Buyer's Guide: The Fastpitch Fit

Do not buy a baseball glove for fastpitch. The softball is bigger (11" or 12"), but the player's hand is usually smaller. Fastpitch gloves solve this problem.

1. Fastpitch vs. Baseball Gloves

The Pocket: Fastpitch gloves have a deeper, wider web to catch the larger 12-inch ball securely. A baseball glove pocket is too narrow, and the ball will pop out.
The Wrist: Fastpitch gloves use a Velcro strap or a "Pull-Tab" system to tighten the glove around smaller wrists. Baseball gloves usually have an open back that is too loose for most female players.

2. Sizing by Position

• Infield (11.5" - 12"): Smaller surface area for quick transfers. You need to get the ball out of the glove fast to make the throw to first.
• Outfield (12.5" - 13"): Longer fingers to reach fly balls. The pocket is extremely deep to trap the ball.
• Pitcher (12"): Must have a "closed web" (basket weave) so the batter cannot see your fingers gripping the ball before the pitch.
• Catcher (33" - 34"): Heavily padded to protect the hand from high-velocity pitches. Measured by circumference, not length.

3. Youth vs. Adult

Youth (Ages 6-10): Look for 10.5" to 11.5" gloves with softer leather that is easy to close.
Intermediate/Adult (Ages 11+): Once the player moves to the 12-inch ball, they need a full-sized glove (12"+). Look for stiff leather that will hold its shape over time.