Imagine this: The crack of the bat echoes. A ground ball rockets your way, a blur of white against the green grass. Your heart pounds, your instincts kick in, and your glove is ready. But is it the *right* glove?
Choosing an infield glove can feel like a game of chance. So many brands, sizes, and styles! It’s tough to know which one will help you snag those tricky grounders and make the perfect throw. You want a glove that feels like an extension of your hand, not a clumsy barrier. That’s where we come in.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about infield gloves. We’ll explore what makes a glove great for infielders, how to pick the best one for your position, and even a few tips to keep it in top shape. Get ready to step up your game and confidently find the infield glove that’s perfect for you.
Our Top 5 Infield Gloves Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Rawlings | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Easton | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
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Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove – Fieldmaster Adult + Youth Baseball Gloves – Men’s + Women’s Infield + Outfield Mitt – Right Hand Throw – 12″ | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Rawlings | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Mizuno GXT-2A Classic Pro Training Glove (9.00-Inch | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Infield Gloves Detailed Reviews
1. Rawlings
Rating: 8.9/10
Step onto the diamond with the Rawlings Sandlot Baseball Glove Series, a collection designed to bring that classic, comfortable feel to your game. This specific model, an 11.5-inch infield glove, is built for versatility, ready to handle ground balls and quick throws from various positions. It’s crafted with tough, full-grain oiled shell leather, making it durable enough for countless games and practices. Rawlings has put a lot of thought into making this glove feel great right away, so you can focus on playing.
What We Like:
- The 11.5-inch size and Pro I Web are perfect for infielders, making it easy to scoop up grounders and transfer the ball quickly.
- Full-grain oiled shell leather means this glove will last a long time and get even better with age.
- Zero Shock Palm Pads offer great protection, so hard-hit balls won’t sting your hand as much.
- Padded finger back linings feel super comfortable, even during long games.
- The glove comes 80% broken-in, meaning it’s almost game-ready straight out of the box. You won’t spend hours breaking it in.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s 80% broken-in, players might still want to do a little extra conditioning to make it perfectly molded to their hand.
- The “Multiple Styles” in the title suggests variety, but this specific description focuses on one infield model. More details on other available styles would be helpful.
Overall, the Rawlings Sandlot Baseball Glove Series offers a fantastic blend of durability, comfort, and immediate playability for young infielders. It’s a glove that feels like it’s been with you for years, right from the start.
2. Easton
Rating: 9.1/10
The Easton FUNDAMENTAL Fastpitch Softball Glove, at 12 inches and designed for right-hand throwers, is a fantastic choice for infielders and pitchers. Its specific fastpitch pattern is made for smaller hands, offering a comfortable and tailored fit for the female athlete. This glove is ready to play right out of the box, thanks to its oil-tanned cowhide leather that breaks in easily, giving you that authentic feel you want.
What We Like:
- The fastpitch-specific pattern fits smaller hands perfectly.
- The oil-tanned leather breaks in quickly for a game-ready feel.
- The Quantum Closure System offers a secure and adjustable fit.
- The soft palm lining helps with control, and rawhide lace adds durability.
- It’s ideal for both infielders and pitchers.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, some players might prefer an even more robust pocket for heavy use.
- The split woven web, while functional, might not offer the same deep pocket as some other web designs for certain players.
Overall, the Easton FUNDAMENTAL glove is a solid option that delivers on comfort and performance. It’s a glove that grows with you as you improve your game.
3. Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove – Fieldmaster Adult + Youth Baseball Gloves – Men’s + Women’s Infield + Outfield Mitt – Right Hand Throw – 12″
Rating: 8.7/10
The Franklin Sports Fieldmaster glove is designed for players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re playing baseball, softball, or teeball, this glove aims to get you ready for the game quickly. It’s made for both adults and youth and comes in sizes for infield and outfield play. This 12-inch mitt is specifically for right-hand throwers, meaning it’s worn on your left hand.
What We Like:
- The glove breaks in super fast thanks to its soft synthetic leather. It’s ready for action right away.
- The Contour Fit System lets you adjust the thumb for a perfect, snug fit. This makes it comfortable for everyone.
- It’s built tough with thick synthetic leather that feels like real leather but doesn’t need a long break-in.
- The hand-formed pocket helps you catch the ball easily and securely. You won’t drop those important plays.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the synthetic leather is great for quick break-in, some players might prefer the feel and longevity of genuine leather.
- The “premium” synthetic leather might not offer the same level of ultimate durability as top-tier genuine leather gloves over many years of heavy use.
Overall, this Franklin Sports Fieldmaster glove offers a great blend of ease of use and performance for players looking for a reliable mitt. It’s a solid option for getting out on the field and playing.
4. Rawlings
Rating: 9.3/10
The Rawlings | SELECT PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove | Right Hand Throw | Kris Bryant | 11.5″ is a fantastic glove for young baseball players. It’s designed for comfort and control, making it easier for kids to catch the ball. This glove is inspired by Kris Bryant, a great player, so it has a cool look too. It’s built to last and help kids develop their baseball skills.
What We Like:
- It’s made for young players, ages 6 to 12, so it fits them well.
- The 11.5″ size with a Pro H Web is versatile and works for many different positions on the field.
- The all-leather shell feels soft and comfortable, and it helps reduce the sting when catching the ball.
- It’s lightweight and easy for kids to close and control, which is super important when learning.
- Most of the glove is already broken in at the factory (90%), so players can start using it right away.
- It’s a right-hand throw glove, meaning it’s worn on the left hand.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the all-leather shell is great, some players might prefer a glove with even more padding for extra shock absorption.
- The textured vinyl on the back, while making it lightweight, might not offer the same premium feel as a full leather glove for some.
This glove gives young players a great start on the baseball field. It offers a good balance of comfort, control, and durability.
5. Mizuno GXT-2A Classic Pro Training Glove (9.00-Inch
Rating: 9.3/10
The Mizuno GXT-2A Classic Pro Training Glove is a fantastic tool for any young baseball player looking to improve their infield skills. It’s built with full-grain leather, making it tough and ready for lots of practice. The 9-inch size is just right for teaching the correct way to catch and throw the ball. This glove is made in the Philippines, a country known for quality sports equipment.
What We Like:
- Perfect for teaching proper infield mechanics.
- Durable full-grain leather construction.
- Designed to fit adult hands for comfortable training.
- The 9-inch size is ideal for developing quick hands.
What Could Be Improved:
- May require a break-in period for maximum comfort.
- Limited color options might be available.
This glove is a solid investment for any player serious about becoming a better infielder. It provides the right feel and structure to build good habits from the start.
Finding Your Perfect Infield Glove: A Buyer’s Guide
Playing baseball or softball in the infield is exciting! You need a glove that helps you snag ground balls and make quick throws. An infield glove is smaller than an outfielder’s glove. This makes it easier to scoop up grounders and transfer the ball quickly to your throwing hand. Let’s find the best one for you!
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for an infield glove, keep these important features in mind:
- Size: Infield gloves are usually between 10.5 and 12 inches. Shorter players or those who play closer to the plate might prefer a 10.5 to 11-inch glove. Players who cover more ground or play a bit deeper might like an 11.5 to 12-inch glove.
- Webbing: The webbing connects the thumb and index finger. For infielders, open webs like the H-web or I-web are popular. These webs let you see the ball as you catch it, which helps you get a good grip. They also make it easier to scoop up ground balls.
- Pocket Depth: A shallower pocket is better for infielders. This helps you get the ball out of the glove faster for a quick throw. A deep pocket can make it harder to transfer the ball.
- Break-in: Some gloves come “game ready,” meaning they are soft and ready to use. Others need to be broken in. A glove that needs breaking in will feel stiffer at first but can mold to your hand over time.
Important Materials
The material your glove is made from really matters. It affects how the glove feels, how long it lasts, and how well it performs.
- Genuine Leather: This is the most common material. High-quality genuine leather is durable and molds well to your hand. It can be a bit stiff at first but gets better with use.
- Cowhide Leather: This is a strong and popular choice. It’s a good balance of durability and flexibility.
- Pigskin Leather: This leather is often softer than cowhide. It can be a good option for players who want a glove that feels broken-in quickly.
- Synthetic Materials: Some gloves use synthetic leather or other man-made materials. These can be lighter and easier to clean. They might not last as long as real leather.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a glove great or not so great?
- Stitching: Strong, neat stitching means the glove will hold up better. Loose or uneven stitching can lead to the glove falling apart sooner.
- Padding: Good padding in the palm helps protect your hand from the impact of the ball. Too much padding can make the glove feel bulky. Too little padding means you might feel the ball more.
- Construction: How the glove is put together matters. A well-constructed glove will feel balanced and comfortable. Poor construction can make it awkward to use.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you play.
- Quick Transfers: If you’re always looking to make fast throws to first base, a glove with a shallower pocket and an open web is ideal. This helps you get the ball out quickly.
- Ground Balls: For scooping up grounders, a glove with a bit more flexibility in the fingers can be helpful. The open web also helps you see the ball go into the pocket.
- Comfort: A glove that fits well and feels comfortable on your hand will make playing more enjoyable. You want a glove that feels like an extension of your hand.
- Durability: If you play a lot, you need a glove that can handle the wear and tear. High-quality leather and good stitching will ensure your glove lasts for many seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Infield Gloves
Q: What is the best size infield glove for a 10-year-old?
A: For a 10-year-old, a glove between 10.5 and 11 inches is usually a good starting point. It allows for some growth while still being manageable.
Q: Should I buy a glove that’s already broken in?
A: A broken-in glove is ready to use right away. A glove that needs breaking in will mold to your hand over time, which some players prefer for a perfect fit.
Q: What does “webbing” mean on a glove?
A: Webbing is the material that connects the thumb and index finger of the glove. For infielders, open webs like H-web or I-web are good because they help you see the ball.
Q: How do I break in a new leather glove?
A: You can break in a glove by playing catch with it regularly. Some people also use glove oil or conditioner. Avoid using heat like microwaves or ovens, as this can damage the leather.
Q: Is real leather better than synthetic material?
A: Real leather is generally more durable and molds better to your hand. Synthetic materials can be lighter and easier to clean but may not last as long.
Q: Why is a shallower pocket important for infielders?
A: A shallower pocket helps you get the ball out of the glove faster for quick throws. A deep pocket can slow down your transfer.
Q: What is the difference between an infield glove and an outfield glove?
A: Infield gloves are typically smaller, have shallower pockets, and often feature open webs. Outfield gloves are larger with deeper pockets and closed webs for catching fly balls.
Q: How do I clean my infield glove?
A: Wipe your glove with a damp cloth to remove dirt. You can use a leather conditioner occasionally to keep the leather supple.
Q: Can I use my infield glove for softball?
A: Yes, you can use an infield glove for softball. However, softball seams are thicker, so some players prefer a glove with a slightly larger pocket.
Q: How often should I replace my infield glove?
A: A good quality infield glove can last for many years with proper care. You might consider replacing it when the padding wears out, the leather cracks, or the stitching comes undone.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.