Fast-pitch softball is a competitive game played by skilled players at a high level. Slow-pitch softball is often a recreational game played in after-work leagues or at family picnics. While one game is played at a fast pace and the other is primarily about having fun, both games use similar gloves with only a few differences.
Outfield Gloves
Slow-pitch and fast-pitch gloves can be used in either sport. However, outfielders in slow-pitch softball usually perform more efficiently with longer fingers. This enables a slow-pitch outfielder to get to more balls and hold on to them. A slow-pitch outfielder should use a glove that is up to 14 inches in length. A fast-pitch outfielder can use this same glove, but an 11-inch glove is sufficient for most. The key is making sure the pocket is deep enough.
Gloves for Catchers
Catchers use standard gloves in slow-pitch softball. The catcher usually does not wear any protective equipment in slow-pitch softball and in most cases will not get down in a crouch to give the pitcher a target. In fast-pitch softball, catchers regularly use a catcher's mitt. Many elite softball pitchers can throw the ball at speeds up to 70 mph, and a catcher's mitt is necessary to protect the hand and help the catcher hold on to the pitch.
Open Web vs. Closed Web
Infielders in fast-pitch regularly use an open-web glove. An open-web glove is one you can see through when you hold it open. You cannot see through a closed-web glove. Infielders can pick the ball out of an open-web glove more easily than out of a closed-web glove. Outfielders and pitchers use closed-web gloves. Fast-pitch pitchers prefer a closed-web glove so they can hide the ball from the batter.
First Base Gloves
Slow-pitch softball players tend to use standard 13- or 14-inch fielder's gloves when playing first base. Fast-pitch first basemen use baseball first baseman's mitts or standard gloves. Slow-pitch players tend to play multiple positions, while elite softball players regularly have a specialty position. First basemen in fast-pitch find it easier to pick up errant throws with a first baseman's mitt.
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