For beginners, a more affordable softball glove may be a more practical choice. However, regardless of your skill level, finding a softball glove that fits your hand well and provides ample protection is essential. The good news is that you don’t have to break the bank to get a great softball glove. With the right knowledge and research, you can find a high-quality glove that will last you for many seasons to come. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best softball gloves under $100 and provide tips on what to look for when choosing a glove. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, this guide will help you find the perfect softball glove for your needs and budget.
That’s a great point! It’s essential to consider the level of play before choosing a softball glove. This will assist you with narrowing down your choices and discovering gloves that are ideal for your needs. Furthermore, while some gloves are designed explicitly for fastpitch or slowpitch softball, most gloves can be used for both. In any case, it’s critical to do your exploration and pick a glove that addresses your issues and fits appropriately. In this way, let’s dive into the top-rated softball gloves under $100 to help you make a wise investment.
Additionally, it is significant that you consider the size of the glove. Infielder gloves generally range from 11 to 12 inches, while outfielder gloves can be up to 13 inches or more. First baseman’s gloves are usually between 12 and 13 inches, while catcher’s gloves can be between 32 and 34 inches. Choosing the correct size will help with your overall performance and comfort while playing.
Yes, budget is an important factor to consider when buying a softball glove. While there are high-end gloves that can cost hundreds of dollars, there are also many good-quality gloves available for under $200. It’s important to remember that a more expensive glove doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best option for you. It’s important to find a glove that fits your budget and meets your specific needs as a player. With proper care and maintenance, a well-chosen glove can last for several seasons.
Buying a softball glove you must have to consider the budget. How much can you afford to spend? Even if you are playing on a competitive team, you still want to stay within your budget. You can find many good gloves for under $200.
Contents Inside
Best 10 Softball Gloves Under $200
1. Easton Slate Fastpitch Softball Glove
Easton’s most recent Slate fastpitch series brings another degree of solace, guaranteeing an ideal fit for softball players. This glove utilizes an example explicitly intended for fastpitch, making a predominant fit, with the Quantum Closure System, a movable, more modest hand opening. Join the fit with a very delicate palm lining, and the Slate causes any player to feel totally in charge, giving them additional certainty on safeguard. Made with Diamond Pro cow calfskin and solid rawhide binds, the Slate Series gloves are intended to endure. You can anticipate that this glove should frame a solid pocket that will not lose its shape. The woven web makes it simple for pitchers to make and conceal any grasp changes required.
Key Features
- Super Soft Palm Lining
- Closed, Basket Web
- Diamond Pro Steer Leather Shell
- Reinforced Pocket
- Fastpitch Specific Pattern For Better Fit & Function
- New Quantum Closure System Provides Optimized Fit & Feel
- Smaller Hand Opening For A Tighter Fit & More Control
- Extremely Durable With Rawhide Lacing In The Web
Glove Specifications
- Brand: Easton
- Size: 12.5”
- Feel: Soft
- Material: Leather
- Color: Grey, White
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand Throw
- Glove Type: Softball
- Positions: All Position, Infield, Outfield, Pitcher
Pros
- A new level of comfort
- A perfect fit for softball players
Related Product: Best Men’s Softball Glove Under $100
2. Rawlings Liberty Advanced 12.5″ Keilani Ricketts Fastpitch Softball Glove
The Rawlings Liberty Advanced 12.5″ Keilani Ricketts Fastpitch Softball Glove is a great option for female players looking to up their game on the field. With its eye-catching design featuring a clean white shell and gold channeling, this glove not only looks great but also performs at a high level. It comes 70% broken-in from the factory, making it ready to use in-game conditions right away. This glove is perfect for any serious fastpitch player looking to take their game to the next level.
Key Features
- Basket Webbing
- Pro Softball Pitcher
- XRD Index Finger Pad
- Suggested For Pitchers & Infielders
- Should Feature A Fairly Easy Break-In
- Designed With A Snugger Fit For A Female Hand
- Conventional Open Back
- The Leather Shell is Full of Grain
- On Back Of Shell Provides Elite Protection
- Adjustable Pull-Strap Back
- Poron XRD Palm Pad For Protection and Comfort
Glove Specifications
- Brand: Rawlings
- Size: 12.5”
- Feel: Soft
- Material: Leather
- Color: White, Gold Lining
- Glove Type: Softball
- Positions: Infield, Pitcher, Second Base, Short Stop, Third Base
Pros
- Durable
- Comfortable
Related Product: Best Outfielders Glove For High School
3. Rawlings R9 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
A fastpitch glove like this R9 with its 12.5″ length and shut webbing will consistently convey a great circumstance for players. The justification behind this incredible circumstance is that those provisions permit this glove to be utilized almost anyplace on the jewel. Contingent on your inclinations; this glove can be utilized in the outfield, infield or even inside the pitcher’s circle. To make things far superior, it will just require the last 20% of the break-in cycle to be finished by the player. Eventually, get a glove intended to fit a fastpitch woman that can be utilized anyplace on the field and can be broken in quick!
Key Features
- Basket Webbing
- Very Little Break-in Required
- Mostly Open Backing
- Designed With A Snugger Fitting For A Female Hand
- Adjustable Pull-Strap Quality Full Grain Leather
- Index Finger Pad On Shell Backing For Protection And Comfort
- Closes Thumb To Middle And 4th Finger.
- Displays Rawlings’ Double-Laced Basket Web
- Leather Cushioned Palm Padding
Glove Specifications
- Brand: Rawlimgs
- Size: 12.5”
- Feel: Soft
- Material: Leather
- Color: Grey , White Lacing
- Glove Type: Female Firstpitch, Softball
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand Throw, Right Hand Throw
- Positions: Infield, Outfield, Pitcher, Second Base, Short Stop, Third Base
Pros
- Deep Pocketed
- Standard Hand Spread
Related Product: Best Baseball Glove For Under $100
4. Louisville Slugger LXT 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
Worn by the top players at the most significant level, the Louisville Slugger LXT has secured itself as the chief Fastpitch glove alternative. Twofold oiled, full grain, steer shroud calfskin makes the LXT astoundingly delicate yet absolutely tough. A numerous extraordinary aspect concerning this series is the X-Spand wrist opening which ensures an ideal fit regardless of size hand goes in. Furthermore, the female explicit examples give extra generally speaking solace to more modest estimated hands. In case you’re searching for a softball glove that is unequaled on the field and enduring, the LXT is an ideal decision. Louisville Slugger: The Most Trusted Name in Fastpitch.
Key Features
- Dual Post Web
- Conventional Open Back
- Close To Game Ready
- Double Oiled Leather
- Suggested For An Outfielder
- Exceptionally Soft With Quick Break In
- Full-Grain Steerhide Leather
- Adjustable Wrist Strap
- Additional Comfort For Smaller Hands
Glove Specifications
- Brand: Louisville
- Size: 12.5”
- Feel: Soft
- Material: Leather
- Color: Grey , Metallic Gold
- Glove Type: Female Firstpitch, Softball
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand Throw, Right Hand Throw
- Positions: Infield, Outfield, Second Base, Short Stop, Third Base
Pros
- Thick leather
- Durable
Cons
- Tough to break-in
Related Product: Best Men’s Baseball Gloves Under $100
5. Mizuno Classic Pro Soft 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
It gives better performance on the infield with this Mizuno Classic Pro Soft Fastpitch Softball Glove. It is made with legacy calfskin, this glove provides you the affectability and feel expected to get and move ground balls rapidly. It’s material comes pre-oiled for an incredibly quick break-in period. You can pull it out of the covering and receive it to rehearse for premium execution from the very beginning. The Pro Palm liner, gives you a familiar fastpitch glove that you can put on for that load of hours at training and games. Many hand analyzes from capable players went into making this top-quality softball glove, so you can lead the gatekeeper with conviction through each game.
Key Features
- H Web
- Increases Structure
- Adjustable Velcro Wrist Strap
- Throwback Leather
- Highly Rated Glove Choice
- Fastpitch Softball Specific Design
- Support Throughout Fingers
- Suggested For Infielders and Pitchers
- Ultra Soft Pro Palm Liner Provides Excellent Feeling
Glove Specifications
- Brand: Mizuno
- Size: 12”
- Feel: Soft
- Material: Leather
- Color: Brown, White
- Glove Type: Female Firstpitch, Softball
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand Throw
- Positions: Infield, Pitcher, Second Base, Short Stop, Third Base
Pros
- It is made of high quality material
- Excellent feel with a soft finish
Cons
- Very stiff
- Took a while to break in
6. Miken Pro Series 13.5″ Slow Pitch Softball Glove
The Miken Pro Series 13.5″ Slow Pitch Softball Glove (PRO135-WS) is a top-quality option for slow pitch softball players who demand excellence from their gear. Made from soft full-grain cowhide, this glove is designed to maintain its shape and last longer. The Poron XRD palm and forefinger cushions provide excellent impact protection, while the custom adjustable fit ensures maximum comfort and control. With its 70% factory break-in, this glove is ready to go right out of the box. If you’re looking for a high-performance glove that won’t break the bank, the Miken Pro Series 13.5″ Slow Pitch Softball Glove is an excellent choice.
Key Features
- H-Web
- Additional Finger Pad Support
- Deep Pocket Design
- Suggested For All Positions
- Quality Soft Full-Grain Leather
- Limited Break-In Period
- PORON XRD Palm Pad
- Softball Specific Pattern
- Adjustable Non-Slip Pull Back Strip
Glove Specifications
- Brand: Miken
- Size: 13.5”
- Feel: Soft
- Material: Leather
- Color: White, Red
- Glove Type: Female Firstpitch, Softball
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand Throw
- Positions: All Positions, Catcher, First Base, Infield, Pitcher, Second Base, Short Stop, Third Base
Pros
- Good padding
- Able to use right out of the box
Cons
- Very stiff
- Took a while to break in
7. Mizuno MVP Prime 13″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
The Mizuno MVP Prime 13″ Fastpitch Softball Glove is the ideal glove for female softball players who need both style and quality. This glove is made of top-quality Bio Soft Leather that is known for its solidness and solace. The leather has a smooth feel and expert look that will make certain to stand out on the field. The glove additionally includes a Center Pocket Design that permits players to effortlessly get and handle the ball. Additionally, it is fitted with a PowerLock wristband that furnishes players with a tight, adjustable fit to guarantee the glove remains safely on their hand during play. With Mizuno’s famous consideration to quality and plan, the MVP Prime is an incredible decision for any fastpitch softball player.
In addition to the great leather, Mizuno has worked on their Center Pocket Design for the glove. They clarify that it should set the pocket “under the pointer for the most flexible break-in conceivable”. Generally speaking, we accept that the glove will make a spot close to the forefinger.
Key Features
- H-Web
- Suggested For Use In The Outfield
- Stiffer Feel Will Require A Break-In
- Single Finger Backing
- Bio Soft Leather
- Designed With A Snugger Fit For A Female Hand
- Adjustable Velcro Wrist Strap
- Center Pocket Design
Glove Specifications
- Brand: Mizuno
- Size: 13”
- Feel: Stiff
- Material: Leather
- Color: White, Grey Laces
- Glove Type: Female Fastpitch, Softball
- Hand Orientation: Right-Hand Throw
- Positions: Outfield
Pros
- The super long length that will pull in every flyball
- Leather Feels Smooth
8. Mizuno Prospect Select 12.5″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
The Mizuno Prospect Select Series gloves are designed with high-quality Full Grain leather, making them more durable and suitable for higher levels of play. The gloves are also known for their soft feel straight out of the box, a characteristic that has been a signature of Mizuno’s Prospect line. These gloves are perfect for younger or beginner players who need a reliable and comfortable glove that can help them improve their skills.
These gloves ought to have the option to help more youthful players and even ones who are beginning to advance somewhat further in their fastpitch venture. This 12.5” glove characterizes adaptability on a fastpitch field. It has an extraordinary length for the outfield. The container web makes it extremely valuable for pitchers as players will not have the option to look through the web and see what pitches are being grasped. Also, it very well may be utilized on the infield if a player leans towards a glove with some additional length to it!
Key Features
- Basket Web
- This Glove Requires Little To No Break-In
- Single Finger Backing
- Quick Size Adjustments
- Has a great length for the outfield
- Power Close Technology
- Provides deep pocket
- Designed With A Snugger Fit For A Female Hand
- Full Grain Leather
Glove Specifications
- Brand: Mizuno
- Size: 12.5”
- Feel: Game Ready
- Material: Leather
- Color: Brown
- Glove Type: Female Firstpitch, Softball
- Hand Orientation: Right Hand Throw
- Positions: All Positions, Catcher, First Base, Infield, Pitcher, Second Base, Short Stop, Third Base
Pros
- Looks great and feels great
- Easy to break-in
Cons
- A little heavy for the average player
9. Marucci Palmetto Series 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
The Marucci Palmetto Series 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove is an ideal choice for female players who want to take their game to the next level. This glove is designed with full-grain leather, which makes it extremely durable and long-lasting. The inner palm lining and finger stalls of the glove are also made from genuine leather, which adds to its overall quality. With this construction, the Palmetto Series gloves are sure to withstand the rigors of the game and provide excellent performance season after season. If you’re looking for a high-quality, reliable fastpitch softball glove, the Marucci Palmetto Series 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove is definitely worth considering.
What’s more, when contrasted with the Magnolia Series of gloves that Marucci additionally creates, these gloves ought to be milder and require less break on schedule to prepare the cowhide delicate and for game use. This particular Palmetto model has a solitary post web and 12″ length to it, which will make it overpowering for a youthful fastpitch infielder to miss.
Key Features
- Single Post Web
- A Fairly Easy Break-In
- Full-Grain Leather
- M Type Fit
- Conventional Open Back
- Deep Pocket Depth Design
- Designed With A Snugger Fit For A Female Hand
- Enhanced Cushioning To Maximize Comfort & Feel.
Glove Specifications
- Brand: Marucci
- Size: 12”
- Feel: Soft
- Material: Leather
- Color: Blue, Tan
- Glove Type: Female Firstpitch, Softball
- Hand Orientation: Right Hand Throw
- Positions: Infield, Second Base, Short Stop, Third Base
Pros
- Comfortable
- Simple & to use
10. Shoeless Joe Professional 14″ Slow Pitch Softball Glove
It sounds like Shoeless Joe’s Professional 14″ Slow Pitch Softball Glove offers players a unique and customizable experience. The gloves are made from Special Aged Antique Tobacco Leather Hides and are individually sewn and hand-cut. They can come in various models, including those worn by professional athletes, youth gloves, and even those from the Golden Age series. The leather is hand-scoured with old-fashioned ingredients to give the glove a unique feel. With the ability to choose a vintage or modern web without changing the model, players can personalize their gloves to fit their preferences. Overall, Shoeless Joe seems to prioritize quality, style, and individuality in their glove designs.
Key Features
- Weaved Web
- Game Worn Look and Feel
- Each Glove is Unique and Unstructured
- Individually Hand-Cut and Sewn
- Special Aged Antique Tobacco Leather
- XRD Extreme Impact Protection Technology
- Hand Rubbed with Old Time Ingredients to Soften the Leather
Glove Specifications
- Brand: Shoeless Joe
- Size: 14”
- Feel: Stiff
- Material: Leather
- Color: Blue, Tan
- Glove Type: Slowpitch Softball, Softball
- Hand Orientation: Right Hand Throw, Left Hand Throw
- Positions: Infield, Second Base, Short Stop, Third Base
Pros
- Comfortable
- Simple & to use
FAQ’s
1. Should you steam your softball glove?
Steaming a softball glove is a technique that is often used to help break in a new glove or to reshape an older glove. It involves using steam to soften the leather and then molding the glove to a specific shape. However, whether or not you should steam your softball glove depends on personal preference and the condition of the glove.
Some players believe that steaming can help speed up the break-in process and make the glove feel more comfortable on the hand. Others, however, feel that steaming can damage the leather and cause the glove to lose its shape over time.
If you choose to steam your softball glove, it’s important to do so carefully and with the right equipment. Improper steaming techniques can cause the leather to become too soft or misshapen. Additionally, steaming can void the warranty on some gloves, so it’s important to check with the manufacturer before attempting to steam your glove.
2. How do pros break in their gloves?
There are a variety of methods that professional players use to break in their gloves, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some common techniques include:
- Playing catch: Many players simply use their gloves during practice and games to gradually break them in over time. This allows the glove to conform to the player’s hand and develop a natural pocket.
- Shaving cream: Some players apply shaving cream to their glove and then put a ball in the pocket. They then tie the glove shut and let it sit overnight, allowing the cream to soften the leather.
- Oiling: Another method is to apply a small amount of glove oil to the glove and then use a mallet or ball to pound the pocket into shape.
- Heat: Some players use a heating method, such as putting their glove in an oven at a low temperature for a short period of time, to soften the leather.
It’s important to note that while these methods can help break in a glove, it’s important to take care not to overdo it and damage the leather. It’s also important to follow any manufacturer guidelines or recommendations for breaking in a particular glove.
3. Why do infielders use smaller gloves?
Infielders use smaller gloves because they need to be able to quickly transfer the ball from their glove to their throwing hand in order to make a play. A smaller glove allows them to do this more efficiently than a larger glove. Infielders also tend to field ground balls, which don’t require as much surface area to catch as fly balls or line drives. A smaller glove also allows infielders to make more precise catches and helps them to better feel the ball in their hand, which is important for making accurate throws.
4. How fast does a third baseman throw to first?
The speed at which a third baseman throws to first base can vary depending on many factors, such as the distance between third and first, the field conditions, and the player’s individual ability. However, a typical throw from a third baseman to first base can range from 70-90 miles per hour (113-145 kilometers per hour).
5. What is the hardest infield position?
The difficulty of each infield position can depend on various factors such as the player’s skill level, physical attributes, and game situation. However, traditionally, the shortstop position is considered the hardest infield position due to the range of motion and athleticism required to cover the large area between second and third base, as well as the ability to handle fast-paced plays and make accurate throws to first base.
Conclusion
All you need to play softball is some very basic equipment but you definitely need a glove. To keep you from injuring your hand as you catch a line drive or hard grounder, softball gloves are designed to fit different hand sizes and to be used by various field positions.
It’s important to note that using excessive amounts of oil on a new glove can actually cause it to break down faster and become less durable. It’s best to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oiling and breaking in your glove. Additionally, while it’s important to take care of your glove, it’s also important to use it regularly in games and practices to keep it in good condition and help it mold to your hand.
Reference:
- Barfield, J. W., Anz, A. W., Osterman, C. L., Andrews, J. R., & Oliver, G. D. (2019). The Influence of an Active Glove Arm in Softball Pitching: A Biomechanical Evaluation. International Journal of Sports Medicine, 40(03), 200–208. https://www.thieme-connect.de/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/a-0810-8637
- Mudjihartono, M., Wahyudianto, W., & Gumilar, A. (2019). Application of Learning Softball Using Modified Glove and Ball for Developing Basic Movement Skills Throwing and Catching for High School Students. Proceedings of the 3rd International Conference on Sport Science, Health, and Physical Education (ICSSHPE 2018). https://www.atlantis-press.com/proceedings/icsshpe-18/125917775
- Wheeler, B. C. (1984). Slow-pitch softball injuries. American Journal of Sports Medicine, 12(3), 237–240. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/036354658401200314
