Glove – Slow-Pitch
Also known as: softball glove, fielding glove
A slow-pitch softball glove is sized for the larger 12-inch ball — typically 12 to 13.5 inches for infielders, up to 14 inches for outfielders — with a deeper, wider pocket than a baseball glove.
The larger ball requires a larger, deeper pocket and wider webbing. Outfield gloves trend toward 13–14 inches for range and security on fly balls; infield gloves (12–12.5 inches) are smaller for quick transfers during double plays. First-base mitts have extra padding for fielding hard-hit throws. Using a baseball glove for softball is legal in most recreational leagues but mechanically inefficient — the smaller pocket spits the ball more often on impact. Leather breaks in with use and proper conditioning; synthetic gloves are ready immediately but less durable.
Example
An infielder switches from a 12.5-inch to a 12-inch glove and discovers quicker hand-to-throwing-hand transfers on double-play feeds.
Related terms
- Ball SpecificationsStandard slow-pitch softball specifications call for a 12-inch circumference ball with a defined COR and compression rating. Men's and co-ed leagues commonly use a 12-inch ball; some senior and mixed leagues use an 11-inch ball.
- Defensive PositioningDefensive positioning is the pre-pitch alignment of all fielders based on the current hitter's tendencies, the game situation, the count, and the score.
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