Imagine this: you’re out in the outfield, the sun is shining, and a fly ball is soaring towards you. Your glove is your most important tool to make that amazing catch! But choosing the perfect fastpitch outfield glove can feel like a puzzle. There are so many brands, sizes, and styles, it’s easy to get confused and pick one that doesn’t feel quite right.
The right glove makes all the difference. It helps you snag those tricky grounders and reach for those high fly balls with confidence. A glove that’s too small or too big can make catching harder and even lead to fumbles. You want a glove that feels like an extension of your own hand, ready for action on every play.
That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of fastpitch outfield gloves. In this post, we’ll break down what makes a great outfield glove, what features to look for, and how to find the one that will help you shine on the field. Get ready to discover how to choose a glove that feels amazing and helps you make those game-saving plays!
Our Top 5 Fastpitch Outfield Glove Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Rawlings | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
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Mizuno Prime Elite Pitcher/Outfield Fastpitch Softball Glove 12″ | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Easton | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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Easton | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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Easton | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Fastpitch Outfield Glove Detailed Reviews
1. Rawlings
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to dominate the field with the Rawlings LIBERTY ADVANCED Fastpitch Softball Glove. This 13-inch glove is designed for serious players, offering a perfect blend of comfort and performance. Its Pro H-Web design provides excellent control and makes catching fly balls a breeze. You’ll feel confident in every play with this glove on your hand.
What We Like:
- Made with high-quality, full-grain leather, this glove is built to last.
- Strong and durable, it features Pro Grade leather laces and a padded thumb sleeve for extra protection.
- The pull strap closures let you adjust the fit perfectly to your hand.
- It’s ideal for dedicated players from high school all the way up to professional leagues.
- The glove breaks in easily, with 70% of the work done at the factory and 30% left for you to mold it to your style.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 13-inch size might be a bit large for younger or smaller players.
- While durable, the initial stiffness before break-in could be a minor hurdle for some.
This Rawlings glove is a fantastic investment for any fastpitch player looking for a reliable and high-performing piece of equipment. It’s ready to help you make those game-changing plays.
2. Mizuno Prime Elite Pitcher/Outfield Fastpitch Softball Glove 12″
Rating: 9.5/10
The Mizuno Prime Elite Pitcher/Outfield Fastpitch Softball Glove 12″ in White-Grey is built for serious fastpitch players. This glove aims to give you a great feel and control on the field.
What We Like:
- Oil Soft Plus Leather: This leather feels smooth and has the right amount of oil. It gives you a great feel and firm control, which is what good players need.
- Professional Patterns: The glove uses patterns that are designed for top players. This means it’s shaped for excellent performance.
- Finger Core Technology: The finger stalls are shaped differently. This makes the glove more flexible and helps you control the ball better. It’s also comfy if you like to put your ring finger in the pinky slot.
- Roll Welting: This adds a cleaner look to the glove. It also makes the fingers more stable.
What Could Be Improved:
- Break-in Period: Like many high-quality leather gloves, this one might need some time to break in properly.
- Price Point: As a professional-level glove, the price might be higher than some beginner gloves.
This Mizuno glove offers premium materials and thoughtful design for players who want the best. It’s a solid investment for any fastpitch athlete looking to improve their game.
3. Easton
Rating: 9.1/10
The Easton FUNDAMENTAL Fastpitch Softball Glove is built for fastpitch players. This 13-inch glove is made for outfielders. It’s designed for a right-hand thrower. The H-web is great for catching fly balls.
What We Like:
- The glove has a special pattern made just for fastpitch softball players. It fits smaller hands better.
- It’s easy to break in. The oil-tanned cowhide leather feels good right away.
- The Quantum Closure System lets you adjust the fit. This keeps the glove secure on your hand.
- The soft palm lining gives you more control. Rawhide lace makes the pocket and web strong and last longer.
- This glove is perfect for outfielders. Its 13-inch size and H-web help you catch deep hits.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some players might prefer a softer leather for even quicker break-in.
- While durable, the rawhide lace might need occasional tightening over time.
This Easton glove offers a great balance of comfort and performance for fastpitch outfielders. It’s a solid choice for players looking to improve their game.
4. Easton
Rating: 8.9/10
The Easton Ghost NX Fastpitch Softball Glove is a fantastic choice for any fastpitch player. This 12.5-inch glove is built specifically for the fastpitch game, meaning it’s designed for smaller hands and the quick plays you’ll make on the field. Its basket web is great for catching, and it’s made for right-hand throwers.
What We Like:
- It’s built just for fastpitch softball, so it fits smaller hands perfectly.
- The leather is really good quality and ready to play with right away.
- The Flex Notch Closure makes it super easy to squeeze and close the glove.
- You can adjust the back of the glove for a super snug and secure fit.
- Rolled leather welting helps the glove keep its shape and breaks in faster.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the leather is great, some players might prefer a softer feel right out of the box.
- The 12.5-inch size might be a bit large for some younger or smaller players.
This glove offers excellent performance and comfort for fastpitch players. It’s a solid investment for anyone looking to improve their game.
5. Easton
Rating: 9.1/10
The Easton Professional Collection Fastpitch Softball Glove is a top-tier choice for serious outfielders. This 13-inch glove, designed for right-hand throwers, features a Pro H-Web and a clean white and grey color scheme. Many top college teams, like UCLA and Alabama, trust this series, showing its high quality and performance. It’s built for players who want the best on the field.
What We Like:
- Ideal for outfielders, used by over 50 D1 college teams.
- Made from premium reserve USA steerhide for great quality and durability.
- Features improved professional patterns for better catching.
- Quantum Closure System with an adjustable open back provides a secure and custom fit.
- Professional grade laces offer strength and long-lasting performance.
- Pro style webs help elite players control the ball and transfer it quickly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The premium materials and professional design might come at a higher price point.
- As a professional-level glove, it might require a break-in period for optimal feel.
This glove offers exceptional performance and durability for dedicated fastpitch players. It’s a smart investment for anyone looking to elevate their game.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Snagging the Perfect Fastpitch Outfield Glove
Picking the right fastpitch outfield glove is super important for any player. It helps you catch fly balls and make quick throws. This guide will help you find the best glove for your game.
1. Key Features to Look For
Several things make a fastpitch outfield glove great.
A. Size Matters
Outfield gloves are usually bigger than infield gloves. This helps you reach for balls that are a bit further away. Most outfield gloves are between 12 and 13 inches. Bigger gloves give you a larger catching area.
B. The Pocket Depth
A deeper pocket helps you secure the ball. It stops the ball from popping out when you catch it. Think about how you like to catch the ball. Some players like a deeper pocket to really cradle the ball.
C. Webbing Style
The webbing connects the thumb and index finger. It forms the “web” of the glove. Outfielders often like a closed web, like a basket web or a two-piece web. These webs hide the ball well. They also help prevent the ball from coming through the glove.
D. Fit and Comfort
The glove needs to feel good on your hand. It should be snug but not too tight. A comfortable glove lets you play your best without distractions. Look for gloves with adjustable straps. These let you fine-tune the fit.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a glove affect its feel and how long it lasts.
A. Genuine Leather
Most high-quality fastpitch gloves are made from genuine leather. This leather is strong and lasts a long time. It also molds to your hand over time. This makes the glove feel more custom.
B. Synthetic Leather
Some gloves use synthetic leather. This material is often lighter and can be more affordable. However, it might not last as long as genuine leather. It also may not mold to your hand as well.
C. Padding
The padding inside the glove protects your hand. It absorbs the impact of the ball. Good padding makes catching the ball more comfortable, especially for hard throws.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a glove top-notch or not so great?
A. Stitching Quality
Strong, even stitching means the glove is well-made. Poor stitching can lead to the glove falling apart quickly. Look for neat and tight stitching.
B. Break-In Period
All leather gloves need a break-in period. This is when you work the glove to make it softer and more flexible. A glove that is easy to break in will be ready for games sooner. Some gloves come pre-broken in, which is a nice bonus.
C. Brand Reputation
Well-known glove brands often have a good reputation for quality. They use good materials and have smart designs. Doing a little research on brands can help you choose a reliable glove.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How does a glove perform in a real game?
A. Catching Fly Balls
The main job of an outfield glove is to catch fly balls. A good outfield glove should make this easier. Its size and pocket help you secure the ball in the air. The webbing also helps you keep the ball in the glove.
B. Throwing Accuracy
Once you catch the ball, you need to throw it accurately. A glove that closes well helps you transfer the ball quickly from your glove to your throwing hand. This leads to faster and more accurate throws.
C. Durability
You want a glove that will last through many seasons. Good materials and construction mean the glove will hold up to tough play. A durable glove saves you money in the long run.
Choosing the right fastpitch outfield glove is an investment in your game. By considering these features, materials, and quality factors, you can find a glove that helps you make great plays on the field!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best size for a fastpitch outfield glove?
A: Most outfield gloves are between 12 and 13 inches. Bigger gloves are good for reaching more balls.
Q: Should I get a glove with a deep or shallow pocket?
A: Outfielders often prefer a deeper pocket. It helps secure the ball and prevents it from falling out.
Q: What kind of webbing is best for an outfielder?
A: Closed webs, like basket webs or two-piece webs, are popular. They help hide the ball and keep it from coming through.
Q: Is genuine leather or synthetic leather better?
A: Genuine leather is generally more durable and molds better to your hand. Synthetic leather is often lighter and cheaper.
Q: How important is the break-in period?
A: A good break-in period makes the glove comfortable and easier to use. Some gloves come pre-broken in.
Q: What does “molds to your hand” mean?
A: It means the glove gradually shapes itself to fit your hand perfectly, making it more comfortable.
Q: Can I use an infield glove in the outfield?
A: While you can, outfield gloves are bigger and designed for catching fly balls. Infield gloves are usually smaller for quicker transfers.
Q: How do I take care of my fastpitch glove?
A: Keep it clean and dry. You can also use glove oil or conditioner to keep the leather healthy.
Q: What if a glove feels too stiff?
A: Most new leather gloves are stiff. You can speed up the break-in process by using glove oil and playing catch regularly.
Q: Where can I buy a good fastpitch outfield glove?
A: You can find them at sporting goods stores, online retailers, and some specialty baseball/softball shops.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Hector Quintanilla, the creator of helmetslab.com.. As a passionate enthusiast and experienced expert in helmets, I’ve dedicated this platform to sharing my insights, knowledge, and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re seeking the best helmet for safety, comfort, or performance, my goal is to guide you with detailed reviews, tips, and advice. Ride safe, and let’s explore the world of helmets together!