1. Start With Your Position

Your playing position is one of the most important factors when choosing a fastpitch softball glove.

Infielders generally need control and quick transfers, while outfielders benefit from additional length and a deeper pocket. Pitchers, catchers and first basemen have their own specific requirements.

Infield Gloves

Fastpitch infielders generally use gloves that balance a secure pocket for the larger softball with enough control for quick transfers.

Typical sizes:

• Second Base: 11.5"–12"
• Shortstop: 11.5"–12"
• Third Base: 11.75"–12.5"

Middle infielders often prefer smaller gloves for faster transfers, while third basemen may choose a slightly larger glove with a deeper pocket for additional protection and security.

12" is one of the most versatile fastpitch infield glove sizes.

→ SHOP FASTPITCH INFIELD GLOVES

Outfield Gloves

Fastpitch outfielders generally use larger gloves with deeper pockets to provide additional reach and help secure fly balls.

Typical size:

• 12.5"–13"

The larger pocket is particularly important in softball because of the size of the ball.

12.5" and 12.75" are popular choices for fastpitch outfielders.

→ SHOP FASTPITCH OUTFIELD GLOVES

Pitcher's Gloves

Fastpitch pitchers commonly use gloves between:

• 11.75"–12.5"

Many pitchers prefer a closed web to help conceal their grip on the softball before delivering the pitch.

A slightly larger pocket can also provide enough space to comfortably control the ball inside the glove.

Always check the regulations of your league or competition regarding glove colors and designs.

→ SHOP FASTPITCH PITCHER'S GLOVES

First Base Mitts

Fastpitch first basemen use dedicated mitts designed to accommodate the larger softball.

Typical size:

• 12.5"–13"

The long, curved shape and deep pocket help secure throws from infielders and provide additional reach around first base.

→ SHOP FASTPITCH FIRST BASE MITTS

Catcher's Mitts

Fastpitch catchers use specialized mitts designed specifically for the size of a softball and the demands of the position.

Typical size:

• 32.5"–35"

Fastpitch catcher's mitts feature deep pockets, reinforced construction and additional padding to handle repeated pitches.

They may also have hand openings and internal patterns designed specifically for female players.

→ SHOP FASTPITCH CATCHER'S MITTS

2. Fastpitch Softball Glove Size Chart

Use this chart as a general starting point.

These ranges are general recommendations rather than strict rules.

Personal preference, hand size, age and level of play can all influence the ideal glove size.

3. Fastpitch Softball Glove Size by Age

For younger players, choosing a glove that fits the hand properly and can be easily controlled is especially important.

These sizes are only a starting point.

Two players of the same age may need different gloves depending on their hand size, position, strength and experience.

For younger players, avoid choosing an oversized glove simply because they may "grow into it." A glove that is too large or difficult to close can make learning to catch significantly harder.

4. Youth vs Adult Fastpitch Softball Gloves

A youth fastpitch glove isn't simply a smaller version of an adult glove.

Youth models are designed around smaller hands and generally feature:

• smaller hand openings
• narrower finger stalls
• shorter finger stalls
• lighter construction
• softer materials
• easier glove closure

These features help younger players maintain better control of the glove.

A 12" youth fastpitch glove and a 12" adult glove can feel completely different, even though their listed size is identical.

As players grow and develop more hand strength, they can transition to larger and more structured gloves.

5. What Is a Female-Specific Fastpitch Fit?

One of the biggest differences between dedicated fastpitch gloves and many traditional baseball gloves is the internal fit.

Fastpitch gloves are often designed specifically around the proportions of a female hand.

Depending on the manufacturer and model, this may include:

• smaller wrist openings
• narrower finger stalls
• adjusted finger lengths
• tighter hand openings
• different internal patterns

The result is a glove that sits more securely on the hand and provides better control.

This is particularly important with larger 12", 12.5" and 13" gloves. A large glove with an oversized hand opening can be difficult to control even if its overall length is appropriate for the player's position.

6. RHT vs LHT – Which Softball Glove Do I Need?

The RHT/LHT designation works exactly the same way for softball as it does for baseball.

RHT – Right Hand Throw

RHT means the player throws with their right hand.

The glove is worn on the left hand.

If you throw a softball with your right hand, choose RHT.

LHT – Left Hand Throw

LHT means the player throws with their left hand.

The glove is worn on the right hand.

If you throw with your left hand, choose LHT.

Remember: RHT and LHT describe the throwing hand, not the hand wearing the glove.

→ SHOP LHT FASTPITCH GLOVES

7. Does Hand Size Matter?

Yes – particularly when choosing a fastpitch glove.

However, hand size and glove size are not the same thing.

A 12" glove refers to the measured size of the glove itself. It does not mean that it corresponds to a particular hand measurement.

Two 12" gloves can have very different:

• wrist openings
• finger stall widths
• finger lengths
• internal patterns

A player with smaller hands may therefore find one 12" glove comfortable and another difficult to control.

This is why both glove size and glove fit should be considered.

8. How to Measure Your Hand for a Fastpitch Glove

Hand measurements can help determine whether a youth, narrow or standard fit is most appropriate.

Measuring Hand Length

1. Open your catching hand with your fingers straight.
2. Measure from the base of your palm to the tip of your middle finger.
3. Record the measurement in centimeters or inches.

Measuring Hand Circumference

1. Keep your hand open naturally.
2. Wrap a flexible measuring tape around the widest part of your palm, below the knuckles.
3. Do not include the thumb.
4. Keep the tape comfortably snug without pulling it tight.

These measurements are useful for comparing hand fit, but there is no universal hand measurement that directly corresponds to a particular softball glove size.

Fit varies between brands, glove families and individual patterns.

9. Understanding Fastpitch Glove Fit

Two gloves with the same listed size may feel very different on the hand.

When comparing fastpitch gloves, consider:

Hand Opening

A smaller hand opening helps keep the glove secure and prevents excessive movement during play.

Finger Stalls

Narrower finger stalls can provide better control for players with smaller hands.

Wrist Adjustment

Many fastpitch gloves offer adjustable wrist closures that allow players to customize the fit.

Depending on the model, this may include Velcro-style straps, adjustable leather systems or other wrist adjustments.

Glove Pattern

The internal pattern influences how the glove closes, where the pocket forms and how it feels on the hand.

This is why trying to choose a glove based only on its listed size doesn't always tell the whole story.

10. Fastpitch Softball Glove Web Types

Web style affects pocket shape, visibility, structure and how the glove performs at different positions.

I-Web

Common among middle infielders.

It provides an open design and works well for players who want relatively quick ball transfers.

Best for: Second Base, Shortstop

H-Web

A versatile web that provides structure while maintaining visibility through the glove.

Best for: Third Base, Outfield

Basket / Closed Web

Closed designs provide a deep, secure pocket and help conceal the ball.

Best for: Pitcher, Utility

Modified Trap Web

A versatile design that can provide a good combination of pocket depth and structure.

Best for: Infield, Pitcher, Utility

Trapeze Web

Often found on larger outfield gloves and designed to provide a deep pocket and additional reach.

Best for: Outfield

Position is important when choosing a web, but personal preference also plays a significant role.

11. Fastpitch Softball Glove Leather and Materials

The material used in a glove affects its weight, structure, durability, feel and break-in time.

Synthetic Materials

Synthetic gloves are typically:

• lightweight
• affordable
• easy to close
• ready to play quickly

They are particularly useful for young beginners who need a glove they can control easily.

Soft Leather

Entry-level leather gloves offer a traditional feel while remaining relatively easy to break in.

They can be an excellent choice for recreational and developing players.

Premium Leather

Higher-level fastpitch gloves use stronger leather designed to maintain its shape through regular training and competition.

Premium leather gloves generally require more break-in but provide better structure, durability and long-term performance.

Kip and Other Premium Leathers

High-end gloves may use kip or other premium leather selections to combine structure, durability and relatively low weight.

These gloves are particularly suited to experienced competitive players who know what type of pocket and glove shape they prefer.

12. How Much Should You Spend on a Fastpitch Glove?

The most expensive glove isn't necessarily the best choice for every player.

Beginner / Young Player

Prioritize:

• easy closure
• secure fit
• lightweight construction
• softer materials
• minimal break-in

A glove the player can actually close and control is more useful than an expensive professional-level glove that is too stiff.

Developing / Intermediate Player

As players train and compete more frequently, investing in higher-quality leather becomes more worthwhile.

Better gloves generally provide improved structure, durability and feel.

Competitive / Advanced Player

Experienced fastpitch players often benefit from premium gloves designed specifically for their position and hand fit.

At this level, factors such as pattern, pocket depth, closure, leather quality and web style become increasingly important.

13. Do Fastpitch Gloves Need to Be Broken In?

Most high-quality leather fastpitch gloves require some break-in.

Premium gloves may feel relatively stiff when new because the leather needs time to form around the player's hand and develop the desired pocket.

A good approach is to:

• play catch regularly
• work a softball into the pocket
• flex the glove naturally
• gradually shape the pocket
• use a small amount of appropriate glove conditioner only when necessary

Avoid excessive heat, soaking the glove or other extreme break-in methods that can damage the leather.

Youth and entry-level gloves are generally much softer and may require very little break-in.

14. Baseball vs Fastpitch Softball Gloves

Baseball and fastpitch gloves may look similar, but there are several important differences.

A softball is larger than a baseball, so fastpitch gloves generally feature:

• deeper pockets
• larger patterns
• designs that accommodate a larger ball
• hand openings and finger stalls often designed for female players

For example, a baseball infielder may commonly use an 11.5" glove, while a fastpitch infielder will often choose a 12" glove.

Can You Use a Baseball Glove for Softball?

Yes, in some situations – especially for younger or recreational players – but it may not provide the ideal pocket or fit.

Players who regularly compete in fastpitch softball will generally benefit from a dedicated fastpitch glove designed around the larger ball and the specific demands of the sport.

Quick Fastpitch Softball Glove Buying Checklist

Before ordering your glove, check:

✓ Position – Infield, Outfield, Pitcher, Catcher or First Base?

✓ Size – Is the glove suitable for your position and age?

✓ Throwing Hand – RHT or LHT?

✓ Fit – Does the glove have the right hand opening and finger stalls?

✓ Youth or Adult – Is the internal fit appropriate for the player's hand?

✓ Material – Do you need an easy-to-close glove or premium leather?

✓ Web Style – Does it suit your position and preference?

✓ Level of Play – Beginner, developing or competitive player?

Getting these factors right will make it much easier to narrow down your options.

FAQ About Fastpitch Softball Gloves

What size fastpitch softball glove should I get?

The right size depends primarily on your position, age and hand size.

Adult and older youth infielders commonly use gloves around 11.5"–12.5", while outfielders generally prefer 12.5"–13" gloves. Pitchers commonly use approximately 11.75"–12.5".

What is the most common fastpitch softball glove size?

12" is one of the most versatile fastpitch glove sizes, particularly for infield and utility players.

Outfielders generally prefer larger models such as 12.5", 12.75" or 13".

Is a 12" glove good for fastpitch softball?

Yes. A 12" glove is a very popular and versatile option for fastpitch players, particularly infielders, pitchers and utility players.

Whether it is right for you depends on your position, hand size and personal preference.

Is a 12.5" glove too big for fastpitch infield?

Not necessarily.

A 12.5" glove can work well at third base or for utility players who prefer a deeper pocket. Middle infielders often prefer slightly smaller gloves for faster transfers.

What size softball glove should a child use?

It depends on age, hand size, strength and position.

Younger players commonly use gloves between approximately 9" and 11.5", while older youth players may use 11.5"–12.5" or larger depending on position.

The most important thing is that the player can comfortably close and control the glove.

Are fastpitch gloves different from baseball gloves?

Yes.

Fastpitch gloves are designed around a larger ball and often have deeper pockets and different patterns. Many also feature hand openings and finger stalls specifically designed for female players.

Can I use a baseball glove for fastpitch softball?

You can, particularly at recreational level, but a dedicated fastpitch glove will generally provide a more appropriate pocket for the larger softball and may offer a better hand fit.

Which hand does a softball glove go on?

The glove is worn on your non-throwing hand.

Right-handed throwers wear the glove on their left hand and need RHT.

Left-handed throwers wear the glove on their right hand and need LHT.

What is the difference between an infield and outfield softball glove?

Infield gloves are generally smaller to provide greater control and faster transfers.

Outfield gloves are larger and have deeper pockets to provide additional reach and help secure fly balls.

Can I use the same fastpitch glove for multiple positions?

Yes, especially for younger players and utility players.

A versatile 12" or 12.5" glove can often work across several positions. As players become more specialized and competitive, position-specific gloves become more beneficial.

Catchers and first basemen should use dedicated mitts designed for their positions.

How long does a good fastpitch glove last?

A high-quality leather fastpitch glove can last for many seasons when properly maintained.

Its lifespan depends on leather quality, frequency of use, playing conditions and how well the glove is cared for.

Still Not Sure Which Fastpitch Glove to Choose?

Choosing between different sizes, patterns and fits can be difficult – especially when buying a first glove for a young player.

At BaseballOutlet, we offer fastpitch softball gloves for different ages, positions and levels of play – from beginner-friendly youth gloves to premium models for competitive players.

If you're unsure which model to choose, contact us and tell us the player's age, position, throwing hand and approximate hand size. We'll be happy to help you find the right fastpitch glove.

→ SHOP FASTPITCH SOFTBALL GLOVES

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