Best Fastpitch Softball Glove (Pitcher, Infielder & Outfielder)
Best High End
Wilson A2000
Best Mid Range
Rawlings Liberty Advanced
Best Inexpensive
Mizuno MVP Prime
Last Updated: 10th Mar, 2023
Softball season is right around the corner, and what better way to get back into your favorite game than to invest in a brand new fastpitch softball glove! The perfect glove is the best way to both look and play great on the diamond this season and bring your own style to your game. You would obviously want the glove to break-in sooner so that you're fully prepped up before the season starts.
With so many options out there, it can be anything but easy to find the right glove. But don't worry, we have you covered.
We spent the last couple of weeks testing over a dozen fastpitch softball gloves evaluating them in terms of comfort, performance, durability, and pricing. So, whether you're looking for a pitcher, infield, outfield or even a youth glove for your daughter, we have you covered.
Gone are the days when female softball players had to settle for men baseball products due to the unavailability of specific gloves. With the rising popularity of the game, more and more manufacturers are coming up with fastpitch gloves, which are tailored for the female hands.
Fastpitch gloves have specific attributes. They come with narrower wrist openings, lower dividers, thinner finger stalls, and are made of softer materials making it easier for female players to control and grip the ball. Due to the larger 12'' ball used in fastpitch, the gloves have larger pockets and are deeper in comparison to baseball gloves.
To choose the right glove, you need to take into account a couple of factors.
- What position do you play - Pitcher, infield, outfield, or all positions? Outfield gloves are deeper and larger usually 12'' to 12.5'' while infield gloves are shallower and small, usually 11.25'' to 12''. Pitcher gloves feature closed web and are typically 12'' size. For all position/utility gloves, a 12'' glove is the preferred size.
- Which hand do you throw with - Left or right? If you throw with your right hand, you need a left-handed glove and vice versa.
- Material - Leather or Suede? Leather is durable but costlier while suede is easier to break-in and cheaper but doesn't last long.
Gloves can range in color, position, durability, and of course, the price, so we know it can be overwhelming. How do you decide which glove is for you?
There are hundreds of different options out there on the market, and we here at PingPongBros.com have taken the time to choose the best fastpitch gloves that fit your game and needs.
Best Fastpitch Softball Gloves of 2023
- Wilson A2000 Fastpitch Glove Series- Pro Pick
- Rawlings Liberty Advanced Fastpitch Softball Glove - Best Overall
- Mizuno MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove - Best Value
- Easton Slate Fastpitch Softball Glove - Easiest & Quickest to break-in
- Rawlings Shut Out Fastpitch Softball Glove - Bargain Pick (Ideal for youth players)
1. Wilson A2000 Fastpitch Glove Series: The Pro Pick
Size/Position
- 11.75'' - Infield (Single post 3x web)
- 12'' - Infield (Modified 2x web)
- 12.5'' - Outfield (Closed web)
- 12.25'' - Pitchers (2-piece web)
If you are serious about flashing that leather on the diamond this season, then look no further than the Wilson A2000 Fastpitch Glove. This is one such fastpitch glove that many pro and elite players swear by. The A2000 series includes infield, outfield, and pitchers glove. Based on the playing position, each model comes with a unique webbing, sizing, material, and design.
Equipped with the Wilson Custom Fit System that is fully adjustable to fit your hand, as tight as you want to make it, so that you can ensure you're able to make those big plays in the field. The glove is made from durable Pro Stock leather that can handle the wear and tear season after season of practices and games. The Wilson SuperSkin provides a strong shell to the glove being twice as strong as regular leather, yet only half the weight, meaning that the glove is light enough to not feel like it is weighing you down.
The glove features smaller wrist opening with narrow fingers stalls and lower dividers, giving female players excellent control on the ball while allowing swift transfer and exchange. The glove breaks-in perfectly. Just follow the guide that comes along or check this video, and the glove would break-in perfectly and would feel just like an extension of your arm.
The most common thing that people say when they rave about this glove is that it is clearly of high quality and that transfers to their performance in the field. The durability of the leather allowed them to use it for multiple seasons, and once they broke the glove in, it outlasted gloves made by many of the other brands!
Top Features:
- Wilson SuperSkin leather is twice as strong as regular leather but only half the weight
- Wilson Honeycomb cell padding protects your hand with a no-sting catch area
- Wilson Pro Stock leather is durable and lasts for multiple seasons
- Fully adjustable so you can wear it as loose or tight as you desire
Final Note: If you are any serious about your game, the Wilson A2000 Fastpitch Glove is the one for you. At just over $250, it is an investment that is sure to be reliable for season after season, compared to some other cheaper gloves. In all, it's a pro-quality glove that will not let you down or disappoint you.
2. Rawlings Liberty Advanced Fastpitch Softball Glove: Best Overall Pick
Size/Position
- 11.75'' (I web) - Infield
- 12'' (Basket web) - Pitcher/Infield
- 12.5'' (Basket web) - Pitcher/Infield
- 13'' (H web) - Outfield
- 13'' (Single Post) - First Base
If you find yourself in the market for a high-quality glove but also on a budget, look no further than the Rawlings Liberty Advanced Glove, which we've rated our best overall pick for this season! Available in both right and left-handed catching styles, this glove provides the fabulous quality that is synonymous with the name Rawlings.
In the lineup, there are five gloves of different sizes based on the position and age. The infield glove comes with an I-web and measures 11.75'' in circumference. The 12'' and 12.5'' gloves are suitable for both pitchers and infielders while the larger 13'' glove is geared towards outfielders.
There is a lot to love about this glove, especially the quality full-grain leather that provides durability and comfort no matter how often you play. The fully adjustable pull strap allows you to fit the glove perfectly to your hand. The glove comes with an incredible 70% factory break-in, meaning you only have to break it in the last 30% to your liking. That is a common complaint amongst a lot of new gloves, where you often need to pay extra to get the glove steamed or broken in.
The glove isn't too heavy nor too light, making it suitable for adults and youth alike. Perhaps the most attractive thing about this glove is the price. The glove features the same classic Rawlings quality that is known across the industry and is priced reasonably at less than $150! It's an incredible price for such a high-performance glove that has been rated highly by recreational players and professionals around the country!
Top Features:
- Quality full-grain leather ensures that this glove will last for many seasons
- 70% factory break-in saves you time, work, and money in breaking the glove in
- Fully adjustable strap allows you to get the feel you want
- Affordable price for a high-quality product with the Rawlings brand name
Final note:
There's a reason the Rawlings Liberty Advanced Fastpitch glove won our best overall quality rating for this season. You know the name Rawlings and the quality that comes with it - durable materials combined with high performance in the field. The price is very attractive and, without a doubt, the best bang for your buck this season when looking for a new glove!
3. Mizuno MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove: The Budget Pick
Size/Position
- 11.5'' (Web) - Infield (ideal for youth players - does not come with velcro strap)
- 12'' (Web) - Infield/Pitcher
- 12.5'' (Web) - Pitcher/Infield/Outfield
- 13'' (Web) - Outfield/Pitcher
While the Rawlings Liberty Advanced Fastpitch Glove was reasonably priced compared to some of the higher-end models this season, the Mizuno MVP Prime Fastpitch Glove takes affordability to an all-new level. Priced at less than $115, this glove is gender engineered for female softball players. Weighing in at a very light 3.52 ounces, the Mizuno MVP Prime is an excellent option for younger girls that are still developing their arm strength. The materials are the same as what Mizuno uses in their Pro Line of gloves, so you can be sure that despite the lower cost, you're still getting that Mizuno quality that is sure to last for many years.
There are four gloves in the series of varying sizes from 11.5'' to 13''. Besides the size, the gloves feature a similar design and basket webbing. The only difference is that the 11.5'' glove does not come with a velcro strap and features conventional open back instead of single finger backing found on the other models. For youth players, the 11.5'' model makes up for an excellent choice.
The Bio soft leather is soft, comfortable, and the easy to break-in. The power-lock velcro strap, along with surefit foam in the finger stall, results in a snug fit for most female players. The glove is specially designed in V or cone shape and comes with a double-hinged heel to engulf the ball with ease without putting too much strain on the fingers.
The naturally centered pocket located just below the index finger allows for easier catching and less ball movement in the glove. This glove has gained almost universal positive reviews, especially amongst parents who have young daughters using the glove. If you know and love Mizuno as a brand, this is an excellent glove for all young girls and ladies too!
Top Features:
- High-quality materials for durability and ease of use
- Lightweight and sized for female players only
- Amazing price point for Mizuno at less than $115
- Centered pocket under index finger allows for easier catching
Final Note:
The Mizuno MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove is our pick for the Budget Pick of the year and for a good reason. The price is very attractive and is an excellent starting point for new players or for experienced players who know the value of the brand and the product. If you or your daughter wants to play softball at a high level this season, look no further than the Mizuno MVP Prime!
4. Easton Slate Fastpitch Softball Glove: Easiest & Quickest to Break-in
Size/Position
- 11.75'' (H web) - Infield
- 12'' (basket web) - Pitcher/Infield
- 12.5'' (basket web) - Pitcher/Infield
- 12.75'' (H web) - Outfield
One of the most difficult things when playing with a new glove is getting used to the stiffness and how the glove feels on your hand. This is the department where Easton Slate Fastpitch Softball Glove scores. If you're looking for a glove that's easiest and quickest to break-in, this is your best bet.
In the series, there are four gloves based on different positions. That said, we found the gloves to be ideal for most positions, making them a more utility glove rather than a position-specific one. The gloves feature Diamond Pro Steer Leather, which is really soft and durable rawhide laces for durability. Out of the box, these gloves come almost game ready, and you can readily squeeze it.
Thanks to the Quantum Closure System that Easton has created, you can fully adjust the glove for optimal fit and feel. The palm has a super soft lining for better control and enhanced grip on the ball, so you know you'll get a solid catch every pitch. The glove is designed with fastpitch specific patterns for better fit and function during the game.
As soon as you slide the glove on, you can feel the quality that Easton is known for, and you can feel that the glove is ready for using in-game right away. The price is incredibly reasonable at under $90, especially for such a high-quality glove from a reputable brand. If you are just starting out this season or are in need of a new glove and don't feel like breaking the bank for one, the Easton Slate Fastpitch Softball Glove is the perfect fit for you!
Top Features:
- Quantum Closure System gives you an excellent fit and feel
- Super soft lining in the palm to absorb contact and improve catches
- Easy to wear in and start using right away
- Excellent price point, at less than $90
Final Note:
With Easton, you know you're getting what you pay for, and its reputation is proven throughout the years. The glove is of high quality, durable, fits well, and is very affordable. It's hard to find anything wrong with that!
This season, if you don't want to spend a lot on a new glove, but you still want that quality that comes with a high-end brand name, get this glove and start making some plays in the field!
5. Rawlings Shut Out Fastpitch Softball Glove: Bargain Pick (Ideal for youth players)
Size/Position
- 12.5''/12''/13'' (basket web) - All positions (Infielders, Outfielders, Pitchers)
- 13'' (Single post double bar web) - First basemen
Our last pick and also the cheapest on the list is Rawlings Shut Out Fastpitch Softball Glove. The lineup consists of four gloves; each of them can more or less be used in all positions. These gloves are clearly designed for youth and adult female players, who're just getting started with the game or play recreationally.
Once again, Rawlings brings it with the quality they are known for across the industry featuring full-grain leather that can provide durability throughout a long softball season. The Zero Shock Palm extra padding ensures that their developing hands are protected from impact and teaches them from a young age where to catch the ball. An incredible 80% factory break-in means that the glove is ready to use off the shelves, and the last 20% is up to the player and how they like their glove to feel.
The price point is phenomenal for a youth glove, and you know you're getting the highest quality in the industry with the Rawlings name on it. Let your daughter succeed this season by getting her the new Rawlings Shut Out Fastpitch Softball Glove today for less than $60!
Top Features:
- Full-grain leather is durable and tough, yet malleable for small hands
- Zero Shock Palm protects young hands from impact
- 80% factory break-in means the glove is ready off the shelf
- Affordably priced - retails for less than $60
Final Note:
This glove is our top pick for female youth players this season. It is made from excellent materials and can withstand the day in and day out wear and tear of a softball season.
When shopping for a youth female glove this season, we recommend the Rawlings Shut Out Fastpitch Softball Glove for the best quality at the best price! You can be sure that this glove will last for several years, if not more!
Fastpitch Softball Glove Buyer's Guide
Whether you are an experienced player or just starting out in the game, it is important to start the season off with the right glove for your needs. There are so many factors that you need to take into account before choosing the perfect glove, and we are here to help!
We just listed off our choices for the best gloves you can get this season in several different categories. If you want to understand how we got to them, here is a handy guide discussing the factors we considered.
Key Considerations
<Sizing>
The glove should snugly fit in your hand, and it should be neither too tight nor too loose. Otherwise, you would need to re-adjust the glove after every throw, which is something you don't want. The gloves come in different sizes from 9'' to all the way up to 13''.
The size is measured from the base of the glove to the top of the webbing. This is in direct correlation to how big the player's hand is and how long their fingers are. It is definitely worth finding out your size before purchasing a glove, or you may find it uncomfortable to play with or even risk injury. A common mistake that parents make is buying their child a larger glove so they can grow into it. When a glove is too large for a player's hand, it can make it more difficult to catch the ball, and even feel cumbersome to play with if it is too heavy for a child's wrist.
<What Hand Are You?>
This may seem silly, but you really do need to know which hand you catch with and which hand you throw with. If you feel more comfortable throwing with your right hand, you'll want a left-handed glove. Alternatively, if you throw with your left hand, you'll want a right-handed glove.
If you catch right-handed, you may find that some gloves are unavailable in that handedness simply because most players do throw with their right hand. Don't be offended; there are tons of options for both right and left-handed players. It's just you may just have to do a little more searching.
<Position>
The size and webbing of the glove you select depends on the position you play. Of course, for anyone who is starting out or youth player, it's best to stick with a utility glove that's suitable for all positions.
As a rule of thumb, outfield glove is the largest followed by a pitcher glove, and the smallest is the infield glove.
Check the below image for reference:
<Durability>
You really do want to find a glove that is made of high quality and durable leather or similar material. When you first get the glove, it is nice and shiny and new, but give it a few games, and you'll see the wear and tear that comes with playing softball. If you spend a lot on a glove, you're going to want it to last for several seasons, so take the time to find a good quality glove that you'll want to use for years.
<Price>
This may be the most important factor for you, and that's okay. For many people, softball is just a hobby to stay active or play with a bunch of friends or co-workers. Maybe you only play a few times a year and don't want to spend too much on a glove, or maybe you play on a few teams and know you'll have games or practices several times a week. Whatever the case may be, gloves can get fairly expensive, and if you know what your budget is, you'll be able to see which gloves are in that range and how much higher or lower than your budget you are willing to go.
<Brand>
Some people are very loyal to a certain brand like Wilson, Rawling or Mizuno. We've found that a lot of players like the way a certain brand makes their gloves or how they look. After perusing all of the available gloves either in-store or online, you'll see that all of the well-known companies make gloves that range from entry-level to professional. The brand is definitely a personal choice, but if you're not loyal, don't let a particular brand sway you one way or another.
Let's Wrap Things Up
Fastpitch softball is predominantly played by female players, but lately several leagues are springing up for male players. In hindsight, the game may look simpler, but the reality is that the game is way more complex, requiring excellent skills and accuracy. Also, often people confuse fastpitch softball with softball - which is not valid! Softball is more of a recreational summer sport to play with friends and co-workers.
Finally, before you rush out and buy any glove, make sure you know what size you are, what hand you catch with, and how much you are willing to spend. The spectrum of fastpitch softball gloves ranges from entry-level to professional lines that can run you upwards of several hundreds of dollars.
Know what kind of player you are, and from there use our guide to guide you in a direction to start in. Before you know it, you'll be flashing that brand new fastpitch glove as you make plays all over the diamond!
