Ever feel like your softball glove is working against you instead of with you? When a screaming line drive comes your way, you need a mitt you can trust. Choosing the perfect softball mitt feels like a huge challenge. There are so many sizes, materials, and web styles! A bad mitt can mean dropped fly balls and missed tags, costing your team the game. You want a glove that feels like an extension of your hand, one that snags every ball hit your way.
Don’t let the wrong equipment hold you back from making those game-changing plays. This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a great softball mitt. You will learn about pocket depth, glove break-in, and the best materials for your playing style. By the end, you will know precisely what features to look for. Get ready to find the glove that helps you dominate the field!
Top Softball Mitt Recommendations
- EASY BREAK IN: The soft synthetic leather material is lightweight and responsive, making the glove easy and quick to break in so it will be game-ready in no time for baseball, softball, or teeball
- ADJUSTABLE FIT: Customizable thumb-adjustment technology and contoured wrist area engineered to expand or tighten for the perfect snug fit to accommodate all players
- DURABILITY: Crafted from thick, premium synthetic leather designed to mimic the performance and durability of a true leather mitt without the long break-in period
- HAND FORMED POCKET: The hand formed pocket provides maximum comfort and responsive feel for making scoops and catches without drops
- NOTE: Left Hand Throw glove = worn on right hand to throw with left; Right Hand Throw glove = worn on left hand to throw with right
- FASTPITCH FIT: This glove is designed with a narrower wrist opening perfect for a fastpitch player!
- LIGHTWEIGHT MESH DESIGN: Constructed from lightweight technical mesh, this glove gives maximum comfort and helps facilitate quick hands out in the field
- ADJUSTABLE WRIST: Designed with an adjustable wrist closure to ensure a comfortable customized fit for all players
- SOFT POCKET: The soft pocket material is designed for a quick, easy break in process and provides a dynamic, responsive feel when catching the ball
- GREAT FOR PLAYERS: Adjustable sizing and comfortable fit make this glove perfect for Softball players
- 13 INCH ADULT GLOVE | Perfect for recreational baseball and slowpitch softball
- PRO H WEB | Versatile web that is ideal for outfield positions
- FULL GRAIN LEATHER | Quality material ensures enhanced durability
- ZERO SHOCK PALM PADDING | Provides increased impact protection while catching
- ADJUSTABLE WRIST STRAP | Allows for a customizable fit for maximum comfort
- LIGHTWEIGHT MESH DESIGN: Constructed from lightweight technical mesh, this glove gives maximum comfort and helps facilitate quick hands out in the field
- ADJUSTABLE WRIST: Designed with an adjustable wrist closure to ensure a comfortable customized fit for all players
- SOFT POCKET: The soft pocket material is designed for a quick, easy break in process and provides a dynamic, responsive feel when catching the ball
- GREAT FOR YOUNG PLAYERS: Adjustable sizing and comfortable fit make this glove perfect for softball players of all ages
- Left handed throw, 11"
- EASY BREAK IN: The soft synthetic leather material is lightweight and responsive, making the glove easy and quick to break in so it will be game-ready in no time for baseball, softball, or teeball
- ADJUSTABLE FIT: Customizable thumb-adjustment technology and contoured wrist area engineered to expand or tighten for the perfect snug fit to accommodate all players
- DURABILITY: Crafted from thick, premium synthetic leather designed to mimic the performance and durability of a true leather mitt without the long break-in period
- HAND FORMED POCKET: The hand formed pocket provides maximum comfort and responsive feel for making scoops and catches without drops
- NOTE: Left Hand Throw glove = worn on right hand to throw with left; Right Hand Throw glove = worn on left hand to throw with right
- EASY BREAK IN: The soft synthetic leather material is lightweight and responsive, making the glove easy and quick to break in so it will be game-ready in no time for baseball, softball, or teeball
- ADJUSTABLE FIT: Customizable thumb-adjustment technology and contoured wrist area engineered to expand or tighten for the perfect snug fit to accommodate all players
- DURABILITY: Crafted from thick, premium synthetic leather designed to mimic the performance and durability of a true leather mitt without the long break-in period
- HAND FORMED POCKET: The hand formed pocket provides maximum comfort and responsive feel for making scoops and catches without drops
- NOTE: Left Hand Throw glove = worn on right hand to throw with left; Right Hand Throw glove = worn on left hand to throw with right
- DESIGNED FOR ADULT SLOWPITCH SOFTBALL PLAYERS, this glove can be used for competitive or recreational adult slowpitch softball or baseball
- DESIGNED AS A UTILITY GLOVE FOR ANY POSITION, this 14 inch Basket Web slowpitch Softball Series glove gives players with a quickly broke-in pocket & complete comfort to give confidence while snagging ground balls and stopping extra base hits
- DURABLE AND LIGHTWEIGHT ALL-LEATHER SHELL AND PADDED FINGER LININGS - designed for optimal balance, added quickness, shape retention, and extra comfort
- CUSTOM FIT FOR EVERY ATHLETE - Neo-Flex Back and velcro strap allows this glove to fit comfortably on any men's slowpitch or women's slowpitch softball player
- 90% FACTORY / 10% PLAYER BREAK-IN makes this glove completely ready to use, right out of the box
- FASTPITCH FIT: This glove is designed with a narrower wrist opening perfect for the youth fastpitch player!
- LIGHTWEIGHT MESH DESIGN: Constructed from lightweight technical mesh, this glove gives maximum comfort and helps facilitate quick hands out in the field
- ADJUSTABLE WRIST: Designed with an adjustable wrist closure to ensure a comfortable customized fit for all players
- SOFT POCKET: The soft pocket material is designed for a quick, easy break in process and provides a dynamic, responsive feel when catching the ball
- GREAT FOR YOUNG PLAYERS: Adjustable sizing and comfortable fit make this glove perfect for Softball players
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your Softball Mitt
Choosing the right softball mitt makes a big difference in how you play. A good mitt helps you catch the ball cleanly and keeps your hand comfortable. This guide will help you pick the perfect one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
Several important features define a great softball mitt. Pay close attention to these when shopping.
Pocket Depth and Size
- Pocket Depth: This is how deep the area is where the ball lands. Deeper pockets are better for infielders because they hold the ball securely after a hard throw. Outfielders often prefer slightly shallower pockets for a faster transfer to the throwing hand.
- Overall Size: Mitt sizes are measured in inches. First basemen and catchers need specialized mitts that are different from standard fielding gloves. Fielders choose sizes based on their position and hand size.
Web Style
The web connects the thumb and index finger area. Different webs suit different positions:
- I-Web or H-Web: These are popular for infielders. They allow you to see the ball through the webbing quickly, which helps speed up the transfer.
- Basket Web or Closed Web: These are often preferred by pitchers and utility players. They hide the grip on the ball, which prevents opposing players from seeing the sign or the grip.
- Single Post or Double Post: These are common for outfielders, offering a large surface area to snag fly balls.
Break-In Time
Some mitts are ready to use right away. Others need significant effort to soften the leather. Decide if you want a mitt you can use immediately or one you are willing to work on over time.
Important Materials That Matter
The material of your mitt directly affects its durability and feel. Quality materials last longer and perform better.
Leather Quality
- Full-Grain Leather: This is the highest quality. It is very durable and molds perfectly to your hand over time, but it requires a long break-in period.
- Oil-Tanned Leather: This leather is softer and often requires less break-in time than full-grain. It offers a good balance between protection and flexibility.
- Synthetic Materials: These are lightweight and inexpensive. They are often used for youth or recreational leagues. They do not last as long as leather mitts.
Lacing and Padding
Strong rawhide lacing holds the glove together. Check that the laces are tight and secure. Good padding inside the palm protects your hand from stinging impact when catching fast pitches or hard-hit balls.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
You can often tell a high-quality mitt by looking closely at its construction.
Construction and Stitching
Quality mitts feature tight, consistent stitching. Loose or uneven stitching means the glove could fall apart faster under stress. A well-constructed glove feels solid, not floppy.
Palm Liner
The material lining the palm affects comfort. Premium gloves use soft leather or specialized moisture-wicking fabric. Cheap mitts might use thin synthetic material that can cause chafing or excessive sweating.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the mitt should guide your final decision.
Position-Specific Needs
- Infielders: Need a smaller mitt (usually 11 to 12 inches) with quick transfer capabilities. They need to scoop grounders fast.
- Outfielders: Need a larger mitt (12.5 to 13 inches or more) to cover more ground and secure deep fly balls.
- Pitchers: Often use closed webs to hide their grip from batters.
Comfort and Fit
The mitt must fit your hand correctly. If it is too big, you lose control. If it is too small, your hand cramps. Always try the mitt on if possible. Ensure you can close your hand around the ball comfortably after it is broken in.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Softball Mitts
Q: How long does it take to break in a new softball mitt?
A: It depends on the leather. High-quality, stiff leather can take several weeks of regular use or specialized conditioning. Softer gloves might be game-ready in a few days.
Q: Should I use a glove oil or conditioner?
A: Yes, conditioning helps keep the leather supple and extends the life of the mitt. Use products specifically designed for baseball or softball gloves. Too much oil, however, can make the mitt too floppy.
Q: Are softball mitts different from baseball gloves?
A: Yes, they are typically larger and have deeper pockets than standard baseball gloves. This difference accounts for the larger size of the softball.
Q: What size mitt should a fastpitch infielder use?
A: Most fastpitch infielders use mitts between 11.5 and 12 inches. This size helps with quick fielding and ball transfer.
Q: What is the difference between a glove and a mitt?
A: A glove is used by position players and has defined fingers. A mitt (used by first basemen and catchers) is less structured, offering more padding and a larger catching surface.
Q: How do I clean my softball mitt?
A: Wipe off dirt with a slightly damp cloth. Avoid soaking the mitt in water, as this damages the leather and lacing.
Q: Should I buy a left-handed or right-handed mitt?
A: You buy a mitt for the hand you *catch* with. A right-handed thrower wears the mitt on their left hand (a left-hand throw mitt).
Q: What is the most important feature for an outfielder?
A: Outfielders need the largest possible pocket size and a long finger stall to maximize their reach for fly balls.
Q: Can I use a youth mitt as an adult?
A: Generally, no. Youth mitts are smaller and do not offer enough padding or pocket depth for adult play, especially at higher speeds.
Q: Does price always equal quality in softball mitts?
A: Higher prices usually reflect better leather quality and superior craftsmanship, leading to better performance and durability. However, you can find excellent mid-range options that suit most recreational players well.