Softball and baseball gloves are made from leather and worn on the non-throwing hand of the player. They are used by fielders to catch the ball when it is batted or thrown. Both softball and baseball feature gloves that differ depending on the position of the player wearing it.
History
When the game of baseball was first played in the 1870s, gloves were not used. Over time, players started wearing gloves, but the gloves did not cover their fingers. Baseballgloves.com states that gloves that resemble those used today, with a pocket and fingers, were first used in the 1910s. A softball glove looks extremely similar to a baseball glove. In fact, it is sometimes difficult to differentiate the two.
Features
Softball and baseball gloves are made very similarly. Both are each typically made of leather with a pocket between the forefinger and thumb. A glove designed for softball will have a pocket that is slightly larger to accommodate a softball, which is larger than a baseball.
Types
There are several variations of gloves that are used on the softball and baseball diamonds. An outfielder's glove is larger than that of an infielder, to allow them to more easily catch line drives and pop flies. A player who plays first base has a glove that resemble other fielders, but doesn't have four individual fingers. This glove allows the baseman to play balls that are thrown low into the dirt. A baseball catcher wears a rounded glove that features more padding since they will catch more balls that are thrown harder. The round shape of the glove allows the catcher to cover the ball when the pitcher throws it into the dirt. In softball, first basemen and catchers also wear gloves with more padding that allow them to easily scoop up the ball. A softball catcher's mitt looks more like the glove of a first baseman in baseball.
Size
The size glove that a softball and baseball player wear depends on the players defensive position. An adult outfielder's glove measures about 12 inches from the top of the glove to the heel, which is located near the wrist. Softball gloves must accommodate a bigger ball. Most softball gloves are about 14 inches from tip to heel.
Considerations
A glove should be broken in before using it in a game. Different players have various methods for breaking in a glove. Some apply baby oil to the glove while others take a softball or baseball and tie it into the glove's pocket for an extended period.
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