October 7, 2010 – Buying a new softball mitt or glove is more difficult than, say, buying a new basketball. Basketballs come in standard weight and size, but softball mitts have to fit the size and shape of your hand snugly, among many other considerations.
If you were to go shopping for a new softball mitt, what are the things that you need to keep in mind to make sure that you buy exactly what you need? First, you need to remember that no mitt is exactly the same as the other. Mitt styles differ according to the position that the user plays in the field. For example, pitchers need a different style of mitts than catchers, who need a style different from short stops.
Another consideration is the material of the mitts. The two most common materials are leather and synthetic. If you are looking for a durable pair of mitts, leather is most probably your best bet. But if you are looking for a cheaper alternative to leather, you can try the synthetic ones as well.
The next tip has to do with fitting the mitts. When you try on a mitt, you will know that it is the perfect size if your hand fits right into it. Once inside, your hand should have enough breathing space without feeling too airy.
You also need to consider the type of design that you are most comfortable with. Mitts typically come in two basic types: the open web and the closed web. Open web mitts are those that allow you to see all the way through when the palm is open. They are best for infielders as well as a few outfielders. On the other hand, closed web mitts are those that hide the ball from the hitter, and are therefore best for pitchers as well as many outfielders.