Although many softball fans overlook the significance of the first base area, a first baseman plays a major part in the game. Fielders, in the first of four bases, are tasked with catching balls, which come at them at huge speeds. And there is no way to stop them with your hands without getting hurt.
It’s understandable that then the player would want the best first base softball gloves to get a hold of shots. For a glove (also called a first baseman’s mitts) to withstand such immense pressure, it has to be durable, flexible, and comfortable for the fielder.
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Best First Base Softball Gloves - Buying Guide
What is it that you need to watch out for when choosing first base softball gloves? Are there some features that the best models possess and others don’t? Should you go for small or big gloves? All these and similar questions will be answered in this guide.
A first baseman’s mitts are different from the other gloves in the game, and the fielders have a different role from outfield players. These feature a solid, curved edge, and longer design to assist the player in stopping the high-paced ball and throwing it farther. Usually, most first baseman’s mitts are between 11.5 and 13 inches. You might think that oversized gloves will give you better control, but that is not the case. You would want a mitt that fits right in your hand. 1. Size
As much as you want your mitts to be sturdy to block the rocketing balls, it should be flexible enough to comply with the fielding requirements and help you toss the ball. Considering these requirements, leather makes for a durable and flexible glove material with the right level of stiffness. That is why leather mitts are the most popular among the softball and baseball players. You can use gloves built from synthetic material, but you cannot expect a similar sturdiness and durability from a leather mitt. Nonetheless, at the end of the day, it all comes down to your preference and comfort.2. Material and Durability
As a first baseman, you can expect to receive more throws than any other player on the field. The mitts have a deeper pocket to hold out against the high number of catches. Also, be sure to find a first base Softball glove with an open webbing, the part connecting the thumb to the finger. An open-webbing style mitt will give the fielder an advantage to dig out ground balls or wild pitches without catching much dirt. 3. Pocket and Webbing
Fastpitch softball is a competitive sport, with the pitcher throwing the ball after spinning their arm. On the contrary, in slow-pitch softball, the reliever delivers the ball with an underarm throw. Manufacturers design different gloves for different games. When it comes to fastpitch and slow-pitch, the primary difference lies in the pitching of the ball. Hence, the sizes and pocket depth vary. For a first baseman in a fastpitch game, 11.5 to 12 inches deep pocket sizes will help them take catches in a high-paced game. Typically, slow-pitch mitts are a little deeper than the fastpitch gloves, as there are more fly balls to catch. Note: Check out this guide for a detailed comparison between fastpitch and slowpitch games4. Fastpitch vs. Slow-pitch Gloves
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
Although the two gloves may look similar, they are different in their sizes and pocket depth. Baseball mitts are smaller, starting from 9 inches, with a smaller and longer pocket. Since the softball is larger than a baseball, the mitts deeper and shorter.Is there a difference between baseball and softball first base glove?
Companies develop infield and outfield gloves differently, with different sizes and pocket depth, so that they do their job the best. Not only using first base glove in the outfield is illegal (because the sizes differ), but also it will not be comfortable for a player to catch a ball coming down the ground.Can you use the first base glove in the outfield in softball?
Every player should break their gloves before getting on the field because doing so makes them move well with the hands. You can do that by pouring near-boiling water on the glove. Then, proceed to soften the mitt by using a mallet and shaping the glove the way you want.What's the best way to break in a softball glove?
Rawlings PROSDCTC Pro – Best First Base Softball gloves
Rawlings is an industry leader of high-quality and reliable sports goods, and the Rawlings PROSDCTC Pro Preferred 13-inch first base mitt lives up to the reputation. It is a long-lasting glove for players looking to enhance their performance.
Why choose it? Rawlings used the durable, flexible, and full-grain kip leather to construct the PROSDCTC Pro first base mitts. The leather on this one is going to last for seasons, and it is super comfortable to wear. It comes with 100% wool padding for the index and thumb to make sure that you stay safe while playing.
For players who get their hands sweaty more often and easily, the good news is that the Rawlings PROSDCTC comes with a Pittards sheepskin palm lining to absorb the moisture. Your hands will be dry at all times while wearing these mitts, and you can give your best on the field.
Sizes: The Rawlings PROSDCTC doesn’t give many options in sizes. The only variant you will find is the 13-inch camel-colored, black trim, first base mitt. The size works for both genders and fits right, thanks to the leather laces.
- Extra padding for protection
- Comfortable
- Durable and flexible leather
- Expensive compared to other gloves
Final Verdict
The Rawlings PROSDCTC Pro 13-inch first base mitt is one efficient and dutiable glove. Players of different age groups can use these for several seasons. Although it might not be budget-friendly, given its features, the mitt seems like a bargain.
Easton Blackstone – Best Inexpensive First Base Softball Gloves
Easton is another pioneer in the sports industry, and it has proved that with their lightweight select cowhide leather Easton Blackstone BL3 first base mitt. With the name “Easton” on the glove, performance, durability, and comfort are on the table.
Why Choose it? The mitts feature a select cowhide leather shell, which means that it is lighter and more flexible than the synthetic materials. Also, you can easily break the glove. This mitt features a dual-webbing design and does not catch much dirt.
Additionally, rawhide leather lacing provides sturdiness to the gloves and adds to the durability. The Easton Blackstone first base mitts are more supple, thanks to the open design at the back and ensure proper fitting with their plushy wrist lining.
Sizes The Blackstone range has gloves for each position on the field, and the mitts for infield positions are available in 3 sizes: 11.5, 11.75, and 12.75 inches. Out of these, the 12.75-inch mitt is the most appropriate one for the first base fielders.
- Proper wrist fitting
- Flexible and durable leather
- Great value for money
- Not suitable for players with big fingers
Final Verdict
Easton Blackstone gloves provide everything that you need from a first baseman’s mitts, and that too at an affordable price. With these gloves, you can expect peak performance and a comfy feel while you’re in the field.
Wilson A2000 Baseball Glove Series
If you are looking to enhance your performance in the game, the Wilson A2000 Baseball gloves are sure to help you get in the best form. One can tell from the top-tier patterns that Wilson constructed this mitt with mastery.
Why Choose it? Featuring a Pro-Stock leather, this glove is of sturdy and heavy-duty build quality. Also, its double palm construction ensures less break-in time and more durability. If you are a sweater, then this mitt will wick away the moisture.
For a 10-year-old looking to make a mark as a first baseman in softball, these gloves can skyrocket the confidence with their comfort and protection. The Wilson A2000 mitts are going to last for several seasons without getting a dent.
Sizes The Wilson A200 gloves series features gloves of various sizes for all the positions of the field. Their infield mitts are available in 11.5 and 12.75 inches. The 12.75-inch mitt is preferable because the long, curved design makes catching trouble-free.
- Quick break-in time
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Pricey
Final Verdict
Although it is not one of the pocket-friendly mitts, the Wilson A200 gloves provide a top-notch experience and durability for the seasons to follow.
Rawlings Heart of The Hide Fastpitch Softball Glove Series
Rawlings Heart of the Hide is another masterpiece first baseman mitt from the renowned manufacturer. Coming with a quick break-in period, the mitts provide heavy-duty construction and top-notch performance.
Why Choose it? Rawlings is targeting the women softball fielders with the Heart of the Hide gloves series. This mitt comes with a 30% break-in from the company, while the player does the rest. With the full-grain synthetic leather construction, you can expect unparalleled build quality.
No matter how many times you put them on, the gloves retain their shape. The mitts fit perfectly, even for different age groups and hand sizes. If you replace your first baseman’s mitts every season, you might want to buy these as they will last for many to come.
Sizes: The gloves are available in 12, 12.5, 12.75, and 13 inches. While these sizes are for infield players, first basemen can better their stretching, scooping, and fielding skills with the 13-inch mitt. This size will work for both developing players and professionals.
- Durable and flexible construction
- Extra padding provides protection
- Adjustable strap
- Expensive for a synthetic leather glove
Final Verdict
When it comes to effectiveness, comfort, and reliability, Rawlings does not disappoint with its Heart of the Hide mitts. For a first baseman looking to boost their confidence, these gloves will come in handy.
Mizuno MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball First Base Mitts
Featuring the brand’s exclusive Bio Soft Leather, the Mizuno GXF50PW MVP Prime 13-inch first baseman mitt is here to help the fielders with its balanced control and stiffness.
Why Choose it? Mizuno built this mitt from its unique Bio Soft Leather, which is smooth yet durable to withstand the high amount of catches. Also, you get a quick break-in time with the mitts. The MVP Prime First Base Mitt feels good while your hand is in it.
The Mizuno MVP Prime fits perfectly in almost any hand, thanks to the adjustable Velcro strap around the wrists. It significantly reduces the sting felt by the player after taking a hard catch, and it is due to the additional Para Shock and Palm padding on the MVP Prime.
Sizes: Mizuno constructed the mitt specifically for the first base. So, there is only one size available in the series for the position. The Mizuno MVP Prime is a 13-inch mitt, and it is available in a beautiful white and black combination.
- Soft leather
- Quick break-in
- Reduces sting
- Soft leather might compromise the grip
Final Verdict
As a first baseman, you would want a mitt that fits and gives you control. The Mizuno MVP Prime, specially designed for fastpitch games, gives you that feeling, and you can give a top-notch performance.
Rawlings Liberty Advanced Fastpitch Softball Glove Series
Rawlings has a knack for paying attention to customer needs. This time they have built the Rawlings Liberty Advanced Softball first base mitts for the female players. The Rawlings mitt features a double web and 13-inch pattern.
Why Choose it? Rawlings Liberty Advanced Softball first base gloves come action-ready out of the box. It comes 80% broken in, and all you have to do is put your hand in to set the structure as you want. Additionally, the Poron XRD palm and finger padding reduce the sting and protect your fingers.
The gloves feature an adjustable strap to make sure that they fit right. Liberty Advanced mitts have a huge H-shaped webbing pattern, making it easier to make difficult catches, especially if you find the sun distracting during the day.
Sizes: The Rawlings Liberty Advanced Fastpitch Softball Glove Series covers every position. Their first base mitt comes in a 13-inch size with a single post web and a pull strap to help the players with their confidence in the field.
- 80% break-in out of the box
- Adjustable strap
- Deep Pocket
- Throwing can be difficult
Final Verdict
The Rawlings Liberty Advanced is designed for women with a deep pocket. Although the pocket can make throwing harder, one can take catches with ease if they’re wearing the Rawlings Liberty Advanced first base mitts.
Wilson Aura Fastpitch Glove Series
If you are planning to land a player on the pitch, but you are on a budget, then the Wilson Aura offers the best balance in price and performance. This glove features full leather construction and comfortable wrist closure.
Why Choose it? This one is for the developing players. If you don’t want to spend much on gloves, but you want no compromise on quality, then this glove will live up to your expectations. With its leather construction, the Wilson Aura first base mitt comes game-ready when you purchase it.
The gloves are ideal for female, as it is of 12-inch size, and it features a comfortable and adjustable wrist strap to ensure that the Wilson Aura is the right fit. If your player is a beginner in the first base position, then this mitt will come in handy towards becoming a pro.
Sizes: Many female infielders don’t find the large gloves comfortable. Wilson Aura provides the solution with its first base gloves that are 12 inches and fit perfectly in smaller hands. It is the only size available for the first base field.
- 2-piece back enclosure fits perfectly
- Palm protection
- Affordable
- Not suitable for big and sweaty hands
Final Verdict
For a developing player, you wouldn’t want to spend heavily on gloves. However, the Wilson Aura comes as a haven for such players. You can quickly master the art of catching and throwing with this one.
EASTON BLACK PEARL Fastpitch Softball Glove Series
The last one on the list is another softball mitt, the Black Pearl Glove Series, from the renowned brand Easton. These gloves are specific for female models, and thus, make sure that they are super-comfortable.
Why Choose it? Easton built these gloves using select cowhide leather. So, you can be sure that these things are meant to last for a long time and also that they will look good on the hand. The gloves feature a “Flex Notch” system, which provides enough storage.
The mitts have an uber-soft palm lining, and you can get a better grip and step up in the game. A small hand opening ensures that the gloves stay put, and you give your best performance without worrying about the gloves going anywhere.
Sizes: Easton provides two pitcher-type gloves in the Black Pearl series: 12- and 12.5-inch. These two sizes can cover every position in the softball field, and an average-sized woman will find the 12.5-inch version a perfect fit.
- Durable cowhide leather
- Soft palm lining
- Tight grip and better control
- Ventilation needs improvement
Final Verdict
As a female softball player, whatever your needs in the first base field are, the Easton Black Pearl mitts have got you covered. This one provides sufficient space, durability, and comfort to play the game outdoors.
Conclusion
Although fielding in the first base may seem a daunting task to many, however, getting your hands in a suitable mitt can help boost your confidence and skills to the next level. You might find choosing the one to be an intimidating task. But if you follow our detailed guide, it will be a walk in the park.
When it comes to first baseman mitts, the industry leaders, Rawlings, Easton, Mizuno, and Wilson give others a run for their money. These brands, living up to their hype, provide the best quality, comfy, and durable gloves. Provided you get one of these, you wouldn’t have to buy mitts every other season.
If your player takes the first baseman position seriously, then you must invest in a glove specified for the role. If the mitts are one from our list, you will notice a significant improvement in catching and throwing. And that is the right way to make your mark in the game!
