A reliable softball mitt is essential for every player, whether you’re a beginner, casual player, or serious competitor. The right glove enhances performance, provides comfort, and improves ball control. However, with so many options available, choosing the best one can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled this in-depth review of the best softball mitts to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
In this guide, we’ll review top-rated softball mitts, discuss their pros and cons, and provide a detailed buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
How We Chose the Best Softball Mitts
To find the best softball mitts, we analyzed a variety of factors, including:
Material & Durability – We considered gloves made of high-quality leather for longevity and synthetic options for affordability and flexibility.
Comfort & Fit – A good mitt should feel comfortable right away and mold to your hand over time. We looked for gloves that fit well without being too stiff.
Break-in Time – Some gloves require a long break-in period, while others are game-ready. We prioritized mitts that are easy to break in.
User Reviews & Ratings – We carefully examined customer feedback on Amazon to ensure real-world performance matched manufacturer claims.
Value for Money – We compared price points to make sure each glove offers the best quality at its price range.
With these criteria in mind, here are our top picks for the best softball mitts.
A Spotlight On Some of The Best Softball Mitts 2025:
 | Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove | ||
 | Rawlings Player Preferred Baseball & Softball Glove | ||
 | Rawlings Remix Youth Baseball-Softball Glove | ||
 | Mizuno Prospect PowerClose Youth Baseball-Softball Glove | ||
 | Franklin Sports Teeball Glove |
Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove
The Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove is a fantastic option for players looking for an affordable, game-ready mitt that doesn’t require an extensive break-in period. Made from durable synthetic leather, this glove provides a soft feel that makes it easy to close, making it a great choice for beginners and casual players alike.
One of the standout features of this glove is its hand-formed pocket, which is designed to help players catch and secure the ball with ease. Unlike traditional stiff gloves that require weeks of breaking in, this Franklin glove is flexible and comfortable right out of the box. The adjustable wrist strap ensures a snug fit, allowing players to customize the tightness for added security during gameplay.
This glove is also lightweight, making it an excellent option for younger players who need a mitt that won’t weigh down their hands. Additionally, its durability holds up well in various weather conditions, meaning you won’t have to worry about it losing its shape or stiffness over time.
While this glove is perfect for casual and recreational play, it may not be the best option for competitive athletes who require premium leather construction for long-term use. However, for those looking for a cost-effective, comfortable, and easy-to-use glove, the Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove is a solid choice.
Pros:
- Affordable price for casual and beginner players
- Soft synthetic leather for immediate use—no break-in required
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended play
- Adjustable wrist strap for a customizable fit
Cons:
- Not as durable as high-quality leather gloves
- May lack the structure needed for serious competitive play
Rawlings Player Preferred Baseball & Softball Glove
The Rawlings Player Preferred Baseball & Softball Glove is built for players who want a high-quality, full-leather mitt that delivers long-term durability and performance. Designed with full-grain leather, this glove offers an authentic feel that many serious players prefer, making it a great investment for those who want a long-lasting mitt.
One of the glove’s best features is its deep basket-web pocket, which provides excellent control and grip when catching the ball. Whether you’re playing in the infield or outfield, the strong webbing ensures you can scoop up grounders and secure fly balls with ease. The glove also features Rawlings’ Zero Shock palm padding, which reduces sting from hard throws and fast catches, making it comfortable to use even during intense games.
Another highlight is the adjustable wrist strap, which allows for a custom fit, ensuring that the glove stays securely in place during play. This feature is particularly helpful for players who want a snug, comfortable fit without the glove slipping off their hand.
Since this glove is made from premium leather, it does require a longer break-in period compared to synthetic alternatives. However, once fully broken in, it provides a perfect fit and superior performance on the field.
Overall, the Rawlings Player Preferred Glove is an excellent option for players who are serious about their game and want a reliable, high-performance mitt.
Pros:
- Made from high-quality full-grain leather for durability
- Deep basket-web pocket for secure ball control
- Zero Shock palm padding reduces sting on impact
- Adjustable wrist strap for a snug and comfortable fit
Cons:
- Requires a longer break-in period than synthetic gloves
- Higher price point compared to beginner-friendly options
Rawlings Remix Youth Baseball/Softball Glove
The Rawlings Remix Youth Baseball/Softball Glove is a stylish and functional mitt designed specifically for young players who are new to the game. Featuring a bold, eye-catching design, this glove stands out from traditional models, making it an exciting choice for kids looking to express their personality on the field.
Constructed from durable synthetic leather, the Remix Youth glove is both lightweight and flexible, allowing young players to close and control it with ease. Unlike stiff leather gloves that require a lengthy break-in process, this mitt is game-ready straight out of the box, making it perfect for beginners who need immediate usability.
The soft inner lining enhances comfort, ensuring that young players can wear the glove for extended periods without discomfort. Additionally, the deep pocket design provides excellent ball control, making catching easier and more consistent.
One of the standout features of this glove is its adjustable wrist strap, which ensures a snug, secure fit for different hand sizes. This makes it a versatile option that can grow with a player over multiple seasons.
While the synthetic construction makes the glove affordable and lightweight, it is not as durable as full-leather options. However, for tee-ball and youth leagues, the Rawlings Remix Youth Glove is a fantastic starter option that balances performance, comfort, and style.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy for kids to use
- Unique, colorful design that stands out
- Soft inner lining for extra comfort
- No break-in period required
Cons:
- Not as durable as full-leather gloves
- Limited to youth and beginner players
Mizuno Prospect PowerClose Youth Baseball/Softball Glove
The Mizuno Prospect PowerClose Youth Baseball/Softball Glove is an exceptional mitt designed to help young players develop their catching skills with confidence. Mizuno’s exclusive PowerClose technology makes it easier for beginners to close the glove around the ball, improving their control and making catching feel more natural.
This mitt is crafted with a blend of soft leather and synthetic materials, providing both durability and a game-ready feel. The ButterSoft palm liner enhances comfort, while the ParaShock palm padding helps absorb impact, reducing hand sting when catching fastballs. These features make the glove ideal for young players who are still getting used to handling hard-thrown balls.
Another highlight of this glove is its PowerLock adjustable wrist strap, which provides a secure and customizable fit. This ensures the glove stays in place during gameplay, reducing the risk of slipping or discomfort.
While the glove does require some break-in time, the combination of leather durability and synthetic flexibility ensures that it becomes more comfortable with use. Parents and coaches will appreciate the long-lasting quality of this mitt, making it a great choice for kids who are serious about improving their game.
Overall, the Mizuno Prospect PowerClose is one of the best youth softball mitts available, offering a perfect balance of performance, comfort, and durability.
Pros:
- PowerClose technology makes catching easier for kids
- ButterSoft palm liner enhances comfort
- ParaShock palm pad reduces hand sting
- Secure and adjustable wrist strap for a perfect fit
Cons:
- Requires some break-in time
- Slightly more expensive than synthetic-only gloves
Franklin Sports Teeball Glove
The Franklin Sports Teeball Glove is a fantastic entry-level mitt designed for young beginners who are just learning the fundamentals of baseball and softball. Ideal for tee-ball and early youth leagues, this glove provides an easy and comfortable introduction to the sport.
Made from soft synthetic leather, the glove is ultra-lightweight and requires no break-in time. This means that kids can start using it immediately without struggling with stiffness, making it perfect for first-time players. The hand-formed pocket helps young players secure the ball more easily, improving their confidence on the field.
A great feature of this glove is that it comes with a soft foam ball, allowing kids to practice safely at home or in the backyard. This makes it an excellent starter set for parents who want to introduce their children to the sport in a fun and low-pressure way.
The glove also features a comfortable wrist strap, ensuring a snug fit for small hands. Its lightweight design allows young players to move freely, helping them develop their coordination and skills without feeling weighed down.
While this glove is perfect for beginners, it is not intended for competitive play, as it lacks the durability and structure of leather gloves. However, for young kids just starting out, the Franklin Sports Teeball Glove is a great first mitt that prioritizes ease of use and comfort.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and easy for kids to use
- No break-in period—ready to play immediately
- Comes with a foam ball for added value
- Perfect for tee-ball and early beginners
Cons:
- Not suitable for competitive or older players
- Limited durability compared to leather gloves
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Softball Mitts
Selecting the right softball mitt is crucial for players of all ages and skill levels. The perfect glove can enhance performance, improve comfort, and provide better control on the field. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to decide which one suits your needs best.
In this guide, we will explore the key factors to consider when purchasing a softball mitt, including material, size, webbing, fit, and durability. We will also discuss how to break in a new glove and how different gloves cater to different types of players.
Understanding the Different Types of Softball Mitts
Softball mitts vary depending on age, skill level, and playing position. Before choosing a glove, it’s important to understand the different types available:
- Youth Gloves – Designed for younger players, these gloves are typically lightweight, flexible, and require little to no break-in time. Examples: Rawlings Remix Youth Glove, Franklin Sports Teeball Glove.
- Recreational Gloves – Made for casual players, these mitts focus on comfort and ease of use rather than advanced performance. Example: Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove.
- Competitive Gloves – These gloves are crafted from high-quality leather, providing superior durability and performance for serious players. Example: Rawlings Player Preferred Glove, Mizuno Prospect PowerClose Glove.
Understanding which category suits you best will help narrow down your options.
Choosing the Right Material: Leather vs. Synthetic
One of the biggest factors influencing a mitt’s performance is the material. Gloves are typically made from genuine leather or synthetic materials, each with its own pros and cons.
Leather Gloves
- Provide better durability and long-term use.
- Mold to your hand over time for a customized fit.
- Require a break-in period before they become comfortable.
- More expensive, but worth the investment for competitive players.
- Example: Rawlings Player Preferred Glove.
Synthetic Gloves
- Lightweight and game-ready with no break-in period.
- Ideal for youth players and beginners.
- Less expensive but may wear out faster.
- Example: Rawlings Remix Youth Glove, Franklin Sports Teeball Glove.
If you’re a serious player, opt for a leather mitt for better longevity and fit. However, for casual play, a synthetic glove is a cost-effective and practical choice.
Picking the Right Size
The right glove size ensures a comfortable fit and improves performance. Below is a general size guide:
| Player Age | Recommended Glove Size |
| 3-6 years (Tee-ball) | 9 – 10 inches |
| 7-12 years (Youth) | 10.5 – 11.5 inches |
| 13+ years (Adult) | 11.5 – 13 inches |
For younger players, a glove like the Franklin Sports Teeball Glove (9.5 inches) or the Rawlings Remix Youth Glove (10 inches) is ideal. Older players will benefit from larger gloves like the Rawlings Player Preferred Glove (12 inches).
Webbing: Open vs. Closed Web
The web design plays an important role in how the glove handles the ball:
- Closed Web – Offers more support for pitchers and infielders who need to secure the ball quickly. Example: Rawlings Player Preferred Glove.
- Open Web – Provides more visibility, making it ideal for outfielders. Example: Mizuno Prospect PowerClose Glove.
If you’re unsure which to choose, go with a closed web for better control and versatility.
Fit and Comfort: Adjustable Features Matter
A good softball mitt should feel snug but not tight. Many gloves come with adjustable wrist straps to provide a secure fit. For example:
- The Mizuno Prospect PowerClose Glove has a PowerLock strap for a customizable fit.
- The Rawlings Player Preferred Glove includes an adjustable wrist strap for better control.
For younger players, a lightweight and flexible glove will feel more comfortable, while advanced players should choose a glove with a firm structure.
Break-In Period: How Long Does It Take?
Leather gloves, such as the Rawlings Player Preferred Glove, require a break-in period to become fully functional. Here’s how to speed up the process:
- Use glove oil – Softens the leather and makes it more flexible.
- Play catch regularly – Helps the glove mold to your hand faster.
- Use a mallet – Strike the pocket area to soften the leather.
- Wrap the glove – Keep a softball inside and tie it shut overnight.
Synthetic gloves, like the Franklin Sports Baseball and Softball Glove, don’t need a break-in period and are ready for use immediately.
Durability and Longevity
If you want a glove that will last for multiple seasons, look for high-quality materials and reinforced stitching. Leather gloves are more durable, while synthetic gloves may wear out faster with frequent use.
For competitive players, the Rawlings Player Preferred Glove and Mizuno Prospect PowerClose Glove offer excellent longevity. For casual players, a Rawlings Remix Youth Glove will last long enough to support skill development.
Price Considerations: Budget vs. Quality
Softball mitts vary in price based on material and brand. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Budget-Friendly ($15 – $30) – Best for beginners and young players. Example: Franklin Sports Teeball Glove.
- Mid-Range ($30 – $60) – Great for recreational and youth league players. Example: Rawlings Remix Youth Glove.
- Premium ($60 – $100+) – Best for competitive players who need leather durability. Example: Rawlings Player Preferred Glove.
If you’re looking for longevity and performance, investing in a higher-quality glove is worth it in the long run.
Conclusion: Which Softball Mitt Should You Choose?
If you’re a beginner, opt for an affordable and lightweight glove like the Franklin Sports Teeball Glove or the Rawlings Remix Youth Glove. If you’re an experienced player, choose a premium leather mitt such as the Rawlings Player Preferred Glove or the Mizuno Prospect PowerClose Glove for enhanced durability and performance.
By considering factors like material, fit, webbing, and price, you can find the perfect softball mitt to improve your game.
