Top 5 Shortstop Gloves: Expert Reviews and Buying Guide

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Ever seen a shortstop snag a screaming line drive, barely moving a muscle? It’s amazing! But that catch often starts with the right glove. Choosing the perfect baseball glove, especially for a shortstop, can feel like trying to hit a curveball blindfolded. There are so many choices, and you want to make the right one. This is because it is one of the most important pieces of equipment on the field.

Picking the wrong glove can lead to dropped balls, slower plays, and frustrated players. Shortstops need gloves that are quick, reliable, and comfortable. Finding the right fit, size, and web style can be confusing. Many players get stuck when they start looking for a new glove. They don’t know where to start, and that can cause them to feel defeated before they even start!

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to choose the best Shortstop Baseball Glove. We’ll cover sizes, web types, and materials. You’ll learn how to find the glove that feels like an extension of your hand. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to choose a glove that helps you make those game-changing plays. Now, let’s dive into the essential features of a great shortstop glove!

Our Top 5 Shortstop Baseball Glove Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Shortstop Baseball Glove Detailed Reviews

1. Rawlings

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

Rating: 8.6/10

The Rawlings SELECT PRO LITE Youth Baseball Glove is made for young baseball players. This glove is designed for kids aged 6-12. It is a Kris Bryant model with an 11.5″ Pro H Web. This glove is good for many positions on the field. It is made of soft leather. This helps with comfort and shock absorption. It is also lightweight, so it is easy for kids to use. This glove is for right-hand throwers.

What We Like:

  • This glove is made for young players.
  • It is a Kris Bryant model.
  • The all-leather shell feels good and protects hands.
  • The glove is lightweight and easy to control.
  • It is easy to break in.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The glove might need some player break-in.

This Rawlings glove is a great choice for young baseball players. It is a comfortable and safe option for kids learning the game.

2. Rawlings

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

Rating: 8.9/10

The Rawlings Sandlot Baseball Glove is a great choice for infielders. This glove is designed for players who want a quality glove. It comes in multiple styles. This specific model is an 11.5-inch infield glove. It is made for right-handed throwers. The glove is ready to use right away. It is 80 percent broken-in when it arrives. This means you can play with it almost immediately.

What We Like:

  • The PRO I Web is great for all infield positions.
  • Full-grain oiled shell leather makes the glove strong and long-lasting.
  • Zero Shock palm pads give you extra protection when catching the ball.
  • Padded finger back linings make the glove very comfortable.
  • The glove is ready to play with quickly.

What Could Be Improved:

  • No apparent cons

This Rawlings Sandlot glove is a solid choice for any infielder. It offers great features for comfort and performance. You can start playing with it almost immediately.

3. WILSON A500 12” Utility Youth Baseball Glove – Right Hand Throw

WILSON A500 12” Utility Youth Baseball Glove - Right Hand Throw, Blonde/Red/Royal

Rating: 9.1/10

The WILSON A500 12” Utility Youth Baseball Glove is a good choice for young players. This glove is designed for right-handed throwers. It is a 12-inch glove, perfect for youth players. The glove is made with quality materials. It has features that help with comfort and performance on the field. The blonde, red, and royal color scheme gives it a cool look.

What We Like:

  • The glove uses Rolled Dual Welting. This helps the glove keep its shape.
  • It has a Quick Fit Wrist. This makes the glove fit snugly.
  • The glove is made with Top Grain Leather. This makes it durable and light.
  • It has an Open, Dual Post Web. This helps catch the ball.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The glove may need some break-in time.
  • Color options are limited.

This glove is a solid option for young baseball players. It offers good features at a reasonable price. The Wilson A500 is a good choice for youth players looking to improve their game.

4. Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove – Field Master – Baseball and Softball Mitt Tan

Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove - Field Master - Baseball and Softball Mitt Tan, 12"

Rating: 9.0/10

Get ready to play ball with the Franklin Sports Field Master glove! This baseball and softball mitt is made for players of all levels. It is designed to be comfortable and easy to use. The Field Master is made with a soft, synthetic leather that feels great. It’s a great choice for baseball, softball, or even tee-ball.

What We Like:

  • Easy Break-In: The glove is ready to use quickly. It uses soft synthetic leather.
  • Customizable Fit: The Contour Fit System lets you change the fit. It helps you get the perfect feel.
  • Durable Design: This glove is made to last. It’s made of thick, synthetic leather.
  • Hand-Formed Pocket: The pocket is comfortable for making catches. It helps you catch the ball without dropping it.

What Could Be Improved:

  • No specific cons were found, the product is designed well.

This Franklin Sports glove is a good option for baseball and softball players. It is easy to break in and comfortable to use. The glove is a solid choice for players starting out or those who want a reliable mitt.

5. Wilson 2022 A700 12″ Outfield Baseball Glove – Black/Red

Wilson 2022 A700 12" Outfield Baseball Glove - Black/Red, Right Hand Throw

Rating: 9.2/10

The Wilson 2022 A700 12″ Outfield Baseball Glove is a great choice for outfielders. This glove is black and red. It is designed for a right-handed thrower. It is 12 inches and has a single post T-web. The glove also has a drawstring wrist closure. It also features Rolled Dual Welting, which helps the glove keep its shape.

What We Like:

  • The glove is 12 inches, perfect for outfield play.
  • The black and red color combination looks cool.
  • The drawstring wrist closure makes it easy to adjust.
  • Rolled Dual Welting gives great support.
  • The single post T-web design is simple and effective.

What Could Be Improved:

  • We need more information about the glove’s overall durability.
  • The price may be a factor for some players.

This Wilson A700 glove is a solid option for outfielders looking for a reliable glove. The features are designed to help players make great plays.

The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Shortstop Baseball Glove

This guide helps you pick the perfect shortstop baseball glove. You will learn what to look for. You will also learn about important materials. This helps you make a smart choice.

Key Features to Look For

Picking the right glove is important. You need a glove that helps you play your best. Here are some key features to think about:

  • Web Type: Shortstops often use gloves with a closed web. This helps them quickly grab the ball. A closed web also hides the ball from the runner. Some shortstops like a modified trapeze web.
  • Pocket Depth: A deeper pocket is great. It helps you secure the ball. It also helps prevent the ball from popping out.
  • Size: Shortstop gloves are usually smaller. They are about 11.5 to 12 inches. This helps with quick transfers. You can get the ball out of your glove fast.
  • Break-in Period: Some gloves need a break-in period. This means you have to use the glove a lot to soften it. Look for gloves that are ready to go or have a shorter break-in period.
  • Comfort: Make sure the glove feels good. The wrist strap should be comfortable. The finger stalls should fit well. You will be wearing this glove a lot.

Important Materials

The material of your glove matters a lot. It affects how long the glove lasts. It also affects how it feels.

  • Leather: Leather is a popular choice. It’s tough and durable. It breaks in well. The best leather gloves are made from full-grain leather. This is the strongest type of leather.
  • Synthetic Materials: Some gloves use synthetic materials. These gloves are often cheaper. They are also lighter. Synthetic gloves may not last as long as leather gloves.
  • Lining: The lining inside the glove matters. It should be soft and comfortable. It should also absorb sweat.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Several things affect the quality of a baseball glove.

  • Stitching: Good stitching is essential. It holds the glove together. Look for tight, even stitching. Poor stitching can make the glove fall apart.
  • Leather Quality: High-quality leather lasts longer. It also feels better. Full-grain leather is the best.
  • Web Construction: A strong web is important. It should be able to handle hard throws. Look for a web that is well-made and durable.
  • Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making great gloves. Do some research. Read reviews. See what other players say.
  • Price: Generally, more expensive gloves have better quality. But, you can find a good glove at a reasonable price.

User Experience and Use Cases

A shortstop glove is used for several things.

  • Fielding Ground Balls: Shortstops field ground balls all the time. The glove needs to be good at this.
  • Catching Throws: Shortstops catch throws from other players. The glove needs to be able to handle these throws.
  • Quick Transfers: Shortstops need to get the ball out of their glove fast. The glove needs to help with this.
  • Double Plays: Shortstops are often involved in double plays. They need a glove that helps them make these plays quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some answers to common questions about shortstop gloves:

Q: What size glove should I get?

A: Most shortstops use an 11.5 to 12-inch glove.

Q: What kind of web is best for a shortstop?

A: A closed web is a popular choice. It hides the ball and helps with quick transfers.

Q: How do I break in a new glove?

A: You can use a glove mallet. You can also play catch with the glove a lot. Some people use glove oil.

Q: What is the best material for a baseball glove?

A: Full-grain leather is often considered the best.

Q: How can I tell if a glove is good quality?

A: Look for good stitching, high-quality leather, and a strong web.

Q: How do I take care of my glove?

A: Clean it regularly. Use glove oil to keep the leather soft. Store it in a cool, dry place.

Q: Should I buy a new or used glove?

A: Either is fine. New gloves have a longer life, but used gloves can be broken in already. Make sure the glove is still in good shape.

Q: What are the benefits of a smaller glove?

A: A smaller glove helps with quick transfers. It allows you to get the ball out of your glove faster.

Q: How much should I spend on a shortstop glove?

A: The price range varies. You can find a good glove for under $100. More expensive gloves often offer better quality.

Q: Can I use a shortstop glove for other positions?

A: Yes, but it might not be ideal. A shortstop glove is designed for quick transfers. It might not be as good for catching long fly balls.

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.