Just like its sister baseball, softball has its equipment that is used when playing the game they include; the bat, the helmet, the shin guards, the chest protection, the ball, and the gloves. All the above-mentioned equipment play an important role in softball. Gloves are, however, one of the most important things you need as a softball player. They come in different sizes and designs to suit the position of different players in the field. Like we all know, there are thousands of gloves brands in the online market, so choosing the best for yourself or your child can be overwhelming, below are some factors you need to consider when buying an infielder softball glove.
Factors to Consider When Buying an Infielders Softball Glove
The Position you are playing
When buying a softball glove, the first thing to consider is the position you are playing for. You are an infielder as such, the glove you will choose must be an infielders glove. However, as an infielder, you have to consider your ability to transfer from glove to hand. Which is the reason why you need to get a glove that will allow you to get the ball out of it and turn it into your hand for a powerful and quick throw. Many cases of a player making a bad throw or dropping a ball have been witnessed due to a lack of effective transfer of the ball from the glove into the hand. The bigger a glove is the faster you will be able to transfer a ball from it into your hand. So when buying a glove, choose the one that is big enough to catch the ball and bog enough to quickly land it into your hands.
Mostly, Infielders wore a glove of about the size of 11.25″ and 12″, those with smaller hands usually wore that of size 11″. However, third basemen usually require an extra-large glove as they have little reaction time.
The style that fits you
When we talk of style here, we aren’t just talking about a trend. No, we meant the shape of the glove that will give a player some level of trust in it. You can carry a glove you aren’t sure of to the field, this is just like playing with the success of your team. That is why we enjoin you to get used to your glove before the d day arrives.
For most infielders, the style of glove is two, either the shallow pocket type that ensures quick and fast transfer or the deep more defined pocket one. This, however, depends on the preference of the player.
Consider the price of the glove
This matters a lot; price is a crucial thing to consider whenever you are buying a glove. High-quality gloves usually cost a lot,, sometimes up to $500 or more. However, some gloves cost as low as $100. It all depends on your budget and the kind of glove you want. However, this doesn’t encourage you to buy a cheap glove that will not last long or buying an expensive glove that isn’t of high quality. As we consider the price we also have to consider the quality of the glove, you can know this by checking the customer’s review of the product.
How long do you want your infielder’s glove to last
This is a good question that you are supposed to ask yourself before buying a glove. If you want a glove that will last for seasons, it’s good you go for the high-quality expensive gloves as they are made from more premium material with a high craftmanship than the cheap ones, this will in a way increase their lifespan. However, the most important thing that will add to the longevity of your infield glove is taking good care of it. Other factors that can affect how long a glove can last include the position you are playing, how frequent you played and the weather.
The above-mentioned factors are the most crucial you are supposed to consider when buying an infielders softball glove as they will enable you to stay on the safer side.
In this article, we are going to take a look at the best softball gloves for infielders in 2021, but before then,, let’s look at the role of each player on a softball field.
The Softball Players and their Functions
Softball is a team game that includes a maximum of 9 players who take turns to bat, throw the ball and run to make scores. The players of softball are divided into two, the infielders and the outfielders. The infielders include the three basemen that’s the first, second and third basemen and also the pitcher, the catcher,, and the shortstop. The outfielders are the right fielder, the centre fielder and the left fielder. Here our focus will be more on the infielders as that’s our topic of discussion.
The Pitcher
The pitcher is in charge of throwing the ball to the batter from the pitcher’s mound. The pitcher is expected the stand in his rubber, which is a rectangular area in the pitcher’s mound before making a pitch. A pitcher is expected to stand on the rubber and the mound on both feet as it is located on the ground. A pitcher should make sure his feet are no longer on the rubber once the batter hits the ball.
Mostly, pitchers throw the ball under the arm and allow it to pass throw an imaginary area known as the strike zone that starts from the chest of the pitcher to the knee. When choosing a pitcher, some factors to consider include, upper agility, height,, and strength.
The batter
The better is the person that is sent by a team to compete against the entire opposing team. One batter is chosen by a team at a time,, and his role is to hit the ball and to get to all bases before the ball can give a home run. It is very important to teach all the members of a team how to bat as each of them will take a turn to be better ( both the infielders and the outfielders ). To avoid minor accidents on the field, a batter needs to take all the necessary precautions before going to the plate and hitting the ball. Failure to take precautions can lead to unnecessary accidents. A few of the precautions to be taken by a batter are; proper use of batting helmets, proper handling of bats and properly hitting the ball.
The Catcher
The catcher is a player whose position on the crouch just behind the home plate. The catcher’s role is one of the most important in the team as it deals with getting a score for the team. The roles of the catcher also include throwing the ball ahead of the batter before reaching the bases and catching the ball that is fielded by the third baseman. The catcher is also in charge of calling the pitches, communicating the number of strikes, outs,, and other important details to the other members of the team.
The First Baseman
The first baseman of a team can be found standing at the first base, on the right-hand side beside the pitcher. The first baseman also plays a crucial role in the team as he or she is in charge of catching throws at the first vase to prevent the batter from reaching the ball and scoring it. As we can see, the role of the baseman is a vital role that helps in setting the momentum of the team in preventing the opposing team from scoring a point. As such, the first baseman is expected to be very composed and avoid any distractions as the slightest distraction to the first baseman can be a hindrance to the success of the team.
The Second Baseman
As indicated by the name, the second baseman is also called the second dagger. can be found standing at the second base and is positioned opposite to the home base across the playing field. The second dagger is not expected to be standing at a right angle to the second base, rather should be more by the first base. The second baseman is not only in charge of catching the ball on the second base, but also this player is expected to help the first baseman by throwing the ball to the pitcher while avoiding the opponents. A second baseman is expected to be a right-handed person with the ability to act fast under pressure as the player plays a role that is vital to the success of the team.
The Third Baseman
The third baseman is expected to take care of the last base. This player is in charge of the area diagonally opposite to the first base. When a ball hit by a batter land around the area of the last base, the third baseman is expected to catch that ball. Not only catching the ball is expected from the third baseman, but the player is also tasked with throwing the ball to the catcher before the opponents reach the home plate. The position of the third baseman also requires agility, and the ability to work fast under pressure.
The Shortstop
Standing between the second base and the third base is the shortstop. A player in charge of taking care of balls that ended up within that area. While many see the role of the shortstop as a none crucial one, it isn’t so as most balls tend to stop in between the second and the third base. Like other players in the field, the shortstop is also tasked with fielding and catch the ball baseball the role of the shortstop is the most difficult and most important in the field,, which is why a player has to be very strong and agile to be able to play that role.
The outfielders
As we’ve earlier stated, our focus on this article is on the infielders, as such, we will look into the functions of the outfielders in brief.
The outfield consists of three players, the right fielder, the centre fielder and the left fielder. These three players are kept outside the scope of the four bases or the infield square. Their main task is to catch and throw balls that have extended the infield area and throw them back to their teammates at the bases. Outfielders are usually strong and proficient throws as they are tasked with throwing balls from a distance.
All the players of softball play an important role in the success of the team, no player is superior to another as each player has a crucial role in determining the success of the team. Another thing is, all the players work hand in hand to make sure their team succeed. To achieve success in a softball team, players have to be united as there’s a saying that, united we stand divided we fall. If all the players are united and see one another as “one” then everyone will play with all strength and agility to make sure the team succeeds. The more united team players are, the more strong fanbase they will build. As far as team members show they are one, more and more fans will keep coming to support that team,, and that’s one of the most crucial things needed to see a team forward.
As we’ve earlier stated, choosing an infielders glove isn’t an easy task, as there are different types available at different prices on the online market. To save you from the stress of looking for the best, we have decided to review the best youth softball infielders glove you can ever find this year on Amazon. Isn’t that amazing? Please, grab a chilled juice as you go through the list.
The 10 Best Youth Softball infielders gloves Are Reviewed Below
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Below, we shall look at the 10 best youth softball infielders gloves available on Amazon. These gloves are made from high-quality materials, they are very durable,, and they come at a budget-friendly price.
N.B: The youth softball infielders gloves are reviewed in no order.
1
Louisville Slugger 13-inch Dynasty Softball infielders glove
The Louisville Slugger dynasty softball infielders glove is a good option for the youth infielders. These lightweight gloves are made from leather and they are very comfortable to wear. The glove also features top professional slow-pitch patterns that help infielders catch and throw balls effectively. A unique advantage of these gloves is how they are easily break-in, the Louisville gloves also come with a whopping warranty of one year, which many glove brands don’t provide. The colour of the glove is black with strips of brown. The brand, however, has only one size which is the 13 inches size and have only the left-hand throw orientation.
Key Features:
- It is made from a cowhide leather
- It features a full-grain cowhide palm and web that keep a player comfortable
- It enables infielders to catch and throw balls effectively
- Only left-hand throw orientation is available
- It is highly durable and easily break-in
Specification:
- Brand: Louisville Slugger
- Manufacturer: Louisville slugger
- Colour: Black
- Material: Full-grain cowhide leather
- Size: 13 inches
- Model: 2014
- Hand orientation: Left-Hand throw
- Weight of package: 0.79kg
- Dimension of item package: 12.2 x 8.31 x 7.28 inches ( L x W x H respectively)
- Dimension of item: 5.5 x 7.5 x 11.5 inches. ( L x W x H respectively)
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- It is made from a highly durable leather
- It can be used to play both softball and baseball
- It is very comfortable to wear
- It comes with a 1-year warranty
Cons
- Only one size is available
- Only left-hand throw orientation is available
2
The Wilson Aura Fastpitch Softball Glove for Pitcher
Wondering if you can ever get the perfect pitchers glove? Worry no more, as the Wilson brand got you covered. The Wilson Aura fastpitch softball glove is the ultimate glove for developing your pitching skills. 100% break-in and ready for the game on day one, the glove comes with a comfortable wrist closure to keep you comfortable while playing. It is made from game ready leather and fastpitch specific patterns that will take the skills of an infielder to the next level.
This 12-inch female-specific model comes with a 2 piece weave web, full leather shell and laces and also a game ready top leather. What else do you need that the Wilson brand hasn’t provided?
Key Features:
- It is a 12 inch infield pitchers fastpitch softball glove
- It comes with a two-piece weave web
- It is worn on the left hand as it features the left-hand throw orientation
- It comes with a full leather shell and laces
- The model is female-specific
Specification:
- Brand: Wilson
- Manufacturer: Wilson
- Colour: British Tan, Black
- Material: Leather
- Size: 12 inches
- Suggested users: Both male and female
- Model: 2020 Aura 12″ Pitcher/Infield Softball Glove
- Hand orientation: Right-Hand throw
- Weight of package: 0.57kg
- Dimension of package: 11.3 x 8.74 x 7.64 ( L x W x H respectively)
- Dimension of item: 13 x 8 x 8 inches ( L x W x H respectively)
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- It comes with a two-piece weave web
- It comes with a full leather shell and laces
- It comes with a game ready top leather
- It comes with a comfortable wrist closure
Cons
- Only size 13 inches is available
3
The Holiberty Softball infielders glove for teens and children
The holiberty brand has created the perfect infield glove for children and teens between the age of 2 to 16. The glove comes with a PU lining that makes it more durable and makes children feel comfortable while wearing it. The palm and index finger are highly cushioned to enable the young player to catch the ball with little or no sting on hand. The glove can quickly perspire, and prevent the waste from abrasion. The high-quality leather that the glove is made from gives it an exquisite look and a stunning design and gives players the confidence to perform solidly. The Holiberty glove is also capable of withstanding strong impact and tearing without getting out of shape. Sure, the perfect gift you can give your young child, granddaughter or niece is the Holiberty children and teen softball infield glove. It is also perfect for small hands.
Key Features:
- The high density cushioned palm and index finger palms make it more comfortable when wearing and enable the young players to catch the ball easily
- It comes with a sponge stereoscopic design that prevents the wrist from abrasion.
- It can perspire quickly making it comfortable to wear
- It is fairly lightweight and made from durable PU leather that is wear-resistant.
- It is available in two sizes, the 9.5 inches suggested for toddlers and children and the 11.5 inches suggested for teens
- It is designed mainly for beginners
Specification:
- Brand: Holiberty
- Manufacturer: Holiberty
- Colour: Brown
- Material: Leather
- Sizes: Two sizes available, size 9.5 for children aged 2-4 and size 11.5 for children aged 10-16
- Suggested user: Both Boys and girls
- Part number: Kids-Baseball-Glove-017
- Hand orientation: Left-hand throw
- Weight of package: 0.2 pounds
- Dimension of package: 0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 ( L x W x H respectively)
- Weight of item: 10grams
- Warranty: None
Pros
- It is made from PU leather that is wear-resistant
- The palm and the index finger and densely cushioned making the catching of balls comfortable
- There are different sizes available
- Its design prevents wrist abrasion
- It has an exquisite design and a stunning look
- It is best for small hands
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a warranty
4
Portzon Softball Mitts Pitchers unisex glove
Looking for the perfect softball glove to fit your hand, then the port on softball mitts pitchers unisex softball gloves is the perfect answer for you. This glove is designed with beginners in mind as it made in a way that enables catching and scooping of the ball easily. The glove has leather stripes for added durability, flexibility and making the player feel comfortable. The Portion glove is made from durable, pliable and decently soft PU leather. The presence of cushioned palm and index finger pad provides extra protection to the young players and make the glove more comfortable in their hands. The presence of a flexible catch design enables defensive players to close the glove with ease. To ensure a comfortable just-right fit in the glove features an adjustable Velcro strap closure that gives it a cosy fit.
Key Features:
- The glove is designed with beginners in mind, it fits their hand perfectly and gives them the chance to throw and catch the ball easily.
- It has interwoven leather strips that increase its durability, flexibility and makes it suitable for long term training
- The PU leather used in manufacturing the glove is pliable, decently soft but not too soft making it quite easy to catch balls
- It has an adjustable Velcro strap closure that ensures the right and cosy fit.
Specification:
- Brand: Portion
- Manufacturer: Zuijiangnan Technology – Private Label
- Colour: Black
- Material: Leather
- Model: Prospect Ball Glove
- Sizes: 12.5″
- Suggested users: Male and Female
- Hand orientation: Left-hand throw
- Weight of package: 0.36kg
- Dimension of item package: 10 x 8.9 x 2.8 inches ( L x W x H respectively)
- Warranty: No warranty
Pros
- It has interwoven leather strips that increase durability and flexibility
- It has a high-density palm and index pad that provides an extra protection
- The presence of adjustable Velcro strap closure ensures it is cosy
- It makes beginner players feel comfortable when wearing the glove
- It is made from decently soft leather that is not too slippery nor too hard
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a warranty
5
Mizuno MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove for Catchers
As we all know, the Mizuno brand is known to produce high quality and durable sports materials. This catcher glove is not an exception too. Made specifically for female softball players playing the position of Catchers, the glove come with a professional level lace and bio soft leather. This leather isn’t buttered soft but has a perfect balance of oil and softness that enable the players to have a firm grip on a ball,, preventing it from slipping. The glove right-handed orientation. Though Mizuno did not specify the kind of material they use in making the glove, the glove has proven to be very qualitative and it breaks in easily. It is even one of the best sellers of Amazon.
Key Features:
- It is gender engineered
- It has the same durable lace that is present in the Mizuno Professional gloves
- It has a bio soft leather that is decently soft allowing the player to hold a ball firmly without slipping
Specification:
- Brand: Mizuno
- Manufacturer: Mizuno
- Colour: Black Trident Two web
- Material: Others
- Model: GMVP1150PF3
- Sizes: 11.5″
- Suggested users: Male and Female adults
- Hand orientation right-handed throw
- Weight of package: 0.54kg
- Dimension of item package: 12 x 11 x 4 inches ( L x W x H respectively)
- Dimension of item: 1 x 1 x 1 ( L x W x H respectively)
Pros
- It has a decent soft leather that allows s firm grip
- It has a durable professional lace
- It is highly durable and flexible
Cons
- It doesn’t come with h warranty
Buying Guide Questions
Let’s look at some frequently asked questions by buyers about youth softball infielders gloves
What size glove should a youth infielder use?
The size of the f glove to be used by a youth infielder depends on the size of his hands, usual, ly youth infielders use the size of 12 to 12.5 inches. But if the infielder has small hands, they can use size 11 inches. The size of the f glove be worn by an infielder also depends on the position they are playing, for example, the third basemen require extra-large glove as they have little or no time for reaction.
What is the best infield Softball glove?
With thousands available in the market, choosing the best cant to be an easy task. However, we have tried our level best to look for the best infield gloves and review them. The Mizuno MVP prime fastpitch softball glove for catchers can be regarded as the best as it among the best Amazon sellers as it combating budget-friendly price and it is highly durable and flexible.
How long should a softball infielders glove be?
A good softball infielders glove is about to last for like two years. Though the longevity of a softball glove depends on the position a player is playing, how long a player plays and the weather.
What the s difference between fastpitch Anslow-pitch softball glove?
The difference between slow pitch and fastpitch softball gloves isn’t much as both are used to catch balls of almost the same size. However, the slowpitch softball glove has a deeper pocket as it is used to hit more fly balls. The slowpitch glove makers trapping of balls and making catches easier due to their deep pockets. The fastpitch gloves on the other hand have a shallow pocket.
Conclusion
Choosing a youth softball infielders glove is very easy when you follow this guide. Al, so the above-reviewed infield gloves are among the best you can find in today’s market as they are made from highly durable materials, they have the perfect webbing design last long and come at a budget-friendly price.
For more information about softball gloves, check these articles:
Best youth softball first base gloves