Softball Gloves & Mitts - Page 16

A good softball glove has five key components: the pocket, heel, finger stalls, palm, and webbing.

• The ball is caught in the pocket, while the heel protects the hand. 
• Finger stalls provide openings for your fingers, and the palm has padding to absorb impact.
• The webbing, closing the gap between the thumb and index finger, plays a crucial role in controlling the ball.

There are two types of webbing: open and closed, each designed for different positions. For example, open webbing is ideal for infielders, while closed webbing is recommended for pitchers to conceal their grip.

Open webbing includes I Web, H Web, and Single-Post Web. Closed webbing includes Basket Web, Modified Trap Web (Trapeze) and Two-Piece Closed. 

Slowpitch softball gloves are typically designed with a deeper pocket for trapping balls and are more suited for power hitters. These gloves may also be versatile for different positions.

Fastpitch gloves, on the other hand, tend to have a smaller pocket and are built for quick transitions, which is essential for fast ground balls. Pitchers in fastpitch often prefer a closed webbing to hide their grip, while infielders may use a shorter pocket, and outfielders typically go for a glove with an open web and deeper pocket.

The glove's material plays a significant role in flexibility, durability, and comfort. Leather gloves, such as full-grain hide, steerhide, and kip leather, are the most durable but require a break-in period. Steerhide offers durability and strength, but it's heavy, while kip leather is lightweight and breathable, making it a great option for younger players. Synthetic gloves are more affordable and ready to use right away but tend to lack durability, making them suitable for younger players who will outgrow the glove in a few years.

Different positions on the field require different glove designs. For example, first basemen use gloves with a deeper pocket for catching thrown balls, while outfielders need gloves with larger, open webbing for easy visibility of fly balls. Infielders, particularly those playing shortstop or second base, often prefer gloves with a smaller pocket and quick transitions for faster ground ball handling.