Searching For The Best Infielder’s Glove in Softball. Here’s What You Need to Know For 2023

Searching For The Best Infielder’s Glove in Softball. Here’s What You Need to Know For 2023

Fit Matters Most When Choosing an Infield Glove

When it comes to finding the perfect softball glove for the infield, fit and feel should be your top priorities. Sure, factors like brand, materials, and price matter too, but none of those details will make a difference if the glove doesn’t conform to your hand. The right fit leads to better control, more confident fielding, and fewer errors—exactly what you want as an infielder.

The ideal infield glove should feel like a natural extension of your hand. The fingers should slide in easily while still feeling secure. You don’t want any loose fabric bunching up or empty space in the fingers. The wrist opening should be snug but not uncomfortably tight. Move your hand around and make sure you have full mobility. Try pounding your fist in the pocket to mimic catching ground balls. The glove should comfortably “give” while retaining its shape.

Finding the right size glove largely comes down to measuring your hand. Infielder gloves typically range from 11 to 12.5 inches in circumference. Measure from the bottom of your palm to the tip of your middle finger in inches. Add 1-1.5 inches to allow room for your fingers to flex and grip inside the glove. Err on the larger side if you fall between sizes—a glove stretches over time anyway.

The right fit also means paying attention to glove dimensions like finger length, heel shape, and pocket depth. For instance, middle infielders tend to prefer shallow pockets for quick transfers while corner infielders opt for deeper pockets to handle hard smashes. Evaluate your needs position by position.

Take Time to Try On Different Glove Styles

Rather than ordering a glove online sight unseen, visit your local sporting goods store and try on as many options as possible. Softball gloves come in a range of fits—bring your tape measure and test sizes above and below your measurement as well. You may be surprised at what feels most comfortable.

While you’re there, try out different glove styles too. Fastpitch softball gloves tend to have smaller pockets and a curved design while slowpitch gloves have bigger pockets and a flatter profile. Within those categories you’ll find useful variations for infielders. Pay attention to how different finger stalls, wrist shapes, and lacing patterns influence flexibility and feel.

If you’re switching between infield positions, experiment with utility gloves that offer versatility around the diamond. Break in the glove properly once you get it—pounding the pocket and applying conditioner—so it molded precisely to your hand. Don’t settle for a subpar fit that could hinder your performance. The right glove makes all the difference.

Prioritize Feel and Function Over Frills

It’s tempting to fixate on attributes like glove color, web style, and added padding when shopping for a new glove. But for infielders, those features should take a backseat to fit and functionality. Focus first on dialing in the right size and feel before considering any bonus features.

That’s not to say those other details don’t matter. Opting for a brightly colored glove or a flashy web design allows you to add personal flair. And padding in the right areas—like heel and palm pads—can improve comfort and absorb vibrations from catching liners. Just don’t let those factors cloud your judgment over what really matters.

Prioritizing fit and performance value helps keep you grounded in your primary needs as an infielder. A glove with great styling won’t help much if the shape is all wrong for your hand. Find the foundation first before loading up on extras. Of course, if you can get the total package of fit, features and high-quality construction in your dream glove, go for it!

Consult Reviews But Trust Your Own Judgment

Reading online glove reviews can provide useful insight as you navigate your options. Pay attention when multiple users concur about sizing quirks or design features on a particular model. This feedback helps you hone in on gloves likely to fit your needs.

At the same time, don’t let any single review make the decision for you. Everyone’s hands are different. Just because a glove didn’t work for another player doesn’t automatically mean it won’t work for you. Take reviews as helpful data points but still trust your own judgment.

Similarly, don’t get sucked into the hype around “best glove” lists, endorsements from softball stars, or labels like “number one infielder’s glove.” They offer a starting point but the only hands that matter are yours. Keep an open mind, ignore the marketing claims, and find the glove that best suits your unique fit and feel preferences.

Ask Coaches, Teammates for Recommendations

Your coaches and teammates have seen you play more than anyone. Talk to them as you evaluate glove options. Ask for recommendations on brands, styles, and sizes that align with your abilities and needs at your position. Their insights can help you narrow your focus.

Veteran infielders can offer advice based on years of experience. maybe your shortstop swears by a particular 11.5” glove while your second baseman insists on a deeper pocket. Consider their tips as you shop but again, weigh their opinions against your own instincts.

If possible, try on the actual gloves your teammates use to get a feel for them. Their broken-in gloves won’t mimic brand new ones exactly, but you’ll get a sense of size, shape, and construction. Considering borrowing, trading, or purchasing a gently used glove from a teammate. It has the advantage of already being molded and ready for your hand.

Set a Realistic Budget and Stick To It

Quality softball gloves span a wide range of price points these days. High-end gloves with premium leathers and pro-preferred designs run over $300, while discount big box options can cost under $50. Most good infielder gloves sit somewhere in the middle around $100-200.

Set a spending limit by evaluating your needs and finances. Avoid fixating on price as the primary indicator of a glove’s value. Instead, focus your budget on getting ideal fit, feel, and performance for your position. With some savvy shopping, you can find that sweet spot glove without breaking the bank.

If a dream glove is slightly over-budget, consider saving up instead of settling. Better to wait for equipment that truly suits your needs rather than waste money on a subpar substitute. Just maintain perspective and avoid overspending just for name brand cachet.

With the right focus on fit, quality, and value, you can head into the season with an infielder’s glove that becomes a trusted ally play after play. Break it in properly and use good glove care habits to ensure optimal performance for seasons to come. Remember, your glove helps you make the plays. Give it the attention it deserves!

Types of Gloves: Fastpitch vs Slowpitch Infield Gloves

When selecting your ideal infield glove, one of the first decisions involves the type of softball you play. Fastpitch and slowpitch leagues require different glove attributes to handle their distinct styles of play.

Fastpitch gloves are designed for the faster game play, quicker throws, and harder hit balls of fastpitch softball. They have shallow, narrow pockets to allow quick ball transfers and throws. Their smaller size and curved shape also aids in scooping up grounders. Fastpitch gloves range from 11 to 12.5 inches in circumference.

Slowpitch gloves have bigger pockets better suited for catching lobbed pitches and controlling the trajectory of gently hit balls. Their wider pocket and flatter shape puts less restriction on the hand. Slowpitch gloves span 12 to 14 inches with many outfielder gloves even larger.

For infielders, a fastpitch style glove offers optimal control and quickness even if you play slowpitch softball. The snugger fit and shallow pocket help improve your defense despite the slower pace. Just make sure to get your proper hand size measurement and try on different styles.

Material Matters: Leather Quality and Padding

Higher quality leather leads to increased durability, better break-in, and improved performance. Full-grain and top-grain leathers are best. Cowhide leather remains a popular choice, but steer hide and pro-grade kip or calfskin leathers last longer. Avoid synthetic leather gloves if possible.

Palm lining and added padding also influence glove quality. Mesh linings and foam or gel padding reduce sting on hard catches. Heel and wrist pads protect from abrasion. Just don’t overdo padding to the point where it restricts closure and feel. Find the right balance for your position.

Webbing Types for Infield Needs

Baseball style gloves feature closed webs good for concealing balls on tag plays but limit visibility. Open webs provide more visibility and stretch but less ball control.

Modified open webs like I-web or H-web patterns offer a nice middle ground. The top opening allows visibility while more closed lower sections aid in ball control and security—ideal for infielders. Consider your most frequent fielding needs when choosing web style.

Lace vs. Velcro Wrist Closures

Traditional leather lacing provides classic look but requires re-lacing over time as it stretches. Velcro straps offer quick, micro-adjustable closure for firm, customized fit. However, Velcro loses tackiness over time.

For utility players, choose gloves with both lace and Velcro so you get the best of both worlds. You can dial in fit with Velcro then lace up for snug security. It comes down to personal preference based on what feels best.

Aesthetics: Color and Design Choices

Beyond fit and function, glove color and style let you express personal flair. Brighter gloves increase visibility and stand out on the field. Two-tone designs incorporate different leathers and lacing colors. Webs, welting, and logos add style points.

Just focus first on performance needs before color and design. Make sure a stylish glove still meets your ideal fit and specifications. Then have fun customizing the cosmetic look to reflect your personality with color pops and unique patterns.

With so many factors to consider, finding your perfect softball infield glove requires focus and diligence. Define your needs, head to stores to try on options, and don’t settle. Break in that glove properly so it performs optimally for seasons to come. Your dedicated efforts will pay off with a glove that becomes an invaluable partner on the infield.

Top Brands For Softball Infielders Gloves

When researching the many glove options for softball infielders, a few premium brands stand out for their proven reputation of quality and performance.

Wilson

The Wilson brand has long been trusted for baseball and softball gloves across all levels. Their A2000 and A1k gloves offer pro-level construction with patterns tailored for each position. Models like the A1k 1788 utilize lightweight Pro Stock leather and dual welting for quick break-in and rugged durability. Wilson gloves consistently receive high marks for quality, consistency, shape retention and playability.

Rawlings

Another stalwart in the glove industry, Rawlings is a go-to for many amateur and pro infielders. Their Heart of the Hide line provides premium leather quality and shaping ideal for softball. The smaller HOH patterns like the 11.75-inch PTD1B better match women’s hand sizes. Rawlings gloves are known for unrivaled pocket stability and durability over years of use.

Mizuno

Renowned for baseball gloves, Mizuno has expanded more into fastpitch softball. Their Pro Series gloves use exclusive Steer Soft leather for ideal feel and shaping. The more compact patterns of their Prospect series gloves like the GMP66 models cater well to softball infielders. Mizuno gloves are revered for precise precision fit and workmanship.

Akadema

This softball-specific brand crafts gloves designed strictly for women’s needs. Their patterns better match female hand proportions. The foamed latex palm liner reduces sting while their SoftKnuckle technology improves comfort. For infielders, look at models like their 11.5-inch AGC98 series gloves featuring the modified I-web popular with softball players.

Louisville Slugger

In addition to their iconic bats, Louisville Slugger makes quality gloves with proprietary patterns, leathers, and linings. Models like their 11.75″ FG25 and 11.5″ FS3 feature the I-web, curved finger stalls, and shallow pocket ideal for female infielders. Their Dual Post web also helps infielders gain ball control. Known for premium shaping and durability.

While those brands lead the pack, don’t overlook smaller glovemakers. Boutique companies like 44 Pro, Markwort, Worth and Spalding also craft pro-quality infielder gloves. Test out different models to find your ideal fit and features based on your preferences, not just brand cache.

Remember, brand name alone doesn’t guarantee satisfaction. Stay focused on getting the right size, materials, quality, and construction that caters to your specific needs at your position. With an informed brand evaluation and smart shopping strategy, you’ll find your glove soulmate and trusted fielding partner.

Choosing the Right Size Glove For Your Hand

Finding your optimal softball glove size deserves careful consideration since it directly impacts performance. Taking accurate sizing measurements and understanding size charts helps narrow your search.

Measure Your Hand Properly

Using a fabric tape measure, determine your hand length and circumference:

• Hand length – Measure from the bottom of your palm to the tip of your middle finger
• Hand circumference – Wrap the tape measure around the widest part of your palm under your fingers

For circumference, add approximately 1 to 1.5 inches to allow room for your fingers flexing in the glove. Err toward more room if between sizes.

Consult Sizing Charts

Once you have your measurements, compare them to manufacturer sizing charts. While no universal standard exists, charts help narrow your range:

• Youth gloves: 9-10.5 inches
• Slowpitch gloves: 12-14 inches
• Fastpitch infielder gloves: 11-12.5 inches

Consider your usual infield position and needs. Shortstops may prefer 11-11.5 inches while corner infielders go larger around 12 inches. Again, opt for more room if debating between sizes.

Trying On Gloves Crucial

While sizing charts provide starting points, trying on gloves in person remains essential. Everyone’s hands differ in ways charts can’t capture. Making the trip to a store allows you to test various sizes and brands to find the ideal model for your unique hand shape and proportions.

Don’t worry about aesthetics when trying on gloves in stores. Focus only on fit and flexibility. Make sure your fingers reach all the way into the stalls with no loose fabric bunching up. Curl your hand into a fist to simulate fielding balls. The glove should gently give while retaining its pocket shape.

Consider Hand Growth

For younger players, allow for future hand growth when sizing a glove. Purchase a glove slightly larger than current measurements to get multiple seasons of use as hands grow. Just don’t size up too much that current fit suffers.

Focus mostly on present fit but if debating between two sizes, consider sizing up on a higher end glove that you plan to keep for years. But never sacrifice proper fit just for anticipated growth down the road.

In the end, no sizing chart or measurement beats the feel of that just right glove contoured to your hand. Trust your own instincts when evaluating sizing options. With focus and persistence, you’ll find your glove soulmate.

Things to Consider When Choosing Glove Material

The leather and other materials used in your softball glove’s construction significantly influence performance, durability, and longevity. Evaluating material options should factor into your decision making process.

Leather Quality and Types

Full grain leathers offer premium quality and durability for gloves. Top grain leathers rank next best. Lower quality gloves use genuine or synthetic leathers.

Steer hide, kipskin, and pro-grade calfskin work well for gloves. Traditional cowhide also performs but is less expensive. Consider leather types used in palm lining as well as overall glove.

Mesh Palm Linings

Many gloves contain mesh palm linings to reduce moisture and provide ventilation. This increases comfort on hot days and reduces bacteria and odor buildup inside the glove. Breathable linings make repeated use more pleasurable.

Padding Options

Added foam or gel padding in key areas enhances fit, comfort, and protection:

• Finger pads reduce sting from catching hard hits
• Heel and wrist pads protect from abrasion
• Palm padding adds cushion but don’t overdo it

Lacing and Binding

The lace, binding, and welting used on gloves also matters. Higher quality leather lace conforms better over time but requires periodic re-lacing as it stretches.

Durable welting binds edges while adding style. Contrasting binding pops visually. Evaluate options to find your preferences.

Consider Allergy Needs

For players with leather allergies, synthetic leather gloves provide a suitable alternative. Also look for glove linings specifically designed for allergy sufferers.

Don’t assume lower cost equals lower quality with synthetics. Advanced technical fabrics today mimic leather’s shape retention and durability. Put allergy needs first when assessing material options.

By scrutinizing all material components of a glove, you make the best choice for your specific needs. Maximum comfort and long-term performance should guide decisions.

Difference Between Softball and Baseball Gloves

While similar in overall design, softball and baseball gloves differ in subtle but important ways that impact fit, feel, and performance for each sport.

Size and Shape

Softball gloves run smaller, ranging from 11 to 13 inches in circumference to fit female hands. Baseball gloves measure from 12 to 15 inches to accommodate male hands.

Softball gloves feature more curved, narrower finger wells suited to faster play. Baseball patterns have flatter, wider pockets for handling lobbed underhand pitches.

Webbing Styles

Softball gloves often use modified open web patterns like I-web or dual post webs. The top opening allows visibility while the closed lower portion provides security.

Baseball gloves rely more on traditional closed web patterns to conceal the ball from batters and baserunners.

Pocket Depth

Softball infielders need shallow pockets for quick transfers and throws, while outfielders want mid-sized pockets. Baseball gloves have deeper pockets overall to handle harder hit balls.

Wrist Adjustments

Softball gloves favor Velcro wrist closures for easy adjustability and female preferences. Many baseball gloves stick with traditional leather lacing.

Padding

Extra padding added to key areas benefits positions in both sports. But softball gloves tend to add more generous padding to offset harder impacts.

While designed for their specific sport, better players can transition between baseball and softball gloves. Just understand key differences in sizing, shaping, and features when shopping for your glove.

For softball infielders especially, stick to softball-specific gloves whenever possible. But utilitize general fit and quality guidelines for both sports as part of your evaluation.

Best Glove Features For Infield Positions

Certain glove attributes cater to the specialized needs of each infield position. Understanding those preferred features helps select optimal gloves.

Pitcher

Pitchers need gloves with sturdy leather and a reinforced web to handle repeated impact from pitching. A closed web hides grip and provides ball control. Size ranges around 12-13 inches for female pitchers.

Catcher

A catcher’s glove requires heavy padding to absorb continual pounding. Thicker palm and finger padding protects from stinging impacts. A wider glove around 13 inches with extra deep pocket eases framing pitches. Mitt style provides added protection.

First Base

First baseman gloves run larger from 12.5-13.5 inches to scoop errant throws. A modified trapeze web expands the pocket while an open web allows visibility on close plays. Double welting and padded lower palm withstands constant abuse.

Second Base

Middle infielders need maximum quickness transferring to throwing hand, making an 11.5-11.75 inch glove ideal. Shallower pockets get the ball out faster with minimal palm padding for flexibility. Open webs enhance visibility for blind double play flips.

Shortstop

Like second base, shortstops flourish with 11.25-11.5 inch gloves allowing quickest release and transfer. A curved finger design provides finesse on quick-reaction plays while lightweight leather improves speed.

Third Base

Third basemen need gloves around 11.5-12 inches with a moderately deep pocket to handle rocket grounders and line drives. An I-web design blends visibility with security. Extra wrist padding protects from fraying against the rough infield.

While personal preferences always play a role, zone in on position-specific features when selecting your ideal glove model as a softball infielder.

Getting the Right Pocket Size and Shape For You

A glove’s pocket depth and contours directly impact your ability to field balls cleanly. Dialing in the optimal pocket style boosts performance.

Shallow for Quickness

Infielders prioritize lightning quick ball transfers, making shallow to medium pockets ideal. Less pocket depth gets the ball into your throwing hand faster while still allowing control.

Deeper for Security

Outfielders and corner infielders leaning toward deeper pockets gain added ball control and security on tougher chances. But too much depth slows transitions.

Snug Feel Across Fingers

Ensure the pocket leather extends fully across your fingertips when closed for a snug fit. Gloves with looser leather in the fingertips lack control and pop outs happen.

Consider Web Shape

Closed web shapes reduce pocket depth for infielders while open web styles feature deeper pockets. Consider this trade-off when selecting web designs.

Curved vs. Flat

The amount of glove curvature impacts pocket depth as well. More curved fastpitch gloves have shallower pockets than flatter slowpitch gloves. Decide how much contour fits your needs.

Wider at Bottom

Wider pocket bottoms allow easier entry on liners scooped from awkward angles. Too narrow across the bottom causes bobbling.

Position-Specific Shaping

Manufacturers shape pockets to meet common needs of each position like a catcher’s wider mitt or first baseman’s expanded trapeze web. Identify what works for your role.

Test out a range of pocket shapes when shopping for gloves. The right depth and contours for your hand size, skills, and role leads to enhanced defense and confidence.

Breaking In Your New Softball Infield Glove

Breaking in a new glove takes some work but the effort pays off in optimal performance. Follow these key steps to get your new glove game-ready.

Rub With Conditioner

Massage a generous amount of quality leather conditioner into the glove, especially the pocket area. Work it into all seams and creases. This softens leather and primes it for shaping.

Shape the Pocket

Tightly wrap a ball in rubber bands or place a ball in a sock. Place in the pocket and securely close the glove over it. Tie or clamp glove closed and let sit overnight to begin forming ideal pocket contours.

Repeat Shaping Process

Remove ball then reapply conditioner to interior and exterior glove surfaces. Place ball back in pocket, tightly close glove over it and let sit another night. Repeat for a week to fully set the shape.

Pound the Pocket

After shaping, have someone throw you 25-50 balls to catch in the glove pocket while tightly closed. The impacts continue molding pocket shape while conditioning leather.

Work It In

Place a ball in glove pocket and repeatedly pound a clenched fist into the pocket to simulate catching grounders. Spend 15 minutes daily doing this to further condition and shape the glove.

Stretch the Web

Insert a softball inside the web area of glove. Wrap hand around ball and squeeze hard several times to widen web opening. This increases flexibility.

Rinse and Repeat

Re-treat with conditioner and repeat all steps for 2-3 weeks until glove feels perfectly broken in. Then maintain with periodic reconditioning.

While hurried, taking time to properly break in your new glove ensures ideal feel and performance for seasons to come. Patience and care in those first weeks pays big defensive dividends.

Taking Proper Care of Your Glove Over Time

A well-constructed softball glove represents a significant investment. Proper maintenance and care ensures your glove provides lasting performance.

Regular Reconditioning

Re-treat your glove with quality leather conditioner before each season and periodically during the season. This maintains suppleness and protects the leather.

Replace Laces

As leather laces stretch with use, replace them to maintain secure closure. Tightly-laced gloves perform better season after season.

Check Padding

Inspect padding in palm, finger, and other padded areas. Replace worn or compacted padding to maintain proper shape, protection and comfort.

Monitor Mesh Linings

If your glove contains mesh palm linings, check for holes or tears which compromise breathability. Mend small holes or replace worn lining.

Clean Properly

Use gentle cleaners and sprays made specifically for leather gloves. Avoid harsh chemicals or submerging in water which leads to quicker breakdown.

Store Properly Offseason

Keep your glove tucked away properly during the offseason. An airy, climate controlled location prevents mildew and drying out.

Make Repairs

Fix minor rips immediately before they worsen. If a skilled leatherworker can’t fix a damaged glove, it may need replacement.

With some diligence and TLC, a high quality softball glove should deliver years of reliable performance. Take care of your glove and it will take care of you on the field.

Customizing Your Glove to Match Your Style

Beyond fit and function, consider options to customize your new glove with colors, patterns and design elements reflecting your personality.

Express Your Style in Color

Gloves now available in a rainbow of colors beyond traditional browns and blacks. Splash your favorite hue through the leather or binding. Or pick complementary colors for a bold two-tone look.

Showcase Decorative Lacing and Welting

Creative lacing styles like zig-zag, cross-web or dual-color patterns add eye-catching flair. Contrast welting and binding pops against leather.

Pick a Unique Web Design

Webs now go way beyond standard open or closed webs. Find an abstract shaped web like circles, triangles or diamonds. Or highlighting your number in the web design.

Make It Your Own

Look for manufacturers offering full custom gloves. Options include choosing leather colors and finishes, web and lace styles, personalized embroidering for name, number and team logo.

Don’t Forget Functional Needs

While personalizing aesthetics, maintain focus on optimal fit, sizing and features for your position. Form follows function when constructing your dream glove.

A customized softball glove allows self-expression on the field. And a glove uniquely yours gets broken in faster, feels more comfortable and performs better inning after inning.

Important Safety Features in Modern Gloves

Today’s softball gloves incorporate innovative materials and design elements that boost player safety and reduce injury risk.

padding Protection

Strategic padding in fingers, palm and other zones absorbs shock and vibration from hard hits. Thicker padding used compared to older gloves.

Smooth Finger Stalls

Exposed inner stitching eliminated to remove abrasive surfaces that cause finger irritation and cuts.

Stretch Zones

Flex panels between fingers made of elastic fabrics boost flexibility and prevent finger jamming injuries.

Tear Resistance

Stronger leathers, binding and lacing resist blowouts from contact with bats, cleats and balls during plays.

Secure Closures

Wide adjustable Velcro wrist closures prevent gloves from flying off hands when running and diving.

Anti-Microbial Linings

Moisture wicking linings embedded with antimicrobial silver fibers inhibit odor and bacteria growth inside gloves.

While still protecting against impacts, new glove technologies better shield players from abrasions, stings and other injuries during play. Safety matters.

Best Value Gloves For Softball Infielders

Finding an ideal softball glove need not break your budget. Several factors help narrow the search for high performing infielder gloves under $100.

Materials Matter Most

Rather than big brand names, focus first on leather quality. Full grain leather performs nearly as well as premium hides at a fraction of the cost.

Buying Last Year’s Model

Glove manufacturers update models yearly. Last year’s versions often get discounted yet retain the same quality materials and construction.

Step Down a Product Line

Major brands sell gloves across three product tiers: pro, elite and entry level. Often the entry level line contains excellent materials nearly matching higher price points.

Position-Specific Features

Value gloves focused on important attributes for each position like correct pocket size can match playability of pricier models.

Check Smaller Brands

Lesser known glove brands strive to deliver premium quality at affordable pricing to compete against major marketers.

Shop End of Season Sales

As newer models hit stores, retailers deeply discount remaining inventory of past season gloves providing bargains.

Forget budgets when finding your ideal glove match. With savvy shopping, lower cost gloves can deliver perfect fit, feel and performance to take your defense to the next level.

When Is it Time to Upgrade Your Glove?

While a properly broken-in glove can last years if cared for, signs eventually arise indicating the need for an upgraded replacement.

Frayed Lacing and Binding

When leather laces and binding become excessively frayed and stretched out, the glove loses stability and security on your hand.

Compacted Padding

Padding flattens and compacts over time. Insufficient padding leads to bruised palms and fingers and compromised protection.

Degraded Leather

Cracks in the leather surface signal the glove is drying out. Brittle, inflexible leather loses its shape, tear resistance and desired feel.

Loose Fingers

Fingers stalls stretched out wide with sagging pockets indicate the glove is blown out. Control suffers greatly.

Hand Size Changes

Youth players with growing hands or women experiencing natural hand size fluctuations over adulthood will need properly fitting replacement gloves.

New Position

Moving to a new position with very different needs like infield to outfield warrants a better optimized glove tailored to your new role.

While sad to retire a trusty old glove, identifying the right time to upgrade ensures you perform at your best with equipment matching your current needs.

Shopping Tips For Finding the Best Softball Infield Glove

With so many glove options on the market, use these savvy shopping tips to zero in on the ideal softball infield glove for your needs:

Know Exact Measurements

Carefully measure your hand size and preferred fit. This avoids guessing about proper sizing when evaluating gloves.

Try Before You Buy

Make the trip to a store with a wide selection of softball gloves. Trying on multiple brands and models determines perfect size and fit.

Prioritize Fit and Feel

No other feature matters more than how the glove contours to your hand and flexes with natural movements. Get that dialed in before all else.

Focus on Quality Materials

Seek out gloves constructed from full grain, top grain leathers. Synthetics don’t perform as well long-term. Quality linings and lacing also matter.

Consider Your Specific Position

Opt for design elements boosting performance for your particular infield position like pocket depth and web shape.

Don’t Overpay for Brand Hype

Branded gloves not worth overpaying for if materials and construction are mediocre. Seek quality craftsmanship aligned to your needs.

While requiring effort and diligence, following these tips helps you seek out and select your ideal softball infield glove match to enhance comfort, confidence and defensive performance.