Buying a Softball Catchers Mitt
If you are a catcher you know the importance of having a well-made mitt when behind the plate. You need something that will not only protect your hand from the pounding it takes each game, but will help you hang on to every pitch and every throw that comes your way. Finding the right softball catchers mitt is not too difficult, but there are a few things you need to consider before you buy.
Catchers mitts contain thicker finger and heel padding than most softball gloves. This is necessary in order to protect the hand from high velocity throws. Modern catchers mitts will have a larger pocket than older model mitts, however the pocket is typically not as deep in these newer models. This gives newer gloves more flexibility and allows the catcher to transfer the ball to their throwing hand quicker, great when trying to catch a runner who is trying to steal. If you’re using an older style glove you may want to consider switching to one with a modern design. There may be a slight adjustment period, but more than likely the switch will be well worth it.
When shopping for a catchers mitt the size of the glove is another thing you need to consider. Most mitts range from 31 inches to 34 inches in circumference. Adults will typically use a glove on the higher end of this range while youth players generally use a 31 or 32 inch mitt. Look for a glove that has an adjustable thumb, finger, and wrist strap. This will assure that the mitt is of a proper fit. Gloves that are too large or small or are ill-fittling in the wrist area are sure to hamper your performance on the the field. If you’re looking for a fastpitch catchers mitt you may also want to look for a model with a scoop toe design. This will help you dig out those low pitches in the dirt that many catchers have trouble with. If you handle pitchers who are prone to bouts of wildness this is an especially helpful feature.
Type of Material
The next thing to be aware of are the different types of materials available and the quality of the mitt you are selecting. Most softball mitts for catchers are made of leather, but you can also find them in a variety of synthetic materials like vinyl. Your best investment would be in a leather mitt, but if the mitt is for someone who only plays catcher part-tme then a synthetic glove is a consideration. Leather gloves come in three grades – top grain, premium steer hide and full-grain leather. Top grain leather gloves are the most commonly used type and require little or no break in. Premium steer hide is a stiffer, heavier, and more durable cut of leather. These gloves do require a longer break in period, however they are built to last and are an excellent choice for any softball catcher. Full-grain leather gloves are made with even heavier, higher grade materials. They typically come pre-oiled and are another solid option.
Catching is a rough position but choosing the right glove doesn’t have to be. A quality slow pitch or fastpitch softball catchers mitt will last for years and will allow you to compete at your best every time you’re behind the plate. Following these guidelines will help you to find your perfect match.
Guide to Softball Mitts
When shopping for softball mitts, whether it be for competitive play or just for fun, there are a few things you need to consider. The style of your new mitt will depend on the position that you play. A shortstop and a pitcher are not necessarily looking for the same thing when it come to buying a mitt. In addition you need to consider the type of material you want your mitt to be made from. This is an important aspect if you are looking for a glove that will last for many seasons. You also need to find one that fits right on your hand, as an oversized or undersized mitt is likely to result in needless, embarrassing errors, hurting your confidence on the field.
Types of Softball Mitts
A softball mitt comes in one of two broad styles: open web or closed web. Open web gloves are the type you can see through when the glove is held open. The advantage of these gloves is that they help you to quickly transfer the ball to your throwing hand. For this reason the open web type of softball gloves are preferred by infielders and some outfielders as well. Closed web gloves are used by pitchers and a majority of outfielders. For pitchers, a closed web helps keep the ball hidden from the hitter. It also provides outfielders with extra support when catching a fly ball.
A first baseman’s mitt is usually open and slightly elongated in order to help grab throws in the dirt. If you plan to play behind the plate you are going to want to consider a softball catchers mitt instead of a regular mitt. Catcher’s mitts are roundish in shape and come with extra padding that protect the catcher from the sting of fast pitches. Any catcher playing fastpitch softball is going to want a dedicated catcher’s mitt when behind the plate. Slow pitch catchers can sometimes get away with using a regular type of softball glove. If you plan to play many positions, a utility glove may be what you’re looking for. Utility gloves are average in size and are designed to be effective at all positions on the diamond. These gloves are great for youth players who may not yet have a set position, or anyone in a non-competitive league.
Leather or Synthetic?
Most quality softball mitts are made of leather. Look for gloves made from steerhide or buffalo hide. In general, higher-end mitts will be made from better quality leather and as a result will last longer. Some of the heavier, high-quality leather gloves will take longer to break in, but once broken in the difference in quality will be obvious. Some cheap softball mitts are made from synthetic materials like vinyl or plastic. These gloves may work for occasional players but are not as durable as leather gloves and can often make it harder to field the ball effectively.
For young players it is extremely important to choose a youth softball glove that fits right. Frequently a parent will buy their child a glove that is too large for them assuming they will grow into it over time. This is a mistake as a young player runs the risk of developing improper fielding mechanics as a result of their oversized mitt. A young player doesn’t necessarily need the most expensive glove on the market, but it should be snug on the hand and easy to squeeze and control.
As any player knows, a softball mitt is one of the most important pieces of equipment you need when playing the game. Whether you need slow pitch softball gloves for a summer recreational league, or something for more competitive competition, you want a mitt that will allow you to take the field with the confidence of an all-star. These tips will help you find just the right glove when looking to make that difficult purchase.