12 Best Fastpitch Softball Gloves in 2024

Average fastpitch softball pitchers can throw balls at speeds exceeding 70 miles per hour (112 kilometers per hour.) So, just imagine how much more speed it gets when hit by the batter! 😵‍

Whether you’re an infielder or outfielder, you need a good quality softball glove that can resist this herculean action. 

And when talking about good, the best softball glove manufacturers are Rawlings and Wilson in the premium segment. And for the budget gig, you need to knock on the door of Franklin Sports, Easton, and Mizuno. 

But each of these brands has tons of glove series. Determining their best gloves is challenging for anyone who doesn’t use them. Therefore, I created this list based on my user experience so that you can find one for yourself with ease.

Best Fastpitch Softball Gloves – At a Glance 

Position	Glove
Infield Gloves	Wilson A2000 Series 11.75 Inch H75 Fastpitch Softball Glove 2024
Infield Gloves	2023 Rawlings Liberty Advanced 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove
Infield Gloves	Mizuno GMVP1200PF4W MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove
Infield Gloves	Rawlings R9 Fastpitch Softball Glove 2023
Infield Gloves	Easton Professional Collection Signature Series Fastpitch Softball Glove
Infield Gloves	Franklin Sports Field Master
Outfield Gloves	Wilson A2000 P12 12″ Pitcher’s Fastpitch Glove
Outfield Gloves	Wilson A2000 SuperSkin V125 Spin Control (2023)
Outfield Gloves	Mizuno Prime Elite Pitcher/Outfield Fastpitch Softball Glove
Outfield Gloves	Easton Ghost NX Fastpitch Softball Glove
Outfield Gloves	Franklin Sports ProFlex
Outfield Gloves	Franklin Sports Field Master

Best Fastpitch Softball Gloves for Infielders

Infield players are required to spring into action and secure the ball. Hence, they tend to favor slightly smaller gloves to facilitate quicker finger movement.

A fastpitch softball glove from 11 to 12.5 inches is typically ideal for infielders.

Regarding the web design, I recommend opting for open webs like H or I Webs. Nonetheless, based on the player’s choice, a closed web design might also serve well. 

It’s also prudent to look for a glove with a shallow pocket to ensure easy retrieval and swift transfer of the ball.

I discovered that the following infielder gloves offer great value, especially for novices. These are the gloves I have used in play and in my training sessions.

Wilson 2024 A2000 Series 11.75 Inch H75 Fastpitch Softball Glove

Highlighted Features

Model: Wilson 2024 A2000 Series H75

Size: 11.75 Inch

Hand Orientation: Available for Right Hand Thrower

Web: Classic I-Web design

Break-in: Game Ready, yet maintains a stiff feel, which might require some break-in time for a customized fit.​

I have recently got my hands on the Wilson a2000 softball glove. I have covered a lot of the best glove brands, and Wilson tops my list every time. 

Wilson A2000 keeps the legacy of Wilson. The first thing I noticed was its shallow pocket design for quick transfers. The classic I web design serves its purpose well.

The fit of the softball glove is nice. Not too loose or too tight. Though the glove takes some time to break in, it indicates the glove has a solid construction and stiffness.

Compared to the 2019 Wilson A2000, which I often use in my practice sessions, the 2024 model has a slightly longer palm and a slightly wider web.

The quality and craftsmanship are exactly what you would expect from a brand like Wilson.

Advantages

• Pro Stock leather that is smooth, soft, and durable
• Superskin material that is strong and light
• V-Flex notch that makes it easier to close the glove
• H-web that gives a good grip and stability
• Center pocket that is well positioned under the index finger
• Power lock strap that allows for a custom fit
• Moderately easy to break in and maintain
• Stylish design and appearance

Things to Consider Before Purchasing:

While it’s game-ready, some break-in time might be required to get it to mold to your hand for a customized fit. The glove is priced premium, so it might not align with everyone’s budget. 

2023 Rawlings Liberty Advanced 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove

Highlighted Features

Model: Rawlings Liberty Advanced 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove

Size: 12 inches

Hand Orientation: Available for both right and left-hand throw

Web: Laced 1-Piece Solid Web​

Break-In: The glove features pro soft leather for an easy break-in process

Rawlings Sporting Goods Company has been making softball since 1887.

The 2023 Rawlings Liberty Advanced 12″ Fastpitch Softball Glove is one of the best softball gloves for infielders. 

Over the season, the glove endured the rigors of the game admirably. It has shown minimal signs of wear and tear. It was not just a functional piece of equipment but also a confidence booster for my players.

Advantages

• Pro soft leather and solid construction ensure it withstands the rigors of intense play​​.
• Extremely comfortable to wear​.
• Pro Soft Leather allows for an easier and quicker break-in process​.
• The adjustable pull strap ensures a perfect fit​.
• The 12-inch size provides better reach and control for outfielders

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

It’s a high-quality glove, and the price reflects that. Ensure it fits within your budget. Although designed for fastpitch softball, ensure that the size and design fit the specific needs of your position.

Mizuno GMVP1200PF4W MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove

Highlighted Features

Model: Mizuno GMVP1200PF4W

Size: 12 inches

Hand orientation: Right-handed

Web: Tartan Web

Break-in: Semi-soft

Mizuno GMVP1200PF4W MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove is one of the top-rated fastpitch softball gloves, and I can see why it is.

I have used the Mizuno GMVP1200PF4W MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove 12″ with my infielders for several seasons now, and I have been very impressed with its performance. 

It is a durable glove that holds up well to heavy use. It is also a comfortable glove that my players enjoy using. The Bio Soft Leather requires a bit of break-in and eventually conforms well to the hand.

Overall, the Mizuno GMVP1200PF4W MVP Prime Fastpitch Softball Glove 12″ is an excellent choice for infielders of all ages and skill levels. The glove is just a symbol of the quality Mizuno Softball Gears provide.

The break-in process, although requiring some effort initially, pays off as the glove becomes more comfortable and molds to the hand over time.

Advantages

• Bio soft leather that is smooth, soft, and durable
• Professional level lace that is strong and flexible
• V-Flex notch that makes it easier to close the glove
• Tartan web that gives a good grip and stability
• Center pocket that is well positioned under the index finger
• Power lock strap that allows for a custom fit
• Moderately easy to break in and maintain
• Stylish design and appearance

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

The glove is not game-ready out of the box, and it may need some time to break in properly. The premium pricing may force you to think again. But it is a solid value for the money. 

Rawlings R9 Fastpitch Softball Glove 2023

Highlighted Features

Model: Rawlings R9 Fastpitch Softball Glove

Size: 11.5 inches

Hand orientation: Right-handed or left-handed

Web: H-Web or Basket Web

Break-in: Semi-soft

The Rawlings R9 Fastpitch Softball Glove is one of the best fastpitch softball gloves for pitchers. 

The Basket Web design makes it ideal for making quick transfers and getting the ball out quickly. This 11.5 fastpitch softball glove provides a perfect balance between reach and quick transitions during gameplay.

I have used the Rawlings R9 Fastpitch Softball Glove 2023 with my players for quite some time now, and I have been very impressed with its performance. 

The Rawlings R9 Fastpitch Softball Glove 2023 stands out as a quality, game-ready glove offering excellent protection, comfort, and a professional feel to the players. 

Advantages

• Soft, durable all-leather shell providing structure for multiple seasons of play​.
• Padded thumb loop, reinforced palm pad, and finger back liners for ultimate hand protection and comfort​.
• No break-in time is required; you are ready to play right out of the box​.
• Pull-strap closures for custom fitting to different hand sizes​.
• The expert-approved design provides optimal performance on the field

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

Ensure the glove size and design are suitable for your position in the field. Being an all-leather glove, consider the maintenance required to keep the glove in optimal condition.

Easton Professional Collection Signature Series Fastpitch Softball Glove

Highlighted Features

Model: Easton Professional Collection Signature Series Fastpitch Glove

Size: 11.5 – 12.75 inches

Hand orientation: Right-handed or left-handed

Web: Pro I-Web

Break-in: Semi-soft

Easton Professional Collection Signature Series Fastpitch Softball Glove made one of my best infield fastpitch softball gloves list for its all-in-one characteristics. 

The quantum closure system, the premium USA steer hide leather, and deeper pocket and whatnot!

My players said the break-in period of this fastpitch softball glove is notably short. 

Overall, the glove was a valuable addition to our gear, enhancing performance while ensuring comfort and durability.

Advantages

• The Quantum Closure System allows for a customizable fit​.
• The full leather lining ensures a quicker break-in time​.
• Aids in efficiently catching softballs​.
• Soft cowhide lining provides additional comfort.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

This glove is designed for serious players and may not be suitable for younger or inexperienced players​. Although it has a quicker break-in time, ensure it meets your expectations in terms of readiness for play.

WILSON 2022 A2000 Fastpitch Softball Glove Series (Premium Option)

Highlighted Features

• Model: A2000 2022
• Sizes:  11.75 to 12.5 inches
• Web: H, I, X2, Closed
• Hand Orientation: Left and Right 
• Break-in: Not mentioned

I got this premium Wilson glove from a local store owner nearby, who gave it to me and asked me to review it so that he could decide whether he should get more of this in his inventory.

Starting with rolled dual welting, which is common in Wilson gloves nowadays. This is actually an extra integration in all liners so that the shell can last and hold the shape together longer. 

The leather is not only soft but also rugged enough to last multiple seasons, even after hard gameplay. 

However, the premium leather quality is also a bottleneck of this glove. Because of the pure leather, it takes a lot of time to break in completely. Therefore, I suggest you use a glove break-in kit to fast-pace the process. 

Another good aspect is the flat finger binding. The feature allows you to keep your preferred finger out of the glove to get the maximum control, which is common in infielders. An added advantage to this trait is the wrist lining. It gives you extra comfort.

Since it’s a high-priced leather glove, a bit of extra care is inevitable. I advise applying a glove conditioner regularly to keep its charm. 

Benefits

• Rolled dual welting ensures the shell holds its shape for extended periods
• Soft and rugged leather provides longevity even with intense gameplay
• Flat finger binding allows infielders to keep a finger outside the glove, maximizing control
• Wrist lining adds extra comfort during use

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

There are 6 design and color combos to choose from. But remember, with different colors, you may see the changes in the web type also. If you need a specific web style, make sure to contact the seller before placing an order. 

Franklin Sports Windmill Pro Series Fastpitch Gloves (Budget Option)

Highlighted Features

• Model: Windmill Pro 2017
• Sizes: 11 and 2 inches
• Web: Closed
• Hand Orientation: Left and Right 
• Break-in: 90%

It’s time to introduce you to the most hyped and cost-efficient infielder gloves for girls, Franklin Sports Windmill Pro. 

If you don’t know, the brand is the only approved company by Major League Baseball to stick its logo on its gloves. So, you can be assured that you’re investing in a reliable product. 

Having a similar brand appeal to Wilson, their products are supposed to be pricey. But fortunately, Franklin Sports has offered the most efficiently priced product since its inception. 

And the same is true for this Windmill Pro. Besides, currently, there’s an ongoing discount on this glove. You can get this glove home at a very affordable price. 

The beginner fastpitch glove features lightweight mesh, making it suitable for players 6-11 years. There’s an adjustable wrist strap also for additional resizing support. 

To ensure the required comfort for kids, the pocket area is made with soft material, which I found pretty helpful for little hands. Without comforting, it also gives proper responsiveness to players.

Lastly, I only suggest it for infielders if they are comfortable playing with the closed web style. This one isn’t designed with other options. 

Benefits

• Lightweight mesh construction provides a comfortable fit for young athletes.
• Adjustable wrist strap ensures getting a secure and personalized fit
• Soft and responsive pocket area for comfort and a good experience 
• Doesn’t require much time to break-in 

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

The Windmill Pro is designed as a beginner fastpitch glove. So, it’s not recommended for advanced league players. Due to its focus on affordability, the glove won’t offer the same level of durability and longevity as higher-end options.

Best Fastpitch Softball Gloves for Outfielders

Like baseball, fastpitch softball outfielders often need to field fly or long balls. Hence, having a large pocket glove helps in tracking and catching fly balls, typically ranging from 12.5 to 14 inches. 

H-web or trapeze web designs are popular among outfielders, as they offer a deep pocket for secure ball retention. 

Additionally, outfield gloves often have additional padding in the palm and fingers to provide extra protection when making diving catches or catching high-velocity line drives. 

Having these considerations in mind, I couldn’t find any better alternative than the Franklin Sports ProFlex and Field Master within the price range. 

Both are the company’s signature models, and I’m sure you’re gonna love them both no matter what your budget is.

Wilson A2000 SuperSkin V125 Spin Control (2023)

Highlighted Features

Model: Wilson A2000 P12

Size: 12.5 inches

Hand orientation: Right-handed or left-handed

Web: Closed, 2-Piece Weave Web

Break-in: Semi-soft

I am always on the lookout for equipment that will enhance my players’ performance on the field. Wilson A2000 SuperSkin V125 Spin Control is nothing short of remarkable. 

The huge catching surface of 12.5 inches helps in catching and securing the ball outfield substantially. 

The glove is notably lighter thanks to the SuperSkin material, yet it doesn’t compromise on durability.

The break-in process is stiff at first but doesn’t take much time to fit perfectly. 

The Wilson A2000 SuperSkin V125 Spin Control has undoubtedly become a valued asset to our team’s defensive toolkit.

Advantages

• High-quality materials and construction
• Durable and comfortable
• Closed, 2-piece weave web for concealing pitch grips
• ComfortPro Fit Liner to prevent blisters and discomfort
• Drawstring closure for a secure fit

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

If your hands are too short, you might want to look for other options. The glove has an “Extra Stiff Feel” initially and will require some break-in time.

Mizuno Prime Elite Pitcher/Outfield Fastpitch Softball Glove

Highlighted Features

Model: Mizuno Prime Elite Pitcher/Outfield Fastpitch Glove

Size: 12 inches

Hand orientation: Right-handed

Web: H-Web

Break-in: Semi-soft

I have recently got my hands on the Mizuno Prime Elite Pitcher/Outfield Fastpitch Softball Glove. When I first handled the soft and smooth leather, I was totally impressed. 

Though the glove is designed both for pitchers and outfielders, I used it for my outfield players most of the time. During drills, the glove enhanced the flexibility and control of my outfielders.

The professional patterns of the glove also seemed to resonate well with the advanced players, aligning with the sophisticated plays we often execute during training and games.

Advantages

• High-quality materials and construction
• Durable and comfortable
• Shallow pocket for easy fielding and quick transfers
• H-Web for strength and versatility
• Well-balanced and feels good on the hand
• Soft and pliable leather
• Well-padded
• Stylish design

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

The glove feels premium, but I felt like the glove may wear more quickly than other gloves I have mentioned. Though the glove comes in only one size, the fit wasn’t perfect for my outfielder’s hand. 

Easton Ghost NX Fastpitch Softball Glove 

Highlighted Features

Model: Easton Ghost NX

Size: 11.75 inches

Hand orientation: Right-hand throw

Web: H-web

Break in: Minimal

The quality of the leather caught my eye to test out the Easton Ghost NX Fastpitch Softball Glove. Easton claimed that the Ghost NX was game-ready, but when it came to me, it needed some time to properly break in. 

After I properly break it in, the glove molded well to my player’s hand. The H-web provided good support for making quick transfers and collecting balls.

I have used this glove to teach my players to catch fly balls. My players told me the inside material of the Ghost NX is very comfortable. The shallow pocket makes it easy for them to get their hands under the ball and field it cleanly.

The glove really helped in my practice sessions. I will recommend this glove to anyone who is serious about their game.

Advantages

• High-quality leather that is soft, smooth, and durable
• Quantum closure system that allows for a custom fit
• Soft leather lining that provides comfort and support
• H-web that offers visibility and versatility
• Small hand opening that enhances control and security
• Easy to break in and maintain
• Stylish design and appearance

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

The glove is designed for right-hand throwers only, so left-handers will need to look for another option. The glove might be too small or too big for some players, depending on their hand size and preference.

Franklin Sports ProFlex Fastpitch Glove (Premium Option)

Highlighted Features

• Model: ProFlex 2017
• Sizes: 11.5 to 13 inches
• Web: Basket
• Hand Orientation: Left and Right 
• Break-in: 80-90%

From 12-year-old to adult women outfielders, this ProFlex meets everyone’s requirements. Don’t expect anything like super-priced Wilson or Rawlings. But what you’re getting with this investment is incomparable. 

You don’t need to dig into the technical aspects. In a nutshell, it gives you the utmost palm protection while keeping it comfortable to catch and hold balls. 

The one I received wasn’t fitting my hands since I’ve little fingers. But with the help of the wrist strap, I managed to adjust it according to my comfort. 

Another thing that made me fall in love with this outfielder’s glove is the almost broken-in status. I went with it to the training ground to teach my fellows just the day I received it. 

The only thing it lacks is design availability. There’s only a black+gold color option available. So, for girlish color seekers, it’s a bad fortune. 

Benefits

• Came in almost broken-in completely
• Features adjustable wrist straps for customizing 
• PVC hybrid laminated shell for long-lasting support 
• Suitable for baseball, slowpitch and fastpitch softballs  

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

The basket web is good for outfielders, as mentioned earlier. However, if you don’t like this web, you may need to try something else as there’s no other option available. 

Franklin Sports Field Master Fastpitch Gloves (Budget Option)

Highlighted Features

• Model: Field Master 2017
• Sizes: 11 to 14 inches
• Web: Basket, Trapeze, I, etc. 
• Hand Orientation: Left and Right 
• Break-in: 80%

The Field Master isn’t only the best budget softball gloves, but it’s also the most sold gloves on Amazon, with over 19,000 positive ratings. These stats were enough to catch my attention in those days. 

I brought it home in 2018, and it’s still in mint condition. What more can you expect from a budget softball glove?

While using the gloves, the first thing you’ll notice is it’s game-ready break-in leather (however, it’s synthetic 🙂). You can use it for softball, baseball, and T-ball practices also. 

For outfielders, thumb adjustability is vital. Keeping that in mind, Franklin Sports made this glove with a contour-fitting design. Now, what this allows you is that you can loosen or tighten the thumb, which eventually adjusts the fittings of the overall web area.

And to give you the proper responsive feel, it’s designed with a hand-formed pocket, resulting in easy catching and easy movement.

Currently, the Field Master is available in 5 different colors. As they feature uni-sex traits, I recommend this for both boy and girl fastpitch players.

Benefits

• Extensive customization options for web and sizes
• 5 lucrative color and design combinations to choose from 
• Very efficiently priced and suitable for beginners and intermediaries
• Requires no time to break in the gloves with natural playtime 

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

I saw that some of the glove sizes are suggested for infielders. However, if the web style is suitable for you, along with the size, you can use them for outfielders, too. It’s maybe nothing but the generic side of writing flaws. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What size glove is best for girls’ softball?

Check out the table below to find the best-size gloves for girls’ softball players:

Position	Glove Size
Infield	11.5″-12.5″
Outfield	12.5″-13″
Catcher	32″-34″
Pitcher	11.5″-12.5″

Note: This is a general size chart. Depending on the actual size of your hand and fingers, you may need to choose bigger or smaller gloves. 

How do you pick a softball glove for a girl?

When choosing a softball glove for a girl, it’s crucial to prioritize proper sizing. Start by measuring from the tip of her index finger to the beginning of her wrist. 

Count the measurements in inches. And compare the sizes of the glove you’re gonna buy and pick the best match. 

Can I use a slow-pitch glove for fast-pitch softball?

You shouldn’t use the slow-pitch glove for fast-pitch softball, especially one for catchers, infielders, and pitchers. Unlike slowpitch, in fastpitch, ball actions and pace are rapid and create more impact. 

To tackle these, fastpitch gloves are made with more rigid craftsmanship and shock absorption ability. 

What’s the best fastpitch softball glove for infielders?

Franklin Sports Windmill Pro and the Wilson A2000 are two of the best fastpitch softball gloves for infielders. 

What size of gloves should an infielder wear?

A fastpitch softball infielder should wear anything between 11.5 inches and 12.5 inches. These sizes give a snug fit to players. Also, look for a Pro I or H web or anything that you feel comfortable with. 

Which brand offers the highest quality fastpitch softball gloves?

There are actually multiple brands that have reached that milestone. Among them, Rawlings, Wilson, Franklin Sports, Easton, and Mizuno are the best brands. 

What web design is best for fastpitch softball gloves?

It depends on the player’s position and preference. In general, infielders often prefer closed web designs such as I-Web or Modified T-Web. 

Outfielders typically opt for open web designs such as H-Web or Basket Web. And pitchers usually use closed web designs, such as Modified T-Web or Dual Post Web. These designs provide better ball concealment and prevent batters from seeing the grip on the ball.

What is the average price range for a good fastpitch softball glove?

The average range varies significantly from brand to brand and position to position. However, to get a good fielding glove, you should invest anything between $50 to $150.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, selecting the best fastpitch softball glove is essential for players in any position. By investing in the appropriate glove, you can enhance your performance and enjoy a comfortable and secure fit on the field.

So, make a wise decision and take your fastpitch softball game to the next level.