10 Tips for Choosing the Right Softball Glove

A softball glove is one of the most important tools you’ll use on the field, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in your performance.

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect glove. To help you navigate this process, we’ve put together a glove buying guide with essential tips for how to choose a softball glove.

1 - Understand the Different Types of Gloves

Softball gloves come in various styles, each designed for specific positions on the field. The main types include:

• Outfield Gloves: These gloves are generally larger and have deeper pockets, allowing outfielders to catch fly balls more easily.
  
  

• Infield Gloves: These gloves are smaller and have shallower pockets for quicker ball transfer. They’re ideal for infield positions like shortstop, second base, and third base.
  
  

• Pitcher Gloves: Often similar to infield gloves but with a closed or reinforced webbing to help conceal pitches from the batter.
  
  

• Catcher’s Mitts: A specialized glove with extra padding and a closed web, designed to handle the force of incoming pitches.

Knowing your position is the first step in choosing the right glove, as it helps narrow down the options.

Softball gloves also vary by game type: fastpitch softball gloves are typically stiffer with smaller hand openings to suit faster play, while slow pitch softball gloves often have larger pockets and more flexible designs to accommodate the different pace and field demands of the game.

2 - Choose the Right Size

The size of softball gloves or baseball gloves are measured by the length of the glove in inches. Here's a basic softball glove sizing guide:

• Outfielder Gloves: 12 to 15 inches

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• Infielder Gloves: 11 to 12.5 inches

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• Pitcher Gloves: 11.5 to 12.5 inches

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• Catcher Gloves: Specialized catcher’s mitts, usually 32 to 34 inches in circumference

If you’re a younger player, look for youth gloves that have smaller fit and lighter in weight. This accommodates the player’s age, playing level, or general player preference. 

3 - Consider the Material

Softball gloves are made from several types of materials, each offering different benefits:

• Leather: High-quality leather gloves are durable, provide a great feel for the ball, and last longer. They typically need a break-in period but are the most common choice for serious players.
  
  

• Synthetic Leather: Synthetic gloves are lighter and less expensive but may not provide the same long-term durability or feel as leather gloves.
  
  

• Mesh: Some gloves combine mesh with leather for added breathability, which can help keep your hand cooler during long games.

While leather gloves are often the top choice for professionals, synthetic options are great for beginners and players who want an easier break-in period.

4 - Webbing Style

The webbing of a glove is the material that connects the fingers and the palm. Different webbing styles offer varying levels of flexibility, visibility, and ball control:

• Closed Web: Provides maximum control and is common in gloves for pitchers and catchers. It also helps hide the ball from batters.
  
  

• Open Web: Offers better visibility for fielders and is often used for infield gloves. It allows air to flow through, which can help reduce sweat buildup.
  
  

• Basket Web: A versatile choice for all positions, providing a balance between flexibility and ball control.

Choose the webbing style based on your position and playing style.

5 - Break-in Time

Softball gloves require a break-in period before they’re comfortable and game-ready. Some gloves are pre-broken, but many players prefer to do it themselves. 

• Quick Break-in: Synthetic and some leather gloves break in quicker and are ideal for casual or new players.
  
  

• Longer Break-in: Full-grain leather gloves take longer to break in but are often more durable and provide a better fit over time.

Be prepared to spend time working in your glove, whether through traditional methods like steaming or conditioning or by simply using it in practice.

6 - Fit and Comfort

The fit of your glove is crucial. A glove that’s too tight or too loose can hinder your performance. When trying on gloves, make sure to:

• - Check for comfort in the fingers and palm.

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• - Ensure the wrist strap fits snugly but isn’t too tight.

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• - Test flexibility by opening and closing the glove.

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• - Consider wearing the glove for a few minutes to see how it feels during play.

7 - Budget Considerations

Gloves can vary greatly in price, with premium gloves made from high-quality leather costing more than synthetic models. When choosing a glove, consider your budget, but remember that investing in a quality glove can pay off in terms of durability, comfort, and performance.

• Beginner Gloves: Typically made from synthetic materials and are more affordable, but they may not last as long.
  
  

• Intermediate Gloves: These are usually a mix of synthetic and leather, offering better durability and performance at a mid-range price.
  
  

• Professional Gloves: Made from high-end leather, these gloves offer top-notch performance and durability but come with a higher price tag.

Set a budget and find the best glove within that range that meets your needs.

8 - Try Before You Buy

Whenever possible, try on different gloves before making your final decision. Go to a sporting goods store where you can feel the glove in person and test the fit. If you’re shopping online, check the return policy to ensure you can exchange the glove if it doesn’t fit properly.

9 - Consider Your Position’s Needs Over Time

As your softball skills improve or as you transition to different positions, your glove needs may change. Some players stick to one position, but many rotate between infield and outfield or occasionally pitch. If you’re a versatile player or play multiple positions in recreational leagues, consider:

• Utility Gloves: These are multi-position gloves that offer a balance between pocket depth and size.
  
  

• Specialized Gloves: If you have a primary position, it’s worth investing in a glove specifically designed for that role.

Thinking ahead to how and where you’ll play most can save money and help you develop stronger skills with the right gear in hand.

And as you adapt on the field, don’t forget to stay comfortable—breathable compression shirts can boost performance by supporting muscle movement and keeping you cool game after game.

10 - Don’t Forget Hand Orientation (Righty vs. Lefty)

It may seem obvious, but it’s common for players, especially beginners, to accidentally buy a glove for the wrong hand. Glove orientation is based on the hand you throw with:

• Right-hand throw (RHT): The glove goes on the left hand (for right-handed throwers).

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• Left-hand throw (LHT): The glove goes on the right hand (for left-handed throwers).

Make sure you’re selecting the correct orientation when ordering online or confirming with a store associate when shopping in person. A properly worn glove ensures faster reaction times and a more natural feel during game play.

Find the Softball Glove That Fits Your Game

Choosing the right softball glove is an important decision for any player. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, understanding the various factors will help you find the perfect glove for your game. 

Take your time, try on different options, and remember that the best glove for you is one that offers both comfort and performance.

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