Outfielders need the best gloves possible to keep their hands feeling fresh. Our Best Outfield Gloves Buyers Guide will help you find the perfect outfield glove that fits your needs and wants.
We’ll discuss how different materials and technologies may affect your decision, as well as what kind of protection you’re looking for. From there we’ll go into detail on our top picks in each category, with specifications and details for you to be aware of.
Best Outfield Gloves Buyers Guide
An outfielder wearing outfield gloves must successfully retrieve fly or ground balls. These gloves are intended to assist an outfielder in catching fly balls. Additionally, they must allow an outfielder to successfully make a throw to the infield.
Here Are Our Top Picks Of Best Outfield Gloves
1. Wilson A2000 Outfield Glove
A high quality and professional grade glove with a very light and balanced feel. The pattern is relatively new, introduced in 2007. It is designed to handle the demand that top level outfielders place on their gloves.
Its symmetrical I-Web™ design is preferred by most MLB outfielders for its combination of comfort and quickness to break in. Although it looks like most other Wilson gloves, you will see most A2000’s before the All Star Break as players switch from their “old” gloves to this newer model.
The Wilson A2000 Outfield Glove pattern is 11 3/4″ long x 4 7/8″ wide closed, or 12 1/8″ long x 5 1/2″ wide open. This sizing is used for all A2000 models including infielders’ and pitchers’.
The Wilson A2000 Outfield Glove features include:
- I-Web™ design for faster break in
- Pro Stock Select leather with ESPN Top Ten Catch rating
- Roll Welting® to reduce lace stress points
- Microfiber SnakeSkin is a microfiber fabric that is half as heavy as Pro Stock Leather, but 2x as durable, in a new textured design. It has greater moisture resistance and cleans up simpler than standard leather gloves.
- The redesigned A2000’s liner uses our ProLux™ Leather, which has a more luxurious, softer feel against your hand. The all-new Comfort Sleeve is the final touch, enclosing the wrist inlay for greater comfort than ever before.
- The addition of integrated inner wire in Wilson gloves goes well beyond a cosmetic upgrade, as it is built into each infield, outfield, and pitcher’s model. It provides better support and helps your glove maintain its form over time.
- Flat Finger Binding, this allows players who want to use their fingers outside the glove greater for comfort and control on the field. You’ll experience less discomfort when making plays because there is less distance between your finger and the back of the glove.
- Wilson has announced a new era in the famous history of Wilson Ball Gloves with its bold logos, which allow outlined, eye-catching Wilson logos to reveal a brand-new chapter in the story of Wilson Ball Gloves.
2. Mizuno Pro Outfield Baseball Gloves
Mizuno’s Pro Outfield baseball glove is an updated version of the popular 2001 CMF Series. The updated CMF-OB features Mizuno’s proprietary Parashock Plus™ palm pad that provides superior impact protection and moisture management to help players stay dry and comfortable through every game.
Additionally, the new design has increased lacing coverage throughout the entire glove for superior stability in the pocket.
This 11 1/2 inch pattern has proven itself over many years as a top performing outfielders’ glove. The open back with rolled edges gives you extra control when fielding your position by reducing “lace bite”.
This means less sting on the ball if it hits your hand after making contact with laces or tags on clothing or other equipment. This glove is great for a speedy outfielder who has good range and does their job tackling fly balls.
The Mizuno Pro Outfield Baseball Gloves pattern is 11 1/2″ long x 5″ wide closed, or 12″ long x 5 3/4″ wide open.
Features includes:
- D3O palm padding for impact protection
- Parashock Plus™ moisture control technology
- Great for speedier outfielders who tackle fly balls.
3. Rawlings R9 Outfield Glove
The Rawlings® R9™ Pro Stock glove is a classic 11.5″ pattern that was originally designed for outfielder Brian Jordan when he played in the major leagues. The thin, streamlined pocket design and open back with rolled edges give players an edge inside the field of play by allowing them to keep their eyes on the ball and maintaining quick and easy access to the glove.
This lightweight outfielders model features a long-lasting Pro Stock leather that has been broken in and pre-oiled to ensure softness, comfort and performance when you need it most.
The Rawlings R9 Outfield Glove is 11 3/4″ long x 5 1/2″ wide closed, or 12 1/2″ long x 6″ wide open. This sizing is used for all R9 models which also include infielders’ and pitchers’.
The Rawlings® R9™ Pro Stock glove features include:
- Pro stock leather that has been broken in and pre-oiled to ensure softness, comfort and performance when you need it most
- Flex E-Z pattern updated for today’s standards of professional play with updated colors and webbing
- Professional grade pattern updated to today’s standards of professional play with updated colors and webbing
- This 11 3/4 inch long pattern is designed for outfielders who are great at playing the ball on the run. A very light 12 ounce glove, this is a top choice for players who want speed with range. The open back for faster access as well as the thin “pocket” design makes this a favorite for speedy outfielders.
4. SHOELESS JOE Professional Series Modified Trap Baseball Glove
The SHOELESS JOE® Professional Series Modified Trap is modeled after the adidas® glove worn by Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Matt Kemp. The design of this baseball glove takes an adidas® outfielders’ model and “modifies” it for HS/College level play. This 11 3/4″ long x 5 1/2″ wide closed, or 12 1/2″ long x 6″ wide open, outfielders’ baseball glove is great for all positions.
The SHOELESS JOE® Professional Series Modified Trap features include:
- Pro Stock leather with ESPN Top Ten Catch rating Roll Welting® to reduce lace stress points Exclusive SUPER-FLEX™ design for perfect balance of flexibility and stiffness
- The SHOELESS JOE® Modified Trap is a great all-around glove that can be used as an outfielder’s baseball glove. A slightly deeper pocket compared to the original adidas® model it is modeled after, this makes it a little easier for outfielders to access quickly. The SUPER-FLEX™ design and Pro Stock leather make this a great choice for all positions.
5. Mizuno MVP Prime Baseball Glove Series
The Mizuno MVP Prime Outfield Gloves are a great choice for MID MID-FIELD and OUTFIELDER players who want a lightweight glove while maintaining protection from the ball. While other brands offer semi-custom options to fit your hand, there is nothing like having a glove that perfectly fits your hand straight from the factory.
If you’re looking for a lightweight and protective glove for your outfield position, the Mizuno MVP Prime Outfield Gloves are the perfect option.
The Mizuno MVP Prime Outfield Gloves feature include:
- MOISTURE-MANAGEMENT SYSTEM keeps hands dry and ready to perform FOREFRONT POCKET DESIGN provides outfielder with an improved pocket shape as well as the desired feel and performance when making over-the-shoulder grabs
- The MVP Prime Outfield Glove features a 12.5″ modified trap web with a rich Pro Stock leather shell that is lightweight but still durable, keeping your outfielders’ hands protected from the ball. The XRD® padding provides great protection while maintaining a light weight.
- Full-grain ready Pro Stock leather with XRD® padding 12.5″ modified trap web Lightweight but durable design for outfielders’ hands Longer heel and deeper pocket provide a great feel and performance making over-the-shoulder grabs
- This glove is a combination of lightweight protection that provides your outfielder with a long lasting glove that will provide a great feel and performance over-the-shoulder. While some semi-custom options have a deeper pocket, there is nothing like having a glove that perfectly fits your hand straight from the factory. The MVP Prime Outfield Gloves are a great choice for you outfielders!
6. Nokona WB-1275M Walnut Baseball Glove
The WB-1275M is our popular 12.75″ outfielders pattern that is built with a medium pocket and open back. This glove features Nokona’s top quality Pro Stock leather, which is the same buttery Pro Stock leather found on their best custom infield gloves.
This glove has all of the classic look and feel of a game-worn glove, yet it is brand new. This classic Nokona Walnut Pro Stock leather outfielders’ mitt will provide your outfielder with a lightweight glove that has outstanding performance and durability on the field.
Features includes:
- Pro Stock leather Medium pocket and open back Lightweight but durable design for outfielders’ hands Longer heel and deeper pocket provide a great feel and performance making over-the-shoulder grabs 11.75″ outfield pattern
- Nokona’s top quality Pro Stock leather buttery feel and lasting durability 12.75″ outfield pattern Lightweight, long-lasting glove for all outfielders’ needs
7. Mizuno GMP2BK-700DS Mizuno Pro Outfield Baseball Gloves
The GMP2BK-700DS is a great glove for your big outfielders. Built with an 11.75″ outfield pattern, this glove also has a deeper pocket to allow for easier catching in the OF. The Super Flex™ design allows for added flexibility when making over the shoulder catches. This is one of Mizuno’s Top 10 Outfield Gloves.
Feature list includes:
- Pro stock leather Super Flex™ design for added flexibility Larger 11.75″ outfield pattern Open back for better airflow Deep pocket for easier over the shoulder catches
- The GMP2BK-700DS is an awesome glove for your bigger players who need to be able to move comfortably when making those over-the-shoulder catches.
- This is a great mid-level glove and its Us kip leather will provide your players with all of the durability and softness that they could ever want.
8. Rawlings Heart of the Hide Baseball Glove Series
Rawlings Heart of the Hide is a great series for your outfielder. It offers a 12.75″ outfield pattern and an open back to allow better airflow within the glove. This allows for longer life out of your gloves, as well as more flexibility for outfielders’ hands when making over-the-shoulder catches. The larger outfield pattern allows for an easier time when making those difficult catches.
Feature list includes:
- Heart of the Hide – a great new series from Rawlings Pro Stock leather for maximum durability and feel Open back design to allow better airflow Larger 12.75″ outfield pattern Deep, roomy pocket that is easy to open and close
- The Heart of the Hide Series is a great option for those looking for more flexibility and the classic look of this series will provide your players with the perfect style on the field as well.
- Cut from the 5% of steer hides
- Thumb protection with a cushioned thumb sleeve and High Grade leather laces
- 65% factory break-in with 35% player break-in required
- Both right-handed and left-handed versions are available.
9. Wilson B212 Outfield Glove
When you think of gloves for outfielders, the number one name that pops into your head is Wilson. Of course there are other brands out there, but not too many can match the reputation or classiness of a Wilson outfielder glove. The B212 model offers a large pattern and a deep pocket to help make those tough catches look easy.
The B212 features genuine leather construction along with a unique tan color that you can’t find elsewhere. Many outfielders love the feel of this glove because it is broken right out of the box, allowing them to be ready for game time immediately.
This model has been on the market for many years and it shows no sign of slowing down. If you are looking for a glove that is designed to give you superior performance on the field, then look no further than the B212.
Features includes:
- Top 5% Pro Stock Select Leather
- One Year Manufacturer Warranty
- Double Palm Construction
- Rolled Dual Welting
- 3x More Shaping
- 12″ Infield Pattern (Great for Pitchers)
- Closed 2-Piece Web
10. Marucci Capitol Series Baseball Fielding Glove
If there’s an outfielder who needs a glove that can be trusted to come through in the clutch, look no further than this Marucci Capital Series Baseball Fielding Glove. A serious high-gauge leather palm and finger back pocket with a deep basket web and open back give players the confidence they need on every catch – and batters new reasons to fear it.
The Marucci Capital Series Baseball Fielding Glove features a high-gauge leather palm and finger back pocket with a deep basket web and open back for the ultimate in strength and durability. The Capital Series Fielding Glove from Marucci is an outfielder’s glove that will give players the confidence they need on every catch.
The open back and deep basket web design provides a larger pocket to trail balls into and lets both gloves fly free at high speeds. If you’re looking for the right fit for your outfield, look no further than this Marucci Capital Series Baseball Fielding Glove.
Features includes:
- The high-quality, premium Japanese-tanned USA Kip leather provides ideal structure and a lightweight feel.
- The finest grade of cabretta sheepskin lining offers soft texture and greater comfort.
- Dual-density memory foam padding with a moisture-wicking mesh wrist lining
- Professional-grade rawhide laces with maximum resistance to tearing.
Factors To Consider Before Buying an Outfielder’s Glove
When looking for a new outfielder’s glove, there are several factors you need to take into account. The main ones to consider include:
- Price – while some outfielder’s gloves can be very expensive, there are many more on the market that don’t cost a lot of money. You shouldn’t have any problem finding one at an affordable price point.
- Leather Type – not all fielder’s gloves come in just one type of leather and each offers something different for players looking to get their hands on the best ball glove available today. Whether you’re looking for genuine or synthetic leather construction, there is definitely a model out there with your name written all over it. It really comes down to personal preference when picking the right material for your outfield baseball glove..
- Size – if you decide not to go with a custom-made outfielder’s mitt, you’ll need to make sure that the glove you choose is the right size for your hand. You don’t want something too big or too small, as it will affect your ability to make catches and throws.
- Webbing – outfielder’s gloves come in all shapes and sizes when it comes to webbing, with some models featuring a closed web while others have an open design. It really depends on what type of player you are and what you feel most comfortable using out on the field.
- Closure – there are two main types of closures used in fielder’s gloves: Velcro straps and laces. Most players tend to prefer one over the other, but again, it’s all about personal preference when making your final decision.
Velcro straps – these are great for players who want a glove that is easy to close and open, while also being lightweight. Perhaps the only drawback of this type of closure is that you have less control over how tight or loose your outfielder’s glove fits on your hand when compared with laces.
Laces – if they’re good enough for some MLB outfielders out there, then why not give them a go? Lacing up an outfielder’s mitt offers more stability when it comes to adjusting the fit, but these gloves tend to be a little heavier than their Velcro counterparts.
FAQs
Are all Gloves the Same?
It’s important to note that just because one glove is labeled as an outfielder’s mitt, it doesn’t automatically mean that they’re all the same. As previously mentioned, you’ll find gloves with different types of leather used in their construction and materials such as goat skin or Kevlar stitching will also come into play when making your final decision.
As far as outfielders’ gloves are concerned durability plays a big part for players who plan on using them during every game throughout the season. After all this time playing hard out in the field, having something designed specifically for baseball use can make quite a difference. Being able to rely on your fielder’s has got to be worth its weight in gold.
What are the differences between Outfield Baseball Gloves and Infield Gloves?
Differences are generally individual personal preference. But the most common difference between Outfield Gloves and Infield Gloves is that outfield gloves are bigger, with deeper pockets to help catch fly balls.
They also have longer fingers than infielders, which allows for more ball contact with your hands. The deep pocket on an outfielder’s mitt makes it suitable for catching liners and high flies in the gap or over your head.
Also, many outfield gloves contain more webbing between the thumb and forefinger to provide greater support when catching fastballs. Over time this extra webbing allows the glove to remain open on its own if dropped mid-play, making it easier to pick up off of the ground without closing it first. This is not always true, but is more commonly seen in outfield gloves.
Do Better Outfield Gloves Make A Good Outfielder?
There are a lot of opinions on this one. However, it’s important to remember that while your outfielder’s glove plays a key role in making catches and throws, the real success comes from knowing where you need to be positioned out there on the field.
Outfielders should never be chasing after every fly ball hit into their zone regardless of what type or brand of baseball mitt they have. It takes years for players at higher levels such as MLB to become reliable because they know when not to go get balls based on experience and knowledge gained over time spent playing outfield professionally.
There are no right fielder gloves that make an excellent outfielder because all things equal with catching ability, athleticism will always win out over equipment used during play..
Can Outfield Gloves Be Used For Infield Play?
Yes, outfield gloves can be used for infield play. However, they are not as ideal for this type of use because they are bigger and have deeper pockets than infield gloves.
Outfield gloves also tend to have longer fingers than infielders’ gloves which can make it difficult to control the ball when making quick throws across the diamond. If you’re an outfielder who wants a backup glove for use in case of emergencies during infield games, then go ahead and purchase an outfielder’s glove. But remember that it will take some time to get used to using it in this way.
What Size Outfielder Glove Should I Get?
Again, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to glove size. It all depends on the player’s individual preferences and hand size.
However, most outfield gloves range from 11-13 inches in circumference. So if you’re not sure which size to get, then try and find one that falls within this range.
Do Outfield Gloves Come With a Warranty?
Yes, many brands of outfielder gloves come with a warranty against manufacturer defects. But be sure to read the fine print before making your purchase to see what is covered under the terms of the warranty.
Is it possible to utilize a batting glove in my outfield gloves?
Some players like to use a batting glove in their outfield gloves when catching fly balls. This helps them to grip the ball better and prevents it from slipping out of their hands. However, other players find this method to be too cumbersome and prefer not to use a batting glove when playing outfield. Again, it’s all about personal preference.
Conclusion
If you play outfield at any level, then having the right gear can make all of the difference. Take time to research different brands and models that are available before making your final purchase decision.
