Top 5 Baseball Gloves for Infielders: Reviews & Buying Guide

Ever feel like you’re chasing a scorching ground ball, only to have it slip right through your glove? Or maybe you’ve watched your favorite infielder make a spectacular play, snagging a rocket with ease? That perfect catch starts with the right tool: a baseball glove, specifically designed for the infield. Choosing the right glove is a big deal for any player.

Picking a baseball glove can be tricky. There are so many sizes, web designs, and materials to think about. It’s easy to get lost in the details and end up with a glove that doesn’t fit your style of play or even your hand! This can lead to missed plays, frustration, and even slow down your progress on the field. Finding the right glove means the difference between feeling confident and feeling like you’re always one step behind.

This post will help you become a baseball glove expert! We’ll break down everything you need to know to select the best infield glove for you. By the end, you’ll understand what makes a great infield glove, how to choose the right size, and what features to look for. Get ready to make those highlight-reel plays! Now, let’s dive into the world of infield gloves and find the perfect fit for your game.

Our Top 5 Baseball Glove For Infield Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Baseball Glove For Infield Detailed Reviews

1. Rawlings

Rawlings | PLAYER PREFERRED Glove | Baseball/Softball | Right Hand Throw | 12" - Basket Web

Rating: 9.4/10

The Rawlings PLAYER PREFERRED Glove is a great choice for baseball and softball players. This glove is designed for adults and is 12 inches long. It is made for right-handed throwers. The glove is perfect for recreational play in both baseball and slowpitch softball. It is built to be durable and comfortable. The PLAYER PREFERRED glove is a solid option for players of all skill levels.

What We Like:

  • The 12-inch size is great for many positions.
  • The basket web is versatile. You can use it anywhere on the field.
  • The full-grain leather is strong and will last.
  • Zero Shock palm padding protects your hand.
  • The adjustable wrist strap makes the glove fit well.
  • It has a game-ready feel. It breaks in quickly.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Some users might prefer a different web style.

This Rawlings glove is a good value for the money. It is a reliable glove for players who want comfort and durability.

2. Rawlings

Rawlings | Sandlot Baseball Glove Series | Multiple Styles , Right Hand Throw, 1 Count ( Pack of 1)

Rating: 9.1/10

The Rawlings Sandlot Baseball Glove Series is designed for players of all levels. This particular glove is an 11.5-inch infield model. It comes with a Pro I Web. This glove is made for right-handed throwers. It’s ready to play right away! The Sandlot series is known for its quality and performance on the field.

What We Like:

  • The glove is great for multiple infield positions.
  • The full-grain oiled shell leather makes it tough.
  • Zero Shock palm pads give you extra protection.
  • Padded finger back linings make it comfortable.
  • The glove is 80% broken-in when you get it.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The glove’s break-in period is shorter than some other models.
  • Some users may prefer a different web design.

In conclusion, the Rawlings Sandlot Baseball Glove is a solid choice for infielders. It offers a good mix of comfort, durability, and game-ready performance.

3. Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove – Fieldmaster Adult + Youth Baseball Gloves – Men’s + Women’s Infield + Outfield Mitt – Right Hand Throw – 12″

Rating: 9.1/10

Get ready to hit the field with the Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove! This glove is made for both adults and youth players. It’s designed for infield and outfield positions. The Fieldmaster glove is made for right-handed throwers. It features a 12-inch size, perfect for many players.

What We Like:

  • EASY BREAK-IN: The glove is ready to use quickly because of the soft, synthetic leather. It’s perfect for baseball, softball, or tee-ball.
  • CONTOUR FIT SYSTEM: You can adjust the thumb area. This helps you get a perfect, snug fit.
  • DURABILITY: The glove is made of strong, synthetic leather. It feels like real leather. It lasts a long time.
  • HAND FORMED POCKET: The pocket is designed for comfort. It helps you catch the ball without dropping it.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The synthetic leather may not feel exactly like real leather.
  • The glove might not be ideal for professional-level play.

In conclusion, the Franklin Sports Fieldmaster glove is a great choice for players of all skill levels. It is a good option for those who want a durable and easy-to-use glove.

4. Franklin Sports Baseball Gloves – RTP Pro Baseball Fielding Glove – Infield Glove – 11″

Franklin Sports Baseball Gloves - RTP Pro Baseball Fielding Glove - Infield Glove - 11", Brown

Rating: 8.7/10

The Franklin Sports Baseball Gloves – RTP Pro Baseball Fielding Glove – Infield Glove – 11″, Brown is a great glove for young infielders. It’s built for quick plays and comfortable use. This glove helps players catch the ball easily. The design focuses on performance and durability, allowing players to play their best.

What We Like:

  • The glove is made with pigskin leather. This makes it feel smooth and light.
  • The leather is soft and easy to shape. This makes the break-in period fast.
  • It has a durable shell to protect the leather. This keeps the glove safe from damage.
  • The I-Web pocket is perfect for infielders. They can get the ball out of the glove fast.
  • This glove is made to be light and comfy. It helps you play your best.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The glove may not be suitable for professional play.
  • Pigskin leather may not be as durable as other types of leather.

This Franklin Sports glove is a good option for young baseball players. It’s designed to help them improve their fielding skills and enjoy the game. It’s a great starting glove for those learning to play infield.

5. Rawlings

Rawlings | SELECT PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove | Right Hand Throw | Kris Bryant | 11.5"

Rating: 8.5/10

The Rawlings SELECT PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove is a great choice for young players. This glove is designed for kids ages 6-12. It’s the Kris Bryant model and has an 11.5″ Pro H Web. This allows kids to use it in different positions. The glove is made of soft leather. This makes it comfortable and helps reduce shock. It’s also lightweight, so it is easy to close and control. The break-in is 90% factory and 10% player. This is a right-hand throw glove, so it’s worn on the left hand.

What We Like:

  • Designed for young baseball players.
  • It’s the Kris Bryant model.
  • The 11.5″ Pro H Web is great for many positions.
  • The soft leather shell feels good.
  • The glove is lightweight and easy to control.
  • It helps reduce shock.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Some players might prefer a glove with a more customized break-in.

This Rawlings glove is a solid option for youth baseball. The glove is a good choice for young players who are learning the game.

The Ultimate Guide to Buying an Infield Baseball Glove

Picking the right baseball glove is super important! It can help you make great plays and have more fun. This guide will help you find the perfect infield glove.

1. Key Features to Look For

When you’re looking for an infield glove, you need to know what to look for. Here are some important features:

  • Size: Infield gloves are usually smaller. They are often between 11.5 to 12 inches. This size lets you get the ball in and out quickly.
  • Webbing: The webbing is the part between the thumb and index finger. Look for a closed web like an I-Web or H-Web. These webs are good for hiding the ball.
  • Pocket: The pocket is where you catch the ball. You want a shallow pocket. This helps you get the ball out fast for throws.
  • Break-in: Some gloves come ready to use. Others need to be broken in. A broken-in glove is easier to use right away.
2. Important Materials

The materials a glove is made of matter a lot. They affect how long the glove lasts and how it feels.

  • Leather: Leather is a great choice for gloves. It’s strong and lasts a long time. It also gets softer with use.
  • Full-Grain Leather: This is high-quality leather. It’s strong and durable. It’s the best leather for a glove.
  • Cowhide Leather: Cowhide is a good, mid-range option. It’s still durable but might not last as long as full-grain.
  • Synthetic Materials: Some gloves are made of synthetic materials. These are usually cheaper. They may not last as long as leather.
  • Lining: The inside of the glove should be comfortable. It should also help absorb sweat.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Some things make a glove better or worse. Here’s what to look for:

  • Stitching: Strong stitching is important. It keeps the glove together. Look for double stitching.
  • Leather Quality: Higher quality leather lasts longer. It also feels better.
  • Webbing: A well-made web is strong and durable. It will last.
  • Padding: Padding in the palm and fingers helps protect your hand.
  • Price: A higher price doesn’t always mean better quality. But good gloves usually cost more.
4. User Experience and Use Cases

How the glove feels and works is important. Think about how you’ll use it.

  • Feel: The glove should feel comfortable in your hand. It should fit well.
  • Break-in Time: Some gloves are ready to play with quickly. Others take time to break in.
  • Positions: Infield gloves are for players at positions like shortstop, second base, and third base.
  • Use Cases: You’ll use the glove for fielding ground balls, throwing to bases, and making quick plays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about infield baseball gloves:

Q: What size glove should I get?

A: Infield gloves are usually 11.5 to 12 inches.

Q: What is the best type of web for an infield glove?

A: Closed webs like I-Webs and H-Webs work well.

Q: What’s the best material for a glove?

A: Full-grain leather is top-notch.

Q: How can I break in a new glove?

A: You can play catch, use a glove mallet, or use glove oil.

Q: How do I take care of my glove?

A: Clean it regularly and store it in a dry place. Use glove oil to keep the leather soft.

Q: Does the glove’s weight matter?

A: Yes, a lighter glove can make quick plays easier.

Q: Is a more expensive glove always better?

A: Not always, but higher quality gloves often cost more.

Q: Can I use an outfield glove in the infield?

A: You *could*, but they are bigger and may be harder to use.

Q: What’s the most important part of a glove?

A: A good pocket is very important.

Q: How long will my glove last?

A: It depends on the material and how you take care of it. Good leather gloves can last for several years.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

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