The size of the glove is also often etched into the leather on the pinky or thumb of the glove. [2] X Research source The “heel” is the palm area of the glove where the finger pockets all connect. You can also use a length of string to measure this, then use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the length of string.
Catcher’s mitts are measured this way because they place a greater emphasis on the catching area of the mitt, where the ball will land. [4] X Research source
Outfielders’ gloves are for players playing left, center, or right field. They’re typically longer than other gloves with deeper pockets to help outfielders catch fly balls. [7] X Research source Second base/shortstop gloves are small and lightweight, since these players need quick and easy access to the ball once they’ve caught it. [8] X Research source First base gloves tend to be longer and larger than the others to help players scoop balls off the ground and catch quick passes. [9] X Research source Third base gloves are larger to more easily catch a pass since third basemen don’t typically need to make quick passes themselves. [10] X Research source Pitcher’s gloves are most dependent on a player’s taste, however most pitcher’s gloves tend to have a closed web to conceal the pitcher’s fingers as they signal which pitch they’re about to throw. [11] X Research source Catcher’s mitts are the largest and have plenty of padding to protect a catcher’s hand against the pitcher’s powerful throws. [12] X Research source If you’re unsure of the player’s position, or they play many positions, choose a middle infield glove or “utility” glove, which is a good all-around glove that suits many styles of play. [13] X Research source
If you can’t try on a glove, purchase a size according to the above chart.
Basket webbing is tightly woven, and often makes it easier to close the glove. Trapeze webbing resembles shoelaces and can create a deeper pocket in the glove. Modified trap webbing adds a leather strip to the top of the glove, and is used by pitchers, infielders, and outfielders. H-webbing is created by leather strips that resemble the letter H, and is designed to let debris empty through the glove. I-webbing consists of a large center leather strip in the shape of an I, and helps to get the ball in and out of the glove. Cross webbing is composed of two perpendicular strips of leather and provides good flexibility. Two-piece webbing has large leather panels, and helps conceal pitches.
