- 1). Find out the position(s) that she will be playing. Different positions prefer different types of softball gloves. First base mitts have little or no padding in the palm of the glove. Middle infielder gloves and outfielders typically use a glove that has an open web which helps the ball get out of the glove faster. Third baseman, outfielders and most pitchers prefer a closed web glove for additional support.
- 2). Measure the length of the glove if you difficulty visually differentiating between the different types of softball gloves. To measure a glove, you must run a measuring tape from the top of the index finger on the glove through the middle pocket and out to the heel (or bottom) of the glove.
Gloves that are 11 1/4 inches in length and less are second base gloves. Those that are 12 to 12 1/4 inches are for middle infielders. Infielders should have a 12 1/2-inch glove. Utility gloves are 12 3/4 to 13 1/4 inches in length. And outfielder gloves are 13 1/2 to 14 inches long. - 3). Try on different size gloves and find one that fits snugly but not to tight. Avoid buying a larger glove that she will be able to grow into. A larger glove is more awkward and harder to control and can slip off her hands as she plays. This can cause her to become frustrated while trying to catch the ball.
- 4). Have her hold onto the softball with the glove on her hand. If she can comfortably hold on to the ball, then you have likely found the right softball glove.
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