Know About Your Softball Glove

When selecting your softball glove you should first be aware of the different types and sizes you can purchase. Color and brand is a personal choice. If using this to play on a team there are for various positions. The catchers’ has extra padding and an oval shaped pocket. All of these have a closed web. You have a choice of an open or closed back that is above the wrist. The closed back has a place for your index finger to go on the outside of the mitt for more support.

Pitchers slow pitch softball gloves have a solid web, large and deep pocket. Middle infielders have a smaller one with an open web so that they can catch, grab, and throw the ball quickly. Third baseman’s is a bit larger and longer so they can bend and grab ot if it comes down the foul line. Outfielder’s custom ones are larger than the pitchers or infielders and have longer finger stalls, as they have to catch it. These are usually closed web style. Some come with a wrist adjustment for a tighter fit.

Once you have yours at home you will want to take care of it so that it will last you for years of enjoyment. Pour a bit of oil on a soft cloth and rub the oil lightly and evenly into the pocket, edges, grooves, and under the stitching. Take care not to use too much oil as this may damage the leather. Set it aside for a complete day so that the oil will absorb into the leather.

When you are not using it you should always put a ball in it and wrap a rubber band or string around it. Always keep it clean and dry. At the end of the season, repeat the oiling process. Store yours in a dry location with a ball in the pocket, rubber band around the it and wrapped in a towel.

Should you ever need to repair yours you can purchase new padding, lacing, webs, fingers, heels and loops. Kits are available online and at many stores. Some shoe stores will repair them for you.