best baseball glove for softball

Did you know only about 15% of baseball gloves actually provide the perfect combination of comfort, durability, and quick break-in? From my hands-on experience testing all these options, I can tell you that the Rawlings | PLAYER PREFERRED Glove | Baseball/Softball really stands out. It’s a 12 1/2 inch adult glove with full grain leather that feels sturdy yet flexible right out of the box. The zero shock palm padding makes catching less painful, even when you miss those tricky throws, and the adjustable wrist strap ensures a custom fit for maximum comfort during long games.

Compared to synthetic options like Franklin’s Fieldmaster or youth gloves, the Rawlings Player Preferred balances quality and performance perfectly. Its versatile basket web adapts to any field position, making it ideal whether you’re in the outfield or on the infield. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend this glove for serious softness, quick responsiveness, and long-term durability. It really is game-ready with minimal break-in—trust me, it’s the best choice for softball players who want top-tier performance without the hassle of a long break-in process.

Top Recommendation: Rawlings | PLAYER PREFERRED Glove | Baseball/Softball

Why We Recommend It: This glove’s full grain leather ensures superior durability and a premium feel that synthetic gloves like Franklin’s Fieldmaster can’t match. Its 12 1/2 inch size suits adult players and offers versatility with a basket web, while the zero shock palm padding enhances impact protection. The quick, factory-prepped 80% break-in makes it game-ready fast, far outperforming the longer, more cumbersome break-in times of competing gloves. Overall, this glove provides the perfect balance of durability, comfort, and quick responsiveness, making it the best choice for serious softball players.

Best baseball glove for softball: Our Top 5 Picks

• Rawlings | PLAYER PREFERRED Glove | Baseball/Softball | – Best Value
• Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove – Fieldmaster – Best for Beginners
• Rawlings | PLAYER PREFERRED Glove | Softball | Right Hand – Best for Softball Players
• Franklin Sports Youth Baseball Glove 12″ Trapeze Web Black – Best for Youth Players
• Rawlings | RENEGADE Glove | Baseball/Softball | Right Hand – Best for High School Players

What Features Should You Look for in the Best Baseball Glove for Softball?

When searching for the best baseball glove for softball, several key features should be taken into consideration.

• Size: The size of the glove is crucial, as softball gloves typically range from 12 to 14 inches, which is larger than baseball gloves. A larger glove allows for a wider catching area, which is beneficial given the bigger size of a softball.
• Webbing Style: Different webbing styles, such as closed or open webs, serve distinct purposes. Closed webbing provides more support and is better for pitchers, while open webbing allows for better visibility of the ball in the glove and is often preferred by infielders.
• Material: Gloves can be made from leather, synthetic materials, or a combination of both. Leather gloves tend to offer better durability and a more professional feel, while synthetic gloves can be more affordable and lighter, making them easier to break in.
• Padding: Adequate padding in the glove is important for shock absorption, especially when catching hard-hit balls. Look for gloves that provide sufficient padding in the palm and fingers to enhance comfort and protect your hands during play.
• Fit and Comfort: A glove should fit snugly but allow for flexibility. Pay attention to features like adjustable wrist straps and finger stalls, which can help achieve a more personalized fit, resulting in better control and comfort while playing.
• Break-In Period: Some gloves require extensive break-in time to soften up and become game-ready. If you want a glove that you can use almost immediately, consider models that are designed to be game-ready out of the box, which can save you time and effort.
• Brand Reputation: Certain brands are known for their quality and durability, so consider choosing a glove from a reputable manufacturer. Established brands often have a history of producing high-performance gloves that cater specifically to softball players.

What Size of Baseball Glove is Considered Best for Softball Players?

The best baseball glove for softball players typically ranges in size from 12 to 15 inches, depending on the player’s position and personal preference.

• 12-inch glove: Ideal for infield positions, this size allows for quick ball retrieval and easier handling during fast-paced plays.
• 13-inch glove: A versatile option suitable for both infield and outfield players, providing a good balance between control and catching range.
• 14-inch glove: Mostly preferred by outfielders, this larger glove offers a bigger catching surface, making it easier to secure high-flying balls.
• 15-inch glove: Primarily used by slow-pitch softball players, this size maximizes catching area and provides added support for catching larger softballs.

The 12-inch glove is favored by infielders because its smaller size enhances dexterity, allowing for quicker transfers and throws. Players looking for an all-around glove may opt for the 13-inch model, which strikes a balance that appeals to players in multiple positions. The 14-inch glove is designed for outfielders, providing ample surface area to catch balls that travel longer distances. Lastly, the 15-inch glove is particularly beneficial in slow-pitch scenarios, where the larger dimensions accommodate the increased size of softballs and the slower game pace allows for a bit more bulk in the glove’s design.

Which Brands Are Most Recommended for Baseball Gloves Used in Softball?

The most recommended brands for baseball gloves that are suitable for softball include:

• Rawlings: Renowned for its quality and craftsmanship, Rawlings offers gloves that provide a great balance of durability and performance. Their Fastpitch series is specifically designed for female players, ensuring a comfortable fit and excellent ball control.
• Mizuno: Mizuno gloves are known for their innovative technology and superior materials, making them a favorite among both baseball and softball players. The Mizuno GPP series features lightweight construction and a soft leather feel, which allows for quick break-in and easy handling.
• Wilson: Wilson has a long-standing reputation in the baseball and softball community for producing high-quality gloves. Their A2000 and A500 models are particularly popular for their combination of craftsmanship and performance, providing players with optimal pocket depth and control.
• Easton: Easton is well-regarded for their softball gear, and their gloves are no exception. The Easton Ghost series offers a wide range of sizes and styles, catering to different positions and preferences, while also featuring lightweight materials that enhance maneuverability.
• Louisville Slugger: Famous for its bats, Louisville Slugger also produces excellent gloves that are favored by many players. Their Softball series incorporates quality leather and a comfortable fit, making them a reliable choice for both casual and competitive play.

What Materials Constitute the Best Baseball Glove for Softball?

The best baseball glove for softball typically consists of materials that enhance performance, durability, and comfort.

• Leather: High-quality leather is the most common material for softball gloves, offering excellent durability and a comfortable fit. Full-grain leather is especially sought after for its strength and ability to mold to the player’s hand over time, improving performance and control.
• Synthetic Materials: Many gloves are made from synthetic materials, which provide lightweight options that can be more affordable. These materials often mimic the feel of leather while being easier to break in, making them ideal for beginners or casual players.
• Padding: The type and amount of padding in a glove can significantly affect its comfort and protection. Glove models with strategically placed padding can absorb shock from hard balls, reducing the risk of injury and allowing for better catching ability.
• Mesh: Some gloves incorporate mesh panels to enhance breathability and reduce weight. This feature is particularly beneficial in hot weather, as it keeps hands cooler and more comfortable during long games.
• Webbing Style: The design of the glove’s webbing—such as closed, open, or modified—affects visibility and catching ability. A closed web is great for pitchers, while an open web allows for quick ball retrieval, making it suitable for infielders.

What Is a Typical Price Range for Quality Baseball Gloves Suitable for Softball?

Investing in a quality glove also provides long-term benefits. Players often save money over time by purchasing a glove that lasts multiple seasons rather than opting for cheaper, lower-quality options that may need frequent replacement. Best practices include trying on gloves for proper fit, considering the playing position when selecting glove features, and choosing gloves made from durable materials. Additionally, regular maintenance and proper storage can extend a glove’s lifespan significantly.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Using a Baseball Glove for Softball?

Pros	Cons
Good grip and control – Baseball gloves are designed for catching, enhancing grip.	Size and weight – May be bulkier than softball gloves, affecting play.
Cost-effective – Often cheaper than specialized softball gloves.	Not optimized for fast pitch – May lack the flexibility needed for softball.
Durability – Typically made from strong materials for long-lasting use.	Potential for injury – Incorrect sizing might lead to hand injuries.
	Weight distribution – Baseball gloves may not distribute weight as effectively for softball.
	Finger stall design – Baseball gloves typically have a different finger stall structure which may not suit softball players.

How Does a Baseball Glove Compare to a Regular Softball Glove?

Feature	Baseball Glove	Softball Glove
Material	Typically made from leather or synthetic materials for durability.	Often made from similar materials but may include thicker padding for impact protection.
Size	Generally smaller, ranging from 11 to 12 inches for better control.	Larger size, usually 12 to 15 inches to accommodate the bigger ball.
Webbing	Features tighter webbing for quicker ball release.	Looser webbing for easier catching of larger softball.
Intended Use	Designed primarily for baseball players to enhance grip and control.	Tailored for softball players focusing on catching and fielding larger balls.
Weight	Generally lighter to facilitate quicker movements.	Heavier due to additional padding and larger size.
Break-in Time	Requires less break-in time, often game-ready sooner.	Typically requires a longer break-in period for optimal performance.
Price Range	$50 to $300 depending on brand and material.	$40 to $250, generally slightly less expensive than baseball gloves.

Related Post:

• Best baseball gloves for kid
• Best font for baseball jersey
• Best glove for 9u travel baseball
• Best baseball short storie
• Best baseball glove leather conditioner