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AKADEMA FASTPITCH SERIES CATCHERS MITT.
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| Features USA Steerhide leather for durability and
quality, and exclusive AkademaLyte leather on
back of glove to keep it light and easy to break in.
The Akadema Grasp Clasp Wrist System locks the
player's hand in the glove to ensure proper catching
mechanics. Specially designed smaller finger stalls to
decrease the distance between the thumb and index finger.
34" circumference, double "T" web, two tone,
Apachetan webbing and ¼" lacing.
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| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: AEA65.
Price: $79.99 |
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AKADEMA FASTPITCH SERIES FIRST BASE MITT.
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| Designed for the demanding Fastpitch First Baseman
who desires the advantages of a first baseman’s glove
that is light, strong, and manageable.
Features USA Steerhide leather for durability and
quality, and exclusive AkademaLyte leather on back
of glove making the ANF71 quick and agile around the bag.
The Akadema Grasp Clasp Wrist System locks
the player's hand in the glove to ensure proper
catching mechanics. Specially designed smaller finger
stalls to decrease the distance between the thumb
and index finger.
12.5” first base pattern, single-post double-T web,
open back.
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| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: ANF71.
Price: $79.99 |
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AKADEMA FASTPITCH SERIES SOFTBALL GLOVE.
|
| The Julie Smith Signature Fast Pitch Reptilian® glove
features USA Steerhide leather for durability and quality,
and exclusive AkademaLyte leather on back of glove
to keep it light and easy to break in.
The Akadema Grasp Clasp Wrist System locks the
player's hand in the glove to ensure proper catching
mechanics. Specially designed smaller finger stalls to
decrease the distance between the thumb and index finger.
B-hive web, 12 1/2" fastpitch softball glove.
Endorsed by USA All Star Julie Smith.
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| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: ATS77.
Price: $79.99 |
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AKADEMA PRODIGY SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
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| This serious high-level youth glove was designed with the Akadema Grasp Clasp Wrist System. The Grasp Clasp locks the player's hand in the glove to ensure proper catching mechanics. The ATM92 uses the same USA Steerhide leather pocket and web as the Akadema Professional Models for durability and quality. Akadema uses special leather on the back of the glove to keep the glove light and easy to break in.
11 1/2" youth baseball glove. Recommended for ages 9-12.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: ATM92.
Price: $59.99 |
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AKADEMA PRODIGY SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
|
| This serious high-level youth glove was designed with the Akadema Grasp Clasp Wrist System.
The Grasp Clasp locks the player's hand in the glove to ensure proper catching mechanics.
The AZR95 uses the same USA Steerhide leather pocket and web as the Akadema Professional Models for durability and quality.
Akadema uses special leather on the back of the glove to keep the glove light and easy to break in.
11" youth baseball glove. Recommended for ages 8 - 10.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: AZR95.
Price: $59.99 |
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AKADEMA PRODIGY SERIES YOUTH CATCHERS MITT.
|
| This serious high-level youth catchers glove was designed with the Akadema Praying Mantis series features,
including Stress Wedge technology for extra shock-absorbing protection, Double Flex hinge for easier glove closure, and two additional Finger Hammocks allowing the fingers to be more secure in the glove.
Made with US Steerhide and exclusive AkademaLyte
leather, the AGC98 is both light and durable.
32" circumference. Recommended for ages 8-12.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: AGC98.
Price: $59.99 |
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AKADEMA PROSOFT SERIES BASEBALL OUTFIELD GLOVE.
|
| Features Akadema's exclusive GameDay ProSoft
Steerhide for a light glove and a short break-in period
without sacrificing a professional feel.
B-Hive web, Open back, and Deep pocket.
13" baseball glove designed for outfielders.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: AMK226.
Price: $79.99 |
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AKADEMA PROSOFT SERIES BASEBALL GLOVE.
|
| Features Akadema's exclusive GameDay ProSoft
Steerhide for a light glove and a short break-in period
without sacrificing a professional feel.
B-Hive web, Open back, and Deep pocket.
12" baseball glove designed for 3rd baseman and pitchers.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: ADH214.
Price: $79.99 |
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AKADEMA ROOKIE SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
|
| The Rookie Series was created for younger players
who are serious about baseball and want to play like
their favorite stars. Akadema uses full grain soft
leather in the construction for easy break-in and comfort.
Manny Ramirez replica.
11" youth baseball glove. Recommended for ages 6 - 8.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: ARA93.
Price: $39.99 |
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EASTON PROFESSIONAL SERIES BASEBALL GLOVE.
The Easton K-PRO65 Baseball Infield Glove
features professional grade oil-tanned USA Steer Hide
Leather and lightweight, high strength
KEVLAR backing.
USA tanned deerskin lining and finger stalls.
Bio-Dri moisture management material.
Exclusive Hyperlite foam/wool padding.
Genuine rawhide lacing and binding.
H web with Ideal Fit modified open back.
Size: 11 3/4 inch infield glove.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: KPRO65.
Price: $159.99 |
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LOUISVILLE SLUGGER GAMER SERIES BASEBALL GLOVE.
|
| Features genuine steerhide brushed nubuck oil-treated
leather for a game-ready feel.
Special Sluggerback finger lining wicks
away perspiration.
Bruise-Gard padding offers added protection
in palm and finger area.
X-trasoft palm lining for improved comfort.
Deluxe ladder web.
Closed back with Double Velcro® wrist adjustment.
12 1/2" Baseball/Softball pattern.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: LG1250.
Price: $59.99 |
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MIZUNO CLASSIC PRO SERIES BASEBALL GLOVE.
|
| The Mizuno Classic Pro™ series offers the best in
craftsmanship, fit, and performance in a Pro Level glove.
Features Mizuno's patented 3D Technology,
with position specific patterns.
Softhands construction utilizes a softer, thinner
leather for superior comfort and a Game-Ready feel.
ParaShock palm pad absorbs shock.
USA Tanned North American Steerhide leather.
12" baseball glove designed for pitchers.
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| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: GCP16.
Price: $169.99 |
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MIZUNO CLASSIC SERIES BASEBALL OUTFIELD GLOVE.
|
| Features Mizuno's revolutionary, patent-pending Softhands construction and Game-Ready leather for instant performance.
PowerBack design for more stability and control. Laceless-Palm lining provides better feel and comfort. Ultrasoft Amphibian finger lining.
12 1/4" baseball outfield glove.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: GCS1225.
Price: $159.99 |
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MIZUNO MVP SERIES BASEBALL GLOVE.
|
| The Mizuno MVP Series baseball glove
features Mizuno's exclusive super soft Bio-Retro
full-grain American Steerhide leather for instant performance.
Special UltraSoft palm lining for a comfortable feel.
ParaShock Palm provides extra hand protection
and shock absorption.
Conventional open back.
12" baseball pitcher/infielder glove.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: GMVP1200.
Price: $89.99 |
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MIZUNO MVP SERIES BASEBALL INFIELD GLOVE.
The Mizuno GMVP1175 Baseball Infield Glove
features Mizuno's exclusive super soft Bio-Retro
full-grain American Steerhide leather for a game-ready
feel. Special UltraSoft palm lining
provides an extra comfortable feel.
Size: 11 3/4 inch baseball infield glove.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: GMVP1175.
Price: $89.99 |
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MIZUNO PROSPECT SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
The Mizuno GPP1001 Youth Baseball Glove
features Mizuno's patented Power-Close technology
making glove easy to close for young players.
ParaShock palm pad for added hand protection.
Durable Less-2 lacing.
Size: 10 inch youth baseball glove.
Ages: 5 - 7.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: GPP1001.
Price: $19.99 |
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MIZUNO PROSPECT SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
|
| Features Mizuno's patented Power-Close technology
making glove easy to close for young players.
ParaShock palm pad for added hand protection.
Durable Less-2 lacing.
Power Lock wrist adjustment for secure fit.
11 1/2" youth baseball glove.
Recommended for ages 8 - 10.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: GPP1150.
Price: $29.99 |
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MIZUNO PROSPECT SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
|
| Features Mizuno's patented Power-Close technology
making glove easy to close for young players.
ParaShock palm pad for added hand protection.
Durable Less-2 lacing.
Chipper Jones model. 10" youth baseball glove.
Designed for ages under 7.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: GPP1000.
Price: $19.99 |
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MIZUNO PROSPECT SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL CATCHERS MITT.
|
| Features Mizuno's patented Power Close V-Flex notch for easy closure and extra flexibility for younger players.
Exclusive Parashock padding for added protection and greater shock absorption. Recommended for ages 8-12.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: GXC100.
Price: $49.99 |
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MIZUNO PROSPECT SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL FIRSTBASE MITT.
|
| Features Mizuno's patented Power Close
V-Flex notch for easy closure and extra flexibility
for younger players.
Exclusive Para Shock padding for added protection
and greater shock absorption.
Full size youth firstbase mitt.
Recommended for ages 9-12.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: GXF100.
Price: $49.99 |
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MIZUNO SUPREME SERIES SOFTBALL GLOVE.
|
| The Mizuno Supreme Series softball glove
features a full-grain leather shell and deep
softball specific pocket.
Special Butter Soft palm lining provides a comfortable feel.
ParaShock Palm provides extra hand protection
and shock absorption.
PowerLock wrist adjustment for a secure fit.
12 1/2" softball glove.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: GSP1251.
Price: $49.99 |
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MIZUNO TALON SERIES BASEBALL GLOVE.
|
| Features Mizuno's exclusive Bio-Retro
super soft leather for instant performance.
Special TriProtect design
offers 3 index finger position options.
Pocket Control technology gives more control
to fingers closest to the pocket.
Adjustable wrist strap for secure fit.
12" baseball glove.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: GPC1200.
Price: $89.99 |
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RAWLINGS BULL SERIES BASEBALL FIELDERS GLOVE.
|
| Features Oil-Tanned leather,
Arched Basket-Web®, and padded finger Holdster®.
Flex Loop Back™ offers extra flexibility for
game-ready feel.
12 inch pattern designed for any position.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: RB1200.
Price: $59.99 |
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RAWLINGS HEART OF THE HIDE SERIES BASEBALL OUTFIELD GLOVE.
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| Oil-tanned leather made from the top 5% of the choicest U.S. steer hides available - used exclusively by Rawlings.
Two-Ply Wool And Polypropylene Felt Palm Pad offers extra padding and shape retention.
Leather lining. Closed back. Buckle wrist adjustment. Same model worn by Ken Griffey, Jr.
12 3/4" baseball outfield glove.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: PROTB24.
Price: $169.99 |
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RAWLINGS HIGHLIGHT SERIES BASEBALL INFIELD GLOVE.
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| New Deer Touch full grain leather shell.
Deer tanned cowhide palm linings with palm pad.
Pro-Dri Plus finger back lining keeps
hand cool and dry.
Pro "I" Web with reinforced leather lacing.
Conventional open back for maximum glove control.
11 1/2" baseball glove designed for middle infielders.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: HL202.
Price: $69.99 |
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RAWLINGS JR PRO LITE SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
|
| Features exclusive Pro Lite® leather making glove
lighter and easier to use for younger players.
Interwoven Basket Web® for increased strength and
durability. Leather Palm Pad for added protection to
the palm and finger area. Conventional Open Back.
11 1/4" youth baseball glove.
Recommended for ages 8 - 10.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: JPL1125.
Price: $34.99 |
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RAWLINGS JR PRO LITE SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
|
| Features exclusive Pro Lite® leather making glove
lighter and easier to use for younger players.
Dual Post Reinforced Web for increased strength and
durability. Leather Palm Pad for added protection to
the palm and finger area. Closed back with finger stall.
10 3/4" youth baseball glove. Recommended for ages 6 - 8.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: JPL1075.
Price: $29.99 |
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RAWLINGS PLAYER PREFERRED SERIES BASEBALL FIELDERS GLOVE.
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| Features Tumbled full grain leather,
Arched Basket-Web®, and padded finger Holdster®.
Flex Loop Back™ offers extra flexibility for
game-ready feel.
12 inch baseball/softball glove.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: RBG65B.
Price: $49.99 |
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RAWLINGS PLAYER PREFERRED SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
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| Features Neo-Flex™ Fastback® design
making glove easier to use for younger players.
Adjustable Velcro® strap for secure fit.
Cushioned palm pad to help reduce sting.
Basket Web® for added strength and durability.
Nomar Garciaparra autograph model.
11" youth baseball glove. Recommended for ages 8 - 10.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: PP224.
Price: $34.99 |
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RAWLINGS PLAYER PREFERRED SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
The Rawlings PP115 Youth Baseball Glove
features a Neo-Flex™ Fastback® design making
glove easier to use for younger players.
Adjustable Velcro® strap for secure fit.
Cushioned palm pad to help reduce sting.
Basket Web® for added strength and durability.
Derek Jeter signature model.
Size: 11 1/2 inch youth baseball glove.
Ages: 9 - 12.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: PPP115.
Price: $39.99 |
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RAWLINGS PLAYER PREFERRED A-ROD YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
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| Features Neo-Flex™ Fastback® design
making glove easier to use for younger players.
Adjustable Velcro® strap for secure fit.
Cushioned palm pad to help reduce sting.
Basket Web® for added strength and durability.
Alex Rodriguez autograph model.
10 1/2 inch youth baseball glove. Recommended for ages 6 - 8.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: PP80.
Price: $29.99 |
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RAWLINGS PLAYER PREFERED SERIES YOUTH CATCHERS MITT.
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| Features Fastback design with finger hood,
one-piece reinforced closed web, and pre-softened leather
for game ready feel.
31 1/2 inch youth catchers mitt. Recommended for ages 8-12.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: RCM45BT.
Price: $49.99 |
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RAWLINGS RENEGADE SERIES BASEBALL FIELDERS GLOVE.
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| Features full grain leather, and
Basket web for strength, durability and flexibility.
Fastback design with Flex Lock adjustable wrist closure.
12 1/2 inch baseball/softball glove.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: RS125.
Price: $49.99 |
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WILSON A2000 PRO STOCK SERIES BASEBALL OUTFIELD GLOVE.
|
| The Wilson A2000 Pro-Stock series is designed
for professional, collegiate, and serious high school
players. Features Pro-Stock American Steerhide
hand selected leather for rugged durability,
unmatched feel, and consistent performance.
Patented Dual-Welting pre-curved finger design
for a stable pocket.
Exclusive SuperSkin provides twice the strength
with half the weight.
Dri-Lex lining keeps hand cool and dry.
12 1/2" baseball outfield glove.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: A2000KP92T.
Price: $169.99 |
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WILSON A2000 PRO STOCK KIP SERIES BASEBALL OUTFIELD GLOVE.
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| The Wilson A2000 Pro-Stock Kip series is designed
for professional, collegiate, and serious high school
players. Features Pro-Stock Kip lightweight leather
designed for comfort, consistency and durability.
Patented Dual-Welting pre-curved finger design
for a stable pocket.
Exclusive SuperSkin provides twice the strength
with half the weight.
Dri-Lex lining keeps hand cool and dry.
12 1/2" baseball outfield glove.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: A2000K97.
Price: $199.99 |
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WILSON YOUTH CATCHERS MITT.
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| Features exclusive game-ready Ecco™ Leather,
unsurpassed for comfort and quality. Dri-Lex® lining
absorbs moisture, keeping hand cool and dry.
Pro-Tech palm padding.
2-Piece web design. Velcro Wrist Adjustment.
31.5 inch youth catchers mitt.
Recommended for ages under 12.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: CM315.
Price: $49.99 |
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WILSON EZ CATCH YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
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| The Wilson EZCatch makes catching easy with an extra large pocket designed for the youth player.
The X-Web™ design combines the flexibility of an open web with the ruggedness of a closed web.
EZ Flex™ hinges and Dual Finger stall makes closing the glove easy.
Custom fit wrist adjustment. Full leather outer shell.
Size: 10 1/2 inch youth baseball glove.
Recommended for ages 6 - 8.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: A0425-Z105.
Price: $29.99 |
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WILSON EZ-CATCH SERIES YOUTH BASEBALL GLOVE.
The Wilson ZS10 Youth Baseball Glove
makes catching easy with an extra large pocket
designed for the youth player.
The EZ Flex™ hinges in the palm deliver more
closing power, while the Dual Finger Power™
technology lets you put two fingers in one stall,
providing easy closing power.
Size: 10 inch youth baseball glove.
Ages: 5 - 6.
|
| Category: Baseball Gloves. Model: ZS10.
Price: $24.99 |
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| - Glove Sizing Chart - |
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| Use the chart below as a general guideline for determining glove size. |
| Age |
Position |
Glove Size |
| 5-6 |
General |
10 to 10 1/2 (youth model) |
| 7-8 |
General |
10 1/2 to 11 (youth model) |
| 9-12 |
General |
11 to 11 1/2 (youth model) |
| High School/Adult |
Infield |
11 to 11 1/2 |
| High School/Adult |
Outfield |
12 to 12 1/2 |
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- Glove Buying Information - |
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 How to Measure Baseball Gloves
Fielders gloves and first base mitts are measured by starting at the top of the index finger of the glove down the finger along the inside of the pocket and then out to the heal of the glove.
A flexible tape measure has to be used, not a stiff ruler. Measure from the highest point on the glove (normally the index finger). Lay the tape measure across the palm of the glove, so that it folds across and into the indenture, down to the heel of the glove.
Professional baseball has a 12 inch maximum height for a glove, although this rule has not been strictly enforced. |
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Glove Quality
Higher quality baseball gloves and mitts are usually distinguished by higher grade leather, better construction and better design. These work together to produce a glove or mitt that is durable and helps the ball into and out of the pocket. The highest quality gloves are usually made of heavy leather that will need some time to break-in and typically do not have palm pads or Velcro adjustments. |
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Break-In
Most manufacturers agree that a glove oil or leather conditioner cream should be used as long as it does not contain silicon. Most manufacturers recommend not using anything that requires a microwave or an oven.
(Click here to check out Roberto Alomar's tips on Conditioning Your Glove) |
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Gloves vs Mitts
The main difference between baseball gloves and mitts is that gloves have fingers and mitts don't. Mitts tend to do a better job of controlling balls that don't hit in the pocket and can aid scooping ground balls and short hops. First base and Catcher are the only positions allowed to use mitts. |
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Female Gloves
Baseball gloves and mitts that are specified as women's or female are usually designed with narrower finger stalls and smaller wrist openings to provide a better fit. |
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Youth Gloves
Youth baseball gloves and mitts typically are designed to be easy to break-in and will sometimes have a notch in the heel to help the glove break-in correctly. These gloves are usually designed with smaller finger and wrist openings to better fit smaller hands, and often have oversized pockets to aid youngsters learning how to catch. |
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First Base Mitts
Most first base mitts are designed for baseball use and are 12 to 12 1/2 inches. First base mitts have a thin but stiff pad that runs around the circumference of the mitt and little or no padding in the palm or finger area. Larger baseball first base mitts can be effectively used by softball players. Some manufactures will make softball specific first base mitts. These are usually 13 inches or larger and are not very common. Many softball first basemen use a 13 to 14 inch softball outfield glove at first base. |
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Catchers Mitts
Baseball catcher's mitts usually have a very thick pad around the circumference of the mitt and thick padding in the palm and finger area and a small pocket. Softball catcher's mitts are similar to baseball catcher's mitts except the with less padding and a much larger pocket. |
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Open vs Closed Web
For most positions, an open web vs a closed web is a matter of personal preference. Open web gloves tend to trap the ball a little better than closed web gloves. Closed web gloves tend to get the ball out of the pocket a little quicker. First and Third base players tend to prefer open web gloves. Middle infielders tend to want closed web gloves to help get the ball out of the glove quickly. Pitchers usually want closed web gloves so they can hide the ball easier. |
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Conventional Back vs Closed Back
Conventional (open) vs closed back is mainly a matter of style and personal preference. Conventional back gloves tend to be a little lighter and can fit a bit tighter in the wrist. Some closed back gloves have straps with Velcro that allow you to adjust how tight or loose the glove fits. |
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- Glove Buying Tips - |
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Price
A good glove does not have to be expensive. There are gloves that will give many seasons of satisfactory service for under $75. You can pay more, but more money does not necessarily mean a better, more serviceable glove. There are expensive gloves ($100-$200+) which may last one or two seasons, and there are inexpensive baseball gloves that can last for ten years or more with routine maintenance.
The more expensive gloves do tend to use better (often heavier) leather than less expensive gloves. All things being equal, with careful maintenance, the higher quality glove should last longer. The question is "is the more expensive glove worth the price"? |
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Size
Select a glove for the position you will be playing most often. Use the chart at the top of this page as a general guideline for determining glove size. A glove should feel fairly snug when adjusted. Check to make sure the glove adjusts to your hand. Allow room for batting glove if you wear one. Except for pitchers, most players should wear a batting glove inside their fielders glove. The batting glove will absorb most of the sweat from your hands, thus protecting the lining of your glove. Change the batting glove when it gets wet or rotted. |
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Quality
The leather should be fairly sturdy. A stiffer glove will have to be broken in, but once done, the glove will be serviceable for many seasons. The softer "pre-broken" gloves feel great, but many of them wear out very quickly and may be difficult or impossible to repair. The leather in the pre-broken gloves is usually thinner and therefore weaker than that in a sturdier glove. The thinner, softer leathers tend to show signs of stress at the lacing holes in the web and fingers after a few months of continuous play. |
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- Glove Materials - |
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Manufacturers usually tout a glove's materials whenever they are made of something considered "premium" enough to provide a selling point. If a glove is made of full-grain leather or premium steerhide, the two top grades, the manufacturer will definitely print that fact prominently on the glove. Top-quality leather makes the best gloves, but the reality is, for a kid's glove that will be outgrown and discarded after a few years, premium materials are nice but not crucial.
The original method of turning animal skins into leather is known as "vegetable tanning," which means the skins are tanned with tree bark or tree-bark extracts containing tannin. Vegetable-tanned leather undergoes a lengthy tanning process that results in a leather that is flexible and has superior moldability. The other primary method of tanning is called "chrome tanning," in which the skins are tanned with mineral salts. Chrome tanning can be done in a fraction of the time of vegetable tanning, and results in a stronger, more abrasion-resistant leather. Almost all baseball gloves today are chrome tanned leather. "Oil tanning" is a specialized process that is rarely seen today, and is used exclusively in split leathers such as chamois and buckskin. Rawlings claims to use oil-tanned leather in some of their gloves, but more likely the leather is chrome tanned and then oiled.
Leather specialist Steve Laliloff, who made the gloves for the movie "Eight Men Out", stated that vegetable tanned leather is preferable and will last longer than chrome tanned leather, however, it's very difficult to obtain vegetable tanned leather, especially when a volume of gloves is being manufactured.
Here are the basic Leather Grades and Types used in Baseball & Softball Gloves:
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Buffalo Skin
Buffalo skin is used by only one manufacturer, Nokona. Buffalo skin is said to be tougher and lighter than full grain steer hide, but breaks in just as easily. Most people aren't going to want to get a Little Leaguer a buffalo skin glove because of the high price, but if they want to, it's out there.
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Full Grain Leather
"Full-Grain" leather is steer hide or cow hide leather on which the entire natural grain remains. It will either be the original thickness of the skin, or the bottom grain will have been sanded off until the leather is the desired thickness. This grade is uncommon in youth gloves, but is readily available in premium adult gloves that come in sizes suitable for older Little Leaguers. Although in theory full grain leather can be any weight, in practice, gloves made of full grain leather tend to be stiffer and heavier than other types, and require longer break-in periods. These leathers are rarely pre-oiled, because the players who buy gloves of this quality usually want to apply their own particular break-in method. Once broken in, full grain leather gloves are superior in both performance and durability. Catchers' mitts are almost always made of full grain leather or premium steer hide.
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Top Grain Leather
"Top-Grain" leather" is a misnomer; it is usually leather in which the "top" grain (the fur side) is sanded off until the leather is a desired thickness, and then filled or treated, where an artificial grain is introduced, usually by pressing. Many baseball gloves probably are top grain leather, but the manufacturers may not always use the phrase to describe the leather. Often they use a brand name instead. Nokona is the only manufacturer that says its gloves use "top grain leather." In Nokona's case, the leather is heavy weight and very durable. Wilson's "Quick-Stop" leather is also a top grain leather, but it is medium weight and has average durability.
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Premium Steer Hide
Steer hide, which comes from neutered bulls, is somewhat stronger than cow hide. Manufacturers are free to call any steer hide "premium," but in practice they reserve this designation for their better grades of heavy weight steer hide, usually top grain, occasionally full grain. Gloves made of this leather tend to be stiff and somewhat heavy, with longer break-in periods. These leathers are sometimes pre-oiled. Many manufacturers have gone away from premium steerhide both because the market now demands softer gloves, and to save money because few consumers know the difference.
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Leather or Cow Hide
"Leather" means cow hide, usually medium weight, but sometimes heavy weight. This category encompasses the greatest range of quality. Cow hide performs well, and will break in faster, but also wear out faster than steer hide. Usually this grade will come "pre-oiled" or otherwise treated to reduce break-in time. Cow hide is probably the best all-around choice for a youth glove for ages 10 and up. There are many good Leather glove bargains in the $25-$50 range.
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Kangaroo Skin
Kangaroo skin is stronger than steer hide of any grade, and weighs a fraction as much. It is fairly new to the baseball glove market, and what grades are being used is anybody's guess. Some manufacturers use kangaroo only in premium gloves, while others use it only in their budget baseball gloves. Early reports say it breaks in easily but doesn't hold its shape as well as the better cow hide or steer hide grades. Often gloves are made with steer hide or cow hide palms for durability, and kangaroo skin backs for light weight.
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Pigskin
Pigskin is far less durable than cowhide. However, it is more flexible and breaks in far more easily than cowhide, and costs less. Pigskin gloves are inexpensive, and can be ideal for a youngster who wants a good-performing glove but who may grow out of it in a year.
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- Youth Glove Manufacturer Reviews - |
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Mizuno
Mizuno gloves are universally well made, even their bargain models. Mizuno's top leather is "Double-Tanned Steerhide." This is a full grain steer hide. It is both vegetable and chrome tanned, which is an expensive process. Most of the rest of Mizuno's lineup is cow hide leather. Mizuno has several leathers, each with its own particular tanning process: "Retro Leather" and "Full Grain Leather" are heavier weight and more durable; "Tsunami Leather," "49er Leather," "Select Leather," and "One-Touch Leather" are medium weight and break in quickly. Mizuno youth models are generally found in their "Prospect" line of gloves, but gloves small enough for youths can be found in many of Mizuno's lines. Note, don't always rely on Mizuno's sales literature when deciding whether a particular glove size is right for your child. Mizuno's recommended glove sizes are often Too Large for the ages recommended.
Mizuno's Youth Glove Line:
- 9 inch: Models MPR901P (pigskin), MPR901 ("Select" leather). Suitable for ages 8 and under.
- 10 inch: Models MPR1101P (pigskin), MPR1101 ("Select" leather). Suitable for ages 8 thru 12.
- 10 3/4 inch: Model TG108P (pigskin). Suitable for ages 9 thru 12. Perfect size for 11 and 12 year old infielders.
- 11 inch: Models MPR1102 ("One-touch" leather), MPR1100R ("Retro Leather"). Best for ages 11 and 12.
- 11 1/2 inch: Models MPR116P ("Select" leather), MRX115 ("Select" leather), MPR1152 ("One-touch" leather), MPR1150R ("Retro" leather). Largest Mizuno youth glove. Suitable for little leaguers over 12.
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Rawlings
Rawlings offers a range of gloves priced from budget to premium, and uses a variety of materials, ranging from very good to very poor. Rawlings' top grade is called "Heart of the Hide." It is heavy-weight full grain steer hide that has been "oil-tanned" to greatly reduce break-in time. These gloves are popular with major leaguers. Rawlings' cheapest models are vinyl and probably should be avoided.
Rawlings Youth Glove Line:
- 9 inch: Models RBG158 "Derek Jeter" (vinyl), RBG9P "Ken Griffey Jr." (pigskin).
- 10 inch: Models RBG106 "Kevin Brown" (synthetic), RBG10P "Derek Jeter" (pigskin).
- 10 1/2 inch: Models RBG119 "Tony Gwynn" (synthetic), RBG105P "Alex Rodriguez" (pigskin).
- 10 3/4 inch: Models GG017C "Gold Glove" (oil-tanned leather), PRO071G ("Heart of the Hide").
- 11 inch: Models RBG129 "Alex Rodriguez" (synthetic), RBG110BF "Derek Jeter" (leather palm, synthetic back), RBG224 "Ken Griffey Jr. (leather), MMSO7BF "Millenium" (nubuck suede), GG10BF "Gold Glove" (oil-tanned leather), XPG110BCS "Heritage" (heavyweight oil-tanned leather), PRO15B "Gold Glove" ("Heart of the Hide").
- 11 1/4 inch: Model PROS12IC "Pro Preferred" ("Heart of the Hide").
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Wilson
Wilson's top grade of leather is found in their "Pro-Stock" models. It is heavy-weight full grain steer hide. Wilson has a variety of other leather brand names, each with its own tanning process, but the bottom line is all other Wilson brands are cow hide leather. Most Wilson youth models are found in its "Advisory Staff" and "EZ Catch" models, but Wilson makes gloves small enough for youths all the way up to the A2000 models. The EZ Catch models are youth-size gloves with extra-large, pre-broken-in pockets. I recommend the leather versions (avoid the vinyl versions).
Wilson's Youth Glove Line:
- 9 inch: Models A2291, A2293 (vinyl), A1801, A1803 (leather).
- 9 1/2 inch: Models A2260, A2262 "EZ Catch" (vinyl), A2740, A2742 "EZ Catch" (leather).
- 10 inch: Models A2175, A2177 "Advisory Staff" (vinyl), A2741, A2743 "EZ Catch" (leather), A1805, A1807 "Pro" (leather).
- 10 1/2 inch: Models A2275, A2277, A2180, A2182 "Advisory Staff" (vinyl), A2744, A2746 "EZ Catch" (leather), A1811, A1813 "Pro" (leather), A1810, A1812 "Pro" (top grain steer hide).
- 10 3/4 inch: Models A1410VBT ("vortex" leather), A2000X1QSR "Quickstop" ("quickstop" leather), A2000H-1 "Pro-Stock" ("pro-stock" leather steer hide) .
- 11 inch: Models A2134, A2136 "Advisory Staff" (vinyl), A2144, A2146 "Advisory Staff" (leather palm and web, synthetic back), A1825, A1827 ("pro" leather), A1821, A1823 ("aztec" leather), A1505, A1507 "Staff" ("canyon" leather), A1721 ("rustic" leather), A1420VBT ("vortex" leather), A2000GQS2R "Quickstop" ("quickstop" leather), A2000X2 "Prostock" ("pro-stock" leather steer hide).
- 11 1/4 inch: Models A2000-1788QS ("quickstop" leather), A2000-OSI ("pro-stock" leather steer hide), A2000-1788BG ("pro-stock" leather steer hide).
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Easton
Easton, traditionally a bat manufacturer, is new to the glove market but has quickly established itself as a top glove manufacturer. Easton's best grade of leather is called "Gladiator" steerhide. Easton makes a very popular "Natural" series of gloves using pre-oiled "Walnut tanned" leather. It is difficult to tell from Easton's press releases, but the "Walnut tanned" leather may be a vegetable tanned leather.
Easton's Youth Glove Line:
- 9 inch: Models SL9 (synthetic), BPK9 (kangaroo/cow hide leather).
- 10 inch: Models BPK10 (kangaroo/cow hide leather), NAT1 ("Salz Walnut-tanned" leather).
- 10 1/2 inch: Models BPK105 (kangaroo/cow hide leather), NAT4 ("Salz Walnut-tanned" leather).
- 10 3/4 inch: Model USA40 ("Gladiator" Steer hide).
- 11 inch: Models BMX11 (leather), NAT3 ("Salz Walnut-tanned" leather), USA50 ("Gladiator" Steer hide), EPS 41 ("Gladiator" Steer hide).
- 11 1/4 inch: Model USA60 ("Gladiator" Steer hide).
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Lousiville Slugger
Louisville Slugger's top brands are designated "TPX." TPX's top grade of leather is called "Maruhashi", which is roughly comparable to "premium steer hide".
Louisville Slugger's Youth Glove Line:
- 9 inch: Model LS900 (leather palm, synthetic back).
- 9 1/2 inch: Model LS950 (leather palm, synthetic back).
- 10 1/2 inch: Models LS1050 (leather palm, synthetic back), TPX 1050S (pre-oiled steerhide), TPX Pro6 (Maruhashi).
- 10 3/4 inch: Model USA40 ("Gladiator" Steer hide).
- 11 inch: Model OPX1100 (pre-oiled leather).
- 11 1/4 inch: Model LS1125 (leather palm, synthetic back).
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Nokona
Nokona is a premium glove manufacturer whose roots extend to the dawn of baseball. Nokona makes gloves out of top grain leather, cow hide, combinations of kangaroo and top grain or cow hide, and the ultimate in glove material: buffalo skin. Nokona's buffalo skin gloves, if you can find them, command prices over $250. Nokona's kangaroo-skin hybrid gloves are the next most expensive; they command a premium price over even the top grain models. Nokona "top grain leathers" are heavier and slightly more expensive than their "cow hide" gloves. Nevertheless, Nokona's cow hide gloves are heavy weight, and are generally considered equivalent in quality to other manufacturers' steer hide or even premium steer hide gloves. Nokona's leathers are "vegetable-tanned". Nokona is unique among glove manufacturers in that you can order a particular glove pattern with a choice of open or closed web, and often with a choice of the leather as well.
Nokona makes three glove patterns that are small enough for youth baseball players: AMG66 (10"), AMG125 (10 ½"), and AMG100 (11").
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- Breaking In A New Glove - |
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Apply a small amount of Glove Oil in the triangular area shown. Rub it into the leather until most of it has been absorbed, then wipe off the excess with a soft towel. Next, fold the glove at the hinge and excercise that area a bit. Then, fold the glove and squeeze the fold so that a crease can be formed along the triangle line from the index finger side to the hinge.  After setting this crease, re-fold the glove and form a similar crease from the thumb side of the triangle to the hinge. The final step is to re-fold the glove so a crease can be formed from the center of the web crotch to the hinge. When finished with these steps you should be able to see three distinct creases fanning out from the hinge to the web crotch. After completing these steps (about 20 minutes) put the glove on your hand and close it a few times. You should be able to feel a difference in the way the glove responds. Repeat this procedure in a few days, but do not use the glove oil in excess. Here's a tip from one of our readers. He conditions a new glove using the above procedure, and then goes to a batting cage (at an off-peak hour, so there will be fewer distractions and less chance of injury). He buys a bucket of balls to catch, not to hit. He says that after one session the glove is game ready.
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- Caring For Your Glove - |
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The most important part of caring for your glove is to recognize that leather will deteriorate if subjected to repeated exposure to moisture and heat. Saliva will also result in damaged leather, so Don't Spit In Your Glove. Leaving your glove out in the weather will ruin it, as will putting it away wet from perspiration. Always wear a batting glove under your baseball glove (except for pitchers) - this absorbs the sweat from your hand. When your batting glove gets wet, change it. This will add years to the lining of your glove. When your glove gets wet, dry it with a towel or soft cloth, and leave it exposed to room air for a few hours until the lining is dry. After it dries, use a little glove conditioner to moisten the leather. When you put your glove away, put a softball in the pocket and wrap it with a wide rubber band.
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