Ever watched a dazzling double play, the ball zipping from the shortstop to first base in a blur? A great infielder makes it look easy, but a lot of the magic comes from their glove. Did you know the right glove can be the difference between making a game-winning play and watching the ball roll past you?
Choosing a baseball infield glove can be tricky. There are so many sizes, web styles, and materials. You might feel lost in a sea of leather! Picking the wrong glove can hurt your game. It can make catching the ball harder and even lead to errors. It’s important to find a glove that fits your hand and your position on the field.
This post will help you become a glove expert! We’ll break down everything you need to know about infield gloves. You’ll learn about different web styles, the best sizes for each position, and how to pick the right material. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to choose the perfect glove and make those amazing plays. Let’s get started and find the perfect glove for you!
Our Top 5 Baseball Infield Gloves Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Baseball Infield Gloves Detailed Reviews
1. Rawlings
Rating: 8.5/10
The Rawlings Sandlot Baseball Glove is ready for the field. This glove series is designed for players of all skill levels. This specific model is an 11.5-inch infield glove. It’s made for right-handed throwers. The glove comes with a Pro I Web. It is great for use at different infield positions. This glove is a good choice for serious players. It is ready to play right away.
What We Like:
- The glove has an 11.5-inch infield design.
- The Pro I Web works well at many infield positions.
- It’s made from full-grain oiled shell leather. This makes the glove tough.
- The Zero Shock palm pads protect your hand.
- Padded finger back linings provide comfort.
- The glove is 80% broken-in. You can use it right away.
What Could Be Improved:
- This review only covers one specific model in the Sandlot series. It does not mention if there are other options available.
The Rawlings Sandlot glove is a solid choice for infielders. The glove is ready to go. It is a good option for many players.
2. Rawlings
Rating: 9.2/10
The Rawlings PLAYER PREFERRED Glove is a great choice for baseball and softball players. This 12-inch glove is made for adults. It is perfect for casual games. This glove will help you play your best. It is designed for right-hand throwers and has a basket web.
What We Like:
- Versatile Design: The basket web works well at any position.
- Durable Materials: The full-grain leather makes the glove last.
- Comfortable Catching: The Zero Shock palm padding helps with impact.
- Customizable Fit: The adjustable wrist strap lets you make it fit just right.
- Quick Break-In: The glove is almost ready to use right away.
What Could Be Improved:
- Break-in period: Although the break-in process is quick, it still requires some time.
The Rawlings PLAYER PREFERRED glove is a solid choice for recreational players. This glove offers good features at a good price. It is a great glove for having fun on the field.
3. Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove – Fieldmaster Adult + Youth Baseball Gloves – Men’s + Women’s Infield + Outfield Mitt – Right Hand Throw – 12″
Rating: 8.7/10
The Franklin Sports Fieldmaster baseball and softball glove is ready to play! This glove is for both adults and youth players. It’s designed for infield and outfield positions. The Fieldmaster comes in a “Right Hand Throw” option, which means you wear it on your left hand to throw with your right. It’s made to be comfortable and easy to use right away.
What We Like:
- Easy Break-In: The glove’s soft synthetic leather is easy to break in. You can use it quickly in games.
- Contour Fit System: You can adjust the thumb to fit your hand perfectly. This helps all players get a snug fit.
- Durable Material: The glove is made of strong synthetic leather. It feels like real leather but does not take long to break in.
- Hand-Formed Pocket: The pocket is designed for comfort. It helps you catch the ball without dropping it.
What Could Be Improved:
- It would be nice to know how the glove holds up over time.
- Some users may prefer a true leather feel.
Overall, the Franklin Sports Fieldmaster glove is a good choice for players of all levels. It’s easy to use and offers a comfortable fit for a great price.
4. SSK Z5 Craftsman Infield Baseball Glove – 11.25” – 11.5” – 11.75” – 12” – Right & Left Hand Throw (Black/Camel/Electric Blue
Rating: 8.5/10
The SSK Z5 Craftsman Infield Baseball Glove is made for serious infielders. It comes in different sizes and colors. The glove is designed to feel great right away. It’s made with high-quality materials and technology to help you play your best. This review focuses on the 11.5″ Right Hand Throw version in Black/Camel/Electric Blue.
What We Like:
- Premium Cowhide Nameshi Leather makes the glove feel smooth and soft.
- The game-ready feel means you can use it right away without a long break-in period.
- Dimple Sensor Technology helps you grip the ball better.
- Top Grain Leather Lacing makes the glove strong and durable.
- The glove is approved by Japanese Glove Masters.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price point may be a factor for some players.
- Color options are limited.
The SSK Z5 Craftsman glove is a great choice for infielders who want a high-quality glove. It offers a comfortable fit and features that help improve your game.
5. Franklin Sports Baseball Gloves – RTP Pro Baseball Fielding Glove – Infield/Pitcher Glove – 12″
Rating: 9.1/10
The Franklin Sports Baseball Glove – RTP Pro Baseball Fielding Glove – Infield/Pitcher Glove – 12″, Brown is a great glove for baseball players. It is made for infielders and pitchers. This glove is made to help players catch the ball and play their best. It is built to be durable and comfortable on the field.
What We Like:
- The glove uses pigskin leather. This leather feels smooth and is light. It will last a long time.
- The leather is soft. It is easy to shape the glove. This helps you break it in fast.
- It has a strong shell. The shell protects the leather from dirt and water.
- The glove has a Trapeze Web. This makes it easy to catch fly balls. You can get the ball out of the glove quickly.
- It’s made to feel light and comfortable. You can play your best when it matters most.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product description does not list any cons.
This Franklin Sports baseball glove is a solid choice for players. It offers good features for the price.
Baseball Infield Glove Buying Guide: Get Ready to Field!
Buying a baseball infield glove can be exciting! It’s a big purchase, so you want to get it right. This guide will help you choose the perfect glove. Let’s get started!
Key Features to Look For
- Size: Infield gloves are smaller than outfield gloves. They are easier to handle. They usually measure 11.5 to 12.5 inches. This makes fielding ground balls and making quick throws easier.
- Webbing: The webbing is between the thumb and index finger. Look for a closed web. A closed web helps hide the ball. This makes it harder for the batter to see it.
- Pocket: The pocket is where you catch the ball. A deep pocket is good for infielders. It helps secure the ball.
- Break-In: Some gloves are stiff. They need to be broken in. This means softening the leather. Others are ready to use right away.
- Fit: The glove should fit your hand well. It shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. Try it on if you can.
Important Materials
- Leather: Leather is the most common material. It’s durable. It molds to your hand over time. There are different grades of leather.
- Full-grain leather: This is the best leather. It’s strong and lasts a long time.
- Top-grain leather: This is also good leather. It’s a little less expensive.
- Split-grain leather: This is a budget-friendly option. It’s not as durable as the other two.
- Synthetic Materials: Some gloves use synthetic materials. They are lighter. They may not last as long as leather.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Quality of Leather: High-quality leather makes a better glove. It will last longer. It will also feel better.
- Stitching: Strong stitching is important. It holds the glove together. Look for even, tight stitches.
- Padding: Padding in the palm helps absorb the impact of the ball. More padding is often better.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making high-quality gloves. Do your research. Read reviews.
- Price: Generally, more expensive gloves are better. They use higher-quality materials. They are made with more care.
- Care: Taking good care of your glove helps. Clean and condition the leather regularly. This keeps it in good shape.
User Experience and Use Cases
- Who is it for? Infield gloves are for players who play positions like shortstop, second base, and third base. These players need to be quick. They need to have good hands.
- How will you use it? Think about how often you play. If you play a lot, you need a durable glove. If you are just starting out, a less expensive glove is fine.
- Breaking in a new glove: Breaking in a glove takes time. You can play catch with it. You can also use a glove mallet. Some players even put baseballs in the pocket and tie it shut overnight.
- Feel: The glove should feel comfortable. You want to be able to close it easily. You want to feel confident catching the ball.
- Practice: Use your glove in practice. This helps you get used to it. You can also work on your fielding skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size glove do I need?
A: Infield gloves are usually between 11.5 and 12.5 inches. This depends on your position and preference.
Q: What is the best type of leather?
A: Full-grain leather is the highest quality. It is the most durable. Top-grain leather is a good choice too.
Q: How do I break in a new glove?
A: Play catch with it. Use a glove mallet. You can also put a baseball in the pocket and tie it shut.
Q: Should I get a glove with a closed or open web?
A: For infielders, a closed web is common. It helps hide the ball.
Q: How do I take care of my glove?
A: Clean it with a leather cleaner. Condition the leather to keep it soft. Store it in a cool, dry place.
Q: What is the difference between an infield and outfield glove?
A: Infield gloves are smaller. They are easier to handle. Outfield gloves are larger. They are for catching fly balls.
Q: Can I use an infield glove at any position?
A: Yes, but it might not be ideal. Infield gloves are designed for quick plays.
Q: Is a more expensive glove always better?
A: Generally, yes. More expensive gloves use better materials. They are made with more care.
Q: How long will a baseball glove last?
A: A well-cared-for glove can last many years. The quality of the leather is a big factor.
Q: Where can I buy a baseball glove?
A: You can buy them at sporting goods stores. You can also buy them online.
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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