suit players preferences
Cons
- The glove is stiff and not flexible
- Long break-in period
5
Miken Pro Series Slowpitch Softball Glove
Miken gloves are quality gloves with soft full-grain leather that retains the shape, and the leather gives the glove a game-ready feel. The glove has a pro H-Web design that makes the glove strong and gives it ball snagging functionality. Another feature of the glove is the PORON XRD palm padding that reduces the impact on the hand from the ball. The glove is easy to break in with about 70% break-in from the factory. The glove has a custom fit that features an adjustable quick-release wrist with a pull strap system. It is suitable for both recreational and competitive purposes. The glove comes in sizes 13, 13.5, and 14 inches, and it has options for right-handed and left-handed players.
Key Features:
- Soft, full-grown leather
- Pro H-Web design
- PORON XRD palm padding
- 70% factory break-in
- Adjustable quick-release wrist with pull strap system
Specification:
- Brand: Miken
- Package dimensions: 11.3 × 8.2 × 7.8 inches
- Package weight: 27 ounces
Pros
- Game-ready feel with 70% factory break-in
- Easy to break-in
- Suitable for recreational and competitive purposes
- Suitable for both right and left-handed players
- Custom-fit
- Reduction in impact from the ball
- Shape retention and ball snagging
- Variable sizes to suit player’s preferences
Cons
- It fits tightly on the wrist
- The glove has no warranty
6
Rawlings Renegade Softball Glove
Rawlings Renegade Softball Glove is a first base glove with variable lengths between 11.5 and 13 inches. There are options for the catcher’s mitts which are also available in varying sizes. The Rawlings Renegade is suitable for both right-handed and left-handed players. It is helpful for both recreational and competitive purposes. The glove features include Zeroshock sting reduction technology that reduces stings on impact, Velcro wrist strap that provides a comfortable fit. The glove is lightweight and can easily field ground balls and fly balls. The glove is game-ready out of the wrapper with a 90% factory break-in. The glove also has a highly cushioned palm with index finger padding for comfort. The glove design is a single post. The double-bar web and the full-grain leather increase the glove’s durability and shape retention. Other features include a flexible shell, mesh back, and soft lining material.
Key Features:
- Zeroshock sting reduction technology
- Velcro wrist strap
- Full-grain leather
- High density cushioned palm
- Index fingers padding
- Single-post, double-bar web
- Right hand and left-hand orientation
- Lightweight with flexible shell, soft lining materials, and mesh back
Specification:
- Brand: Rawlings
- Item Dimensions: 11 × 9 × 8.5 inches
- Item weight: 20 ounces
Pros
- Variable sizes to suit player’s preferences
- Suitable for both right-handed and left-handed players
- Ideal for recreational and competitive purposes
- Reduction in stings on impact
- Customized fit
- Ideal for catching ground balls and fly balls
- 80% factory break-in
- Easy break-in for player
- Durable glove with shape retention because of full-grain leather
- Cushioned palm and index fingers for better feel and comfort
- Flexible shell with a mesh back
Cons
- Some players are concerned about the durability of the glove
- Suitable for only first basemen
7
Easton El Jefe Slowpitch Glove
Easton El Jefe Slowpitch glove is a product of Easton, a top manufacturer of softball equipment. The glove has a diamond pro-steer leather that improves its durability. It also has a dual-bar single-post web design with varying sizes between 12.5 and 14 inches. The glove is suitable for all positions, and it has options for both right-hand and left-handed players. The palm and finger of the El Jefe have a soft oiled classic cowhide to improve comfort and feel, and the patterns of the glove suit a softball design. The pocket of the glove is deep and can absorb impact.
Key Features:
- Dual bar single post web
- Palm and shell from diamond pro steer leather
- Classic cowhide oiled leather palm finger liming, which is soft
- Softball patterns
- Pro-grade rawhide laces
- Deep pocket design
Specification:
- Brand: Easton
- Package dimensions: 12 × 7 × 4 inches
- Package weight: 8 ounces
Pros
- Suitable for all positions
- One-year warranty
- Softball design for maximum performance
- Palm and finger liming for comfort and improved feel
- Deep pocket for accuracy and durability
Cons
- The glove has a stiff feel
8
Worth XT Extreme Slowpitch Softball Glove
The Worth XT extreme slowpitch glove is a right-hand throw glove that is 13 inches in size. This glove is from XT extreme leather, which is durable and easy to break in. this glove is suitable for recreational and competitive purposes. Pitchers, outfielders, and infielders can make use of this glove. The XT extreme has a custom fit with a quick-release pull strap system at the wrist. It also has a cushioned palm and index finger pads, which provide maximum comfort for the player. The glove is suitable for large hands because it is available in 14 and 15 inches. The glove is also available in right and left-hand orientations.
Key Features:
- Right-hand throw
- XT Extreme Leather glove
- 13-inch glove
- Custom-fit with adjustable straps
- High-performance glove with maximum comfort
- H-Web design
Specification:
- Brand: Worth
- Length: 13 inches
- Weight: 5 pounds
Pros
- 70 to 80% factory break-in gives the glove a game-ready feel
- A comfortable, high-performance glove
- Custom-fit with adjustable, quick-release pull strap system at the wrist
- Suitable for recreational and competitive purposes
- Ideal for outfielders, infielders, and pitchers
- Highly durable glove from XT extreme leather
- Suitable for adult players and people with long fingers
Cons
- The glove is not easy to break-in
9
Wilson A360 Slowpitch Glove
The Wilson A360 is a versatile slowpitch glove and from leather. The glove has a closed V-lace web that transfers balls from the glove to the hand quickly. The glove is 13 inches in size, and it has a game-ready feel. The glove comes in right-hand throw, and it is suitable for both recreational and competitive purposes. The glove has a Velcro wrist strap that Iis adjustable and aids custom fit. The Wilson A360 has deep pockets and long fingers, and it is ideal for both outfielders and infielders
Key Features:
- Right-hand throw
- 13 inches leather glove
- Factory break-in
- Closed V-lace web
- Adjustable velcro strap
- Deep pocket and long fingers
Specification:
- Brand: Wilson
- Size: 13 inches
Pros
- Versatile and suitable for both outfielders and infielders
- Adjustable velcro wrist strap to give players a custom fit
- Game-ready feel
- Easy to break-in
- Suitable for recreational and competitive purposes
- Easy to transfer balls to the hand quickly
- Durable leather glove
Cons
- The glove is not well padded
10
Mizuno GFN1250S1 Franchise Slowpitch Softball Glove
This glove is a quality glove from Mizuno. Products from Mizuno are standard products that incorporate new technologies to improve durability and performance. The GFN1250S1 franchise gloves are from java leather, and they come in both right and left-hand throw. The glove has variable sizes of 12.5, 13, and 14 inches. It has features such as a Parashock palm pad that improves comfort and reduces impact to the hand and Powerlock closure for maximum performance. The glove also has a patented quick form lacing and Hi-low lacing that enhances the flexibility and integrity of the glove. The glove comes with a warranty that covers manufacturers’ defects.
Key Features:
- Left and right-hand throw glove
- 12.5-inch leather glove
- Pre-oiled Java leather
- Parashock palm pad
- Patented Quickform Lacing
- Powerlock closure
- Hi-low lacing
Specification:
- Brand: Mizuno
- Item Dimensions: 9 × 5 × 3.1 inches
- Weight: 0.02 lbs
Pros
- Left and right-hand throw makes the glove suitable for all players
- Variable sizes of 12.5, 13, and 14 inches make the glove ideal for all players
- Parashock palm pad absorbs shocks and makes the glove comfortable
- Hi-low lacing with the patented Quickform Lacing increases flexibility and protects the integrity of the fully laced web
- Pre-oiled leather makes the glove game ready and durable
- Powerlock closure improves performance
Cons
- The glove is difficult to break-in
11
Mizuno MVP Slowpitch Glove
The Mizuno MVP gloves are long-lasting gloves from full-grain bio throwback leather and a professional level lace that gives the glove a premium look. The glove is a 12.5-inch glove with both right and left-hand orientations. The glove comes game-ready, and it has a center pocket design that improves performance. The glove is suitable for both infielders and outfielders, and it has an ultra-soft palm liner that enhances the feel and gives the glove a soft finish. The glove is easy to break-in, and it has a powerlock closure that improves performance.
Key Features:
- Ultra-soft palm liner
- Professional level lace
- Powerlock closure
- Full-grain bio throwback leather
- 12.5 inches leather glove
- Right and left-hand throw glove
- Center pocket design patterns
Specification:
- Brand: Mizuno
- Item Dimensions: 12 × 6 × 8 Inches
- Weight: 1 lb.
Pros
- Full-grain bio throwback leather make the glove durable
- The center pocket design pattern improves break-in
- Ultra-soft palm liner improves comfort and feel
- Professional level lace gives the glove a professional look
- Powerlock closure improves performance
- Easy break-in
- Right and lefthand throw makes glove suitable for all players
Cons
- Some players complain that glove has a small size
Buying Guide Questions
There are different questions you may have when considering buying a glove. Below is a compilation of answers to frequently asked questions.
What is the best slowpitch softball glove?
Several slowpitch gloves are available in the market. The top three gloves in 2021 include the Wilson A2000 Superskin glove, Easton Blackstone slowpitch glove, and the Mizuno premier slowpitch glove.
What size glove should I use for slow pitch softball?
Slowpitch softball gloves are different from fastpitch and baseball gloves. The slowpitch gloves have sizes ranging between 13 and 15 inches. The size of gloves a player will use depends on age group and the position. Infield gloves are between 13 and 14 inches, while outfield gloves are between 13 and 15 inches. First base mitts have glove sizes between 12.5 and 13 inches. Catchers’ mitt sizes are more extensive than other gloves because you take glove size about the circumference. The size range is between 31 and 34 inches. For the correct glove size, you have to take your measurement. Measure across the circumference of your hand for catcher’s mitts and measure from the tip of your index finger down your wrist for other positions.
What is the difference between fastpitch and slowpitch gloves?
In fastpitch softball, pitch speed exceeds 65 MPH, while in slowpitch softball, pitch speed is about 25 MPH. Due to this speed difference, the number of fly balls hits in slowpitch is more. Therefore, the pocket of slowpitch gloves are a little deeper than fastpitch gloves
Can I use a baseball glove for slow pitch softball?
Baseball gloves are different from softball gloves because the glove design in baseball is for accommodating baseballs which are smaller in size than softballs. The pockets in baseball gloves are small and long, while softball glove’s pockets are deep and short.
What is the best slowpitch softball glove brand?
There are different glove manufacturers. The best glove brands include Rawlings, Mizuno, Wilson, and Easton.
What does left-hand throw glove mean?
Left-hand throw glove refers to a glove a left-handed player wears on the right hand
Is the 12.75 glove too big?
A 12.75-inch glove is a good fit for outfield positions. The glove has a deep pocket to handle fly balls, giving you more feel and control.
What size glove do college softball infielders use?
Glove size depends on age group. For players between the ages of 10 and 14, gloves between sizes 11.5 and 12.5 are suitable. For players 15 years and up, a size 12 and 13 glove is appropriate.
How do you break in a softball glove?
Breaking in a softball glove removes rigidity and makes the glove fit and feel like an extension of your hand. There are different methods to break-in a softball glove. You have to take proper care when breaking in gloves because some methods may ruin the leather.
What is the most dangerous position in softball?
There are nine positions in softball, but all players need to have hitting skills—injuries in softball result from impact with a batted ball. The dangerous positions that often expose you to batted ball include batting and pitching positions.
Can you bunt in slowpitch softball?
Bunting is a technique that allows the batter to loosely hold the bat in front of the home plate and intentionally tap the ball into play. Bunting is legal in fastpitch softball but illegal in slowpitch. In slowpitch softball, you have to swing the bat fully to hit the ball.
Conclusion
There are different gloves in the market. Selecting one that suits a player’s position and hand orientation while providing comfort, is long-lasting, and affordable is a top priority. This article provided a review of the best slowpitch softball gloves with the player in mind. Do well to follow through and select a love that suits your needs.