Slow Pitch Softball Gloves
If you are a slow pitch softball player, either in a recreational or competitive league, you know how important your glove is when out on the field. In many ways a good softball mitt is even more important in slow pitch than in fastpitch leagues because fewer strikeouts mean more balls in play that the defense must handle. There are a few things to consider when looking for a slow pitch softball glove that you can feel confident in when taking the field.
First of all, many players want to know if there are any differences between fastpitch and slow pitch softball gloves? Many manufactures produce separate gloves primarily for marketing purposes, however there are a few slight differences between the two that may make a slow pitch mitt a bit more appealing. Slow pitch gloves for outfielders often have a larger webbing to help them shag down flies. An infielder’s glove may have a more shallow pocket to help make the transition from the glove to the hand quicker. Also, a slow pitch catcher’s mitt does not require as much padding as a traditional catcher’s mitt. In fact many slow pitch catchers can get by using a first baseman’s mitt or another type of glove if they so choose. Other than that, slow pitch and fastpitch mitts are very similar and can be used interchangeably if the player so chooses.
What about using a baseball mitt for softball? While it’s true that some players who play both sports can get by using the same glove for baseball and softball, this is not recommended for most players. A softball glove has a pocket that is designed to hold the larger ball. When you catch a softball with a baseball mitt you run a greater risk of having the ball pop out of the pocket, resulting in an embarrassing error. In addition, softball mitts are typically longer than those used for baseball. A typical softball mitt is between 12 and 14 inches in length while those used for baseball range from 11 to 12 3/4 inches. If you must buy just one glove for both sports it is best to look for a larger baseball glove at least 12 1/2 inches long.
Shopping for softball equipment can be a lot of fun, but you want to make sure you are buying a product that you can be confident in. A high-quality softball glove will last for years and will quickly become the fielder’s best friend when out on the diamond. Make sure to shop around so you can be sure you’re getting just the right fit.
Filed Under Slow Pitch Gloves | Leave a Comment
Tagged With baseball vs softball gloves, slow pitch softball gloves, softball equipment, Softball Mitts
Comments
Leave a Reply