Dive Deeper: 9 Critical Differences Between Fastpitch and Slowpitch Gloves

Last updated on March 21, 2024

If you’re a casual observer, you might think that slowpitch and fastpitch softball are pretty much the same. Truthfully, you’d be right in a lot of ways; but there are some subtle differences. For example, fastpitch games typically flow faster due to base stealing and bunting, while slowpitch can sometimes be dragged out while players wait for a big hit.

Despite these differences, most fastpitch and slowpitch gloves are interchangeable. However, manufacturers often differentiate between the two for a few different reasons. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between fastpitch and slowpitch gloves – specifically the catcher’s mitt, pitcher’s glove, and other positions to see how they differ.

The Catcher’s Mitt – Fundamentally Different

When it comes to softball, the catcher’s mitt is fundamentally different between slowpitch and fastpitch. The two variants of the game have different requirements for catchers, and the mitts reflect these differences.

A Faster Game

Fastpitch catchers have a tough job. They need to receive pitches that can exceed 70 mph, which can be hard on the hands. To protect them, fastpitch mitts are heavily padded which provides a cushion against the beating that catchers take during the game.

Fastpitch softball is a faster game than slowpitch. There is base stealing, and the bunt is a big part of the game. Teams often rely on speed, and small ball comes into play in every game. Fastpitch catcher’s mitts have smaller pockets to accommodate the speedy transfers necessary at the position. There’s also the fact that base runners can advance on passed balls. Catchers need to block balls in the dirt to prevent this from happening. The circumference of their mitts is usually wider to facilitate blocking and/or scooping wild pitches.

Slowpitch Catching

Slowpitch catchers have it easier than their fastpitch counterparts. The slower, higher-arcing pitches are easily handled by almost any glove or mitt on the field. Base runners are not allowed to leave base until the batter makes contact, so speed is less of an issue, and bunts are rare. The catcher has no real need for a quick transfer, so pocket depth isn’t important. Most leagues will allow the catcher to wear any type of mitt because there’s no need to protect their hand.

Softball catcher in blue ready to receive a pitch.

Pitchers – A Subtle Difference

If you are a pitcher in fastpitch softball, you know that your primary goal is to disrupt the hitter’s timing. To achieve this, you need to alter either the speed or the movement of the pitch. The means for altering the pitch is the grip. However, if the hitter can see your grip, they have an advantage in timing its arrival at the plate.

Hiding the Ball

To keep the hitter guessing, you must hide your grip on the ball from them. This is the main reason why pitchers in fastpitch softball tend to prefer a closed web. A closed web is a glove with a solid piece of leather that covers the top of the glove, which helps conceal the ball’s position from the hitter.

At lower levels of play (below college), you may play other positions besides pitching. In this case, it’s perfectly fine to use an open-web design and hide the grip in other ways.

Pitching or Tossing?

In slowpitch softball, pitchers have fewer options for disrupting the hitter’s timing, and the grip is hardly a factor. Therefore, slowpitch pitchers don’t need to worry about the webbing in their gloves and tend to choose gloves that best suit the positions they play when not pitching.

Other Positions – Essentially the Same

Once the ball is in play, the differences between slowpitch and fastpitch softball games pretty much disappear. The ball moves quickly, and some padding will be appreciated on hard-hit liners in both games. Infielders need to make quick transfers, as the hitter should be chugging down the line at full speed. Infielder’s gloves have all have small pockets to make that transition smoother and quicker. Likewise, outfielders need larger gloves and deeper pockets to help secure the ball and make up for small misjudgments in the flight of fly balls.

When it comes to gloves, slowpitch position players’ gloves tend to be larger than their fastpitch counterparts’ gloves. This can usually be attributed to the fact that more men play slowpitch softball. Fastpitch gloves are designed more with a female player in mind and are generally smaller. However, slowpitch gloves and fastpitch gloves can essentially be used interchangeably.

Finally, if you want to learn more about the differences between slowpitch and fastpitch softball gloves, check out this video from Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there specific materials preferred for fastpitch versus slowpitch gloves?

No, there’s no significant difference in the materials used for fastpitch versus slowpitch softball gloves. Both types of gloves can be made from a variety of leathers, such as cowhide, steerhide, or even synthetic materials, depending on the manufacturer and the model. The choice of material typically depends more on personal preference, position, and level of play rather than the specific version of softball being played.

What maintenance routines are recommended for slowpitch versus fastpitch gloves?

For both slowpitch and fastpitch gloves, regular maintenance includes keeping them clean, dry, and properly conditioned. After games, wipe down your glove with a damp cloth to remove dirt and sweat, and during the off-season, store it in a cool, dry place with a ball in the pocket to maintain shape. However, fastpitch players might need to condition their gloves more frequently due to the wear they experience.

How do you tell if your glove is illegal?

A glove might be considered illegal if it doesn’t meet the size regulations set by your league, has disallowed colorations that could deceive the batter, or contains any modifications that offer an unfair advantage. To ensure your glove is legal, check the rule book of your specific league as standards can vary.

How does the breaking-in process differ for slowpitch and fastpitch gloves?

The breaking-in process for both slowpitch and fastpitch softball gloves is essentially the same. It involves a combination of using glove conditioners or oils, playing catch, and manipulating the glove by hand to soften the leather and form the pocket.


Leave a Comment