Though I’m a baseball coach professionally, I got the chance to play and study fastpitch softball for many years due to the similarities in both sports. And many trainees come to me for advice.
And from my experience, overall, the best fastpitch softball catcher’s mitt is the Franklin Sports Field Master. At only $32, it’s a great choice for beginners.
However, for higher-grade softball players, I won’t suggest this mitt. You should rather go for the Rawlings or Mizuno series.
Though these are pretty high in price, they are worthwhile investments considering their shell leather durability, lacing, palm protection support, and other features.
In this article, I’ve shared my feedback about the 7 catcher mitts after using them for at least 3 months. To learn more about the odds and even of these mitts, make sure to read the whole article.
Important Editor’s Notes Before Ordering
“It’s not paid promotional content. The author of this article personally owned or tested the listed catcher’s mitts from various sources.
However, if you find any of the below mitts reliable and buy them online from the given link, the author gets a small commission. But it doesn’t affect the price of the product.
Please note that all pricing mentioned in this review are when I purchased them online, which may vary depending on the current market conditions.”
Side-By-Side Comparison of Best Fastpitch Softball Catchers Mitt
| Name | Suggested For | Purchase Links |
| Franklin Sports Field Master | For 12 Year Old | Check out on Amazon |
| Rawlings Liberty Advanced | For 13 Year Old and Women | Check out on Amazon |
| Mizuno Franchise | For Shock Absorption | Check out on Amazon |
| Rawlings R9 | For Easy Break-in | Check out on Amazon |
| Rawlings Shut Out | For 10 Year Old | Check out on Amazon |
| Mizuno MVP Prime | For Dads and Daughter | Check out on Amazon |
| Rawlings Heart of The Hide | Premium Girls Fastpitch Softball Catcher Mitt | Check out on Amazon |
How Do I Choose a Fastpitch Softball Catcher’s Mitt?
As a coach, I always recommend paying attention to a few key factors when buying a fastpitch softball catcher mitt.
Size and Fit Don’t Depend on the Age Only
The size of your mitt is crucial, as you want it to fit comfortably and securely on your hand. There are size ranges that would typically be suitable for players aged 8 to 14 and above years old would be between 30-34 inches.
However, the size in inches always does not represent how it’ll fit in your hand. For example, you may see some 33 inches softball catcher gloves, which feature narrow fitting.
Hence even early-aged players or females with thinner hand sizes find their fittings comfortable and snug.
Half-Moon and Pro-H Webbing is Better Than One-Pitch Webs
Most of the catcher’s mitt in fastpitch features Half-moon, Pro-H, and One-piece web. So, you can’t do much regarding this. However, I always prefer Half-moon and Pro-H webbing as these are easy to close compared to their counterpart.
On the other hand, one-piece webbing makes it easier to catch and hold the ball. In conclusion, it’s all about what you prefer.
Inner Padding Is Mandatory to Avoid Injuries
Unlike slow-pitch softball, in fast-pitch, catchers have to witness high-paced pitches. To help them resist this impact and avoid hand fatigue, the protective inner padding is inevitable.
Only Pick High-grade Shell Leather If You Have Budget
The shell of the mitt is the outermost layer that comes into contact with the ball. It plays a critical role in protecting the player’s hand and absorbing the impact of the ball.
Fastpitch catcher mitts are either made of synthetic leather or pure leather. For full-grain leathers, I don’t worry much as they are durable. But artificial leathers usually don’t last more than a season. However, these are cost-efficient.
Mitt Lacing
When shopping for a catcher mitt, I always look for high-quality lacing made from materials such as rawhide or synthetic fibers.
These materials can provide the necessary strength and durability to withstand the repeated use and forceful impacts of catching.
Regardless of the material type, it’s also important to consider whether the lacing is all around the glove. This helps enhance longevity and strength.
70% to 80% Factory Break-in Is Good
Break-in refers to the status of the softness of the gloves, which is represented by a percentage. The higher broken-in status means you can more flexibly move your fingers and web area.
It doesn’t mean, less break-in status is always bad. Even though break-in is less, over time of playing, it becomes flexible. However, at least 70% break-in wise a way to start.
Best Softball Catchers Mitt For 12 Year Old
For starters aged between 11 and 12 years, there’s no catcher’s mitt other than this Franklin Sports Field Master. Unlike their other series, they didn’t make any successor to this 2017 model. And why would they?
More than 18,000 softball parents rated this catcher mitt so far because of its incomparable service to little softball challengers. Check out why this is the best fastpitch softball mitt.
Franklin Sports Field Master Fastpitch Softball Catcher Mitt
Highlighted Features
- Series: Field Master (2017)
- Size: 31.5 inches
- Suggested Age Groups: 11-12 years
- Break-in Status: 70%-80% Approx
- Web: Half-moon
- Color: Black+Gold combination
The first thing that makes this a value for money is its durable plastic and polyvinyl chloride built. My kid passed 2 whole seasons without any major wear and tear.
Franklin Sports designed this catcher glove with leather lining to make it comfortable while ensuring a secure fit.
As a result, kids can easily maintain control during gameplay. This is especially important for catchers as they need to be able to move and adjust quickly to their position.
Because of the soft leather, it also becomes easy to break in. However, it still requires 20-30 playing sessions to completely break in. So, don’t expect the maximum flexibility right out of the package.
In baseball, I prefer basket webbing for the catcher mitt. This softball glove features a half-moon web. However, my kid seemed to feel more comfortable with this design. So, no complaints regarding the web.
Another notable design spec I liked is the hand-formed pocket. It makes it easier to catch and control the ball easily, which is vital for beginner fastpitch catchers.
The black and gold color scheme gives the mitt a stylish and classic look that’s sure to appeal to young fellows.
Despite having all the good traits, the catcher mitt is priced affordably around $33. I guess the synthetic leather helped the manufacturer cut the cost.
Reasons I Suggest Franklin Sports Field Master
- Durable plastic and polyvinyl chloride construction make the glove long-lasting.
- Leather lining for a comfortable and secure fit experience
- Delivers proper responsiveness when catching balls
- Half-moon web design of the glove works well for beginner fastpitch catchers
- Hand-formed pocket design makes it easier to catch and control the ball
Consider This Before Buying
Though the glove is easy to break in, it still requires a significant number of playing sessions before reaching maximum flexibility. I recommend using a mallet to fast-pace the break-in speed. This may cost you around $13.
Best Fastpitch Softball Catchers Mitt for 13 Year Old and Women
While the fastpitch market is flooded with all guinea pig catcher mitts, this Liberty Advanced by Rawlings is a sure hope for professional league softball players.
This latest Rawlings edition is currently used by 980+ high school, college, or 14U softball league players, where 95% gave this a positive rating despite its out-of-the-reach pricing.
I received it from Rawlings for research purposes, and I must say, I was thoroughly impressed with its quality. So, I forgave the high price tag 😢.
Rawlings Liberty Advanced Catcher’s Mitt
Highlighted Features
- Series: Liberty Advanced (2022)
- Size: 34 inches
- Suggested Age Groups: 13 and above
- Break-in Status: 70%
- Web: Pro H
- Color: White
This mitt’s comfort and practical adjustability make it worth the price. For instance, the mitt features an adjustable pull strap on the back. With this support, you can find your secure fitting no matter your hand size.
The Pro H web design also contributes to this. As a result, you get a reliable catching experience.
Another good part of this Rawlings catcher glove is its deer-tanned cowhide lining. It adds an extra layer of durability, enabling it to withstand even the most rigorous of gameplay.
Keeping the pro athletes in mind, Rawlings made this gear with their patented PORON XRD palm pad. It provides excellent shock absorption, which is essential for fast-pitch catchers.
If everything is good, then what’s the compromise? Well, then comes its full-grain leather shell.
On one hand, it makes the gloves sturdy, which is also a culprit why it takes too much time to break in the glove (even after using it for 2 months.) I suggest following the extreme break-in guidelines to make the process faster.
Reasons I Suggest Rawlings Liberty Advanced
- Features adjustable pull strap for fitting in different hand sizes.
- Pro H web design provides secure gripping over the ball.
- Deer-tanned cowhide lining to enhance the longevity of the stitch.
- Patented PORON XRD palm pad provides excellent shock absorption
Consider This Before Buying
It takes more than 3 months of regular use to complete the break-in of the glove. However, after a month of use, you’ll become comfortable with leather stretching.
Best Fastpitch Softball Catchers Mitt for Shock Absorption
One of the neighbor’s girls came to me a few months back with this Mizuno Franchise catcher mitt to help her break in the glove.
In that favor, I was able to inspect its performance for a week around. The outcome of my testing was a blend of both odds and even. Check out why.
Mizuno Franchise Fastpitch Softball Glove Mitt
Highlighted Features
- Series: Franchise (2019)
- Size: 34 inches
- Suggested Age Groups: 13 and above
- Break-in Status: 70% (approx)
- Web: Pro H
- Color: Black+White
It features a full-grain leather shell design, which is good for an $85 price class. The material served a good time but don’t expect to play more than a season.
In addition, the laced binding on the glove made it easier to control the glove during practice sessions.
However, what makes it stand out from the rest of the mitts in the same price class, is its Parashock technology. This technology enables the mitt to absorb shock and reduce the impact of the ball when caught. It’s highly appreciated from the perspective of beginners.
Another added advantage to the hand protection measure is the palm pad. I felt comfortable also.
I was also impressed with their patented V-Flex notch. The design addition allows youth fastpitch catchers to get an easier closure who are just starting out.
Its PowerLock design, added with multiple QuikForm lace, is also a good spec for getting the grip inside the mitt. As a result, I felt it was easier to control my fingers, and there weren’t any slipping issues. Girls who are rough, tough catchers in action will surely love it.
For easier catching, Mizuno added a double hinge heel in this mitt, which is unusual in baseball catcher mitts. Later I found it actually added to make the web dimension wider.
Reasons I Suggest Mizuno Franchise
- Fully laced web to maintain the integrity
- Parashock technology helps to absorb shock and reduce the impact of the ball.
- V-Flex notch feature allows for easier closure of the glove.
- A double hinge heel makes the pocket even wider.
- PowerLock design provides a secure fitting, preventing the glove from slipping off.
- Comes with a palm pad for extra comfort and protection.
Consider This Before Buying
The price point may be a bit high as it’s made mainly for beginner catchers. Besides, at this price, the durability standard isn’t up to the mark.
Best Fastpitch Catchers Mitt for Easy Break-in
Rawlings is a reputable brand in the baseball and softball world. You may not know that MLB acquired them in 2018. This acquisition only solidified its status as one of the leading manufacturers of high-quality catcher mitts and gloves.
For me, the key buying factor was its 80% break-in status. So I could play with it just right out of the package that came in my hand. And for many softball players, it’s a major consideration.
Rawlings R9 Fastpitch Softball Catchers Mitt
Highlighted Features
- Series: R9 (2021)
- Size: 33 inches
- Suggested Age Groups: 8-14 years
- Break-in Status: 80%
- Web: Pro H
- Color: Gray
The R9 series is particularly impressive, as it comes 80% broken in right out of the package, which means that it won’t take you too long to fully break it in. This is a great
At $129, the R9 softball catcher’s mitt is slightly higher in price. But since it’s Rawlings, I think it doesn’t matter for mitt lovers.
The glove is made particularly for 8-14-year-old fastpitch catchers, including High School, 14U, and 12U players. And not only for players, I recommend this for fastpitch softball coaches also.
I found the rear adjustable pull strap quite fun and helpful when playing on the ground. It allows the mitt to fit smaller hands, making it easier for younger players to learn how to catch.
Moreover, the narrow fitting is also perfect for female hands, ensuring that it’s comfortable and snug.
“However, I must admit that I found the mitt a bit tight as I have larger fingers. 😣”
You would love the leather cushioned palm pad. It provides an extra layer of protection when catching fast pitches. The soft leather also gives a comfortable catching experience without compromising on quality.
I was just wondering, despite its impressive features and quality, the R9 fastpitch series isn’t as popular as other Rawlings catcher mitts. It’s hard to mention why, but I would definitely recommend giving it a try.
“If you want to maintain the shape of the mitt even after years, I suggest buying a Hot Glove Deluxe wrap (costing only $10). I found it practical.”
Reasons I Suggest Rawlings R9
- 80% break-in status allows players to use it immediately.
- Suited for 8-14-year-old catchers, including High School, 14U, and 12U players.
- Rear adjustable pull strap helps the mitt to fit smaller hands.
- Narrow fitting of the mitt is perfect for female hands.
- Leather cushioned palm pad protects fingers from hand fatigue.
Consider This Before Buying
The price is a bit higher. Since it’s mainly made for narrow fittings, some may find it tight. I suggest consulting about the size with the seller before placing an order.
Please note this one is only available for right-hand throwers. Don’t purchase it if it doesn’t match your playing style.
Best Softball Catchers Mitt For 10-Year-Old
Finding small-sized softball catcher mitts is a bit tough as most brands focus on making 33 and 34 inches catcher mitts.
But later, I came to know about this Shout Out series by Rawlings from my friend, Carl. He bought 3 of these mitts for his 13 years old daughter. What he said about this glove was just full of praise.
And guess what! Just like Carl, more than 700 parents positively rated this catcher’s mitt on Amazon. So, I felt the confidence to try this once. Read the below section to learn my feedback after its durability test.
Rawlings Shut Out Fastpitch Softball Catcher Mitt
Highlighted Features
- Series: Shut Out (2020)
- Size: 32.5 inches
- Suggested Age Groups: 8-14 years
- Break-in Status: 80%
- Web: Modified Pro-H
- Color: Black
The Rawlings Shut Out is the best 32.5 softball catcher’s mitt for players who’re preparing for high school, 10U, 12U, and 14U levels.
It features a back Velcro strap. The strap ensures players get a secure fit and additional support.
Most starters don’t know how to break in their gloves. For them, this mitt is a true match. The mitt has a player break-in of only 20%.
Being a beginner and budget softball catcher mitt, I wasn’t expecting any shock absorption feature in this glove. But turning me wrong, it features zero shock palm pad features. So, Zero worries about hand protection,
If talking about the external shell this one also features full-grain leather, which you know Rawlings makes the best quality!
You should note that the narrow fitting may not be convenient for players with larger hands. Although marketed for adults, I felt it’s better suited for kids.
Reasons I Suggest Rawlings Shout Out
- Back Velcro strap provides a secure fit and additional support.
- Narrow fitting makes it comfortable for players with smaller hands.
- Zero Shock palm pad provides good protection during catching.
- Doesn’t require much break-in support as it’s almost 80% done in the factory.
- Full-grain leather shell makes it more durable and long-lasting.
Consider This Before Buying
The glove is only available suitable for players with right throwing hands, so it’s a big no for left-handed players.
Best Fastpitch Catchers Mitt for Dads and Daughters
If you want to enjoy one of the favorite American pastimes with your daughter, this Mizuno MVP softball catcher mitt is a good bang. Even to gift your aspiring daughter a new catcher mitt, you can invest in this glove confidently.
But before spending $122.55 on this catcher mitt, you should check out what I found in this gear.
Mizuno MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Catcher Mitt
Highlighted Features
- Series: MVP Prime (2019)
- Size: 34 inches
- Suggested Age Groups: 14 and up
- Break-in Status: 65% (approx)
- Web: One piece
- Color: Black and White
What sets this mitt apart from others on the market is its one-piece web. The one-piece web design is especially beneficial for catchers, as it helps to securely trap the ball and prevent it from popping out of the mitt.
“But don’t consider it a rule of thumb as the web is a personal preference whether it’s softball or baseball.”
The catcher mitt features bio leather. Therefore, it’s softer and more durable compared to the Rawlings R9 series.
Another good trait of this mitt is the pro-level lacing. It’s actually a signature design used by most MLB catchers.
The gear is available in two colors, black and white (the white is actually more of a creamy shade.) And it’s also available for both right-handed and left-handed catchers.
Reasons I Suggest Mizuno MVP Prime
- One-piece web design provides additional support for catching the ball
- Specifically made for female softball catchers, ensuring a comfortable fit
- Made with Bio leather, which is soft and long-lasting
- Available in both right-handed and left-handed options
Consider This Before Buying
However, from my experience, I found that all one-piece web-featured gloves take a little longer time for break-in compared to other webs. You’ll see the same in this case also.
Premium Girls Fastpitch Softball Catcher Mitt
In the ground of baseball, the Heart of The Hide is immensely popular. And Rawlings introduced this special edition catcher mitt for fastpitch catchers also in 2022. So, I was super excited to test it.
At $299, this gear is the most expensive catcher mitt in this review. I was a bit skeptical if this justifies the price. But then I found the below:
Rawlings Heart of The Hide Fastpitch Softball Catcher Mitt
Highlighted Features
- Series: Hearth of The Hide (2022)
- Size: 33 inches
- Suggested Age Groups: 8-14 years
- Break-in Status: 65%
- Web: Modified Pro H
- Color: Gray/silver and White+Rose Gold
You’ll be amazed to know that the Rawlings Heart of the Hide gloves are crafted from the finest steer hide leather in the world. These gloves feature game-day patterns that are used by their top advisory staff players, who are the best in the field.
“The Rawlings Advisory Staff players are professional baseball players who work with the brand to provide feedback on glove designs, as well as test and endorse their products.”
Without the leather part, the web design of this HTH glove series is also better than many premium-priced catcher mitts. Instead of a typical pro-h web, it features a modified version. Basically, this one helped Rawlings to create a deeper pocket design by smalling the web size.
It’s good for easy catching. However, some may find closing action a little slow initially. It’ll be adjusted over time when it’s broken in completely.
Talking about the break-in, Rawlings says it’s 65% done in the factory, but I felt it was more flexible than other mitts featuring a similar status. So, another thumbs up on that!
“Don’t steam the mitt for break-in. One of my friends made his daughter’s mitt too soft by doing so. And due to that, the leather shell tore apart faster.”
Reasons I Suggest Rawlings Heart of the Hide
- Customized fit with improved pull-strap closures at the wrist.
- Premium-grade leather laces to enhance durability.
- Padded thumb sleeves offer comfort.
- Fast break-in period due to high-quality soft leather.
- Comes with a 6-year manufacturer-limited warranty.
Consider This Before Buying
Honestly speaking, without the expensive price tag, I didn’t find any major drawbacks to the mitt. Expensive compared to other catcher mitts in the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use a baseball catcher mitt for fastpitch softball?
While it’s possible to use a baseball catcher mitt for fastpitch softball, it’s not recommended. Baseball catcher mitts are generally larger and heavier than fastpitch softball catcher mitts. Hence, it are more difficult to handle the ball and make quick movements.
Besides, the differences in pocket size are also a reason to not switch the baseball mitt for fastpitch softball.
What size mitt do pro catchers use?
Both baseball and fastpitch softball professional catchers use mitts that range from 32 to 34 inches in circumference. But it’s a rule rather a general scenario. The specific size can vary depending on their personal preference.
For example, catchers who primarily catch knuckleball pitchers prefer a larger mitt to help them catch the unpredictable movement of the pitch.
On the flip side, catchers who need to make quick throws to bases prefer a smaller mitt for better control and faster release times.
Should I get a 33 or 34 catcher’s mitt?
As mentioned earlier, the size of the catcher’s mitt you should get depends on your needs and playing style. For instance, a 33-inch catcher mitt is considered good for youngsters or players with thinner hands.
And 34-inch mitts are typically preferred by older (13 and above years) players with fat pudgy fingers.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, or a parent who wants to teach fastpitch softball to your kid, choosing the right mitt is vital. Though I tried to mention my preference and ranking, I advise you to choose the best that fits your playing style.
Check out more about catcher mitt:
Can I Use a Baseball Glove for Softball? Exploring the Pros and Cons
10 Best Softball Bags Reviewed: Find Your Perfect Softball Companion
Diamond Divergence: 8 Differences Between Softball And Baseball Breaking
6 Best First Base Mitts in 2023
Hello everyone. My name is Jason Butler, and I live in California, America. I was a professional AAA Minor League Baseball player. I lost my chance of playing MLB for injury issues, but I did not lose my love for baseball. I attended the coaching training program and am now working as a coach in a small school in San Diego.
I always love to share my experience and knowledge if that can help you. Play baseball, and stay fit.