Once you experience a game of softball, especially with your friends, you will get hooked to the sport immediately. You will wish to perform and walk out like a winner every time you step on a pitch. To do that, you need the best slowpitch softball gloves, but how to find them? Try reading this article to discover all available information on these gloves, and then find the perfect one for you!
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**Below, you'll find our more detailed reviews, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
All You Need to Know About Best Slowpitch Softball Gloves
How Is It Different From A Fastpitch Glove?
If we are talking only about gloves, the truth is that there is not much difference. If you are a recreational player or only entering the world of softball, you may use the same glove for fastpitch and slowpitch. Although it varies from one model to another, slowpitch gloves tend to be somewhat larger than their fastpitch alternatives.
When it comes to the feel of the glove, you will start noticing the difference once you become more experienced. For high-level play, your performance will undoubtedly benefit from picking a suitable glove. The good news is that you do not have as much specialty gloves in soft pitch as you have in fastpitch. While there may be minor size differences, you can use the same glove regardless of the position you are playing.
What You Should Consider When Buying a Soft Pitch Softball Glove
Do you want to ensure that you purchased a soft pitch baseball glove that will exceed your expectations and improve your performance? Here is what you need to take into consideration when choosing.
Make Sure It Is the Right Size
When it comes to size, picking the right slowpitch glove is a bit easier compared to fastpitch models. The general rule of thumb that a glove between 11.5 and 13 inches should cover you for all positions if you are at least 14 years of age. There are some differences depending on positions, but they are minor.
Keep in mind that the manufacturers design smaller gloves for youth players and those who have small hands. The crucial thing to consider is that you have chosen a model that is a good fit. Do not pay too much attention if it is not in line with the recommendation – if it fits, that’s the right size for you.
Is It Comfortable?
How do you know if a softball glove is comfortable? It will feel like you are not wearing it while playing – you will be able to focus completely on the game. Additionally, you can consider how easy it is to put on and take off the glove. Some models will even have a Velcro strap or another tightening system to ensure that the item is fitting and comfortable at all times. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal preference, so stick with what your mind and gut are telling you when you try the glove.
Material
The choice of materials can vary from leather to mesh and synthetic. Materials of high quality are more expensive, but the chances are you will get an extra durable product that can last for many seasons to come. On the other hand, lower-quality materials may still do a solid job if you are a softball newbie. One of the tips to keep in mind is that your hand should not be sweating inside a glove.
Web Design
Here, you are presented with two alternatives – open and closed webs. The critical reason to consider the former is that you can see what is going on through the webbing, which may be crucial during the game. On the other hand, closed webbing might provide additional stability. If the game is played on a sunny day, it may be a better option for protecting yourself against the sunlight which may disrupt your game.
Finally, consider the aesthetics of the webbing, too. If you prefer one particular design over the other, you can let the aesthetic value win since there is not too much difference between the gloves.
Other Things to Consider When Buying a Softball Glove
Apart from what we already mentioned, here are some other features you can consider during the purchasing process:
Why It Matters to Break in Your Glove?
The reason is simple – breaking in your glove is what maximizes your performance! Do not trust the manufacturers – even the models that claim to be 100% ready for the games out of the factory need some breaking in. It is an excellent way to relieve their stiffness and make them feel comfortable and fit. The USA softball team explained the best way to break in a slowpitch glove in this great video:
5 Best Slowpitch Softball Gloves Reviewed
Product Name | Quality | Price | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
A+ | $$ | ||
B+ | $ | ||
A | $$$ | ||
A- | $$ | ||
B+ | $$ |
The first thing you notice about any product you research is appearance, and the design of the Worth Legit WLG130-PH is intriguing. It features a white-black color combination with the white color dominating the inside and the black nicely complementing it. The manufacturer claims that the model is designed for elite players that will use the glove regularly.
The model we are presenting is 13 inches in size and made of high-quality leather, including linings for fingers and a complete leather palm. The palm is cushioned and can handle strong throws. The laces are made of rawhide leather. If you need to adjust the glove, the model comes with a pull strap system with a quick release.
The manufacturer made the glove in a way to ensure that the breaking in period remains minimal, which means it shouldn’t be long until you achieve optimal comfort. The glove seems quite durable and provides reliable performance as long as it lasts.
Pros
Cons
This glove has been around for a couple of years, which may be a good indicator that it is worth considering. The model is specifically manufactured for players of slowpitch softball. The primary material used is java leather, which is a tumbled leather that has been pre-oiled. In other words, the company already did the job of breaking in the glove. Regardless, you may need to do some additional breaking in to remove all the stiffness and ensure that the glove is ready for the game.
The item features alternating high-low lace webbing, which should add extra flexibility. The wrist has a Velcro strap that you use to tighten the glove when that is necessary. It is only available in one color combination, which is a mixture of brown leathery-like and elements of yellow. The two complement each other well and the overall design seems modern. The palm pad has a special anti-shock feature to reduce sting and provide comfort. In case this 13-inch glove is not your size, the manufacturer has a 14-inch version available, too.
Pros
Cons
The manufacturer allows you to choose based on which hand you use to throw, and the glove also comes in two available sizes – 13 and 14 inches. The design of the glove is quite classic with black being the dominant color. The webbing used is V-Lace closed type while the quality of the material is adequate considering the price.
The glove is made from a mixture of leather and synthetic materials. The palm has a genuine leather section, but it seems that it is light leather that doesn’t deliver admirable shock absorption. There is a Velcro strap on the wrist which enables you to tighten the glove to your preference in seconds.
Wilson A360 is a versatile glove that can be used across all positions. It is primarily intended for newbies or casual player, and you can break it in quickly. The fact that it is an entry-level model means you probably shouldn’t expect exceptional durability. If you need a glove that will enable you to get on the pitch quickly and enjoy a game of softball with some friends, you may consider this one.
Pros
Cons
When you encounter the word series in the name of the glove, it means that you can choose between different models. As for Mizuno Premier, you can choose between four sizes and two different webbings. We decided to present the 14-inch glove with tartan U web intended for adults.
The dominant color is black, but the logo of the company and stitches are golden. You could say that the glove has a fairly classic design, but what about the performance? For starters, the glove has a full-grain leather palm, which is combined with a pigskin back. The manufacturer explains they went with this combination for added durability. The palm lining is made of polyurethane for improved comfort and feel. A strap is there to regulate the fitting in a matter of seconds. The manufacturer offers both RHT and LHT gloves, so make sure to choose the right one based on your dominant hand.
Pros
Cons
Louisville Slugger is a glove made of premium leather material of solid quality. That should ensure you get a durable glove that you can use for seasons and years to come. However, the fact that the manufacturer utilized top-quality leather also means that the glove comes somewhat stiff from the factory. It may take a bit of patience to break it in, but keep in mind that it is a durable and long-lasting glove. As such, it may be more appropriate for experienced players compared to those that only started playing softball. The glove is available in the 14-inch size, and it is intended for adults.
Aside from that, the design of the glove is unusual and intriguing. The first thing you notice is undoubtedly the red and white colors, which seem like a great combination. The dual post webbing further adds to the style and ensures additional flexibility. As usual, you can adjust the fitting thanks to the strap.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion
It is time to pronounce the winner of our best slowpitch softball gloves competition. While all the candidates on our list are a good choice, one stands out from the competitors - Worth Legit 13 Inch WLG130-PH Slowpitch Softball Glove. The model has everything that you may look for in a soft pitch glove starting from high-quality leather materials that secure extended lifespan of the item up to attractive design and a unique color combination. On top of that, the glove is versatile and suitable for newcomers and veterans.
Do you agree with our assessment or you have another favorite? We hope that you read the buying guide that will help you in choosing a suitable glove for your needs. Remember, only informed buyers can make smart purchasing decisions, so do not hesitate to go through this article once again!