Ever feel like your slow pitch softball glove just doesn’t fit right? Maybe it’s too big, making it hard to close around the ball, or perhaps it’s too small, and you worry about pop-ups slipping through. Choosing the perfect glove size is a huge part of playing well. A poor fit means fumbled catches and missed opportunities on the field.
It can be confusing! Different brands size gloves differently, and what works for a fastpitch player might not work for slow pitch. You need a glove that matches your hand size and your position. Finding that sweet spot in glove sizing is key to boosting your confidence and your defense.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly how to measure your hand and match it to the ideal glove size for slow pitch softball. You will learn the secrets to finding a glove that feels like an extension of your hand, leading to cleaner plays and more outs. Keep reading to discover your perfect glove fit!
Top Size Glove For Slow Pitch Softball Recommendations
- 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
- Butter soft palm liner: PU palm lining for increased durability, feel, and comfort
- Full grain leather palm/pigskin back: for great durability
- Power lock wrist strap for secure fit
- Right hand Throw= worn on left hand, left hand Throw= worn on right hand
- Right Hand Throw = Left Hand Glove, Left Hand Throw = Right Hand Glove
- Wilson 2021 A360 SP13 13" Slowpitch Softball Glove - Right Hand Throw, Black/Grey
- Closed V-Laced Web
- CarbonLite Shell helps reduce the weight without sacrificing durability
- Black/Grey leather in a timeless look
- Velcro design for easy in-game adjustments
- GAME READY LEATHER | Full-grain leather construction that's softn enough for game-use straight out of the wrapper while allowing for enhanced durability
- IMPACT REDUCTION | Features poron XRD palm and index finger pads designed to significantly reduce ball impact
- CUSTOM FIT | Adjustable non slip pull strap back allows for a preferred fit
- BREAK-IN | 90% Factory 10% Player
- STYLE | 13" Pro H-Web Right Hand Throw
- FULL GRAIN LEATHER | Quality, soft leather provides improved shape retention while allowing for an easy break-in process
- IMPACT REDUCTION | Features poron XRD palm and index finger pads designed to significantly reduce ball impact
- CUSTOM FIT | Adjustable non slip pull strap back allows for a preferred fit
- BREAK-IN | 70% Factory 30% Player
- STYLE | 13" Pro H-Web Right Hand Throw
- All new softball specific patterns designed with a wider heel and more pocket depth in each size
- Game-Ready oil-tanned leather palm and web, including super soft palm lining for enhanced grip and ball control.
- Rawhide lace adds durability to the fingers and web with rolled welting improves break-in time like never before - out of the rapper game-ready!
- Re-positioned pinkie loop allows for two fingers in the pinkie stall
- Wilson 2021 A360 SP14 14" Slowpitch Softball Glove - Right Hand Throw, Black/Grey
- Weave Web
- CarbonLite Shell helps reduce the weight without sacrificing durability
- Black/Grey leather in a timeless look
- Velcro design for easy in-game adjustments
- 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 12 inch Basket Web Slowpitch Softball Series glove gives players with a quickly broke-in pocket and 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 slow pitch softball player
- 90% FACTORY AND 10% PLAYER BREAK-IN: Makes this glove completely ready to use, right out of the box
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Slow Pitch Softball Gloves
Choosing the right glove is a big deal for any slow pitch softball player. A good glove helps you catch those screaming line drives and snag easy pop-ups. This guide will help you pick the perfect glove for your game.
Key Features to Look For
Several things make a softball glove great. Look closely at these features before you buy.
- Pocket Depth: This is how deep the glove’s catching area is. A deeper pocket helps keep the ball secure once you catch it. Beginners often like a slightly deeper pocket.
- Glove Size: Size matters a lot! Slow pitch gloves usually range from 12 to 14 inches. Bigger gloves offer a larger target, which is great for outfielders. Infielders might prefer a slightly smaller glove for faster transfers.
- Web Type: The web connects the thumb and index finger area. A closed web (like a basket or basket weave) hides the ball, which can be good for pitchers. An open web (like an H-web or I-web) lets you see the ball easily, which is helpful for quick fielding.
- Break-in Time: Some gloves feel ready to use right away. Others need time to soften up before they work perfectly.
Important Materials
What a glove is made from affects how long it lasts and how it feels.
- Leather: This is the most common material. High-quality, full-grain leather is tough and durable. Steerhide leather is strong but takes longer to break in. Oil-tanned leather is softer and easier to mold.
- Synthetic Materials: Some gloves use synthetic leather or nylon. These are usually cheaper and lighter. They break in fast but often do not last as long as real leather gloves.
- Lacing: Strong rawhide lacing holds the glove together. Good lacing keeps the glove shape firm over many seasons.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all gloves are made equal. Pay attention to the construction.
- Stitching Quality: Strong, tight stitching means the glove will hold its shape. Loose or weak stitching can cause the glove to fall apart after hard use.
- Padding: Good padding in the palm protects your hand when catching hard-hit softballs. Too much padding can make the glove feel bulky, though.
- Fit and Feel: A glove that fits your hand well performs better. If the fingers are too loose or too tight, you lose control. Quality gloves use better patterns for a more natural fit.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where you play most often.
- Infielders: Players who cover second base or short stop need a glove that lets them get the ball out quickly. They usually use gloves between 11.5 and 12.5 inches. Speed in transferring the ball is key.
- Outfielders: These players need maximum reach. They often choose larger gloves, 12.5 inches and up, sometimes even 13 inches. A deeper pocket helps secure long fly balls.
- Pitchers: Pitchers often use gloves with closed webs. This design hides their grip on the ball from the batter.
A well-broken-in glove feels like an extension of your hand. It should feel comfortable immediately, even if it needs a little work to soften up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Slow Pitch Softball Gloves
Q: What size glove should I get for slow pitch softball?
A: Most adult slow pitch players use gloves between 12 and 13.5 inches. Outfielders usually pick the larger end of that range, while infielders might stick closer to 12 inches.
Q: Do I need a special glove just for slow pitch?
A: Yes, generally. Slow pitch softballs are larger than baseballs or hard-pitch softballs. Slow pitch gloves usually have deeper pockets and are sized bigger than baseball gloves.
Q: How long does a good leather glove take to break in?
A: A high-quality, stiff leather glove might take several weeks of regular use or dedicated conditioning to break in fully. Softer leather gloves break in much faster, sometimes in just a few sessions.
Q: Is a bigger glove always better?
A: No. A bigger glove gives you more reach, but it can slow down how fast you get the ball out. Pick the size that matches your playing position and comfort level.
Q: What is the difference between a utility glove and a position-specific glove?
A: A utility glove is an all-around glove that works okay for most positions. A position-specific glove is designed with features (like web type or pocket depth) perfect for one spot, like the outfield or infield.
Q: Should I use a glove conditioner?
A: Yes, using a good glove oil or conditioner helps keep the leather soft and supple. This prevents the leather from drying out and cracking, which extends the glove’s life.
Q: What does “pro-grade” leather mean?
A: Pro-grade leather means the manufacturer used the highest quality hides available. This leather is very durable and offers the best feel, but these gloves cost more money.
Q: Can I use my baseball glove for slow pitch?
A: You can, but it is not ideal. Baseball gloves are smaller and have shallower pockets. They struggle to hold the larger, softer slow pitch ball securely.
Q: How should I store my glove when I am not using it?
A: Store your glove in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme heat, like a car trunk. Always keep a softball or a glove shaper inside the pocket to help it maintain its shape.
Q: Are synthetic gloves okay for competitive slow pitch?
A: Synthetic gloves are fine for casual or recreational play. For serious, competitive leagues, most players prefer full-grain leather because it offers better performance and lasts longer through hard use.