Wilson Sporting Goods Co., established in 1913, makes the Wilson baseball glove. The firm has have been at the heart of the sports industry for more than a century, and it sells its sports equipment in more than 100 countries, according to the company's website. Wilson baseball gloves were among the first gloves on the market. Wilson produces more than 120 baseball gloves in various sizes and for different player positions.
First Glove
Who used the first baseball glove is uncertain. It was either Charles G. Waite, first baseman for Boston in 1875 or Doug Allison the catcher for the Cincinnati Red Stockings in 1869. Early baseball gloves were not impressive when compared to today's gloves, but they did require craftsmanship to make. Wilson Sporting Goods started to focus on manufacturing sporting and athletic equipment in 1915, and in 1920 supplied all the equipment for the Chicago Cubs.
Schalk Catcher's Mitt
Wilson Sporting Goods introduced the Ray Schalk catcher's mitt in 1922, which set the standard for baseball glove design, comfort and padding. Up until this time, baseball gloves were small, only containing padding to protect the hand.
Double Break Catcher's Mitt
In 1956, Wilson introduced the first double break catcher's mitt. This mitt was autographed by Brooklyn Dodger Roy Campanella.
A2000
The next major glove innovation by Wilson's research and development department came in 1957 when it designed the A2000 baseball glove. The A2000's technological improvements allowed the baseball glove to act as an extension of the player's hand for the first time. This made fielders more efficient and improved their overall level of performance. The glove design included a deeper pocket, wider web, stiffer thumb and leather that was more rugged and durable.
Major League Baseball
In 1991, Wilson is chosen as the Official Ball Glove of Major League Baseball. The Wilson baseball glove was chosen because of the quality in craftsmanship and the innovative design. Official MLB gloves must also meet specific size and shape regulations noted in the MLB Official Baseball Rules.
Conform Glove
In 1993, Wilson Sporting Goods rolled out the Conform baseball glove, which allows players to customize a glove to the specific contours of their hand. Players adjust the fit by turning a dial just above the wrist.
Member Comments