Choosing the Right Glove

My first glove I received at age six.

When choosing the right glove, there are many things to consider. How old is the player? What level of baseball do they play? What is their price range? What position do they play? What kinds of patterns do they like?

When picking our next glove and faced with all these tough questions, we often find it hard to choose 'the one'. So, what usually ends up happening is we rush the decision and regret it later on. I am here to help you make the right choice for purchasing your next glove.

The first thing to consider is the age of the player. This number will help us determine if the player needs an adult pattern or a kids pattern. If the player is between the ages of 3 and 12 they should be using a kids model. This kind of glove is usually a lot smaller in size, ranging anywhere from 9 to 11.5 inches. In turn, this size will allow the player to form a pocket and break in their glove much easier than if they were using an adult pattern. If the player is 13 or older, they should opt for an adult pattern. Adult patterns are usually bigger in size, made from tougher leather, and have more padding in the palm and heel of the glove. Once a player’s age has been considered, the next thing to look at is the level of baseball they play.

It is essential to recognize what level of baseball one plays when they are searching for their next glove. If they play select or rep level baseball, and are above the age of thirteen, players should choose a high quality glove that will last them many years to come. These gloves can typically be found in the $250-350 range since they are built for the long haul. Some of these options include the Rawlings Heart of the Hide or Pro Preferred series, or the Wilson A2000 or A2K series. However, if someone is playing in a recreational or house league, they should opt for a more affordable option that will still provide them with great value for the price. These gloves can range from $60-100. Some options include the Mizuno Premier series or the Rawlings Sandlot series. After one sets their price range, they need to look at what position they play.

One’s position is a huge factor when choosing the right glove. If one is serious about baseball they likely play multiple positions and require different gloves. Each position uses a certain style and size of glove. Typically, pitchers use 12 inch gloves, middle infielders use 11.5 inch gloves, and third baseman use 11.75 inch gloves. When it comes to outfield gloves, people generally use gloves ranging from 12.5 to 13 inches. Finally we have first baseman and catcher’s gloves. First baseman gloves are usually 12.75 inches and catchers gloves are anywhere from 32.5 to 34 inches. If someone does not play a high level of baseball and would like a glove that they can use for just about every position, they should purchase a 12 inch pitcher’s glove. These gloves can literally be used at any position due to their versatile size. Before purchasing a glove, that last thing a player must look at is the kind of pattern they like.

When it comes to glove patterns, there is a vast amount of options available. There are webs patterns for each position that best suit that position. If the player plays a high level of baseball, this last choice can be very important and personal.

There are many options when choosing a web pattern.

Often times outfielders opt for an H-web or a trapeze web to create a deep pocket in their gloves. Nowadays infielders are using the ever popular I-web pattern or a modified trapeze web to allow for a quick transfer. First baseman gloves usually come with either a basket or single post web to allow for easy scoops. Unlike other positions, pitcher’s gloves require a special kind of web. Pitchers need a web that is closed, or busy enough that the batter cannot see their grip. Some options include a two-piece or basket web. Finally, catcher’s gloves normally come with a two-piece web. If the player does not play competitive baseball, they should choose whatever web pattern they are most comfortable with. Ultimately, choosing a new glove is a pretty important and fun decision and should be stress free. If you have any questions or concerns regarding baseball gloves, comment down below or send me an email at torontoglovecare.ca. Happy glove hunting!