The right baseball glove can make all the difference but choosing the right glove for you can be a daunting task. To help simplify things, we created a guide that takes you through the steps to find the perfect glove for your position and needs.
First off, you need to know the basic anatomy of a baseball glove. There are five main parts that make up a traditional glove, starting with the webbing. The web of a glove sits between your thumb and pointer finger, creating a deep pocket to help secure the ball on catch. Next is the lacing that connects the finger pockets together. Check the material of the laces and make sure it matches up with the overall material of your glove, so both will break-in and form to your hand during the same timeframe. The hinge of a glove is also very important when breaking in your new glove. The hinge is usually found near the base of you little finger pad and is the flexible part that helps you open and close the glove quickly. Located next to the hinge is the heel of the glove. The heel is the very bottom portion of the glove that provides padding to protect your wrist when fielding nasty grounders. Lastly, you have the palm of the glove, which, you guessed it, protects the palm of you hand when securing a ball that you couldn’t quite snag in the webbing of your pocket.
Another confusing aspect of buying a baseball glove is what materials you want your glove to be made from. Baseball gloves come in a variety of different leathers that all sound similar but provide different benefits. For example, most gloves are made from some sort of leather, but depending on the type and cut, gloves will take more or less time to break-in and reach peak performance. The baseline material for gloves is cowhide. Cowhide is great for younger players who are just starting out, because it offers a quicker break-in, but also wears out faster than higher-quality leather gloves. A step above cowhide leather is steerhide. Steerhide is a bit stronger, stiffer, and heavier than cowhide, offering a tougher break-in, but better performance once broken in. Finally, most professional glove models use premium, full-grain leather. This type of leather will be more expensive and will take the longest to break-in but it provides extreme durability and its trusted at the highest level of the game.
After you select your glove material, you should take a look at the webbing options your glove has to offer. A glove’s web is very beneficial based on your position and style of play. Below we’ve outlined the different types of webs available and the advantages to using each.
Fielders
Cross: The cross web is simple, yet effective. Utilized by infielders and outfielders alike, this web features one vertical leather strip and two horizontal strips, creating a flexible feel. Also known as the Single Post web, it creates maximum visibility when catching the ball.
H-Web: True to it’s name, the strips of leather in this web form the shape of an “H”. The H-Web is used by outfielders and infielders alike because of the sturdier base and unmatched visibility. Some brands also refer to this style as a Dual Post Web.
I-Web: As an iteration of the cross web, the I-webbing features a large leather post in the shape of an “I”. This pattern is used exclusively by infielders and helps snag grounders without catching a bunch of dirt and debris with the ball. Some brands also refer to this webbing style as an H-Web, but is predominately called an I-Web.
Modified Trap: The modified trap web is usually used by pitchers and infielders because of its deep pocket combined with a small section of leather to add stability for ground balls.
Trapeze: This webbing is great for outfielders who spend a lot of time catching fly balls. The thin leather strap features interlaced lacing on both sides, allowing for a deeper pocket.
Two-piece: The two-piece web is a great option for pitchers because it allows them to conceal the ball from the batter. The solid pocket creates a heavier feel but its extremely durable, preventing wear and tear.
Catchers
Half Moon: The half moon catcher’s web is designed for flexibility. The pattern uses two large leather pieces that are laced together to create a secure pocket and easier close.
One-piece: The traditional one-piece catcher’s web uses lacing around the edges to create a tight pocket that’s shallow enough for a quick transfer and release of the ball.
First Basemen
Modified H-Web: The modified H-Web is made for first basemen because of its extra leather strip on the top of the glove that helps expands catch radius for easier scoops and fielding at first base.
Single Post Double Bar: Much like the infielders’ cross pattern, the single post double bar pattern creates more visibility for catching throws at first base.
7-on-7 football is growing at a rapid rate year after year. Thanks to its fast-paced play and high-scoring nature, it’s a great way for skill position players to keep improving as they prep for their fall sports season. A major perk that comes with playing 7-on-7 is the gear — most leagues allow athletes to wear flashier cleats, gloves, and clothing than they’re allowed during the fall football season. So what gear will help you stand out this year? We turned to arena football corner and YT star I Know Football for his expert picks on this season’s top 7 on 7 football gear.
“These are my more serious, performance cleats. If I want to play the best of the best, no holds barred, I’m definitely going to be rocking these. They have my favorite traction.”
“If you like Cutters and love that Cutters’ grip, these are perfect. They are machine washable and that grip is actually built into the glove material, so you’ll have some great durability.”
“You’ve got padding in the Achilles area here too, but you have some gripped ribbing at the bottom. If you wear cleats with NikeGrip tech, this gripped ribbing works in perfect sync with those cleats.”
“These have minimal branding so you can wear them with any other brand of cleat. Double-cushioned in the forefoot and left-to-right specific to give you that support in the midfoot.”
“The 1003 is real leather with a pebbled grip for quarterbacks. It’s the only football that has stitched-on laces. That makes it easier to throw and catch the ball.”
“The 1780 is at a lower price point than the 1003, but has a lot of the same technology and features. It still has those pebbled laces and is still very tacky.”
“This is a fan favorite for a lot of people. There are plenty of different designs. It’s also pretty inexpensive, and it’s not a boil-and-bite. So you can use it right away.”
Basketball season is right around the corner. Months of workouts, pickup games, and shoot arounds are finally about to pay off when you step onto the court for the 2016-17 season. You’ve put in the work to be successful this year, and now it’s time to make it happen.
The best players need the best gear. Make sure this season is your best season with gear that allows you to look, feel, and play great.
The Hyperdunk is one of the most trusted performance basketball shoes in recent years and for good reason. It provides the support you need on the court with technology that’s geared toward reaching your peak performance. A Zoom Air unit allows for low-profile responsiveness while Phylon foam cushions for a soft ride. Flywire cables integrate with the laces for a locked-down midfoot with comfortable support around the ankle. Take your game to the next level this season with the Hyperdunk.
You can’t go wrong with a shoe from one of the best players to ever play the game. Kobe Bryant may have moved on from playing the game, but his shoes are still geared toward performance basketball. The Nike Flyknit is stronger, lighter, and more flexible than ever before, providing maximum support and comfort during your quickest moves. The classic low-top look is also equipped with Lunarlon foam to deliver soft and responsive shock absorption, allowing your athleticism to really shine. Choose from six Eastbay-exclusive Kobe 11 colorways!
Hit the court with the ultimate tank top for basketball players. It comes with the classic Nike Swoosh, providing some signature style, but it’s also ready to maximize your performance. Made with Dri-FIT technology, the top helps keep you cool and dry even during your hardest workouts. The Nike Elite Top comes in five different colors, so you’ll be sure to find one that fits your style. Nike women’s basketball products have been the go-to gear for some of the best female players in the game, like Elena Delle Donne and Nneka Ogwumike. You’ll be practicing in the same clothes that some of the best players in the game use.
The Nike Elite Shorts are geared toward athletic performance with a Dri-FIT fabric that will help you stay dry all day long. No matter what practices and workouts throw at you, the Nike Elite Shorts will keep you dry, comfortable, and moving forward.
You’re busier than ever during the season. You’ll be running between school, practices, games, and the weight room constantly. The Nike Elite Backpack is perfect for helping you get around with all the gear you need to be successful on the court and in the classroom. Make sure you’re packed up and ready to go with everything you need day in and day out. The Nike Quad Zip System allows for easy access from all angles, so you can get what you need quickly, no matter what.
Elite athletes are always versatile. The Nike Elite Versatility Sock emphasizes comfort so that your versatility can shine. The classic look is one of the most popular on-court sock looks in the game, and the functionality holds up, too. Comfort and style make this sock a must-have – and with over 25 colors available, you’ll have plenty of options.
Always come up big in clutch situations with the Clutchfit Drive 3. Whether it’s game-winning shots or big-time defensive stops, the Clutchfit Drive 3 can help you get the job done. It’s engineered women’s fit includes heel padding, and it is designed specifically to support a more narrow foot structure. It’s lacing system provides a tight, locked-in fit, while also being comfortable. Charged Cushioning converts energy-absorbing impact into cushioned response, so you’re explosiveness can shine on the court.
Built for mid-impact support, this bra will keep you moving forward on the court, in practice, or in the weight room. HeatGear wicks sweat away to help keep you dry, and 4-way stretch allows for improved mobility. For more sports bra options, check out our guide here.
The Wilson Evolution Basketball was created for premier performance with technologically advanced composite leather. The ball has a great feel and provides the perfect amount of grip while playing. It comes in the standard size and weight for women’s basketball, and will handle everything from practices to games.
Looking for a new fielding glove or mitt? Why not check out the massive selection of player edition gloves that Eastbay has to offer? Let’s run through some of this year’s top options:
Wilson A2000 YP66 Fielder’s Glove: Yasiel Puig (OF)
LA’s Yasiel Puig is one of baseball’s most exciting outfielders. Time and time again, he makes incredible diving catches to rob hitters of extra bases. To help him makes those web gems, Yasiel wears the Wilson A2000 YP66 glove. It is made from Pro Stock Leather to give him the elite break-in and durability he needs.
Wilson A2000 MC24 First Base Mitt: Miguel Cabrera (1B)
From a larger size to help scoop up low throws to extra padding for repeated use, it takes more than a glove to be a first baseman. You need a mitt. So what one does future Hall-of-Famer Miguel Cabrera use? He wears the A2000 MC24 First Base Mitt. It features Super Skin material, which is twice as strong as cowhide leather and only half the weight. If it works great for ‘Miggy,’ it’ll work great for you.
Wilson A2000 CK22 Fielder’s Glove: Clayton Kershaw (P)
A glove built for a pitcher needs a closed web to help conceal your pitches and a durable design to handle those screaming line drives. That’s why three-time Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw wears the A2000 CK22 glove. A dual-welted, pre-curved finger design retains the glove’s shape and Dri-Lex material lines the wrist to keep your hands dry.
Rawlings Heart of the Hide Catcher’s Mitt: Salvador Perez (C)
Three consecutive Gold Glove awards. A 2015 World Series MVP. No catcher has been better behind the plate the last few years than KC’s Salvador Perez, and the Rawlings Heart of the Hide Catcher’s Mitt is his secret weapon. With USA-tanned leather to withstand 95 mph fastballs, he can count on it to last and stay comfortable even if the game goes to extra innings.
Rawlings Heart of the Hide Fielder’s Glove: Adrian Beltre (3B)
Few players have had as productive of a career both offensively and defensively as third baseman Adrian Beltre. When he lines up at the hot corner there is only one glove he trusts: The Rawlings Heart of the Hide. Lined with deer-tanned cowhide, it gives him the long-lasting performance and comfort he needs. So should you gear up like him? Well, he does have four Gold Glove awards, so yes. Yes, you should.
Mizuno Global Elite VOP Fielder’s Glove: Ian Desmond (SS)
As a shortstop or second baseman, you can turn the tides in your favor by turning a double play or end your team’s hopes with an errant throw. Your glove needs to fit great, last a long time, and provide zero distractions. That’s why shortstops like Ian Desmond use gloves like the Mizuno Global Elite VOP. A rugged polyurethane patch protects the glove from normal wear and tear and an antimicrobial cushioned wrist pad keeps Ian comfortable.
Nike Vapor 360 Flywire Fielder’s Glove: Carlos Gonzalez (OF)
If you are looking for an outfield glove with a flashy look and innovative design, look no further than the Nike Vapor 360 Flywire. Worn by Colorado’s Carlos Gonzalez, a three-time Gold Glove winner, this glove backs up its bold style with lots of cutting edge technology. Flywire technology is featured in the FlyTune lacing system for a personalized shape while the Hyperfuse construction fuses together layers of synthetic materials to make the glove incredibly lightweight and responsive.
But here’s the crazy part: we haven’t even began to scratch the surface of our collection of gloves! No one has more game-day options than Eastbay. From Evan Longoria, to Brandon Crawford, there’s a good chance we have the style you’re looking for.
Being anything like San Francisco Giants closer Brian Wilson seems like a lofty task to take on, but a good place to start would be his primary weapon of choice, the Wilson A2000 BW38 Fielder’s Glove. Marking the 55th year of the A2000 series, the BW38 glove is constructed with famous Pro Stock leather with double welting to provide the most durable pocket available. A highly-breathable Dri-Lex wrist lining transfers moisture from the skin, ensuring that your hand stays cool and dry. The glove measures at 11.75″ and features an exclusive 3X Web and open back.
The Wilson A2000 BW38 is now available in a special orange color that was worn by Wilson when he closed out a win for the National League in this year’s MLB All-Star Game. Contrasting black accents appear on the webbing, piping and additional details throughout. You can pre-order the baseball glove today with an expected ship date of December 1st.
