Introducing the Wilson A2000 Baseball Glove
For over 60 years, the Wilson A2000 has been the glove of choice for countless professional baseball players. This iconic mitt has built a reputation as one of the most durable, comfortable and high-performing gloves in the game. But with its premium craftsmanship and materials, the A2000 also comes with a hefty price tag. So how much will this legendary glove set you back in 2023?
The Wilson A2000 has seen its share of design tweaks and innovations over the decades, but the core goal remains the same – craft a glove that becomes an extension of the player’s hand. Wilson achieves this through meticulous construction techniques that focus on feel and flexibility. Each A2000 glove is hand-formed, pocketed, laced and knotted by experienced glove technicians in Wilson’s factory in Vietnam.
Only the finest American pro stock leather hides are used for the palm lining and shell. The patterns are anatomical and the fit ergonomic. Dual welting and double X lacing reinforce high-stress points while allowing the glove to hinge naturally with the hand. The resultado is a glove that forms perfectly to your hand right off the shelf. No steaming or breaking-in required.
Wilson A2000 Prices and Models Over the Years
The A2000 has seen pricing fluctuate over the decades. In the 1960s when it first debuted, the A2000 retailed for around $25 USD – a hefty sum at the time. Prices rose to around $250 in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Today, brand new A2000s sell for $360-$380 at most major sporting goods stores.
Wilson offers a range of A2000 models tailored to different fielding positions. Popular versions include:
- A2000 1786 – The classic A2000 design ideal for infielders.
- A2000 SuperSkin – Uses proprietary synthetic leather for increased durability.
- A2000 1st Base Mitt – A high-pocket mitt designed for first basemen.
- A2000 Catcher’s Mitt – Broken-in and ready for behind the plate.
There are also special edition and custom A2000 gloves that can fetch up to $500. These include gloves made with rarer leathers like camel, kangaroo or buffalo. Personalization and limited colorways also boost the price.
What Makes the A2000 Glove So Popular?
It’s easy to see why the A2000 has been the #1 glove in the MLB for decades. Simply put, it offers the perfect balance of feel, durability and performance straight off the rack. The supple American pro stock leather forms perfectly to your hand and allows for remarkable grip. The patterns are sculpted to the exact contours of human hands for effortless closure.
The dual welting and double lacing also add structural stability without compromising flexibility. This results in a glove that moves fluidly with your hand while holding its shape inning after inning. The A2000 is rugged enough for everyday games, yet responsive enough for the highest levels. No wonder it’s trusted by more pros than any other glove.
Wilson A2000 Features and Technologies
Here are some key technologies that make the A2000 special:
- Pro Stock Leather – Made from premium American steerhides.
- Dual Welting – A thin strip of leather is molded along the glove’s finger stalls for added support.
- Double X Webbing – Two leather X’s between the thumb and index finger help the pocket retain its shape.
- Dri-Lex Wrist Lining – Sweat-wicking material for comfort.
- Pedroia Fit – Snugger fit in the wrist and pinky for security.
Wilson A2000 Glove Materials and Craftsmanship
As mentioned earlier, only the highest grade leather is used for A2000 gloves. The majority use pro stock leather from Wickett & Craig, an American tannery that provides leather for MLB gloves. The hides are examined glove side out for scars or imperfections. Only 5% of hides pass inspection.
The leather shells are reinforced with nylon/polyester windings for structure. The palms feature soft sheepskin lining for comfort. Each glove is assembled and inspected by hand by master technicians in Wilson’s Vietnam factories. The average A2000 contains around 200 hand stitches and takes over 3 hours to complete.
Most Popular Wilson A2000 Glove Models
Some of the most popular A2000 models over the years include:
- A2000 1786 – The classic 11.5″ infield design.
- A2000 1799 – 12.75″ outfielder model.
- A2000 Pudge – Worn by Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez.
- A2000 1st Base Mitt – High pocket 13″ mitt.
- A2000 SuperSkin – Uses synthetic leather.
Within each model there are dozens of colorways, web styles and personalization options. Popular colors include black, blonde, dark brown, tan, and two-tone red and black.
Wilson A2000 Glove Sizing and Fit
The A2000 is designed for a snugger “Pedroia fit” right off the shelf. So be sure to choose your size carefully based on measuring your hand:
- 11″ – Ideal for younger players or those with smaller hands.
- 11.25″ – Most common infield size for high school+.
- 11.5″ – The gold standard for pro infielders.
- 11.75″ – Bigger infield glove.
- 12″ – 13″ – Used for outfielders and first base.
If you plan to wear the glove at a higher competitive level, go smaller rather than bigger for the best control.
Where to Buy a Wilson A2000 Baseball Glove
You can find the A2000 at most major sporting goods stores including:
- Wilson.com
- Dick’s
- Modell’s
- Sports Authority
- Baseball Express
- Amazon
For custom and rare exclusives, check sites like:
- Baseball Monkey
- Rawlings Gear
- Baseball Savings
- Play It Again Sports (used)
Getting the Best Wilson A2000 Glove Deals
While the A2000 retails for $360+ normally, you can find deals in these places:
- Clearance sales – Check sites for sales or coupons.
- Used market – You can save 50% or more buying used.
- Prior season models – Older models get discounted.
- Closeout colors – Uncommon colors often get reduced.
With some digging, you can find pro quality A2000 gloves for under $250 if you buy smart.
The A2000 represents the pinnacle of baseball glove craftsmanship. With its precision fit, supple feel and rugged durability, it’s easy to see why most pros choose this glove over anything else. While not cheap, a well-maintained A2000 should deliver decades of performance. For serious players investing in their future, the A2000 is worth every penny.