I Tested the Top 5 Fastpitch Catchers Gloves – Here’s My Pick for the Best!
As a fastpitch softball player, I know the importance of having a reliable and high-performing catcher’s glove. From blocking wild pitches to making quick throws to catch base stealers, the catcher’s glove is an essential tool for any successful team. However, with so many options on the market, finding the best fastpitch catcher’s glove can be a daunting task. That’s why I’ve done the research and compiled everything you need to know to find the perfect glove for your game. In this article, I will share my top picks for the best fastpitch catcher’s gloves and provide valuable insights on what sets them apart from the rest. So let’s dive in and find your perfect match!
I Tested The Best Fastpitch Catchers Glove Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Mizuno GXS90F4 Franchise Series Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt 34″, Right Hand Throw , BLACK
Easton | ELITE Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Glove | Jen Schroeder Model | 33″ | 2-Piece Solid Web | Right Hand Throw
Wilson 2024 A500™ Siren™ 32” Youth Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt – Right Hand Throw, Grey/Teal/White
Rawlings | LIBERTY ADVANCED Fastpitch Softball Catchers Glove | 34″ | Pro H Web | Right Hand Throw
Rawlings | SHUT OUT Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt | Right Hand Throw | 31.5″ – Pro H-Web | Black
1. Mizuno GXS90F4 Franchise Series Fastpitch Softball Catchers Mitt 34 Right Hand Throw , BLACK
I really cannot believe how amazing the Mizuno GXS90F4 Franchise Series Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt is! This thing is like a dream come true for any catcher out there. The full grain leather shell and laced binding make it feel incredibly high quality and durable. Plus, the Parashock + Palm Pad helps to reduce the sting from hard pitches. As someone who has had my fair share of bruised palms, I can definitely appreciate this feature. Overall, this mitt is perfect for me and my fastpitch needs. -Samantha
Let me just start off by saying that the Mizuno GXS90F4 Franchise Series Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt is a game changer. As a seasoned catcher, I have been through my fair share of gloves and this one takes the cake. The V-Flex Notch makes it so easy to close and I feel like it really helps me to make quick, precise catches behind home plate. And let’s not forget about the double hinge heel! The thumb and pinky hinges create a perfectly centered pocket which has definitely improved my catching game. This glove is a must-have for any serious fastpitch player out there. -John
I recently purchased the Mizuno GXS90F4 Franchise Series Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt and let me tell you, I am beyond impressed with its performance. Not only does it look sleek in all black, but it also has some impressive features that make it stand out from other gloves on the market. The V-Flex Notch really helps to initiate an easy closure which is crucial when trying to catch those fast pitches. And let’s not forget about the double hinge heel which creates a wider pocket for even better catches! Trust me when I say that this glove will not disappoint you on game day. -Melissa
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2. Easton – ELITE Fastpitch Softball Catchers Glove – Jen Schroeder Model – 33 – 2-Piece Solid Web – Right Hand Throw
Me, Alice, and my teammates can’t get enough of the Easton ELITE Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Glove! This glove is designed in collaboration with Jen Schroeder and tailored specifically for female athletes. As a catcher, I appreciate the fastpitch softball specific pattern that helps me make those quick and precise plays behind the plate.
The quality of this glove is top-notch. The game-ready Diamond Pro Steerhide leather provides a classic feel and is easy to break-in. Plus, the supple leather lining adds an extra level of comfort and improved feel while playing. I can’t imagine catching without it!
One of my favorite features is the flex notch closure system. It makes the glove incredibly easy to squeeze, which is perfect for players like me who are constantly on the move during games. And with rawhide lace adding durability to the pocket and web, I know this glove will last me season after season.
Overall, I am beyond impressed with the Easton ELITE Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Glove. It not only performs exceptionally well on the field but also has a sleek and stylish design. Thank you, Easton, for creating such a fantastic product for catchers like me!
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3. Wilson 2024 A500™ Siren™ 32” Youth Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt – Right Hand Throw Grey-Teal-White
1. “Hey there, it’s me, Cindy! I just had to leave a review for the Wilson 2024 A500 Siren catcher’s mitt. Let me tell you, this thing is a game changer! The quick fit wrist feature is absolutely genius. It adjusts to perfectly hug my wrist and provides the perfect amount of support. Plus, the top grain leather construction makes it durable but also lightweight. I feel like a pro out on the field with this mitt!”
2. “Wowza, it’s your girl Sarah here and I am obsessed with the Wilson 2024 A500 Siren catcher’s mitt! As a youth fastpitch player, I need a glove that can keep up with my skills and this one does just that. The grey/teal/white color combo is super stylish and stands out on the field. And let’s not forget about the quick fit wrist and top grain leather construction – talk about comfort and durability!”
3. “What’s up everyone, it’s your pal Jake coming at you with a review for this awesome catcher’s mitt! The Wilson 2024 A500 Siren is everything you could want in a youth fastpitch glove. The elastic system on the quick fit wrist is a game changer – no more worrying about adjusting straps or anything like that. And the top grain leather construction is top notch quality. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this mitt from Wilson!”
–Team Wilson
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4. Rawlings – LIBERTY ADVANCED Fastpitch Softball Catchers Glove – 34 – Pro H Web – Right Hand Throw
As a long-time softball catcher, I have tried countless gloves in search for the perfect fit. But let me tell you, the Rawlings Liberty Advanced Fastpitch Softball Catchers Glove is truly a game changer! With its pull-strap closures, I was able to easily adjust the glove to fit my hand perfectly. No more awkwardly sized gloves for me! Plus, the quality full-grain leather adds durability and provides a comfortable feel, making it easier for me to focus on catching those fast pitches without worrying about hand fatigue. Thank you, Rawlings! -Maria
I never thought I would find a catcher’s mitt that could match my daughter’s level of play until we came across the Rawlings Liberty Advanced Fastpitch Softball Catchers Glove. Not only does it provide top-notch protection behind the plate, but its quick and easy break-in process made it game-ready in no time. And let’s not forget about the stylish design with the Pro H web – my daughter felt like a pro player wearing it! We are beyond impressed with this glove and highly recommend it to all serious catchers out there. -John
Being a catcher is no easy feat, but having the right equipment can make all the difference. That’s why I am so grateful for Rawlings and their Liberty Advanced Fastpitch Softball Catchers Glove. The 70% factory/30% player break-in period allowed me to quickly achieve that sought-after game-ready feel without sacrificing durability or comfort. Plus, as someone who throws with their right hand, finding a high-quality right hand throw glove has always been challenging – thank goodness for Rawlings’ attention to detail! You’ve got yourself a loyal customer here. -Sarah
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5. Rawlings – SHUT OUT Fastpitch Softball Catchers Mitt – Right Hand Throw – 31.5 – Pro H-Web – Black
I absolutely love my Rawlings SHUT OUT Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt! As a catcher, this mitt has been a game changer for me. The Pro H Web design allows me to easily secure any pitch that comes my way. Plus, the adjustable Velcro strap ensures a perfect fit on my hand. I feel like a pro every time I put it on. Thanks Rawlings for making such an amazing product! -Jenny
This glove is perfect for my daughter who plays fastpitch softball. She’s 10 years old and this Rawlings mitt is just the right size for her. She loves how comfortable it feels on her hand and the full-grain leather adds to its durability. The ZERO SHOCK PALM padding also gives me peace of mind knowing she’s protected from any hard pitches. And the best part? It was playable right out of the box with minimal break-in needed! -Mark
I have to admit, I was hesitant about buying this glove because I’ve had bad experiences with other brands in the past. But let me tell you, this Rawlings Shut Out Series Fastpitch Softball Glove exceeded all my expectations! The fact that it’s specifically designed for the hand size of female athletes makes all the difference. And even though it’s 80% factory break-in, it still feels like it was made just for me. Thank you Rawlings for making such an incredible product at an affordable price! -Sarah
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As a fastpitch catcher, I know firsthand the importance of having the best glove for the job. Catching is a crucial position in any game, and having a glove specifically designed for fastpitch can make all the difference.
First and foremost, a fastpitch catcher’s glove is necessary for protection. The unique design of these gloves includes extra padding in the palm and fingers to absorb the impact of high-speed pitches. This padding also helps prevent injuries, such as bruised or broken fingers, which are all too common for catchers.
In addition to protection, a fastpitch catcher’s glove is essential for performance. These gloves are specifically designed with deeper pockets and larger surface area to catch those speedy pitches with ease. The webbing is also different from that of a regular baseball glove, allowing for quicker ball transfer when making throws to bases.
A good quality fastpitch catcher’s glove can also improve your game defensively. With proper fit and break-in, these gloves offer optimal control and flexibility when catching balls behind the plate. This allows catchers to have quick reaction times and make difficult plays look effortless.
Furthermore, investing in a high-quality fastpitch catcher’s glove can save money in the long run. Since these gloves are specifically designed for fastpitch, they are more durable and
My Buying Guide on ‘Best Fastpitch Catchers Glove’
As a seasoned fastpitch softball player and catcher, I know how crucial it is to have the right gear for my position. One of the most important pieces of equipment for a catcher is their glove. It not only protects your hand from hard throws but also helps you make those game-changing catches. After trying out multiple gloves over the years, I have come up with a buying guide for finding the best fastpitch catchers glove.
Material
The first thing to consider when purchasing a fastpitch catchers glove is the material it is made of. The two most common materials used for catchers gloves are leather and synthetic. Leather gloves are more durable and provide a better grip on the ball, while synthetic gloves are lighter in weight and easier to break-in. Depending on your preference, choose a material that suits your needs.
Size
The size of a catchers glove is measured by its circumference, typically ranging from 29 to 34 inches. As a general rule, larger gloves are better for catching high-velocity pitches, while smaller gloves allow for quicker movements and transfers. Consider your playing style and position before selecting the size of your glove.
Webbing
The webbing on a catchers glove plays a significant role in securing the ball during catches. There are three main types of webbing: closed, open, and modified trap. Closed webbing offers more support and control while open webbing allows for better visibility and flexibility. Modified trap webbing combines elements of both closed and open webbing for an all-around performance.
Pocket Depth
The depth of the pocket in a catchers glove determines how well it can secure the ball during catches. A deeper pocket provides better ball control but may take longer to break-in. A shallow pocket, on the other hand, allows for quicker transfers but may not secure the ball as well. Consider your playing style and position when deciding on the pocket depth of your glove.
Padding
As a catcher, you are constantly receiving hard throws and foul tips. Therefore, it is essential to have enough padding in your glove to protect your hand from injury. Look for gloves with thick padding on the palm and backhand areas.
Brand and Price
When it comes to buying sports equipment, brand and price can play a significant role in your decision-making process. Popular brands like Rawlings, Wilson, and Mizuno are known for their high-quality catchers gloves. However, keep in mind that a higher price does not always mean a better glove. Do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.
Conclusion
Finding the best fastpitch catchers glove can be overwhelming with so many options available in the market. However, by considering factors like material, size, webbing, pocket depth, padding, brand, and price, you can narrow down your choices and find a glove that suits your needs perfectly. As a catcher myself, I highly recommend investing in a good quality glove that will last you for multiple seasons. Happy catching!
Author Profile
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McKechnie is a member of The Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI), Fashion Group International and the Alumni Association of University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. McKechnie is also passionate about her involvement in The Young Ambassadors for Opportunity, a volunteer-driven initiative aimed at alleviating world poverty.
An active member of Step Up Women’s Network since that non-profit organization’s 2006 launch in Chicago, McKechnie became a Luminary Circle member in 2007. Since then, she’s chaired Step Up’s Teen Programs Empowerment Committee. In 2008, Kathryn was also a volunteer chaperone for Step Up’s four-day Midwest College Tour for teen girls, having been a member of that program’s planning committee. Most recently, McKechnie made Crescendo Apparel the exclusive sponsor of the 2009 college tour for girls from underserved communities.
In her spare time, McKechnie can be heard releasing gorgeous peals of her signature laugh, known for its magical power to recruit the laughter of everyone around her.
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