Top 5 Baseball Gloves
Baseball gloves come in different sizes, shapes, designs, webbings and pocket sizes, in an effort to cater to the distinct needs of players in various positions on the diamond. Finding the right baseball glove can be a cumbersome process. With a multitude of options, it can get difficult to tell one glove from another or why prices vary so much. But, the tiniest of details can create huge repercussions and these details often tend to miss the eyes of a layman. This is exactly why we have spent hours on research and read hundreds of reviews to make sure you get the best baseball glove to suit your needs.
MAJOR BUYING CONSIDERATIONS -
1) Position: The first and foremost decision you need to make is which position you want to play. Gloves that baseball players use depend specifically on their positions.
I) Infield Gloves - If you're a middle infielder, you need gloves that are smaller and made of lighter materials with shallow pockets. Second basemen usually have the smallest gloves on the team to allow them to transfer the ball to their throwing hand swiftly. Longer gloves, with closed webbing and slightly deeper pockets, are preferred for third basemen for increased support against hard hit balls down the baseline.
II) First Base Mitts - These gloves are finger-less and look a lot like catcher's mitts, but with less padding. These gloves have open webbings and a unique curved style to the edge to allow first basemen to scoop balls thrown in the dirt. First basemen mitts are usually large to allow them to receive throws easily.
III) Outfield Gloves - Outfielders tend to prefer longer and larger gloves (as compared to infielders) as they are more interested in retrieving the ball efficiently. These gloves are designed to give outfielders maximum range to allow them to snag line drives or fly balls. Webbing design on outfield gloves varies from player to player.
IV) Pitcher Gloves- Pitchers generally prefer a closed web design on their gloves to allow them to hide their grip on the ball from the batter. Pocket depth greatly depends on every individual pitcher's comfort and personal preference, although most pitchers prefer gloves with deeper pockets that let them play around with the ball and change their grip before pitching.
V) Catcher's Mitts - Catchers occupy a very demanding position and are vulnerable to injury and therefore their gloves (which are called catcher's mitts) are designed to protect their hands from hard, fast pitches. These gloves are finger-less and are heavily padded and usually have a closed web design. Catcher's mitts are quite bulky and durable and are measured by circumference instead of length.
2) Webbing: Every baseball glove has a web connecting the thumb of the glove to the fingers. Make sure your glove's webbing is strong, durable and securely attached to the rest of the glove. Glove webbings mainly depend on position, comfort and personal preference and can be classified into two categories -
I) Open Web - Generally infielders tend to prefer open web gloves for faster retrieval and swift ball transfers to the throwing hand.
II) Closed Web - Pitchers, outfielders and catchers like closed web gloves for their catching support, durability and the ability to hide the grip on the ball for pitchers.
3) Pockets: Pocket refers to the gentle concavity in your glove that allows you to catch the ball. Pocket style depends largely on the position you play (much like webbing) and can be classified into two categories -
I) Shallow Pocket - Shallow pockets are preferred by infielders because they are perfect for quick transfer of the ball to their throwing hand.
II) Deep Pocket - Gloves with deep pockets are preferred by outfielders for their ability to let them hold onto fly balls and hard hit shots.
4) Back: Back is the part of the glove behind your wrist. This choice also depends mainly on personal preference and the position you play and can be classified into two categories -
I) Open Back - Middle infielders prefer open back gloves for their increased flexibility.
II) Closed Back - Outfielders prefer closed back gloves with the addition of a finger hole for increased support while catching.
TOP PRODUCTS -
After hours of extensive research, we have put together this list of the top 5 baseball gloves that offer the best bang for your buck.
#5 Rawlings Premium Pro Series Glove
You can never go wrong with a Rawlings product, and this Premium Pro Series Glove is no different. This product is crafted from soft, high quality leather and ensures improved grip and increased performance in the field. The pocket design is smart and ergonomic and the glove does not need much time to break in. This glove feels a tad too tight for a 12" glove, but if you have small hands and are looking for a glove with a premium feel and good quality leather, that won't pinch your pocket too much, this is the product you should go for.
#4 Rawlings Player Preferred Adult Glove
This is another product that provides a great bang for your buck. This glove is loaded with outstanding features. It is a full grain leather glove that requires minimal break in time. It offers a basket web with modified conventional design and is ideal for outfielders. The quality of the leather is top-notch and absorbs the impact of the fastest thrown ball without any issues. This product is truly the ideal combination of comfort, value and durability. However, if you have large hands then you might want to get a larger glove, but if you have regular-sized hands then this product is absolutely perfect for you.
#3 Wilson Showtime Series 11.5 Inch WTA08RB16 115PF Baseball Glove
What is dual welting on a baseball glove?
This product features a full leather construction and dual welting for a durable pocket. At 11.5" this glove is perfect for middle infield positions and can be used at third base for increased reaction time and control. The ultra soft leather and double palm construction makes for virtually non-existent break in time. But this glove has a typical old-school look, with its dark brown and blond leather. So, if you are a person who is looking for a more modern looking glove, then you might have to keep looking. However, if you love the concept of an old-school glove, that looks beautiful and pays homage to the great players of yesteryear, then this is the perfect glove for you.
#2 Wilson A2000 Series 11.5 Inch WTA20RB16 1786 Baseball Glove
This product is undoubtedly one of the best gloves available in the market. Constructed from Pro-Stock leather, this glove can last for years and provides a great break-in. The Dri-Lex wrist lining keeps your hand cool and dry, making sure the glove stays securely on your hand allowing you to play comfortably on your position. This glove is perfect for pitchers as it has a shallow pocket enabling swift transition of the ball. Some might argue about the price being a little too high, but for the sheer quality, durability and craftsmanship of this glove, I'd say its definitely worth the few extra bucks. I would highly recommend this product if you are looking to take your game to the next level.
#1 Wilson A2000 1786 11.5" Baseball Glove WTA20RB15 1786 H-Web -
This beautiful blond leather glove, with black lacing from Wilson, looks like something right out of your dreams. It features dual welting for a durable pocket and pro stock leather for a long lasting glove and a great break-in. The quality of the leather is amazing and features double lacing at the bottom of the web. Most people will agree that this product is not cheap, but this beautiful glove from Wilson will turn a lot of eyes on the field, will last for years, and the build quality of this glove is unmatched. If you think you can afford this product then there should be nothing stopping you from purchasing this beauty right away.
Selecting a new glove can be a tricky and confusing process, but with the knowledge and information we tried to provide with this article, you should be able to go out and treat yourself to a comfortable and high-quality baseball glove that will last you for a long time. Remember, investing time before making your purchase is a good idea. You do not want to rush in to your decision and make a hasty purchase. An educated customer is a smart customer.
