Softball gloves are an essential piece of equipment for any player, whether you are a beginner or an experienced player. Choosing the right glove can make all the difference in your performance on the field. In this article, we will review the top 10 best softball gloves for 2023, based on performance, comfort, durability, and customer reviews.
See Also: List of Top 7 The Best Softball Cleats for 2023
Contents
- 1 Top 10 The Best Softball Gloves for 2023
- 1.1 Rawlings Liberty Advanced RLA125-18WSS 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
- 1.2 Rawlings Heart of the Hide PRO125SB-18GB 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
- 1.3 Rawlings R9 Series 11.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove – 2023 Model
- 1.4 Wilson A2000 Sierra Romero 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
- 1.5 Mizuno Techfire Slowpitch 13″ Softball Glove
- 1.6 Wilson A2000 V125 SuperSkin 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
- 1.7 Rawlings Liberty Advanced RLA1275SB-6WSS 12.75″ Fastpitch Softball Glove- White/White
- 1.8 Easton Haylie McCleney 12.75″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
- 1.9 Rawlings Liberty Advanced RLACM34FPWM 34″ Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt
- 1.10 Wilson A2000 H12 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
- 2
- 3 Best Outfield Glove: Wilson A2000 V125 Spin Control 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
- 4 Best Infield Glove: Rawlings R9 Series 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove – 2021 Model
- 5 Best Slowpitch Softball Gloves
- 6 How to Choose the Right Softball Glove
- 7 FAQs
- 8 Conclusion
Top 10 The Best Softball Gloves for 2023
Fastpitch gloves are basically baseball gloves in all aspects including quality of leather, durability, and overall performance. The few key differences include a bigger, deeper web to catch softballs, and typically, a smaller hand slot to better fit the female hand. Below we will review what we believe are the 5 best fastpitch softball gloves for 2023, based on overall quality, performance, style, durability, and functionality.
| Rank | Image | Name | Purchase |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Rawlings Liberty Advanced RLA125-18WSS 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove – 2022 Model |  |
| 2 |  | Rawlings Heart of the Hide PRO125SB-18GB 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove – 2022 Model | |
| 3 |  | Rawlings R9 Series 11.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove – 2023 Model | |
| 4 |  | Wilson A2000 Sierra Romero 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove – 2022 Model | |
| 5 |  | Mizuno Techfire Slowpitch 13″ Softball Glove | |
| 6 |  | Wilson A2000 V125 SuperSkin 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove – 2021 Model | |
| 7 |  | Rawlings Liberty Advanced RLA1275SB-6WSS 12.75″ Fastpitch Softball Glove- White/White – 2022 Model | |
| 8 |  | Easton Haylie McCleney 12.75″ Fastpitch Softball Glove | |
| 9 |  | Rawlings Liberty Advanced RLACM34FPWM 34″ Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt – 2022 Model | |
| 10 |  | Wilson A2000 H12 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove – 2022 Model | |
Rawlings Liberty Advanced RLA125-18WSS 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
Overview:
The Liberty Advanced 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove from Rawlings is one of the best gloves you can buy as a fastpitch softball player. The Liberty Advanced Gloves are made with full-grain leather which enhances the durability of the glove while still giving the player a quick break-in time. Drawstring closures on the wrists provide players with a custom fit and improved comfort so players can focus on the game.
Key Features:
- Double lace basket webbing provides durability.
- Full grain leather and fast break-in time.
- Drawstring closure provides players with a custom fit and enhanced durability.
Rawlings Heart of the Hide PRO125SB-18GB 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
Overview:
Rawlings Heart of the Hide Gloves is some of the highest quality gloves you will see on Diamonds. Heart of the Hide gloves features full-grain leather for added durability and a padded thumb sleeve for added comfort. For a custom fit, the Rawlings have added a drawstring closure on the wrist, giving players a custom fit and quick adjustments.
Key Features:
- Full-grain leather for durability and padded thumb sleeve for comfort.
- Drawstring closure for a perfect fit.
- Quick break-in time for a game-ready feel.
Rawlings R9 Series 11.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove – 2023 Model
Overview:
Even more affordable than the Liberty Advanced or Heart of the Hide range is the Rawlings R9 range. While more affordable, this glove still features a soft full-grain leather that gives players premium quality and allows for an easier break-in process. This particular R9 glove includes the Rawlings ContoUR fit, which means it has a lower finger cuff and a shorter finger arc.
Key Features:
- Padded thumb loop and palm rest for added comfort.
- Contour fit provides a lower cuff and shorter finger arc length.
- Boa hand openings give these gloves a soft yet durable feel.
Wilson A2000 Sierra Romero 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
Overview:
The famous Wilson A2000 is a very popular glove in college and professional softball because Wilson’s Pro Stock leather is known for its quality and durability. The Sierra Romero Model A2000 features Wilson’s Spin Control in the palm for cleaner transfers and more control on the ball. Wilson gloves are also known for their double welt which helps the glove retain its shape and durability.
Key Features:
- Pro Stock leather and double welt combine to create a premium glove.
- Spin Control facilitates cleaner transfers and more ball control.
- Sierra Romero’s Game Day Model.
Mizuno Techfire Slowpitch 13″ Softball Glove
Overview:
The Mizuno Techfire Slow Pitch 13″ Softball Glove is a great choice for slow softball players. The 13-inch Techfire allows players to get just about anything, and the palm features a premium leather material that helps with durability. The Techfire includes a unique backhand because it’s made from Mizuno’s EVA foam, which helps reduce the glove’s weight while helping it retain its shape.
Key Features:
- Velcro wrist strap for custom fit and quick adjustments.
- EVA foam on the backhand reduces weight and keeps the shape of the glove.
- Leather material on the palm for enhanced durability.
Wilson A2000 V125 SuperSkin 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
Overview:
For the softball player looking for a high-quality and extremely durable glove, look no further than the Wilson A2000 V125 SuperSkin Fastpitch Softball Glove. The glove features Wilson’s premium Pro Stock leather, with a SuperSkin backhand. SuperSkin increases glove durability, reduces weight and reduces break-in period compared to traditional full leather A2000.
Key Features:
- SuperSkin backhand reduces weight, increases durability, and helps reduce break-in time.
- Palm in Wilson’s Pro Stock leather.
- Drawstring closure helps players get the perfect fit.
Rawlings Liberty Advanced RLA1275SB-6WSS 12.75″ Fastpitch Softball Glove- White/White
Overview:
The Rawlings Liberty Advanced Series gloves are premium quality and designed for the softball player looking for a durable and high performance glove. The palm and backhand of this glove are made of full-grain leather, making it one of the go-to gloves for fastpitch softball players. The drawstring closure at the wrist opening also provides players with a more snug fit.
Key Features:
- Palm and backhand full-grain leather.
- Drawstring closure for player fit.
- Quick and easy break-in for a game-ready feel.
Easton Haylie McCleney 12.75″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
Overview:
Easton’s signature line of fastpitch softball gloves doesn’t sacrifice quality! These gloves are handcrafted with premium American Reserve cowhide and premium raw leather. This adds unmatched quality and durability to the glove as it also incorporates laces, seams and a full leather lining to create a glove that was first used in fast softball.
Key Features:
- Premium Reserve American cowhide for enhanced quality and durability.
- Zippered wrist closure for a custom fit.
- Premium cowhide lanyard adds durability and helps protect gloves for longer.
Rawlings Liberty Advanced RLACM34FPWM 34″ Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt
Overview:
With how many balls a catcher handles on a daily basis, they need a quality glove. The Rawlings Liberty Advanced 34″ Catch Glove is an extremely durable and high quality catching glove. The premium full grain leather on this glove provides players with a long lasting glove while the zipper closure at the wrist ensures a snug fit and Custom fit.
Key Features:
- Full Grain Leather Clear Liberty Advanced Gloves.
- Zipper closure on the wrist adjusts the glove for players.
- Quick and easy break-in time.
Wilson A2000 H12 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
Overview:
Wilson’s A2000 series has long been recognized as one of the finest leathers you’ll find on sports gloves. This classic Saddle Tan/Blonde A2000 glove features Wilson’s Pro Stock leather and double stitching along the pockets, making it an extremely durable glove that will hold its shape for years to come.
Key Features:
- Pro Stock leather is extremely durable and high quality.
- Double welded seams along the pockets keep the glove in shape.
- With proper care, this glove will last for years.
Best Outfield Glove: Wilson A2000 V125 Spin Control 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
$299.99
Overview:
Wilson’s new Spin Control Technology delivers the same professional leather you know and love from Wilson with a concave texture in the palms, fingers, and sometimes mesh to give you more control as you move. Throw the ball and shift cleaner to your pitcher to allow you to deliver it to your goal with more speed and accuracy than ever before!.
Best Infield Glove: Rawlings R9 Series 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove – 2021 Model
$129.99
Overview:
The brand new R9 Series baseball gloves are the best gloves on the market at this price point. This series features a soft, durable leather finish designed to be game-ready. Featuring pro-style patterns and reinforced palm rest to reduce impact, this series is perfect for Select players.
Best Slowpitch Softball Gloves
Slowpitch softball gloves are very similar in size to fastpitch softball gloves but are usually made of slightly lower-quality leather. This is just to ensure a quick break for adults in slow leagues who only play once or twice a week. Some slowpitch gloves can sometimes be longer and even have deeper pockets than fastpitch gloves. Below we’ll rate the 5 best slowpitch softball gloves for 2023, based on overall quality, performance, style, durability, and functionality.
Mizuno MVP Prime 12.5″ Slowpitch Softball Glove – 2022 Model
Overview:
The Mizuno MVP Slowpitch uses full-grain, game-ready Bio Throwback leather for long-lasting durability, while also offering softball-specific center pocket designs that provide the most flexible rest possible.
Key Features:
- 12.5”
- Outfield
- Versatile break-in
Mizuno MVP GMVP1250S2 12.5″ Adult Slowpitch Softball Glove
Overview:
The Mizuno MVP GMVP1250S2 12.5″ Adult Slowpitch Softball Glove is a versatile glove for slow runners.
Key Features:
- Bio Throwback Leather
- UltraSoft Palm Liner
- Durable Professional Level Lace
How to Choose the Right Softball Glove
When choosing a softball glove, there are several factors to consider. The following are some of the most important factors to keep in mind:
Position
Different positions on the field require different types of gloves. For example, outfielders need a larger glove with a deeper pocket, while infielders need a smaller glove with a shallower pocket. Make sure you choose a glove that is appropriate for your position.
Material
Softball gloves can be made from a variety of materials, including leather, synthetic leather, and mesh. Leather is the most durable and offers the best performance, but it is also the most expensive. Synthetic leather and mesh gloves are less expensive and more lightweight, but they may not last as long.
Size
Softball gloves come in a range of sizes, from 11 inches to 14 inches. The size you choose depends on your position and personal preference. Make sure you try on gloves to find the right size for you.
Webbing
The type of webbing on your glove can affect your performance. There are several types of webbing, including closed, open, and modified. Closed webbing is best for pitchers and infielders, while open webbing is best for outfielders. Modified webbing is a combination of the two and is suitable for all positions.
FAQs
How do I break in my new softball gloves?
To break in your new softball gloves, you can use a variety of methods such as playing catch, using glove oil or conditioner, or placing a ball in the pocket overnight. However, be sure to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations before trying any methods.
What size softball gloves do I need?
The size of your softball gloves depends on your position and personal preference. Infielders usually use gloves between 10 and 12 inches, while outfielders use gloves between 12 and 14 inches.
Can I use a baseball glove for softball?
Technically, you can use a baseball glove for softball, but it’s not recommended. Softball gloves are specifically designed to catch larger balls and have deeper pockets, while baseball gloves are made for smaller balls and have shallower pockets.
Can I customize my softball gloves?
Yes, many manufacturers offer the option to customize your softball gloves with different colors, designs, and even your name or number.
How often should I replace my softball gloves?
The lifespan of softball gloves depends on how often you use it and how well you take care of it. However, it’s recommended to replace your glove every few years or when it starts to show signs of wear and tear.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best softball gloves, there are a lot of factors to consider. The size, webbing, material, and position you to play all play a role in finding the perfect glove for you. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, investing in a quality softball glove can make all the difference in your performance on the field.
By using this guide, you can find the top 10 best softball gloves for 2023. Remember to consider your position and personal preferences before making a final decision. With a great softball glove in hand, you’ll be ready to catch every fly ball and make every play with confidence.
