MATERIALS
SYNTHETIC: When a player is first introduced to the game, synthetic materials can be a great choice. These gloves are made of softer man-made materials, making it easier to close, which helps players as they learn the concepts of catching, throwing and fielding. You also won’t have to go through a break-in period with synthetic gloves. Synthetic leather is on the lower end of the price scale, as well, so if a player grows out of their mitt, replacements can be easily afforded.
PIGSKIN OR COWHIDE: Cowhide and pigskin leathers offer a great mix of durability, feel, performance and cost-effectiveness. They offer a medium weight, with some break-in time required before use (but are often pre-oiled to speed up this process). Cowhide or pigskin leathers can be great for players 10 and up who may outgrow their glove quickly.
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FULL-GRAIN LEATHER: Full-grain leather is steer or cowhide leather in which the entire natural grain remains visible on the glove. It is stiffer and requires more break-in time than other hides, but is also more durable – built to last season after season. Full-grain leather is commonly found on high end youth gloves, top tier adult gloves and catcher’s mitts (which require extra strength and durability).
PREMIUM STEERHIDE: Premium steerhide is designed for serious baseball players and can be commonly seen at the high school, collegiate and pro level. “Pro Stock” steerhide, sourced from the back shoulder of a grown steer, offers a feel that is much heavier and stiffer than other leathers. Strong, high-quality leather also means that these gloves can take longer to break in (though some steer hides may come pre-oiled for a softer feel). Premium leather is more of an investment, but can make up for that expense in durability and lifespan.
KIP LEATHER: Kip leather, made from younger cattle, is softer and more lightweight when compared to cowhide leather. These gloves are tightly grained and very durable, but require significantly less break-in time compared to premium steerhide options. Kip (which is often described as having a “buttery” look and feel) is most popular among infielders who require quicker hands. Kip leather has also grown in popularity amongst college and professional players.
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DICK’S PRO TIP: Glove technologies are constantly evolving. For example, select Wilson baseball and softball gloves come with Spin Control Technology, a dimpled pattern on the palm that helps reduce spin and increase control.
Some premium softball gloves can also feature synthetic, mesh-like materials on the back-of-hand to reduce the overall weight without compromising that leather feel and performance in the pocket
DICK’S PRO TIP: What is a “Pro Series” or “Pro Stock” Glove? These terms help athletes identify which mitts offer the highest quality of leather and materials in the game today! These gloves, usually crafted by hand, deliver the same performance, durability, technologies and superior feel that pro athletes trust. Shop our lineup of Pro Series gloves.
Source: https://t-tees.com
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