Selecting the right baseball or softball glove is crucial for both performance and comfort on the field. A well-fitted glove not only enhances your ability to catch and field effectively, but it also prevents injury and helps build confidence during play. Whether you're just starting out or advancing to more competitive levels, having the perfect glove fit can make all the difference in your game.
At Between The Lines, we understand that finding the ideal glove requires more than just picking one off the shelf. Our glove fitting services are designed to guide you through the process with expert advice tailored to your playing style and needs. In this guide, we'll cover the essentials of glove fitting, from size and material to position-specific considerations, and how Between The Lines can help you find the perfect glove.
Why Glove Fitting Matters
A baseball or softball glove isn't just an accessory—it's an extension of your hand. Choosing a glove that fits your hand size, position, and playing style will significantly impact your ability to catch, throw, and field efficiently. An ill-fitting glove can lead to discomfort, difficulty controlling the ball, and even injuries from misjudging catches or awkward hand positions. Proper glove fitting ensures:
- Better control and precision during play
- Increased comfort throughout the game
- Reduced risk of injury, especially in competitive play
- Optimal performance based on your position
When you're fitted for a glove by a professional, you ensure that the glove matches your unique hand shape, playing style, and specific fielding needs.
How to Choose the Right Glove Size
Selecting the right size is the first and most important step in glove fitting. Gloves are measured by the length from the tip of the index finger along the palm to the heel of the glove, typically in inches. This measurement helps determine whether the glove is suitable for your hand size and the demands of your position.
Here’s a general breakdown of recommended glove sizes based on player age and position:
| Player Age | Position | Recommended Glove Size |
| 5-7 years | All positions | 9" - 10.5" |
| 8-10 years | All positions | 10.5" - 11.5" |
| 11-13 years | Infield | 11" - 12" |
| 11-13 year | Outfield | 12" - 12.75" |
| High School+ | Infield | 11.25" - 12" |
| High School+ | Outfield | 12.75" - 13" |
| Adult Softball | Infield | 12" - 13" |
| Adult Softball | Outfield | 13" - 14" |
While this chart is a great starting point, there are several other factors to consider when choosing a glove size, including hand size, personal comfort, and your position on the field.
Position-Specific Glove Considerations
Each position in baseball or softball requires different glove features to maximize performance. For example, infielders need a glove with a shallow pocket for quick transfers, while outfielders benefit from a deeper pocket to secure fly balls. Here's a closer look at the key features to consider based on your position:
Infield Gloves
Infield gloves are typically smaller, ranging from 11 to 12 inches for baseball and 12 to 13 inches for softball. These gloves have a shallow pocket, which allows players to quickly grab the ball and transfer it to their throwing hand for fast plays. Infielders, especially shortstops and second basemen, need a glove that allows for quick reaction times and agility.
Key features for infield gloves:
- Shallow pocket for quicker ball retrieval
- A smaller size for more precise control
- Stiffer leather for durability
Outfield Gloves
Outfielders require larger gloves with a deeper pocket to help catch and secure fly balls. The larger size allows for greater reach, which is essential for fielding high pop-ups or ground balls in the gaps. Baseball outfield gloves range from 12 to 13 inches, while softball outfield gloves can extend up to 14 inches.
Key features for outfield gloves:
- Deep pocket for better ball security
- A larger size for increased reach and coverage
- Softer leather to allow for easy break-in
First Base Mitts
First base mitts are unique in their design, resembling a mitten without separated fingers. This design helps first basemen scoop low throws from the dirt while also providing a larger surface area to catch errant throws. Baseball first base mitts generally range from 12 to 13 inches, while softball first base mitts can go up to 14 inches.
Key features for first base mitts:
- Wide and deep pocket for scooping
- Extra padding to handle hard throws
- Larger size to catch off-target throws
Catcher’s Mitts
Catchers need gloves that can withstand the constant impact of pitches, which is why catcher’s mitts are heavily padded and have a closed-pocket design. These mitts are smaller in circumference to allow quick transfers from the glove to the hand for throwing out base runners. Baseball catcher’s mitts typically range from 32 to 34 inches, while softball catcher’s mitts are slightly larger, around 33 to 35 inches.
Key features for catcher’s mitts:
- Extra padding for absorbing fast pitches
- Smaller circumference for quick transfers
- Closed pocket to help secure the ball
Material Matters: Leather vs. Synthetic Gloves
When selecting a glove, material is a key factor in terms of comfort, performance, and durability. Most gloves are either made from leather or synthetic materials, and each has its pros and cons:
Leather Gloves
Leather gloves are the top choice for serious players because they offer better durability, performance, and a traditional feel. High-quality leather gloves, especially full-grain or steerhide leather, mold to your hand over time, giving you a custom fit.
- Pros: Durable, molds to your hand, offers better control and longevity
- Cons: Takes time to break in, can be heavier and more expensive
Synthetic Gloves
Synthetic gloves are often used by younger players or those just starting out. They are more affordable, lighter, and easier to break in than leather gloves. However, they don't offer the same longevity or custom fit that leather gloves do.
- Pros: Lightweight, easier to break in, affordable
- Cons: Less durable, doesn't mold to the hand as well, shorter lifespan
For more information on choosing between leather and synthetic gloves, visit Rawlings Glove Guide.
BTL’s Professional Glove Fitting Services
At Between The Lines, we offer professional glove fitting services to ensure you find the perfect fit for your game. Our in-store experts are trained to help players of all ages and skill levels choose the right glove based on their position, size, and preferences. We know that every player's hand is unique, and so is their playing style, which is why our team provides personalized glove recommendations.
What our glove fitting service includes:
- Hand Size Measurement: We take precise measurements of your hand to find the ideal glove size for comfort and performance.
- Position-Specific Advice: Based on your playing position, we recommend gloves with the right pocket depth, webbing, and size.
- Break-In Assistance: We provide advice and tools to help you break in your glove properly, ensuring it molds to your hand quickly and effectively.
- Customization Options: Want your glove to stand out? We can guide you on custom options for glove color, stitching, and even your name embroidered on the leather.
The Importance of Proper Glove Break-In
A new glove is typically stiff and may feel uncomfortable right out of the box, which is why breaking it in properly is essential for peak performance. A well-broken-in glove will conform to your hand shape, allowing you to open and close it effortlessly.
At Between The Lines, we offer glove steaming and conditioning services to accelerate the break-in process. These services soften the leather, making it easier to shape and mold your glove to your hand. Our glove experts will guide you through the best break-in methods, ensuring your glove is game-ready as quickly as possible.
Common Questions About Glove Fitting
What size glove should my child use for baseball?
The best glove size for a child depends on their age and position. Generally, players between the ages of 5-7 should use a glove between 9 and 10.5 inches, while older kids (8-10 years) should opt for gloves between 10.5 and 11.5 inches.
How long does it take to break in a leather glove?
Breaking in a leather glove can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the method used and how frequently you play. Professional services like glove steaming can help accelerate the process.
What is the best way to break in a glove?
The best way to break in a glove is by playing catch regularly, using glove oil or conditioner, and shaping it around a ball. Avoid heating the glove in an oven or microwave, as this can damage the leather.
Do different positions require different types of gloves?
Yes, infielders, outfielders, catchers, and first basemen all use gloves designed for their specific roles. For example, infielders typically use smaller gloves with shallow pockets, while outfielders need larger gloves with deeper pockets.
What is the difference between a baseball and a softball glove?
Softball gloves are generally larger than baseball gloves to accommodate the larger ball. Softball gloves also tend to have deeper pockets, particularly for outfielders and first basemen.
Should I choose a leather or synthetic glove?
Leather gloves are more durable and mold to your hand over time, making them ideal for serious players. Synthetic gloves are lighter, less expensive, and easier to break in, making them a great choice for beginners or young players.
Conclusion: Find Your Perfect Glove at Between The Lines
At Between The Lines, we take glove fitting seriously because we know how much it impacts your game. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned athlete, we offer personalized glove fitting services to ensure you walk away with the perfect glove for your needs. Our team of experts is always ready to help you find the right size, material, and style based on your position and playing level.
Explore our collection of gloves in-store or online today, and let us help you step up your game with a glove that fits like it was made just for you.
Visit us in our Scottsdale store for more information on our glove services and to shop our full selection of baseball and softball gloves!