The 7 Top Adult Softball Gloves for a Winning Season

Last updated on June 8, 2023

Playing softball as an adult is a great time! Any excuse to hangout with friends and get some fresh air is good, but then adding a game as fun as softball into it? The best. With the right adult softball glove, you can improve your game and stand out on the field. But when it comes time to buy a glove so you’re ready to get out on the field, it can be a much less fun use of your time. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best adult softball gloves on the market and help you choose the perfect one for your needs, to help speed up that process for you.

WILSON A2000 SP14 SuperSkin 14″ Slow Pitch Softball Glove

If you’re looking for a high-quality softball glove that offers both durability and performance, the Wilson A2000 SuperSkin Slowpitch Softball Glove Series is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The SuperSkin technology makes the glove lighter and more durable than traditional leather gloves.
• The dual welting provides a more stable pocket, helping to keep the ball secure.
• The Dri-Lex wrist lining wicks away moisture, keeping your hand dry and comfortable.

Cons

• The price point may be higher than some other options on the market.
• The glove may require some break-in time before it feels comfortable.

The glove is designed with slowpitch softball players in mind, and is available in both 13 and 14 inch sizes. The Pro Stock leather shell is both durable and flexible, and the SuperSkin technology adds an extra layer of protection without adding weight.

The glove also features a reinforced dual post web, which is ideal for catching larger softballs. The left-hand throw orientation is perfect for right-handed throwers.

Rawlings Softball Series Glove

If you’re an adult slowpitch softball player, the Rawlings Softball Series Glove is a great choice for you. It is designed for both competitive and recreational players and gives complete comfort to the players.

Pros

• The all-leather palm is great for pocket formation and shape retention.
• The cushioned palm and fingerback linings provide added comfort.
• The Neo-Flex back with Velcro strap allows for a custom fit.

Cons

• The glove may take some time to break in.
• The size may not be suitable for all hand sizes.
• The Basket Web may not be preferred by all players.

This glove is designed as a utility glove for any position, giving players a quickly broke-in pocket and complete comfort to give confidence while snagging ground balls and stopping extra base hits. It is also durable and lightweight, designed for optimal balance, added quickness, shape retention, and extra comfort. The glove is custom fit for every athlete, with Neo-Flex Back and velcro strap allowing it to fit comfortably on any men’s slowpitch or women’s slowpitch softball player.

The Rawlings Softball Series Glove is 90% factory and 10% player break-in, making it completely ready to use, right out of the box. With palm and index finger pads for added impact protection, it is a great choice for both beginners and experienced players.

Mizuno Premier Slowpitch Softball Glove Series Right Hand Throw 12″ Black/Gold H Web

If you are looking for a softball glove that is durable and comfortable, then the Mizuno Premier Slowpitch Softball Glove Series Right Hand Throw 12″ Black/Gold H Web is a great option.

Pros

• The PU palm lining provides increased durability, feel, and comfort.
• The full grain leather palm and pigskin back offer great durability.
• The power lock wrist strap ensures a secure fit.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the webbing broke after just a few games.
• The glove may be a bit tight around the hand at first.
• The glove may not be suitable for those with hands longer than 8 inches.

This glove is made with a butter soft palm liner and full grain leather palm/pigskin back, which provide increased durability, feel, and comfort. The power lock wrist strap ensures a secure fit, so you can focus on the game. However, some users have reported that the webbing broke after just a few games, which may be a concern for some buyers. Additionally, the glove may be a bit tight around the hand at first, so it may take some time to break in. Lastly, the glove may not be suitable for those with hands longer than 8 inches.

Franklin Sports Fastpitch Pro Series Softball Gloves

If you’re looking for a lightweight and comfortable softball glove, the Franklin Sports Fastpitch Pro Series might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• Lightweight mesh design for maximum comfort
• Adjustable wrist closure for a customized fit
• Soft pocket material for a quick and easy break-in process

Cons

• Only available in pink color
• Designed for female fastpitch players only
• Some users reported the glove not being field-ready out of the box

The Franklin Sports Fastpitch Pro Series offers a quality line of softball gloves that utilizes a lightweight, technical-mesh shell and a soft, PU laminated palm for the ultimate in comfort and flexibility. The adjustable wrist strap provides a custom and versatile fit, and the pattern is ergonomically designed to contour to the hand intricacies of the female fastpitch player. With a multi-positional closed-web design, this series is guaranteed to enhance performance around the diamond for a multitude of players and playing styles.

The lightweight mesh design of the glove gives maximum comfort and helps facilitate quick hands out in the field. The adjustable wrist closure ensures a comfortable customized fit for all players, and the soft pocket material is designed for a quick, easy break-in process and provides a dynamic, responsive feel when catching the ball.

However, the glove is only available in pink color, and it’s designed for female fastpitch players only. Some users reported the glove not being field-ready out of the box, which might require some additional break-in time.

Rawlings R9 Series Fastpitch Softball Catchers Mitt

The Rawlings R9 Series Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt is a great option for catchers who want a high-quality glove that will last for many seasons.

Pros

• The leather shell is both durable and flexible.
• The padded thumb loop and finger back lining provide added comfort and protection.
• The adjustable pull strap closure ensures a secure fit.

Cons

• The glove may require some break-in time before it feels comfortable.
• The sizing may not be suitable for those with larger hands.

The glove is designed with fastpitch softball catchers in mind, and is available in a 33 inch size. The leather shell is both durable and flexible, and the padded thumb loop and finger back lining provide added comfort and protection.

The adjustable pull strap closure ensures a secure fit, and the palm and index finger padding helps to reduce sting from hard-thrown pitches. The left-hand throw orientation is perfect for right-handed throwers.

Franklin Sports ProFlex Adult Baseball + Softball Glove

If you’re looking for a versatile and durable adult softball glove, the Franklin Sports ProFlex Adult Baseball + Softball Glove is a great option.

Pros

• Combines premium cowhide palm with a PU-laminated PVC hybrid shell for durability
• Adjustable wrist strap provides a custom and versatile fit
• Specially treated to go from the store to the playing field with no break-in required

Cons

• Some users reported the size running small for regular-sized hands
• No strap on the back for adjustments
• A few users reported tears and rips across the mitt

This adult softball glove from Franklin Sports is perfect for baseball, softball, and t-ball play. The basket web design provides extra glove flexibility, and the adjustable wrist strap ensures a custom and versatile fit. Plus, the glove is specially treated to go from the store to the playing field with no break-in required, so you can start playing right away.

The combination of a premium cowhide palm with a PU-laminated PVC hybrid shell makes this glove durable and long-lasting. And at 13 inches, it’s the perfect size for outfield play. However, some users reported the size running small for regular-sized hands, so be sure to check the sizing chart before purchasing.

One downside is that there’s no strap on the back for adjustments, which may be a deal breaker for some users. Additionally, a few users reported tears and rips across the mitt, so it may not be the most durable option for heavy use.

Mizuno Prospect Select Fastpitch Softball Glove Series

If you’re in the market for a new softball glove, the Mizuno Prospect Select Fastpitch Softball Glove Series is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The full-grain leather shell ensures great durability.
• The Mzo lining disperses perspiration away from the skin, keeping your hand dry.
• The thumb cut hinge increases flexibility, making it easier to close the glove.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the glove is stiff out of the box.
• The sizing may not be suitable for those with larger hands.
• The price point may be higher than some other options on the market.

This glove is designed with the female athlete in mind, maximizing performance with Mizuno’s engineering philosophy. The polyurethane power lock and PU pull tab provide a secure fit, while the black and white tartan flex web design adds a stylish touch.

The leather lining and butter-soft palm liner ensure a comfortable fit, even during long games or practices. The 12.5-inch size is perfect for adult players, and the left-hand throw orientation is perfect for right-handed throwers.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying an adult softball glove, there are a few factors you should consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Size and Fit

The first thing to consider is the size and fit of the glove. You want to make sure that the glove fits your hand comfortably and provides enough room for your fingers to move. A glove that is too big or too small can affect your performance on the field.

To determine the right size for your glove, measure the distance from the tip of your index finger to the base of your wrist. This measurement will give you an idea of the size of glove you need.

Material

The material of the glove is also an important factor to consider. Most softball gloves are made of leather, which is a durable and long-lasting material. However, there are also gloves made of synthetic materials that can be more affordable and easier to break in.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know what size softball glove I need?

The size of your softball glove will depend on the position you play and your hand size. In general, infielders will use a smaller glove (11.5-12.5 inches), while outfielders will use a larger glove (12.5-14 inches). Catchers will use a special catcher’s mitt. To determine the right size for your hand, measure from the tip of your index finger to the base of your wrist and consult a size chart.

What are the differences between slowpitch and fastpitch softball gloves?

Slowpitch and fastpitch softball gloves are designed differently to accommodate the different types of pitches in each game. Slowpitch gloves are typically larger and have a deeper pocket to catch the larger, slower-moving ball. Fastpitch gloves are smaller and have a shallower pocket to allow for quicker ball transfer. Fastpitch gloves also have a more tapered finger design for a snugger fit.

What are the best brands for slowpitch softball gloves?

Some of the top brands for slowpitch softball gloves include Rawlings, Mizuno, Wilson, and Easton. These brands offer a variety of gloves with different features to suit different playing styles and positions.

Can I use a baseball glove for softball?

While it is possible to use a baseball glove for softball, it is not recommended. Baseball gloves are typically smaller and have a shallower pocket, which makes it harder to catch the larger softball. Additionally, the smaller finger stalls in a baseball glove can be uncomfortable for softball players.

How do I break in a new softball glove?

Breaking in a new softball glove takes time and patience. One method is to apply glove oil or conditioner to the leather and then use a mallet or ball to pound the pocket of the glove. Another method is to use the glove while playing catch and gradually work the glove to form around the ball. Be sure to avoid over-oiling the glove, as this can cause the leather to break down over time.

Hunter Tierney

Hunter Tierney is a passionate writer, loving dad, and true sports fanatic. His experience helping his two daughters through softball, in addition to playing baseball at the collegiate level, gives him a fresh perspective on all things softball. He earned his business degree from the University of Phoenix where he also took writing and journalism courses.

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