To ensure baseball players excel without causing severe hand or finger injuries, having the right protective gear is a key priority. One essential piece of protective equipment for players is a high-quality baseball sliding glove. These specialized mitts allow for rapid slides into bases while shielding hands from impact and abrasion.
An ideal glove should have padding in high-wear areas yet maintain flexibility for catching and grip. Materials like leather or synthetic leather withstand frequent use and the ground friction of slides. Secure wrist straps promote proper fit.
In this comprehensive coach guide, I’ll share my experience and observation on sliding glove basics from sizing and materials to key features and maintenance. You’ll find tips on proper sliding techniques using gloves as well as brands favored by major leaguers. Let’s head into this.
Comparison Chart
| Size | Material | Wrist Support | Thumb Holes | Sweat Management | Get Now on Amazon | |
| EvoShield (2020) | Adults and Youth | Elastic and Synthetic | Adjustable | Yes | Good | Check Price |
| Guardian (2017) | Adult and Youth | Mesh | Velcro Wrist Strap | No | Good | Check Price |
| Franklin Sports CFX PRT (2017) | Adult | Neoprene | Reinforced Wrist Strap | No | Causes Sweating | Check Price |
| Marucci (2022) | Adult | Neoprene | Regular Strap | Double Holes | Good | Check Price |
4 Best Baseball Sliding Mitt Reviews
Baseball sliding mitts came into action in around 2008. At that time, I wasn’t in play due to my injury. However, after recovering, I’ve tried numerous sliding mitts from multiple brands, of course, for my high school academy players.
But I wasn’t very impressed with most of them, honestly speaking. The only four sliding gloves that caught my attention are the EvoShield, Guardian, Franklin Sports, and Marucci baseball sliding gloves.
Here’s my experience with these gloves.
1. EvoShield Baseball Sliding Glove
Product Specs:
- Model Year: 2020
- Size: Adults and Youth players
- Material: Elastic and Synthetic Leather
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand, Right Hand, or Both (Reversible) options
- Glove Type: Base Running
- Color Options: Black, Yellow, Blue, White, Skyblue, Navy Blue, Olive Green, and more
My decision to choose this EvoShield back in 2022 was pretty easy as the baseball sliding mitt was already popular in the community among coaches, parents, and players.
It was for Michael (my start base runner in the academy). He wanted me to test the gig. And after my inspection that season, I was impressed.
This mitt delivers the perfect blend of security, comfort, and adjustability. The synthetic leather and elastic materials provide proper coverage across the fingers and the top and bottom of the hand.
Players don’t need to worry about impact or abrasion when going for a steal, thanks to the strategic padding built into high-wear areas.
The cherry on the cake was, despite the ample protection, the mitt maintains a flexible, contoured fit that moves seamlessly with my hand.
What makes this glove stand out now is the adjustable wrist strap. You can customize the compression to keep the mitt secure during slides and it won’t restrict your movement. Whether you tuck your thumb in or keep it free, this glove will cover you.
With so many color choices available, you can easily coordinate the EvoShield mitt with any team uniform.
In one sentence, let me tell you why I’m praising this a lot. After many games and practices, it still looks and performs like new. For players wanting a high-quality sliding glove that exceeds expectations, I highly recommend giving this mitt a try.
Pros:
- Excellent fit and comfort, ensuring a secure and comfortable grip
- Provides superior hand protection during base sliding
- Adjustable and secure wrist support for added convenience and stability
- Bunches of color options suit everyone’s preferences
Cons:
- The price is a bit high, having it under $40 will be highly appreciated
2. Guardian Baseball Sliding Mitt
Product Specs:
- Model Year: 2017
- Size: Adult and Youth
- Material: Mesh
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous (Both Hands)
- Glove Type: Base Running
- Color Options: Black, Violet, Navy Blue, Yellow, Blue, Red, Black Camo
I bought it this year for my son. In brief, you’re getting the same values as the EvoShield but at a lower price (under $35), making it the best baseball sliding glove for beginners and budget seekers.
You’ll be very pleased with its durability, protection, and ease of use. If you’re playing as a base runner you do need a glove that can withstand frequent impact without compromising your mobility or safety. This glove delivers on all fronts.
The heavy-duty felt and mesh materials provide ample padding across fingers. It also helps absorb shock smoothly without ever restricting your fingers’ natural movements.
The sturdy wrist supports keep everything securely in place when barreling into bases at full speed.
What makes this glove stand out is the lack of thumb holes. You can slip your hand in and tighten the heavy-duty Velcro wrist wrap in seconds – no fussing with fingers required. This allows players to keep their heads in the game rather than wasting time suiting up.
Lastly, the glove comes in great color options to coordinate with any uniform. For players wanting a sliding glove that exceeds expectations for protection, ease of use, and durability, I can’t recommend this one enough. It’s the go-to game-day glove.
Pros:
- Perfect fit and durable construction
- Absence of thumb holes for faster usage
- Great quality and very durable
- Well-made construction with heavy felt glove protector
- Steel wrist supports for added safety
- Sturdy wrist wrap Velcro
Cons:
- Mentioned for adults but it’s actually mainly suitable for youth
3. Franklin Sports CFX PRT MLB Sliding Glove
Product Specs:
- Model Year: 2017
- Size: Adult
- Material: Neoprene
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous (Both Hands)
- Glove Type: Base Running
- Color Options: White/Gold, Black/Gold, Navy-blue, Red,
Under the $50 price, the Franklin Sports CFX PRT sliding glove is another sure shot for first-timers to seasoned players. I’ve put it to the hard durability test and it’s held up great. It spreads out the impact at every point, so my players can steal with total confidence. The reinforced wrist strap also fits tight and securely, giving extra stability and protection for the wrist.
One thing I really like about the CFX PRT is that you can wear it on both hands. So it works for all my players no matter what position they’re playing. The soft, lightweight neoprene lets players still use their fingers. That’s key for grabbing the bag on steals without sliding past it.
“However, the only downside is the neoprene can make hands sweat some during longer use. But to me, that’s a small price to pay for how well it works otherwise.”
The fit is pretty good overall, but it might not be ideal for every hand size. I’ve noticed some of my players with bigger hands think it feels a little snug. But for most guys, it fits fine and gets the job done protection-wise.
There are multiple color options available though not like others, it’s still a fair offer for the price.
Overall, I was happy with how the CFX PRT sliding glove worked for my team during the durability and performance test.
Pros:
- Excellent protection for hands and fingers
- Secure fit with reinforced wrist strap
- Reversible design for use on both hands
- Responsive feel for maintaining finger dexterity
- Impact resistance for maximum protection
Cons:
- Limited color options
- May not fit all hand sizes perfectly
- Requires proper care and maintenance to ensure longevity
4. Marucci Adult Baseball Sliding Glove
Product Specs:
- Model Year: 2022
- Size: Adult (One Size)
- Material: Neoprene
- Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous (Both Hands)
- Glove Type: Base Running
- Color Options: Black
I tried out the Marucci Adult Sliding Glove a few months back with some of my players. It comes at the same price as the Franklin Sports sliding mitt.
The reason it caught my attention is its safety features. Its full coverage on both sides of the hand and fingers symbolizes an insightful design mind during the production. These protection plates shield the hand and fingers on both sides too, so extra security there.
In terms of fit, it was great. The 3-in-1 design with the double thumb holes lets players use all their fingers inside the glove with no problem. Felt secure and comfortable for them.
Another plus was that you could wear it on either hand. So whether guys are lefties or righties, it works. The wrist strap made it really easy to take off with one hand, which is clutch when you gotta move fast on the field.
I liked that it was made of high-quality neoprene – that material is durable but still flexible, which is key for slides. And it just looks slick in black. The neoprene compression fit also made it super snug.
One drawback is it only comes in one size. It would be good if they offered sizes for guys with different hand sizes. Another downside is there’s no other color option than black. But for overall features, I’d definitely recommend it to other coaches and players
Pros:
- Excellent protection with the all-side plating design
- Full coverage protection plates for utmost safety
- Compression-fit neoprene design gives a snug fit
- Easy one-hand removal with the strap support
Cons:
- Only suitable for adult players
- Available in only black color
The Importance of Using Sliding Gloves
Playing sports like baseball safely is so important. You want to avoid injuries that could sideline you. Sliding into bases carries risks to hands and fingers. Protective gear can help minimize this. Specially designed gloves allow you to slide with more confidence.
- The right glove provides padding and durable materials without sacrificing comfort and fit. This enables better gameplay.
- Smart features like stabilizing straps and thumb holes also aid the technique.
- This helps limit bruises and worse that could impact your season. With precautions in place, you can play hard and minimize downtime.
Ultimately, for players focused on performance and safety, a specialized sliding glove is recommended. While no protective gear eliminates all risks, the right glove empowers smart sliding.
Types of Sliding Gloves in Baseball
When shopping for baseball sliding gloves, it’s helpful to understand the different types and their benefits. Quality sliding gloves provide protection and grip while allowing flexibility and feel.
- Standard Sliding Gloves: Standard sliding gloves offer basic protection during slides to help prevent hand injuries. They are a reliable choice suitable for most players.
- Fingerless Sliding Gloves: Fingerless sliding gloves maximize dexterity and tactile grip on the field. The exposed fingers allow for enhanced control while the glove protects the hands.
- Padded Sliding Gloves: Padded sliding gloves provide extra cushioning in key areas like the palm and fingers. The strategic padding absorbs impact and reduces bruising and abrasions.
- Customizable Sliding Gloves: Custom sliding gloves allow players to personalize their gear with details like their name, team logo, or preferred colors. The customization adds style while maintaining protection.
- Professional-Grade Sliding Gloves: For serious and professional players, high-performance sliding gloves offer premium materials, superior protection, and enhanced durability. They meet the demands of competitive play.
How to Choose the Right Sliding Glove?
When picking a baseball sliding mitt or glove, there are a few things to think about. It’s important to find one that fits you well. Here are some tips to help you choose.
Sliding Glove Material
Look for gloves made from supple, full-grain leather that forms to the player’s hand over time. Internal padding in key areas helps absorb shock on slides.
Silicone grips or tactile surfaces on fingers and palms provide excellent control when grabbing bases. Consider breathable, moisture-wicking linings to keep hands dry and avoid blisters.
Hand Selection for Sliding Gloves
First, decide which hand to wear it on. Wearing the glove on your dominant hand maintains maximal dexterity during gameplay. Alternatively, wearing it on your throwing hand provides protection for that vital asset.
Ultimately, make your selection based on personal preference and game needs. Optimize between hand protection and dexterity retention. Choose the configuration that enables your best performance on the field.
Proper Fit and Sizing for Sliding Gloves
Finding the right fit is critical when selecting baseball sliding gloves for optimal protection and handling. A properly fitted glove stabilizes the hand and minimizes injury risks from impact.
A snug yet comfortable fit ensures the glove stays firmly in place without sliding or rotating during use. This enables a confident grip and full hand mobility for enhanced performance.
Take measurements and carefully determine your exact hand size. Refer to sizing charts and select the glove model that aligns with your dimensions for a precise fit.
Researching Brands for Sliding Gloves
Read reviews and feedback from other players on different brands and models. This provides insight into real-world performance.
Look for established brands (e.g.: EvoShield, Guardian, etc.) renowned for consistent quality, durability, and protective ability. Their reputations are earned through proven field reliability and safety.
Consider the experiences of other users and lean towards well-reviewed gloves from leading manufacturers. Extensively tested gear gives you added confidence and peace of mind.
Additional Features to Consider
Quality sliding gloves provide protection and grip while allowing flexibility. When shopping for new gloves, look for ones with padding placed strategically to absorb impact.
An inner lining with silicone dots or other textured materials prevents hands from slipping off poles. Advanced glove technologies like these lead to better performance and more enjoyment in your favorite snow activities.
Proper Maintenance and Care for Sliding Glove
As any baseball enthusiast knows, proper maintenance keeps gloves performing their best season after season. Follow these tips to keep your sliding gloves in prime condition:
Break-In – Flexibility is key for sliding gloves. Use your new gloves frequently with a leather conditioner to soften and shape materials. The more you wear them, the better they’ll conform to your hands. Check out how to break in baseball gloves.
Clean – After each game, gently scrub gloves with a mild soap and water solution to lift dirt, clay, and debris. Avoid harsh chemicals or materials that could strip the leather.
Condition – Monthly, massage a small amount of glove oil into the leather, focusing on high-wear areas like palms and fingers. Let the oil fully absorb before wiping away the excess.
Protect – Wear a lightweight batting glove underneath your sliding glove to prevent blisters and add cushion.
Store – Keep gloves in a breathable bag during the offseason. Avoid direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Baseball Sliding Mitt
When you use a sliding glove, remember to avoid some mistakes, which are deemed to be frequent in early baseball players:
- Choosing the Wrong Size: An ill-fitting mitt won’t protect properly. Ensure you select the right size glove for your hand. Too loose and it can roll or shift. Too tight and it restricts movement.
- Not Breaking In the Mitt: Brand-new mitts need a break-in period to soften materials and loosen the fit. Use a conditioner and wear it frequently at first. This prevents stiffness and discomfort.
- Neglecting Cleaning: Letting dirt, clay residue, and debris build-up can damage glove fibers and materials. Gently clean mitts after each use to maintain performance and extend longevity.
- Ignoring Damage: Small rips or worn stitching compromise integrity. Inspect mitts regularly and repair the damage promptly to avoid bigger issues. Replace excessively worn gloves.
- Storing Improperly: Improper storage can warp glove shape or degrade materials. Keep mitts in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight when not in use. Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity.
Tips for Improving Sliding Technique with a Sliding Glove
Here are some tips for honing sliding skills with a glove designed for protection and smooth glides:
Start in Proper Stance
When preparing for a slide, adopt an athletic position with your feet pointed toward the base. This balanced foundation sets up efficient momentum in the slide.
- Stay low: Keep your body close to the ground so you don’t fall over. This helps you stay in control.
- Bend your knees: This helps you land smoothly and keeps you steady.
- Balance your weight: Make sure you’re putting the same amount of weight on both feet. This helps you stay balanced and slide correctly.
Utilize Glove Design
Quality sliding gloves allow hands to slip rapidly along the ground while preventing scrapes. Place your hand fully into the glove and let the tactical materials do the work. Avoid over-gripping, which can hinder speed.
Master Slide Timing
Initiate slides at precisely the right moment for maximum impact. Follow the below:
- Go faster: Analyze game situations and start moving when you anticipate a need for speed. Run as fast as you can before you slide. This will give you more power to reach the base.
- Slide right: Stay low and balanced when you slide. Look at where you want to go and get ready to slide just before you get there.
- Change your plan: Pay attention to how far you are from the base and change your approach if needed. Slide too early and you lose momentum; too late allows for tags. Your coach can also teach you to slide in different ways.
Keep Eyes on the Prize
Maintain a laser focus on the base throughout your slide to accurately target your landing. Make subtle corrections as needed to stick to the slide.
Practice All Slide Types
Become a sliding chameleon by drilling different techniques. More options make you dangerous on the bases. Here are some tips to help you get better at sliding:
- Experiment with basic sliding techniques: Try to learn head-first and feet-first slides to see which you feel more comfortable and effective. Each technique has its pros and cons, so find the one that works best for your style of play.
- Practice advanced sliding techniques: Move on to more advanced techniques over time such as the hook slide, pop-up slide, or delayed steal. You can achieve an edge on the basepaths and learn to avoid tags from the defense using these sliding strategies.
- Incorporate sliding drills into your training: Plan and practice drills that simulate your game situations, such as sliding into a base or sliding to avoid a tag. This will help you develop muscle memory and improve your reaction time when it comes to sliding in actual games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do MLB players wear sliding gloves?
In recent years, many MLB players have worn sliding mitts, especially in case of head-first sliding to avoid hand and finger injuries, which is common for baserunners.
What hand do you wear a sliding glove on?
You can wear a sliding mitt or glove on any hand that you’re comfortable with. Some sliding gloves are ambidextrous, meaning you can wear them on both hands because of the friendly design.
What age should you get a sliding glove?
As a coach, I suggest starting to wear sliding gloves after the age of 10. It’s not too early or feel distracted with an additional gear.
Can baseball sliding mitts be used for other positions besides base running?
Actually, baseball sliding gloves are meant for mainly base runners. And if you’re looking for gloves for other position players, there are options for that too. For instance, batters, and catchers have their own gloves for safety. Check out the below articles to learn more-
Evaluation of Baseball Glove – Why and How?
How long do baseball sliding mitts typically last?
It depends completely on what you’re investing in. A good baseball sliding mitt is supposed to last at least 6-12. The lasting time is comparably less than other types of baseball gloves because they go through a lot of damage and impact during sliding.
Can baseball sliding mitts be used on both artificial turf and grass fields?
It doesn’t matter whether you’re playing on artificial turfs or real baseball fields. Sliding gloves are supposed to survive and be used in any condition. However, using sliding gloves on artificial turfs will ensure they last longer than the average timespan.
Wrapping Up
When it comes to competitive baseball, the right baseball sliding glove can give you a critical edge out on the field. Quality gloves allow athletes to steal bases rapidly and safely with reduced risk of hand and finger injuries. By providing padding, grip, and smooth glide surfaces, they enable aggressive slides to reach the base.
With so many options available, find baseball sliding mitts tailored to your position and needs. Focus on fit, comfort, and durability when making a selection. Don’t let fears of injuries slow you down, slide into bases aggressively and play the game right with high-performance sliding gloves.
Check out more about baseball gloves:
Softball Glove Vs. Baseball Glove
Find the Best Baseball Gloves By Position
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.