From Mizuno to Rawlings, our fastpitch glove reviews are designed to help you weigh tradeoffs to find the best fit. We collaborate with players and gear experts to review each glove based on quality (how the glove holds up over time), comfort (how well the glove fits and feels), and longevity (the glove's durability and lifespan). Rankings are updated weekly based on SidelineSwap sales data.
The A1000 softball glove offers a premium blend of performance and durability. Featuring rolled dual welting for exceptional durability and flat finger binding for added comfort and control, these gloves are built to last. The driLex wrist lining provides moisture-wicking technology to keep your hands cool and dry throughout the game. Bold logos add a touch of style. Crafted from full-grain leather and made in the Wilson Pro Stock Factory, the A1000 is a top choice for softball players seeking a reliable and high-performance glove.
The A1000 is a great choice for players looking for a durable, comfortable, and high-performing glove. The dual welting makes it extra strong and the flat finger binding offers a better grip. If taken care of, this glove will last you a long time. I really like the drawstring closure which lets you adjust the fit to your liking. If you're serious about softball and want a glove that can handle anything, the A1000 is a great option.
Marah Goldman
The Rawlings Liberty Advanced softball glove features quality, full-grain leather, and a soft feel for quick, easy break-in. For added comfort, the Poron XRD padding provides better protection that reduces palm sting against hard-hit balls. The adjustable pull-strap back allows players to get a custom fit along the wrist for optimal comfort every inning. This glove comes in multiple colors and positions.
This glove is special due to its high-quality full-grain leather, palm lining for support and comfort, and adjustable wrist strap. The glove's quality is comparable to the A2000. The Advanced model is very sturdy yet easier to mold and break in compared to others. Its design features a soft webbing that is lightweight and makes it easier for a player to field the ball quickly. This glove is expected to last a player a long time, which is why its price is higher than that of beginner gloves or gloves for less committed players.
Marah Goldman
The Rawlings R9 softball glove is designed for young, aspiring softball players, offering a balance of performance and affordability. It is made with 100% full-grain leather, which provides a durable foundation, offering a balance of softness and strength. The R9 also has a pull-strap closure, an adjustable feature that allows for a customized fit, ensuring the glove is comfortable and secure for different hand sizes. Crafted with a focus on comfort and durability, this glove is perfect for developing athletes.
The R9 glove is designed for a smaller hand and features an adjustable wrist strap, making it more comfortable for youth players. Despite this, the glove's design gives it the appearance of a high-quality adult glove. It's also game-ready and features shock absorption. This glove is great for younger players looking to develop their skills due to its smaller hand size, but it also comes in an adult version. With proper conditioning, the glove should last a long time. However, the leather breaks in very fast, which could cause the glove to become floppy, making it challenging to keep the glove open.
Marah Goldman
The Mizuno MVP Prime softball glove offers professional-level performance at a competitive price. It features center-pocket design patterns that help naturally center the pocket during break-in, leading to consistent ball placement and easier catches. The glove is handcrafted with Bio Soft Leather, a professional-style smooth leather with the perfect balance of oil and softness for the exceptional feel and firm control that advanced players need.
I really like the MVP Prime because of its central pocket design. When catching a ball, it naturally goes to the center of the pocket right under the index finger. The smooth leather and firmness of the glove help players maintain control over the ball. It also has unique technology to aid in closing and a quick fitting process. I've seen this glove used in high school and college baseball, but it's more affordable and of higher quality, making it suitable for any player. This glove should last a year or more, which is standard for a higher mid-tier glove.
Marah Goldman
The Wilson A2000 softball glove is renowned for its exceptional quality, performance, and durability. Featuring Spin Control Technology, which provides enhanced grip for secure catches and quicker transfers. The A2000 also has Pro Stock Leather, known for its unmatched feel, durability, and ability to break in perfectly to the player’s hand. Crafted with attention to detail, these gloves are a favorite among professional and amateur softball players alike.
This is my glove of choice. I own two right now and can't say enough about its excellent durability. The A2000 has good pop and comes in a model known as "super skin," which makes it feel lighter. It's also designed with a deeper pocket so players can quickly field the ball and transfer it to their throwing hand. If a player keeps a ball in the pocket when it's not in use and conditions the leather, the A2000 should last about four years, compared to more beginner gloves, which typically last about one year.
Marah Goldman
The Mizuno Finch softball glove is specifically designed for young softball players, with input from softball legend Jennie Finch. It comes with a full-grain leather palm and a parashock pad, which absorbs the impact of the ball, protecting the player’s hand and providing added comfort. The PowerClose technology assists young players in closing the glove securely, giving them added confidence as they develop their skills.
My very first glove was a pink sparkly Mizuno glove, and I loved it. The Finch is perfect for beginners because of the easy close and shock absorption. It's special because it was designed by Jennie Finch, a gold medalist who holds softball camps for younger kids. Many kids look up to her. This glove is unique because it has different pocket sizes, which is rare in a youth glove. Also, the Finch provides breathability to prevent the glove from falling off a sweaty hand. It molds quickly to be game-ready. It's not the most durable, but it's great for a few seasons of beginner play.
Marah Goldman
The Rawlings Heart of the Hide is a top-of-the-line softball glove known for its quality and performance. These gloves are made with high-grade leather and are designed to maintain their shape throughout the game, ensuring consistent performance and optimal pocket depth. This feature is essential for players who rely on a specific glove shape for their playing style. The adjustable wrist strap ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
Many successful MLB players wear the heart of the hide glove. It is very popular, and for good reason. It's high quality and breaks in nicely. This glove is unique because it is marketed towards any level of play. It's very versatile and durable. Although this glove has a pro-level appearance and is designed to last, it's easier to break in, which means it might not last as long as a glove like the A2000.
Marah Goldman
The Rawlings Highlight Softball glove is a great option for young softball players or those with smaller hands. Its Pro I Web provides exceptional durability and stability, while the Pro H Web offers a versatile pocket for various play styles. The glove's premium leather construction ensures a comfortable fit and long-lasting performance. With its exceptional feel, reliable pocket, and overall quality, the Highlight is a standout choice for players seeking a high-performance glove that can handle the demands of the game.
This glove is designed specifically for smaller hands. It features adjustable wrist straps and built-in padding around the fingers for shock absorption and pain reduction. The glove has an easy close and won't take long to break in. It is a youth glove, serving as a good transition to a more high-tech glove. However, it does not have great longevity since kids' hands will outgrow it as they get older.
Marah Goldman
The Mizuno Franchise softball glove is engineered specifically for female athletes. It's made from high-quality, pre-oiled, full-grain leather, offering a lightweight yet durable design. The Franchise features a ParaShock palm pad, which reduces rebound and shock, giving players a secure and controlled grip. The V-Flex Notch increases flexibility in the glove’s hinge, making it easier to close. Designed with attention to detail and incorporating cutting-edge technology, this glove is crafted to perform.
This glove features pre-oiled leather that enhances durability and makes it more game-ready. It also includes "high-low" lacing in the pocket to improve flexibility and V-flex technology to facilitate easier closure. While this glove may not be suitable for frequent use as it may not last a long time, it can be a good option for someone in need of an affordable glove that doesn't require long-term durability.
Marah Goldman
The Easton Ghost softball glove is designed to deliver exceptional performance and comfort. Its Flex Notch Closure System allows for easier glove closure, providing a secure fit. Fastpitch-specific patterns are also included, designed with smaller hands in mind to optimize the glove’s fit and performance. Known for their innovative features and modern design, Ghost gloves are popular among athletes seeking a high-quality option.
The Ghost glove is designed to benefit elite younger players because it's meant for smaller hands and breaks in quickly, making it easier to squeeze. As players get older, using a floppy glove can hurt when catching the ball. This glove is suitable for pitchers or outfielders and is built to last due to its microfiber lining. With proper upkeep, this glove could last even longer.
Marah Goldman