Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there a difference between infield and outfield gloves in softball?
Yes, there is a difference between infield and outfield gloves in softball. Outfielders use bigger gloves with a deeper pocket to provide extra leeway when catching the ball. Infielders, on the other hand, tend to have smaller gloves for quicker transfers. However, all softball gloves are designed to catch the same sized ball.
2. What size glove for men's softball outfield?
For men's softball outfield, youth outfielder gloves are typically sized between 12" and 12.5". Softball outfielders aged 13 and older should look for a glove sized between 12.5" and 13". In adult rec leagues, outfielder gloves ranging between 13" and 14" are recommended.
3. How do I know what size softball mitt I need?
The size of the softball mitt you need depends on your position:
- First base: First base mitt or 13-inch glove or larger.
- Infield: 11.5-inch glove or larger with a wider or deeper pocket.
- Pitcher: Larger than 12 inches with closed webbed, deep pocket.
- Outfield: 12.5 inches or larger with long, deep pockets.
4. Can an outfielder use an infield glove?
It is not recommended for an outfielder to use an infield glove. The role of an infielder is different from that of an outfielder, which is why the size, webbing, and pocket depth of their gloves are different. Using an infield glove in the outfield can negatively impact your game.
5. Can you use an 11.75 inch glove in outfield?
For baseball players, outfield gloves range in size from 10.75" to 12.5" for youth players and 12.5" to 12.75" for adults. Fastpitch and slowpitch softball outfield gloves tend to be larger, ranging from 12" to 13" and 13" to 14" respectively. Therefore, an 11.75 inch glove is not typically used in the outfield.
6. Is a 14 inch softball glove too big?
No, a 14 inch softball glove is not too big for outfielders. Shortstops and second basemen generally use gloves in the 11-inch range, while outfielders can use gloves as big as 14 inches. Softball players typically do not use gloves smaller than 12 inches as they may have trouble handling the softball.