Introduction
Baseball and softball both are the same in many things like gear, rules, and position. But there are many differences between them, as the size of the ball is bigger for softball than baseball. That is why the gloves and webbings are also more prominent in softball for catching. This difference makes it easy to understand different pitching styles. But when it comes to batting baseball or softball gloves, then there is no difference.
In the beginning, the players catch the softball with a boxing glove. However, it underwent various changes, and in 1920use the substantial padding for protecting players. It goes on and comes with the addition of lacing and webbings. Now there are a large number of features found in the gloves for every position of the field. There can be plenty of choices so that you might be in confusion. But this article will guide you in purchasing the right pair of softball and baseball gloves. Let’s get started.
Why Wearing Gloves while Batting?
When a player wears the right pair of gloves while playing baseball or softball, it gives a complete grip on the bat and decreases perspiration. With an excellent grasp on the bat, the players can make a dominant position by increasing results on the plate. The gloves are also perfect for the protection of the player that can restrict the blister to develop, and the player feels less or no vibrations when they hit the ball. Furthermore, it can be beneficial while running bases.
Sizing
It is essential to pick the right size of gloves because the loose gloves might show your flexible performance, and the tight gloves might restrict you from hitting successfully. The size depends upon the length of your hands. You can measure the length of your hand, starting from your palm base to the upper tip of your middle finger. If your hand length is 6.5 inches, you should picture small if you are a man, medium in case you are a woman, and XL for young.
The design gloves are specifically for the player that can easily fit in the woman’s hands. You have to choose the right batting glove that is comfortable and snug. Be sure to neither take tight nor too loose gloves.
Material
There are two types of material used in baseball and softball batting gloves: leather and synthetic. Both materials have distinguishing features.
The leather material might be more comfortable and provide an excellent grip than synthetic batting gloves. However, synthetic batting gloves might be more significant than leather gloves in terms of flexibility and comfort. And the synthetic batting gloves can easily clean.
The leather gloves give a classic feel and are more rugged, but the synthetic gloves pick by most of the players due to their stretching features. Some manufacturers make gloves with both the material like they make palms with leather material and fingers with synthetic material. So it increases strength. Along with right pair of gloves, make sure you also wear the right pair of baseball/softball cleats.
Added Features
There are plenty of gloves available in the market with excellent added features. Some gloves come with an articulated thumb that adds mobility to the glove. The pre-curved fingers allow you to bend your fingers without efficiently gathering the fabric under knuckles. The gloves also come with extra padding to absorb vibrations.
