Last Updated on April 8, 2024 by Matt Musico
Are you a baseball player looking for the best first base glove that fits your needs? Then you’re in the right place. And you’re really in luck because I have a soft spot for first basemen since that was my position. So this particular topic is near and dear to my heart.
There are lots of options out there in the market to choose from. We break down all the things you need to keep in mind when doing your search and making a decision below. Each brand has tons of options with different features and benefits, so do your research on first base baseball gloves before making a purchase.
Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links. We may receive a commission for any purchases made after clicking them. When making a purchase online, be sure to do enough due diligence before buying a product.
Essential Features of First Base Gloves
Serious baseball players know the right fielding glove can make all the difference when it comes to on-field performance. For those playing first base, having the right glove while occupying that spot on the diamond is crucial. If you’re a new first baseman and want to know the specific characteristics to look for in first baseman’s mitts, keep on reading.
Material Quality
First basemen are tasked with handling low throws from fellow infielders. To be prepared for that, the glove has a unique design that’s different than a conventional infielder’s glove. Instead of seeing the fingers of the glove externally, first base gloves are designed as a mitt. It should help the glove stay more rigid longer and also handle those occasional errant throws. The design includes a deeper pocket than most regular fielding gloves, as well.
The quality of the materials used in a first base glove is crucial to its performance and durability. Look for gloves made from high-quality leather, such as full-grain or top-grain. These are more durable and will hold up better over time.
Webbing Patterns
There are several different web designs to choose from, including H-webs, single-post webs, and dual-post webs. While first base mitts typically have the deepest webbing of any glove, each webbing pattern has its advantages and disadvantages.
The path to becoming a great player at this position looks different for everyone. When it comes to baseball equipment, it’s most important to listen to your body and what you think is needed based on your playing style. An expensive custom baseball glove with what’s considered the perfect pocket by experts doesn’t guarantee results. Your comfort level with the glove (and the glove’s webbing) is a big reason behind whether you’ll eventually be a successful player or not.
Wrist Adjustability, Padding & Comfort
Having a first base glove that fits securely and comfortably around your wrist is important as you prepare to handle bad throws. Find gloves with adjustable wrist straps so you can customize the fit to your wrist size.
Playing first base can be tough on your hands, so having a glove with adequate padding and comfort features is important. Look for gloves with extra padding in the palm and fingers to go along with a deep pocket. Breathable mesh panels and moisture-wicking materials can keep your hands dry and comfortable during long games.
How to Choose Your First Base Glove
Here are some more tips to help you make the right choice when looking for your next first baseman’s mitt.
Player Age and Size
The size of the glove should be based on your age and size. A comfortable range where any beginner should be able to find a comfortable, easy-to-use glove is between 10.75 and 12 inches. Again — personal preference is vital. Find the right size that best fits your needs and playing style.
Skill Level
Beginners and younger players should look for gloves with a shallow pocket for quick transferring. More experienced players may prefer gloves with deeper pockets that support frequent scooping to handle off-target throws.
Budget
As you’ll see below, high-end gloves can be expensive. However, the best glove lines aren’t always the most expensive ones. There are affordable options that still provide good quality.
13 First Base Gloves to Check Out
There are a large variety of first-base mitts available on the market. But if you’re looking for a solid 1st base mitt, take a peek at these options at various price points. This is far from a complete list, but I ordered them from most expensive to least expensive.
- Nokona X2 Elite First Base Glove: $479.95
- Nokona Walnut First Base Mitt: $399.95
- Wilson A2K SuperSkin Jose Abreu First Base Mitt: $399.95
- Rawlings Pro Preferred First Base Mitt: $379.95
- Wilson A2000 SuperSkin First Base Mitt: $299.95
- Rawlings Heart of the Hide First Base Glove: $299.95
- Akadema ProSoft Select Series First Base Mitt: $179.95
- Mizuno Prime Elite First Base Glove: $174.95
- Mizuno MVP Prime First Base Mitt: $129.95
- Rawlings Player Preferred First Base Glove: $89.95
- Rawlings Sandlot First Base Mitt: $89.95
- Mizuno Prospect Youth First Base Mitt: $89.95
- Rawlings Renegade First Base Mitt: $79.95
Maintaining Your First Base Glove
The only way to keep your first base mitt for a long time is to properly care for it. Keep these tips in mind.
Clean Your Glove Regularly
Dirt, sweat, and grime can affect your glove’s performance. You should clean your glove regularly to remove any debris and prevent it from becoming stiff. Use a soft cloth or brush to wipe away any dirt before applying a small amount of leather cleaner to a clean cloth and rubbing it into the glove. Don’t use too much cleaner since the leather could dry out.
Condition Your Glove
Leather gloves need to be conditioned regularly to stay supple and prevent cracking. You can use a leather conditioner to moisturize the leather and keep it soft and flexible. Apply a small amount of conditioner to a clean cloth and rub it into the glove. Pay special attention to the areas that receive the most action.
Store Your Glove Properly
Store your mitt in a cool, dry place when it’s not being used. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or a hot car — this can cause the leather to dry out and crack. You can also use a glove mallet to help shape the glove.
Break In Your Glove
Break-in time for your first base mitt is an important step in ensuring it fits comfortably and performs well on the field. You can use a glove oil or cream to help soften the leather and make it easier to mold to your hand. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when breaking in your glove. Avoid using excessive force or heat because this can damage the leather.
Conclusion
I’ve said this a few times already, but it’s worth repeating one final time. As with any piece of baseball equipment, it’s important to do your homework. Figure out what you like and don’t like before making your next purchase. Your glove is one of the most important tools in your equipment bag. Treat the process that way. Finding out what best suits your wants and needs will not only help you now but also into the future of your baseball career.
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