Last updated on July 26, 2023
Let’s delve into the world of softball, specifically the vital role of the outfielder. Now, it’s no secret that the right equipment can truly elevate your game and, in the realm of the outfield, the glove takes center stage. Imagine a glove that’s sufficiently large to snag those elusive fly balls yet designed with finesse to avoid hindering your throw: that’s precisely what we’re discussing today.
Engineered for the specific needs of the outfield player, these gloves are equipped with features like deep pockets and elongated fingers, a thoughtful design aimed at aiding players in making those game-changing plays.
Join us as we explore the nuanced design and intricate functionality of these gloves, and just how they can help bring a new level of precision and efficiency to your softball game. It’s not just about the right glove; it’s about the right glove for you.
Contents
- 1 Best Men’s Outfield Softball Gloves
- 1.1 Rawlings Player Preferred Glove Series
- 1.2 Rawlings Softball Series Glove
- 1.3 Miken Players Series Slowpitch Softball Glove
- 1.4 Franklin Sports Baseball Glove – ProFlex Adult Baseball + Softball Glove
- 1.5 Mizuno Franchise Outfield Baseball Glove
- 1.6 Franklin Sports Baseball Fielding Glove
- 1.7 WILSON A1000 Fastpitch Softball Glove
- 2 Buying Guide
Best Men’s Outfield Softball Gloves
Are you in search of the perfect outfield softball glove for men? Look no further! We’ve rounded up the best gloves on the market to help you make the right choice. In our search for the best men’s outfield softball gloves, we researched several models to find the ones that offered the best combination of size, weight, and webbing design. Check out our top picks below and get ready to dominate the outfield.
Rawlings Player Preferred Glove Series
If you’re looking for a durable and versatile outfield softball glove, the Rawlings Player Preferred Glove Series is a great option.
Pros
- Quick and easy break-in process
- Quality full-grain leather material
- Zero Shock Palm Padding for increased impact protection
Cons
- May require additional break-in time for some players
- Sizing may run small for some users
- Some users may prefer a different web style for outfield positions
The Rawlings Player Preferred Glove Series is designed for recreational players of various age and skill levels. The glove features a Pro H web that is ideal for outfield positions and a full-grain oiled leather shell for easy and quick break-in. The all-leather laces provide durability and strength, making this glove a great investment for those who play multiple seasons.
One of the standout features of this glove is the Zero Shock Palm Padding, which provides increased impact protection while catching. This is especially important for outfielders who may be catching hard-hit balls or diving for catches. Additionally, the adjustable wrist strap allows for a customizable fit for maximum comfort.
While some players may find that the glove requires additional break-in time, the quick and easy 80% factory – 20% player break-in process is a great starting point. It’s also worth noting that some users have reported that the sizing runs small, so be sure to check the sizing chart before making a purchase.
Rawlings Softball Series Glove
Looking for a durable softball glove with all-leather palm for pocket formation and shape retention? Rawlings Softball Series Gloves are perfect for adult slowpitch softball players looking for a utility glove for any position.
Pros
- Durable and lightweight all-leather shell and padded finger linings
- Neo-Flex back and velcro strap allows for a custom fit
- 90% factory / 10% player break-in makes this glove ready to use right out of the box
Cons
- May need additional break-in time for some players
- Basket web may not be preferred by all players
- May not be suitable for high-level competitive play
Rawlings Softball Series Gloves are designed for adult slowpitch softball players and provide optimal balance, added quickness, shape retention, and extra comfort. The all-leather palm and padded finger linings provide added durability and protection, while the Neo-Flex back and velcro strap provide a custom fit for every athlete. However, some players may find that the basket web is not their preferred style and that the glove requires additional break-in time. Additionally, the glove may not be suitable for high-level competitive play.
Miken Players Series Slowpitch Softball Glove
Looking for a high-quality softball glove that’s ready to use straight out of the wrapper? Look no further than the Miken Players Series Slowpitch Softball Glove.
Pros
- Poron XRD palm and index finger pads reduce ball impact
- Adjustable non slip pull strap back allows for a custom fit
- Full-grain leather construction is soft and durable
Cons
- Break-in period may be required for some players
- Some users may prefer a different web style
- Only available in right hand throw
This glove features a 13-inch pattern and Pro H web, making it ideal for outfield players. The PORON XRD Technology in the palm and index fingers helps to reduce ball impact, while the adjustable non slip pull strap back allows for a custom fit. The glove is made from soft, full-grain leather construction that’s durable enough to stand up to regular use.
Overall, the Miken Players Series Slowpitch Softball Glove is a great choice for players who are looking for a high-quality glove that’s ready to use straight out of the wrapper. With its durable construction, impact-reducing technology, and customizable fit, this glove is sure to help you perform at your best on the field.
Franklin Sports Baseball Glove – ProFlex Adult Baseball + Softball Glove
If you’re looking for a versatile outfield softball glove that requires no break-in time, 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 report that the glove runs small
- No strap on the back to do any adjustments
- The pocket may not hold the ball well
This glove is perfect for baseball, softball, and t-ball play, and its basket web design provides extra glove flexibility. The synthetic leather lining and 13-inch size make it suitable for adult use. The glove is well-made and has lots of padding, making it a good value for the price.
The Franklin Sports ProFlex Adult Baseball + Softball Glove is a great choice for those looking for a versatile, durable, and comfortable outfield softball glove that requires no break-in time. While some users report that the glove runs small and may not hold the ball well, the adjustable wrist strap provides a custom and versatile fit.
Mizuno Franchise Outfield Baseball Glove
If you’re looking for a comfortable and durable outfield baseball glove, the Mizuno Franchise series glove is a great option.
Pros
- Premium quality full-grain leather shell and laced binding make for a long-lasting, game-ready feel.
- Hand-based patterns allow for easy pocket shaping and a professional look.
- Ortholite palm pad reduces sting and deadens the ball at impact.
Cons
- Some players may find the 12.5″ size too large for their preference.
- The glove may require some break-in time before it feels fully comfortable.
- The price point may be higher than some other options on the market.
The Mizuno Franchise glove is constructed using comfortable, hand-based patterns that set your pocket under the web, allowing you to shape your glove like a pro. The full-grain leather maintains durability and provides a soft, game-ready feel. The Parashock Plus Palm Pad helps to reduce sting and deaden the ball at impact, making it easier to catch those tough fly balls. The MZO lining disperses perspiration away from the skin, keeping your hand cool and dry during long games or practices.
While the 12.5″ size may be too large for some players, it’s a great option for outfielders who need a larger glove to catch those long fly balls. The glove may require some break-in time before it feels fully comfortable, but once it’s broken in, it provides a great fit. The price point may be higher than some other options on the market, but the quality and durability of the Mizuno Franchise glove make it a worthwhile investment for serious players.
Franklin Sports Baseball Fielding Glove
Looking for a durable and stylish glove that is perfect for outfielders? Look no further than the Franklin Sports Baseball Fielding Glove.
Pros
- Made from genuine black cowhide leather for premium durability and performance season after season
- Soft, flexible cowhide makes the breaking in process quick and easy to provide optimal performance right away
- Super soft palm lining for maximum comfort while you’re out in the field
Cons
- Some users have reported that the glove is too snug for larger hands
- May require additional breaking in for some users
- Chrome treatment may wear off over time
This glove is perfect for those who want a high-quality, durable glove that will last season after season. The cowhide leather construction ensures that this glove will stand up to even the toughest games. The soft, flexible cowhide makes the breaking in process quick and easy, so you can start using it right away. The super soft palm lining adds an extra level of comfort, so you can focus on the game.
The large-pocket, H-web design makes this glove perfect for outfielders to catch fly balls in the deep pocket with ease. The chrome accent stitching and logo patch give this mitt a stylish professional look so you can look and play your best.
WILSON A1000 Fastpitch Softball Glove
Looking for a comfortable and durable outfield softball glove? Check out the WILSON A1000 Fastpitch Softball Glove.
Pros
- Soft, reliable leather that is game-ready out of the box
- Drawstring closure wrist for a secure fit
- Dual Welting and thin heel pad for better support and quicker break-in
Cons
- May not fit all hand sizes comfortably
- Some users have reported a longer break-in period than expected
- Higher price point compared to some other options on the market
This glove is designed specifically for female athletes and features a white, blonde, and brick red color scheme. The leather is soft yet sturdy, making it comfortable to wear while still holding its shape over time. The drawstring closure wrist ensures a secure fit, while the Dual Welting and thin heel pad provide better support and a quicker break-in period.
While some users have reported a longer break-in period than expected, overall the WILSON A1000 Fastpitch Softball Glove is a great option for female athletes looking for a comfortable and reliable outfield glove. However, it may not fit all hand sizes comfortably and is priced higher than some other options on the market.
Buying Guide
When it comes to purchasing a men’s outfield softball glove, there are a few key features to consider. The right glove can make all the difference in your performance on the field, so it’s important to choose carefully.
Size and Fit
One of the most important factors to consider is the size and fit of the glove. A glove that is too small or too large can make it difficult to catch the ball, so it’s important to find the right size for your hand. Measure your hand to determine the correct size, and try on several gloves to find the best fit.
Webbing
The webbing of the glove is another important consideration. The webbing can affect the way the ball is caught and how quickly it can be released. There are several types of webbing, including closed, open, and modified, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Material
The material of the glove is also important to consider. Leather is a popular choice for its durability and flexibility, but synthetic materials can also be a good option. Look for a glove that is made from high-quality materials that will last for several seasons.
Padding
Padding is another important feature to consider. A well-padded glove can help absorb the impact of the ball and protect your hand. Look for a glove with padding in the palm and fingers for maximum protection.
Other Features
Other features to consider include the wrist strap, which can help keep the glove secure on your hand, and the pocket depth, which can affect how easily the ball can be caught. Consider your personal preferences and playing style when choosing these features.
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.
