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Best Baseball Gloves for All Positions

  1. Rawlings Heart of the Hide Baseball Glove
  2. All Star Pro Elite Catcher's Mitt Baseball Glove
  3. Wilson A500 Youth Baseball Glove
  4. Mizuno Franchise Baseball Glove
  5. Shoeless Joe Gloves Brown Catcher's Mitt, 34"
  6. Rawlings Sure Catch Youth Baseball Glove
  7. Rawlings Prodigy Series Youth Baseball Glove
  8. Mizuno Classic Pro Soft GCP79S Outfielder Glove
  9. NOKONA Handcrafted Walnut Baseball Glove
  10. Louisville Slugger 2019 Genesis Baseball Glove
  11. Mizuno GMP600 Pro Limited Edition Baseball Fielders Mitt
  12. WIlson A2000 Dustin Pedroia Baseball Glove 11.5"
  13. Louisville Slugger Pro Flare Baseball Infielders Glove 11.75"
  14. Wilson A2000 Infield Baseball Glove 11.25"
  15. Rawlings Primo 13-Inch First Baseman's Mitt
  16. Wilson Prostock A2000 1613 12.25-Inch First Baseman's Baseball Glove (Left Hand Throw)
  17. Louisville Slugger 13" Omaha Pro First Base Mitt
  18. Rawlings Pro Preferred PROSFMMO 13" First Base Glove
  19. Easton Professional Series 12.75" First Base Mitt EPG36BW
  20. Buyer's Guide

With the extremely large selection of baseball gloves available today, it can be time-consuming and a bit confusing to purchase the right glove for you or your kid. Here’s a quick breakdown of details to help you find the best baseball glove in 2022:

* Position: There have been specialized gloves for catchers and first basemen, but today that specialization goes much further. In addition to catchers and first basemen, you can buy gloves for middle infielders, pitchers, third basemen, and outfielders. For the casual youth player, one basic infield glove will do the trick, but as you move up in play, you will probably need a glove specific to your position. Some players may need two or more gloves, depending on how many potential positions they may play.

* Size: Smaller gloves are preferred by infielders and larger gloves are preferred by outfielders. The size of the glove also depends on the player's size. Getting the most comfortable size is the most important consideration.

* Open back versus closed back: This is merely a matter of personal taste and feel, though open back gloves may be a bit cooler in hot weather.

* Web design: This is also a matter of personal preference as there are many different designs to choose from.

* Quality: This depends on the level of play, the seriousness of the player, and the size of your wallet! Cheap gloves can be uncomfortable and difficult to break in. You should expect to pay over $50 for a quality glove. Serious players and high school athletes will be spending close to $200 or more to get good quality for their level of play. Get the best glove you can afford if you are a serious player - gloves do make a difference in the field.

By keeping these details in mind, you're much more likely to find the perfect glove for your game. Below, we've listed our top products of this year that are bound to meet your specifications. And, our buyer's guide is here to further help you with your purchase.

The Best Baseball Gloves of 2022 in Detail

Rawlings Heart of the Hide Baseball Glove - Best Baseball Gloves Overall

This finely crafted Primo glove is the hands down the best choice for players on the cusp of greatness, and those already there. Using European full-grain leather, the tight grain structure allows for a stunning appearance. Two layers of fantastic leather work create a pocket built for top performance, providing durability and comfort. Strategically placed break points allow the glove to close exactly when you need it, something worth its weight in gold for a catcher.

100 percent wool padding adds an extra layer of cushion, thus providing comfort without sacrificing function. The glove also undergoes an intensive hot-stuffed injection treatment that repels water and ensures durability. This glove was made to last without making sacrifices.

All Star Pro Elite Catcher's Mitt Baseball Glove - Runner Up

This might be one of the finest catcher's mitts out there and one of the most popular mitts used in the Major Leagues. Designed for the serious ballplayer, this top of the line glove features Japanese tanned steer hide so this glove is durable and made to last along with a quick break-in time. The soft, cavernous pocket protects the catcher's hand but also gives a great pop which is something most pitcher's love to hear. The backing is just the right amount of support to handle a 90 mph fastball, and the pocket is designed for both strength and support. Individually handmade, each glove is unique and fantastic with quality being of the utmost importance.

Wilson A500 Youth Baseball Glove - Honorable Mention

Easily the most popular of all the catcher's mitts Wilson makes, the A2K 1791 features an extended palm to ensure the ball sticks, meaning fewer pass balls along with a significantly wider web and a stiff thumb, ensuring durability and strength. The Wilson Dri-lex lining takes moisture away from the wrist, keeping the player cool, even during the hottest outings. Once you're through the quick break-in time, you're good to go with this long lasting glove that will survive season after season.

Mizuno Franchise Baseball Glove - Consider

With the ParaShock and PalmSoft technologies within this glove, it's clear every precaution has been taken to protect a layer's hand, no matter how fast the ball is coming in. The ParaShock palm pad absorbs the shock of repeated use providing outstanding protection with ideal comfort. The PalmSoft incorporates increased comfort and feel. Made out of pre-oiled, Java leather, this glove barely needs any breaking in and should last as many seasons as you need it to.

At a much more affordable price, you get a lot of glove for not quite as much money with the GXC93 Catcher's Mitt. Using what they call "Pocket2 Technology", Mizuno has increased the pocket, or catching area, by 32 percent over previous models. This makes sitting behind the plate and catching balls easier with even more control.

Shoeless Joe Gloves Brown Catcher's Mitt, 34" - Best Catcher's Mitt

The Shoeless Joe catcher's mitt is individually hand-cut and sewn from specially aged antique tobacco leather hides and then hand-rubbed to soften the leather. After a rigorous breaking-in process, this glove is game-ready. With a 34 inch circumference, you'll be hard pressed to find a catcher with a pas ball on the score sheet. This glove features a wrist protector which ensures comfort and safety for a player. This is an old school glove and will make a player feel unique and original. A great pick at a decent price.

Rawlings Sure Catch Youth Baseball Glove - Best Outfielder Glove

The Rawlings Primo Series glove is a top of the line glove. From minor leagues to the pros, this is the glove you want if you're trying to be a successful outfielder. European full-grain leather allows for a flawless appearance and this material produces the highest quality of glove. The exquisite Italian leather materials and stitching provides both durability and comfort. A layer of Italian calf lining creates a very smooth feel unlike any other, 100 percent wool padding adds another layer of cushioning, it’s an example of comfort without loss of functionality. The leather undergoes an intense hot-stuffed injection treatment which allows it to repel water and ensure durability, something worth its weight in gold for a glove.

Rawlings Prodigy Series Youth Baseball Glove - Best Outfielder Glove

The Rawlings Pro Preferred line is an elite line of gloves and while specified as an infielder’s glove, this model is suitable for outfield playing positions, as well. The sheepskin pals lining wicks away sweat from the hand, allowing the player to be more comfortable without loss of functionality. Made from supple and durable kip leather that’s aesthetically pleasing, the Pro preferred series is the glove for the serious baseball player. This glove will break in fast and easy, something important to any ballplayer and with 100 percent wool padding it’s ensured to be long-lasting. Used by a number of Major Leaguers, it's safe to say if you want a professional's glove, this is it.

Mizuno Classic Pro Soft GCP79S Outfielder Glove - Best Outfielder Glove

The Mizuno's Classic Pro offers the best in craftsmanship, fit, and performance making it a glove good enough for the Pros. The throwback style leather is rugged and naturally pre-oiled allowing it to keep its shape over time as well as many rigorous baseball seasons. Every Classic Pro features an ultra soft palm and roll welting which helps increase structure and support throughout the fingers for long-lasting durability, year after year. Each Mizuno Pro ball glove is handcrafted to the highest quality control standards by certified Mizuno Glove Technicians in Mizuno's factory in China supervised by master craftsmen. You'd be hard pressed to find a better glove at this price.

NOKONA Handcrafted Walnut Baseball Glove - Best Outfielder Glove

This glove is Nokona’s highest-performance, ready-for-play glove. This is the glove for the player that wants to play at the highest level of performance. Each glove is made from some combination of Nokona’s own Stampede Steerhide, Kangaroo Leather, and the Nolera Composite Padding System. Nolera Composite Padding provides a lighter glove, which aids in play. This American glove, made from durable materials with a Major League look to it is sure to last for seasons to come, and while pricey, is worth every penny. Not to mention, it looks pretty darn cool.

Louisville Slugger 2019 Genesis Baseball Glove - Best Outfielder Glove

At a much more affordable price point, the Louisville Slugger Omaha Flare Series glove is the perfect glove for any experience level of player. The Flare design utilizes an outward bend of the top of the thumb and pinky fingers to create a larger catching surface. These gloves are made by using top grade, oil-treated steerhide leather for an outstanding feel and toughness in the glove.

The game-ready leather allows for a fast break-in time and the flare design helps to transfer the ball quickly from glove to hand. From a durability standpoint, its extra wide dye-through lacing will keep this glove together for season after season. Also, thanks to Louisville Slugger's patented Bruise-Gard padding, this glove takes the sting out of hard hit balls and throws. Comfort, performance, and durability, this glove has it all.

Mizuno GMP600 Pro Limited Edition Baseball Fielders Mitt - Best Infielder Glove

This is arguably Mizuno's best glove, made from Japanese tanned Deguchi leather which is flexible, soft and extremely durable. Mizuno uses what they call 4D Advanced Technology which allows the glove to stay strong while permitting the fingers to move freely. This is important for keeping hands and wrists light and moving, allowing players to be prepared for whatever is hit their way.

Mizuno also prides itself on feedback from the pros using their glove, including Juan Pierre, Scott Rolen, Alfonso Soriano, Clint Barmes, Brandon Wood, Matt Cain and Ichiro Suzuki. If it's been given the okay by these guys, it should be okay for you. At around $500 dollars, this is a glove that will stand the test of time for many lifetimes.

WIlson A2000 Dustin Pedroia Baseball Glove 11.5" - Best Infielder Glove

Wilson gloves are synonymous with excellence. This particular glove is made from American Pro Stock Steerhide and beginners to professionals appreciate the quality material for both durability and comfort. This glove also offers Wilsons Dri-Lex Technology, a super-breathable lining around the wrist that absorbs moisture and keeps the player cool; essential for anyone who ever plans to play on a hot summer's day. This glove comes with a pre-curved finger design allowing  your pocket to stay durable and won't let it get wobbly. It's another pricey glove, but if you want the best, you have to pay a little extra.

Louisville Slugger Pro Flare Baseball Infielders Glove 11.75" - Best Infielder Glove

The Louisville Slugger pro series is a glove you can count on. By using top grade, oil-infused Horween leather, its durability will be tough to match. This leather type has an average break-in time, which is good for the player wanting the glove broken in specifically to their needs. The flare series is unique, in that it has a big flat surface, giving you more room to make plays and snag balls. The flat surface also allows for speedy glove to hand transfers of the ball. It’s cheaper than some of the other options, but without sacrificing quality materials.

Wilson A2000 Infield Baseball Glove 11.25" - Best Infielder Glove

With one of the smallest pockets on a glove, the A2K allows for the quickest glove to hand transition, which is the most helpful thing when playing the infield. The pocket is shallow so there's nowhere for the ball to get lost on your transfer; it's in and it's out. This glove is the highest quality glove Wilson makes with only the top five percent of Pro-stock hides used. Even then, these gloves are rigorously checked and tested to make sure each one is made with the best possible materials. This leads to a soft, durable, almost perfect glove with an extremely fast break-in time so you'll be using this glove in no time, for a long time.

Rawlings Primo 13-Inch First Baseman's Mitt - Best First Base Mitt

This Primo Series 13” 1st Baseman's mitt features the Single Post Double Bar pattern, giving it a stretchable web allowing it to form a secure pocket. As any first baseman knows, this is crucial, as it allows the ball to stick in the glove and not pop out. This glove also has a Double Ca-Thug style, allowing the player to mold the end of the glove to suit their needs for scooping, arguably the hardest thing to do at the position. Made with 100 percent Italian leather, you'd be hard pressed to find a better made, high quality first baseman's mitt that will last all the way through your career.

Wilson Prostock A2000 1613 12.25-Inch First Baseman's Baseball Glove (Left Hand Throw) - Best First Base Mitt

The Wilson company prides itself on getting input from Major League Baseball (MLB) players, and this glove has passed the test with them, designed by Andres Galarraga and used by four-time all star Paul Konerko. This sensationally sharp glove has the durability and success its fancy exterior suggests. This glove features pro stock leather and is revered for its rugged durability and unmatched feel; its perfect ball glove leather. Dri-Lex technology allows super-breathable wrist lining that wicks moisture from the skin, keeping the player cool and composed.

Louisville Slugger 13" Omaha Pro First Base Mitt - Best First Base Mitt

The Omaha Pro series uses unique vintage leather, giving each glove a special, distinct look. With trademarked Bruise-Gard technology, this glove has extra padding and ultra-thick lacing to provide a tough, durable glove that doesn't need a lot of strenuous breaking in. It's ready to play with almost immediately. Oil it up and play catch a couple of times and you're ready to go. With a slightly smaller pocket, it just allows for more ease in transferring the ball from glove to hand.

Rawlings Pro Preferred PROSFMMO 13" First Base Glove - Best First Base Mitt

An interesting wrinkle to the gloves of old, this glove is made from kipskin leather which makes the glove softer and arguably more durable. Kipskin is made from younger cattle, thus producing a softer leather. This leather is easier to break-in and allows players to form a pocket in the glove that they’ll feel most comfortable with. Since these gloves only come around 30 percent broken-in, the player gets to customize it as they see fit making it a real benefit to the committed individual.

best Easton Professional Series 12.75" First Base Mitt  EPG36BW

Easton Professional Series 12.75" First Base Mitt EPG36BW - Best First Base Mitt

The Professional Series gloves from Easton are meant for serious, competitive ballplayers. Starting with high quality, US steer hide, the glove leather is then Japanese-tanned turning them into ultra durable and smooth Seto leather. The Pro Fit steerhide that makes up the interior of the glove is mainly built for comfort, but is strong enough to stand up to even the most demanding of baseball seasons. With a tensile strength of 100 pounds on the laces, the odds of this glove falling apart or breaking is very unlikely.

Buyer's Guide

Baseball gloves are an essential piece of equipment for any player— the right glove can help you be a better player and have more fun. However, it's important to know what to look for when choosing one. Let's get started.

What Are the Different Web Designs of Baseball Gloves?

The major difference between baseball gloves is their webbing design. The webbing refers to the area between the thumb and index finger in a baseball glove that helps you catch the baseball rather than let it fall through. There are four different types of webbing designs in baseball gloves: closed, basket, dual post, and I-web.

Closed


This type of baseball glove allows for less movement, and baseballs are less likely to get stuck in this type of glove than other webbings. This baseball glove is typically used for outfielders and catchers.

Basket

This type of baseball glove is designed with horizontal stripes that run across the baseball glove, providing more flexibility when catching baseballs. They are often used by infielders.

Dual post

Baseball gloves with dual post webbings have two string-like pieces of material between the thumb and index finger, making it difficult for balls to get through this type of webbing design. They are very popular among baseball players as it helps to catch baseballs with a lot of ease.

I-web

The I-web baseball gloves design is very similar to the dual post-baseball glove design; they both have two pieces of string-like material attached between the index finger and thumb. However, there is no gap in the webbing; rather, it's completely connected, making it difficult for balls to get through. They are most commonly used by outfielders and third basemen because they receive more fly balls than ground balls.

How Do You Choose a Perfectly-Fitted Baseball Glove?

Material

Baseball gloves are available in a variety of materials, from leather to synthetic. Leather baseball gloves are more expensive than baseball gloves made from synthetic materials, but they give you a better grip and also protect your palm from some injuries. Just focus on leather baseball gloves— anything else just won't provide you with much-needed protection or functionality.

Size and Fit

With baseball gloves, fit and size are everything. Obviously, you want baseball gloves to fit you well, but they must be the right size for your hand. A baseball glove that is too small will obviously be difficult to use; a baseball glove that is too big may not only feel uncomfortable but also hinder your performance in baseball. This is why it is important to get a perfectly-fitting glove. Later in this guide, we will tell you how to pick the right size glove according to your needs.

Webbing

As we have discussed above, there are different web designs available. Although all these webbings provide unique benefits, you should select your baseball glove based on how you plan to play baseball. For example, if you are an infielder, it would be much more beneficial to have baseball gloves with basket webbings because they offer more flexibility than any other design. Some players prefer gloves without webbing between the thumb and forefinger on the left hand for more flexibility. So choosing the gloves with webbing or without webbing is totally up to you.

Position

Every position has its nuances and skillsets, so find out your role before deciding on a glove. For pitchers and catchers, it's better to get a lighter, thinner glove but with a lot of padding that enhances the grip and helps you handle the ball. However, you might need a stronger glove as an outfielder. If you're unsure of your position, go ahead and play in each position during practice to see which one feels the most comfortable. If it doesn't help, ask someone who plays at your level for help.

Wrist Adjustments

Different baseball gloves come with different wrist adjustments, which help give the person wearing them a better grip. There are two types of wrist adjustments: hook and loop closures and Velcro closures.

Hook and loop closures consist of laces that criss-cross each other on the backside or underside of your baseball glove that will go around your wrist.

On the other hand, Velcro closures are strips of Velcro sewn on either side, which you can use to tighten baseball gloves around your wrist. You should choose the one that is easy to adjust and doesn't hinder your playing ability.

Brand

The brand of baseball gloves for baseball players is also a key factor to consider before buying baseball gloves. It is important to buy baseball gloves from baseball equipment manufacturers like Mizuno or Wilson, ensuring quality and craftsmanship. However, this will likely increase the cost.

How to Pick the Right Size of Baseball Glove

The baseball gloves come in all sizes. It depends on where you position yourself in baseball; the infielder's baseball gloves are much smaller than the outfielder's gloves.

To correctly measure for baseball gloves, hold your hand out palm up and measure from the base of the index finger to the bottom edge of the baseball glove; this will typically be 11 inches or more depending on how big your hand is.

If you have a smaller hand, an 11-inch baseball glove is sufficient but if you have a larger hand than average, try for at least 12-12.75 inches.

How Much Do Baseball Gloves Cost?

The price range of a baseball glove typically goes from $25 for an affordable beginner model to $300 for an elite model that is customized to your hand size, skillset, and preferences. For many professional players who spend thousands each year on equipment, gloves are an investment instead of a purchase. You should look at your budget and decide accordingly.

Baseball Glove FAQ

Q: Is there any difference between baseball mitts and gloves?

A. The terms baseball mitt and glove are often used interchangeably, but these two pieces of equipment do have some differences. Baseball gloves are smaller and more compact, whereas baseball mitts are larger to handle the size of a baseball.

Q: Is it safe to play baseball without a glove?

A. Playing baseball without gloves is dangerous. Baseball players use gloves to protect their hands and enhance catching, throwing, and fielding ability. So, it is recommended to wear gloves to stay safe during the game.

Q: Which size of baseball glove is best for teens?

A. Baseball gloves for teens are typically smaller than adult baseball gloves because teens need a glove that is proportionate to their size. Try getting 11.5-12 inches gloves for kids between 12-14 years.

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