What makes a great swing in fastpitch softball? A solid grip is key! Think about it: a slippery bat means less power and more chances for the ball to go the wrong way. Choosing the right batting gloves feels like a big puzzle. Should you focus on padding, flexibility, or just how cool they look? It’s easy to get lost looking at all the different materials and features out there, and nobody wants to waste money on gloves that quickly fall apart or just don’t feel right when you step up to the plate.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what you need to look for in fastpitch batting gloves, whether you are a power hitter or just starting out. You will learn how the right pair can boost your confidence, improve your control, and protect your hands during those hard swings. Get ready to discover the secrets to finding the perfect fit so you can focus purely on crushing that next pitch!
Top Batting Gloves For Fastpitch Softball Recommendations
- DESIGNED FOR WOMEN: These CFX Fastpitch batting gloves are designed and sized to the dimensions of women's hands for a more comfortable feel for women and girls while at the plate
- PRO QUALITY: As the official batting gloves of USA Softball, the CFX FP is the choice batting glove for softball players at the highest level
- PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION: Made from premium quality leather, these gloves are designed to play at peak performance season after season with no tears or bunching
- NATURAL FIT: These gloves are made specially to fit the natural curves of the hand to ensure a comfortable and responsive feel at the plate
- TRADITIONAL DESIGN: Constructed with the same premium quality leather as our CFX Pro model, the CFX FP is designed to bring the same level of performance exhibited by our MLB pros to softball diamonds across the country
- DESIGNED FOR WOMEN: These CFX Fastpitch batting gloves are designed and sized to the dimensions of women's hands for a more comfortable feel for women and girls while at the plate
- PRO QUALITY: As the official batting gloves of USA Softball, the CFX FP is the choice batting glove for softball players at the highest level
- PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION: Made from premium quality leather, these gloves are designed to play at peak performance season after season with no tears or bunching
- NATURAL FIT: These gloves are made specially to fit the natural curves of the hand to ensure a comfortable and responsive feel at the plate
- TRADITIONAL DESIGN: Constructed with the same premium quality leather as our CFX Pro model, the CFX FP is designed to bring the same level of performance exhibited by our MLB pros to softball diamonds across the country
- Nonslip Palm: Enhanced grip for a more stable swing and decreased hand slippage during swing.
- Padded Mizuno ShockPalm: Absorbs vibration for better feel & comfort.
- FlexMesh: Flexibility and breathability are achieved with the addition of FlexMesh.
- Neoprene Wristband: Provides additional comfort around the wrist for a better fit and feel.
- QuikAdjust Strap: Designed to give you a quick and secure fit.
- ENGINEERED TO LAST | Upgraded, durable one-piece goatskin leather palm
- SECURE FIT | Back-of-hand made with Lycra fused with structured-flex silicone
- FULL RANGE OF MOTION | Flexible, molded wrist strap with bar-tack reinforced stitching keeps glove stable without restricting movement
- COOL AND DRY | Moisture-wicking material prevents sweat buildup
- EASTON STYLE | Comes with micro-print Ghost NX tech label and molded Easton Screamin' E logo
- ENGINEERED TO LAST | Upgraded, durable one-piece goatskin leather palm
- SECURE FIT | Back-of-hand made with Lycra fused with structured-flex silicone
- FULL RANGE OF MOTION | Flexible, molded wrist strap with bar-tack reinforced stitching keeps glove stable without restricting movement
- COOL AND DRY | Moisture-wicking material prevents sweat buildup
- EASTON STYLE | Comes with micro-print Ghost NX tech label and molded Easton Screamin' E logo
- REDUCE STING: These baseball batting gloves are constructed with the unique padded Shok-Sorb palm which gives your hands an extra layer of protection against bat sting on cold days!
- IMPROVED GRIP: Constructed from high performance genuine leather designed to help hitters maintain superior grip and bat control in all weather conditions
- ANATOMICAL FIT: Designed using our Tri-Curve technology to mimic the shape and curves of the hand for a comfortable fit at the plate
- MESH VENTS: These batting gloves are made with mesh vented handbacks for improved air flow to keep your hands cool and dry when hitting
- PRO QUALITY: Made with durable, premium quality leather designed to resist bunching and tearing season after season
- FUNDAMENTAL FASTPITCH BATTING GLOVES are the perfect combination of comfort, style and durability
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND SUPER FLEXIBLE two-piece, synthetic palm for a smooth grip on the bat
- EMBOSSED LYCRA BACK-OF-HAND for a flexible fit
- COMFORTABLE, NEOPRENE CUFF offers durable and breathable support
- AVAILABLE COLORS: White
- DESIGNED FOR GIRLS: These Classic X Fastpitch youth batting gloves are designed and sized to the dimensions of girls' hands for a more comfortable feel while at the plate
- QUAD-FLEX TECHNOLOGY: The one-piece, seamless leather palm is designed to anticipate flexing of your palm for a perfect fit around the bat handle
- PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION: Made from premium quality leather, these gloves are designed to play at peak performance season after season with no tears or bunching
- NATURAL FIT: All Franklin batting gloves are made with our Tri-Curve technology to fit the natural curves of the hand to ensure a comfortable and responsive feel at the plate
- USA SOFTBALL: As the official batting glove of USA Softball, the Classic X FP batting glove is designed for the fastpitch softball community and engineered to perform at the highest levels of the game
Choosing the Best Batting Gloves for Fastpitch Softball
Fastpitch softball requires quick swings and a firm grip. Good batting gloves help players control the bat better. They also protect hands from sting and blisters. This guide helps you pick the perfect pair.
Key Features to Look For
The right features make a big difference in your game. Look closely at these areas when shopping.
Palm Material and Grip
- Tacky Surface: The palm needs a grippy material. This stops the bat from slipping when you swing hard or when your hands get sweaty.
- Durability: Thick, quality palm leather lasts longer through intense practices and games.
Flexibility and Fit
- Pre-Curved Design: Gloves that are slightly curved fit your natural hand position better. This means less bunching of material when you grip the bat.
- Secure Closure: Most gloves use a Velcro (hook-and-loop) strap. Ensure this strap is wide and strong. It keeps the glove firmly in place during powerful swings.
Protection and Padding
- Knuckle Protection: Some gloves have light padding over the knuckles. This guards against accidental bumps or when the ball hits the bat near your hands.
- Venting: Small mesh panels or perforations help air move through the glove. This keeps your hands cooler and drier.
Important Materials in Fastpitch Gloves
What the glove is made of affects how it feels and how long it lasts.
Leather vs. Synthetic
- Leather (Sheepskin or Goatskin): Real leather molds to your hand over time. This offers a custom, comfortable feel. It breathes well but can sometimes be heavier.
- Synthetic Materials: These are often lighter and dry faster than leather. Modern synthetics mimic leather’s grip well. They are usually easier to clean, too.
Backhand Construction
The back of the hand usually uses stretchable fabric like spandex or lycra. This material allows your fingers to move freely. Good stretch material ensures a snug fit without being too tight.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the price tag. Careful construction separates the best gloves from the rest.
Stitching Strength
- High Quality: Look for tight, even stitching, especially where different panels meet. Poor stitching often leads to rips after just a few weeks of use.
- Reduced Quality: Loose threads or visible gaps in the sewing indicate a glove that will fail quickly under stress.
Comfort and Break-In Period
A high-quality glove feels comfortable almost immediately. Synthetic gloves often require almost no break-in time. Leather gloves need a few sessions to soften up. A glove that feels stiff or painful right out of the package is usually lower quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
Different players use their gloves differently. Think about how you play.
Practice vs. Game Day
- Practice Gloves: You can use cheaper, more durable synthetic gloves for daily heavy hitting practice. These save your nicer pair.
- Game Gloves: For important games, many players prefer a premium leather glove. They offer the best feel and grip when performance counts the most.
Weather Considerations
If you play in wet conditions, choose gloves with excellent water-resistant grip technology. Dry, hot weather demands gloves with maximum breathability to manage sweat.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Fastpitch Batting Gloves
Q: How should fastpitch batting gloves fit?
A: Batting gloves should fit snugly, like a second skin. They should not feel loose or baggy, but they must not restrict finger movement either. Check that the strap closes securely over your wrist.
Q: Do fastpitch gloves need to be different from baseball gloves?
A: Not always. Many fastpitch players use unisex or smaller-sized baseball gloves. However, some brands offer gloves specifically designed for the smaller hands typical of fastpitch players, which often feature slightly shorter fingers.
Q: How do I clean my batting gloves?
A: Always check the manufacturer’s tag first. Most synthetic gloves can be gently hand-washed with mild soap and cold water. Leather gloves should only be wiped clean. Never put them in a machine dryer; air dry them away from direct heat.
Q: Can I wear batting gloves if I don’t have blisters?
A: Yes! Many players wear them just for better grip control, especially when it is humid or rainy. They also help reduce the vibration sting when hitting a poorly squared ball.
Q: What is the most important feature for grip?
A: The material used on the palm is the most important feature for grip. Look for materials described as “tacky,” “high-traction,” or high-quality sheepskin leather.
Q: Should I size up for padding?
A: Generally, no. Sizing up adds extra material that bunches up in your palm, which hurts your feel for the bat. If you need more shock absorption, choose a glove model that inherently offers more padding, rather than just buying a larger size.
Q: How often should I replace my gloves?
A: This depends on use. If you practice daily, you might replace them every season. If you only use them for weekend games, they might last several years. Replace them when the palm leather wears completely thin or the stitching breaks significantly.
Q: Are expensive gloves always better?
A: Not always, but premium materials usually cost more. Mid-to-high range gloves often use better leather and superior stitching, offering better longevity and feel than the cheapest options.
Q: What are perforations for?
A: Perforations are small holes punched into the glove material. Their main job is ventilation. They allow heat and sweat to escape, keeping your hands drier and more comfortable during long games.
Q: Can I wear my batting gloves under fielding gloves?
A: Some players do, especially in cold weather. If you choose to do this, make sure the batting glove is very thin and smooth so it does not create wrinkles inside your fielding glove, which could affect your dexterity.