Why Should You Use Softball Gloves?
Softball gloves have become an integral part of the sport, and they are much larger than baseball gloves, mainly because softballs are larger than the traditional baseballs. Their main purpose is to protect the players’ hands when they are catching the high-impact ball, as well as to facilitate them when they are pitching the ball.
When it comes to college-level or professional sports, softball gloves are mandatory and you won’t be able to play the sport unless you have a pair of high-quality softball gloves. Therefore, you need to find a great option that supports and enhances your softball skills. Softballs don’t travel as far as baseballs, which is why they are created larger and easier to catch with the glove.
History of Softball Gloves
Softball gloves have been around since the 10th century, and it is said that A.G. Spalding saw a baseman use a glove to protect his hand during a baseball game, and he adopted it soon after. By the 1890s, baseball gloves became a standard and since softball also became popular by then, the gloves started being used in them as well.
During the late 1920s, softball gloves were reinvented and their design was enhanced. The padding for the hand was added to the gloves and later on, manufacturers added laced fingers to ensure a better grip on the ball. By the 1950s, the gloves also featured holes where players could quickly insert their fingers to catch the ball.
Things to Consider Before Buying Softball Gloves
A pair of good quality softball gloves is necessary for you to practice your skills and enhance your game, but choosing the right option is also necessary. For this purpose, there are some factors that you should keep in mind before you buy softball gloves. Let’s have a look at these factors.
Size
Size plays a crucial role in your choice of softball gloves, and it also determines the ease with which the player would be able to clutch the ball while wearing the gloves. Ideally, the perfect size would mean that its length doesn’t go more than 1” to 1.5” beyond the infielders’ fingertips, and 3” beyond the outfielders’ fingertips. The size helps players maintain the comfort and grip with which they can hold the ball and throw it.
Left or Right Hand
Softball gloves are typically worn on a player’s non-dominant hand, and they switch it to their dominant hand when they have to catch the softball. Therefore, a left-handed player would wear it on their right hand, and vice versa. Some softball gloves are marketed as left or right hand throwers, but they fit better on the other hand. So, make sure to inspect each glove carefully and buy the one that fits your non-dominant hand better.
Materials
The materials from which a softball glove is made also has a major impact on the one that you choose. The construction of softball gloves also affect their feel and durability. Generally, some of the most common materials include synthetic, pigskin, cowhide, hide leather, and many others. These materials also influence the weight of the softball gloves, as well as their durability.
If you are looking for a lightweight option, go for softball gloves that are made from synthetic or kip leather, whereas others are much heavier and require some time for breaking in and feeling comfortable on your hands.
Type of Webbing
The type of webbing you choose has a huge role in your choice of the right softball gloves, and this decision also depends on the position you play at. For instance, if you are a fielder, there are a wide range of webbing styles you can consider. Some of the web styles include the basket, trapeze, modified trap, H-web, I-web, cross, and two-piece. If you need softball gloves that offer flexibility, then the basket and H-web is the one you need.
Moreover, if you are searching for softball gloves that work well for different positions, you can opt for the modified trap. For first basemen, there are three web types: single post, modified H-web, and dual bar. Lastly, catchers can choose between half moon and one-piece web types.
Fitting
Having the right fit on your softball gloves is essential for you, as it enhances your ability to catch the ball properly or switch it to your other hand. The softball gloves should fit your hands properly, and they shouldn’t be loose for you to grow into them, as this would interfere with your ability to catch the ball properly.
Position
Last but not least, the position in which you play in a softball team is also of utmost importance, and it directly impacts the softball gloves you should choose. Nearly all of the softball gloves you come across will mention the position on their packaging and product description, and some will also be suitable for multiple positions, so you won’t have any trouble in choosing the best ones.
FAQs
When should I replace my softball gloves?
Ideally, softball gloves last up to two years before they need to be replaced, no matter how carefully you use them.
How do I break in a softball glove?
To break in your softball gloves, you need to spend a few hours doing some catching and throwing practice. However, if you don’t have that much time, you can rub some oil on its surface and leave it in the sunlight or an oven for a few minutes to let the glove absorb it.
How should I clean softball gloves?
You should make use of warm water and a mild detergent to clean softball gloves. First, use a dry cloth to remove and dust particles from it, and then wet another cloth with the cleaning solution and wipe the gloves with it.
Are there softball gloves for players in any position?
Although most of the softball gloves are made according to the positions on a softball team, you can also find ones that can be used by players in multiple positions.