Ever watch a shortstop snag a screaming line drive or a second baseman scoop a tricky grounder with lightning speed? That smooth, confident play often starts with one crucial piece of gear: the infield softball glove. But let’s be honest, stepping into the sporting goods store or scrolling online can feel overwhelming. Which pocket depth is right for you? Should you choose leather or synthetic? Finding the perfect infield glove feels like a mission in itself when all you want to do is dominate the diamond.
Choosing the wrong glove can lead to dropped balls, fumbled throws, and serious frustration. You need a glove that feels like an extension of your hand, one built for quick transfers and reliable catches in the dirt or air. This post cuts through the confusion. We break down exactly what makes a top-tier infield glove tick, from size recommendations to preferred web styles.
Keep reading to discover the secrets to selecting the glove that will boost your fielding percentage and make those highlight-reel plays happen. Get ready to transform your defense from shaky to stellar!
Top Infield Softball Glove Recommendations
- BUILT FOR SOFTBALL | Fastpitch-specific patterns designed for small hands and the fastpitch game
- QUALITY MATERIALS | Game-Ready Diamond Pro Steer USA Leather
- EASY PLAYABILITY | Flex Notch Closure system makes the glove easy to squeeze
- A PERFECT FIT | Quantum Closure System comes with adjustable back for a secure fit
- A SHAPE THAT LASTS | Rolled leather welting provides a durable shape and shortens break-in time
- Gender Engineered: Mizuno's engineering philosophy to maximize performance by tailoring products to meet the needs of the female athlete
- Professional Level Lace: Same durable lace that's offered in our professional-level gloves.
- Bio Soft Leather: Professional style smooth leather that has the perfect balance of oil and softness for exceptional feel and firm control that serious players demand.
- Center Pocket Designed Patterns: Pattern design that naturally centers the pocket under the index finger for the most versatile break-in possible.
- Parashock + Palm Pad: Increases impact absorption for less sting.
- 12 1/2 INCH ADULT GLOVE | Perfect for recreational baseball and slowpitch softball
- BASKET WEB | Versatile web that can be used at any position on the field
- 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
- 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
- Wilson 2026 A500 Siren 11.75" Infield/Pitcher Fastpitch Softball Glove - Right Hand Throw, White/Purple/Seafoam
- 11.75” youth fastpitch glove with top grain leather and a snug Quick-Fit Wrist
- Rolled Dual Welting: Goes beyond a mere cosmetic effect, as it’s integrated into the liner of each infield, outfield and pitcher's model, offering better support and helping your glove hold its shape better over time
- Quick Fit Wrist: Elastic system adjusts to hug the wrist
- Top Grain Leather Construction: Durable, lightweight feel
- DESIGNED AS A ULTILITY GLOVE FOR INFIELDERS, OUTFIELDERS OR PITCHERS this 12 inch fastpitch softball glove with Basket Web design will have the player making plays all over the field
- FOR SELECT PLAYERS BETWEEN 8 - 14 YEARS OLD
- SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR THE HAND SIZE OF THE FEMALE ATHLETE this glove provides the ultimate level of comfort and control
- ADJUSTABLE VELCRO STRAP allows for custom fit on any female hand size
- FULL-GRAN LEATHER for enhanced durability and ZERO SHOCK PALM padding for enhanced impact protection
- Wilson Summer 2025 A2000 H12SS 12” Infield Fastpitch Softball Glove - Right Hand Throw, White/Teal/Blonde
- Pro Stock Leather: Pro Stock Leather is preferred for its rugged durability and unmatched feel.
- SuperSkin: SuperSkin is a microfiber material that’s half the weight of Pro Stock Leather, but twice as durable. Its moisture-resistant design extends the longevity of the glove, and is easier to clean than traditional leather.
- Comfort Pro Fit: Featuring our ProLux Leather, the liner of the redesigned A2000 has a richer, softer feel against your hand. The all-new Comfort Sleeve is the finishing touch, concealing the binding in the wrist for more comfort than ever before.
- Rolled Dual Welting: Dual Welting in Wilson gloves goes beyond a mere cosmetic effect, as it’s integrated into the liner of each infield, outfield and pitcher's model, offering better support and helping your glove hold its shape better over time.
- Wilson 2024 A700 12" Infield Fastpitch Glove - Black/White, Right Hand Throw
Choosing Your Perfect Infield Softball Glove: A Buyer’s Guide
Finding the right infield softball glove makes a huge difference in your game. A good glove helps you snag those fast-ground balls and quick throws. This guide will help you pick the best glove for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for an infield glove, several features stand out. These parts determine how well the glove performs on the field.
Pocket Depth
Infield gloves need a shallower pocket compared to outfield gloves. A shallow pocket lets you quickly transfer the ball from the glove to your throwing hand. This speed is crucial for turning double plays. Look for a pocket that is deep enough to secure the ball but shallow enough for a fast release.
Web Type
Most infielders prefer an open web, like the I-Web or H-Web. These designs offer maximum visibility through the webbing. Seeing the ball clearly as it enters the glove helps secure the catch. Closed webs are usually better for pitchers or corner infielders who want more ball security.
Glove Size
Infield gloves generally range from 11 to 12 inches. Shorter gloves offer quicker hand speed and control. Middle infielders (shortstop and second base) often prefer 11 to 11.5 inches. Third basemen might use slightly larger gloves, around 11.5 to 12 inches, for better reach.
Important Materials Matter
The material of your glove affects its feel, durability, and break-in time. Quality materials last longer and perform better.
- Genuine Leather: This is the standard for quality gloves. Full-grain leather is very durable and molds to your hand over time. It requires a longer break-in period.
- Kip Leather: This leather comes from younger cattle. Kip leather is lighter and softer than full-grain leather. It breaks in faster but might not be quite as tough over many seasons.
- Synthetic Materials: These are often found in lower-priced gloves. They are lightweight and require almost no break-in time. However, they do not offer the same longevity or custom fit as real leather.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all gloves are made the same. Pay attention to construction details to gauge the glove’s overall quality.
Stitching and Lacing
Strong, tightly woven lacing improves the glove’s structure. High-quality gloves use rawhide or synthetic laces that resist stretching and breaking. Poor stitching leads to loose webbing and a glove that loses its shape quickly.
Padding and Palm Liner
Good palm padding absorbs the shock of hard-hit balls. This protects your hand. The liner material inside the glove also affects comfort. High-end gloves often use softer leather or specialized materials for a comfortable, snug fit.
Hand Orientation
Always remember to buy the correct glove for your throwing hand. If you throw right-handed, you need a left-hand throw glove. If you throw left-handed, you need a right-hand throw glove. This simple step often gets overlooked!
User Experience and Use Cases
Consider how you play the game when making your final selection.
Break-In Period
If you need a glove ready for a game tomorrow, choose a glove labeled “game-ready.” These gloves are pre-oiled or made with softer materials. If you have time to dedicate to shaping your glove, select a high-quality, stiffer leather glove. You put in the work, and the glove becomes perfectly customized to your hand and playing style.
Field Position
While this is an infield glove guide, remember your specific spot matters. A shortstop needs maximum quickness, favoring a smaller, lighter glove. A third baseman might prioritize a slightly larger pocket to handle hard-hit liners near the line.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Infield Softball Gloves
Q: What is the ideal size range for an adult infield softball glove?
A: Most adult infield gloves fall between 11 and 12 inches. Shorter gloves help infielders move the ball faster.
Q: Should I buy a glove that is already broken in?
A: It depends on your preference. Game-ready gloves are easier right away. Stiffer leather offers a better custom fit after you break it in yourself.
Q: What does “I-Web” mean?
A: The I-Web is a common open web pattern for infielders. It has two vertical leather strips connected by a horizontal piece, making it look like the letter ‘I’.
Q: Does leather quality affect how long the glove lasts?
A: Yes, genuine full-grain leather lasts much longer than synthetic materials or softer kip leather.
Q: How do I properly break in a new leather glove?
A: You can use glove oil or conditioner, pound the pocket with a mallet, and often store it with a softball laced tightly inside the pocket.
Q: Why do infield gloves have shallower pockets?
A: Shallower pockets allow the player to see the ball immediately upon contact and get it out quickly for the throw.
Q: What is the difference between a softball glove and a baseball glove?
A: Softball gloves generally have deeper pockets and a larger overall circumference to accommodate the larger 11 or 12-inch softball.
Q: How important is the palm padding for an infielder?
A: Palm padding is important for absorbing the shock from hard-hit balls, protecting your hand, especially on the hot corner (third base).
Q: Can I use an outfield glove for infield play?
A: You can, but it will slow down your transfer time because the deep pocket makes it harder to locate and release the ball quickly.
Q: What is the best way to clean my leather infield glove?
A: Wipe off dirt with a damp cloth. Occasionally apply a small amount of specialized leather conditioner to keep the leather supple and prevent drying out.