Welcome to the world of baseball gloves & mitts! Whether you’re an aspiring professional, a weekend warrior, or a beginner just looking for a recreational glove, buying the appropriate glove for your needs can be overwhelming. Here’s a beginner's guide to help you select the best glove for you.
First and foremost, you should consider the type of glove you’re looking for. There are two main types of gloves in this category: gloves and mitts. Gloves have individual fingers, while mitts have a single pocket to receive the ball. Generally, fielders will use gloves, while the catcher typically uses mitts. But there is no hard-and-fast rule—it mostly depends on personal preference.
The second thing to consider is the size of the glove. Glove sizes vary anywhere from 8 inches (youth) to 15 inches. A good rule of thumb is that infielders usually prefer 11.25” to 12.75” gloves, while outfielders usually prefer 12.75” to 13.75” gloves. As for mitts, their sizes range from 32 to 34 inches.
The third factor to consider is the material used on the glove. Different materials provide different levels of comfort and protection. Typically, glove leather is used for the shell because it is lightweight, comfortable, and strong. However, other materials like synthetic leather are becoming increasingly popular due to their affordability and durability. Some gloves may also contain special features such as impact-absorbing layers or extra padding.
Once you have these factors in mind, you are ready to find the perfect glove or mitt for your needs. Have fun shopping and enjoy the game!