7 Unbelievable Slow Pitch Softball Glove Myths Busted!

Hey there, slow pitch softball friends! Ever heard the one about breaking in your glove with shaving cream? Or that bigger is always better when it comes to gloves? Well, hold onto your cleats because we’re about to dive into slow pitch softball glove myths! Let’s set the record straight and debunk these misconceptions once and for all!

The Bigger, the Better: Sizing Myths Debunked

Let’s talk about one of the biggest slow pitch softball glove myths out there: the idea that bigger is always better. I’ve seen many players strutting onto the field with these massive mitts, thinking they’re gonna catch everything that comes their way. But here’s the truth – it isn’t always about size, my friends!

When I first started coaching, I bought into this myth hook, line, and sinker. I would recommend players to get the biggest gloves they could handle. Man, was I off base! It didn’t take long to realize that proper fit and position-specific sizing are way more crucial than just going big.

Here’s the thing: a glove that’s too big can actually slow you down. It’s like trying to catch a fly with oven mitts – clumsy and ineffective. You want a glove that feels like an extension of your hand, not something you’re wrestling with every time the ball comes your way.

So, how do you choose the right glove size? It’s all about your position and playing style. Infielders, you’ll want something smaller and more maneuverable – usually around 11.5 to no bigger than 13 inches. Outfielders, you can go a bit bigger, in the 12 to 14 inches range, to give you extra reach for those long fly balls.

Keep in mind, these are just guidelines. The best way to find your perfect glove is to try a bunch on. Wiggle your fingers, open and close the glove, and imagine snagging that game-winning catch. If it feels right, it probably is.

Breaking In Slow Pitch Softball Glove Myths

Let’s bust some myths about breaking in your new slow pitch softball glove. I’ve heard some doozies over the years, and I bet you have too. People come up with the craziest ideas!

One of the most common misconceptions is you need to beat the living daylights out of your glove to break it in. I’ve heard about players soaking them in water which ruins the leather, or baking them in the oven. Yikes! Trust me, your glove doesn’t need to go through boot camp to be game-ready.

So you might be wondering, what are some effective and safe methods for breaking in your glove? First off, good old-fashioned playing catch is still one of the best ways. Spend some quality time with your glove and a ball, and you’ll start to form that perfect pocket.

Another effective method I like is using a glove mallet to repeatedly pound the pocket. This helps soften the leather without risking damage. You can also apply a small amount of glove oil or conditioner to help soften the leather, but don’t go overboard – a little goes a long way.

Why are some popular break-in techniques so bad? Well, extreme heat or water can weaken the leather and lacing, shortening your glove’s lifespan. And aggressive methods like running it over with a car? That’s just asking for trouble. You might end up with a misshapen glove that’s more hindrance than help on the field.

The Truth About Glove Materials and Durability

Let’s tackle another one of those pesky slow pitch softball glove myths: the idea that expensive leather always means better quality. I used to believe this one myself, thinking I needed to shell out big bucks for the best performance. But after playing on the softball diamond for over 25+ years, I’ve learned it’s not that simple.

Don’t get me wrong, a high-quality Japanese leather glove can be a thing of beauty. It can mold to your hand like a second skin and last for seasons if you take care of it. But here’s the truth – not all expensive leather gloves are created equal, and some synthetic gloves are very durable.

When it comes to comparing synthetic vs. leather gloves for slow pitch softball, it really depends on what you’re looking for. Synthetic gloves are often lighter, require less break-in time, and can be more affordable. They’re great for casual players or those just starting out. Leather gloves, on the other hand, tend to be more durable and can provide a better feel for the ball, but they usually need more TLC.

So, how do you assess glove quality beyond just the price tag? Look at the stitching – it should be tight and even. Check the padding in the palm and web. Feel the leather or synthetic material – it should be supple but sturdy. And don’t forget to read reviews from other players online. Sometimes, a mid-range glove can outperform its pricier counterparts based on the reviews.

Not all companies make the same quality products. Think of it like: Toyota vehicles last a very long time with minimal maintenance. I know this first hand due to having my Toyota Prius for over 10 years. Ford on the other hand sometimes gets called: “Found On Road Dead”. Sorry Ford fans! Do your research to find the best priced and high quality options you can.

Debunking Slow Pitch Softball Glove Maintenance Myths

Okay, time to set the record straight on some maintenance myths. One of the biggest slow pitch softball glove myths I’ve encountered is the idea that you should oil or condition your glove regularly. I’ve seen players practically drowning their gloves in oil or conditioner, thinking it’ll keep the leather soft and supple. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t work that way!

Over-oiling and conditioning your glove can actually do more harm than good. It can weigh down the leather, making your glove feel slippery. Even worse, it can break down the leather over time, shortening your glove’s lifespan. So, ease up on the oil, my friends!

Let’s talk about proper cleaning and storage techniques. After each game or practice, wipe down your glove with a slightly damp cloth to remove dirt and sweat. Then, use a clean, dry cloth to absorb any excess moisture. Store your glove in a cool, dry place – not in your gear bag where it can get musty.

Now, how often should you really condition your glove? It’s not as often as you might think. For most players, two or three times a season is plenty. If you play year round or in harsh conditions, you might need to do it a bit more often. But always remember: less is more when it comes to conditioning.

When you do condition your glove, use a product specifically designed for baseball or softball gloves. Apply a thin layer to the leather, working it in with your hands. Then, let it sit overnight before wiping off any excess. This’ll keep your glove in top shape without overdoing it.

The Web Design Debate: Fact vs. Fiction

Another hot topic is slow pitch softball glove myths: web designs. There’s this persistent myth that certain web designs are universally superior. I’ve had players swear by the basket web, while others won’t touch anything but an H-web. But here’s the truth – it’s not one-size-fits-all.

Different web designs can affect your performance in slow pitch softball, but it’s not as simple as “this design is better than that one.” It’s all about how the web design complements your playing style and position.

For instance, an H-web or I-web design is often favored by infielders because it allows for quick ball transfers and provides good visibility through the web. It also allows infield dirt to pass through the openings easier. Outfielders, on the other hand, might prefer a trapeze or modified trap web for that extra deep pocket to snag those high fly balls.

Pitchers in slow pitch often like a closed web for concealing their grip. See what I mean? It’s all about finding what works best for you.

Choosing the right web design for your playing style and position is crucial. Don’t just go for what your favorite pro uses or what looks coolest. Try out different designs if you can. Pay attention to how the ball feels coming into the glove, how easily you can transfer it, and how comfortable you feel making different types of plays.

Brand Loyalty: Separating Truth from Marketing Hype

Now, let’s chat about another one of those slow pitch softball glove myths that’s been bugging me for years: the idea that sticking to one brand guarantees consistency. I’ve seen players who wouldn’t dream of switching brands, thinking they’ve found the holy grail of gloves. But here’s the truth – brand loyalty might be holding you back.

Don’t get me wrong, if you’ve found a brand that works for you, that’s great. But the glove market is always evolving, with new technologies and designs coming out all the time. By exploring different brands, you might discover features that take your game to the next level.

So, how do you objectively evaluate gloves across various brands? First, forget about the name on the glove and focus on how it feels and performs. Pay attention to the quality of the materials, the construction, and how it fits your hand. Try gloves from different brands in the same position and price range, and compare them based on comfort, control, and durability.

Don’t be swayed by flashy marketing or celebrity endorsements. What works for a pro might not be the best for your game. Trust your own experience and judgment. And hey, don’t be afraid to mix it up – you might use one brand for your infield glove and another for your outfield glove. It’s all about finding what works best for you.

The Impact of Weather on Your Slow Pitch Softball Glove

Let’s wrap up by busting one last myth about slow pitch softball gloves: the idea they perform the same in all weather conditions. Boy, is that a load of baloney! If you’ve played in both scorching heat and freezing cold, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

Temperature and humidity can have a big impact on your glove’s performance. In hot, humid weather, leather gloves can become softer and more pliable. This might sound great, but it can also mean your glove loses some of its shape, making it harder to control. On the flip side, cold weather can make the leather stiff and less responsive. I’ve had games where my glove felt like it was made of cardboard which made it so much harder to squeeze closed.

So, how do you deal with these weather challenges? In hot weather, you might need to reshape your glove more often. Use a ball in the pocket to maintain its shape when you’re not playing. In cold weather, try keeping your glove warm between innings – tucking it under your arm can help.

Here’s a pro tip for maintaining your glove in different climates: invest in a good glove conditioner. Apply it sparingly before the season starts and maybe once mid-season. This can help protect the leather from extreme temperatures and humidity.

No matter what the weather’s like, proper storage is key. Don’t leave your glove in a hot car or damp gear bag. Treat it right, and it’ll hold up better through rain or shine.

Whew! We’ve certainly caught a lot of myths today, haven’t we? By busting these slow pitch softball glove myths, we’ve armed you with the knowledge to make better decisions about your equipment. The perfect glove isn’t about following trends or falling for marketing hype – it’s about finding what works best for you and your game. So, next time you’re in the market for a new glove or chatting with teammates about gear, you’ll be the myth-busting MVP! Now, get out there and play ball – your well-informed glove choice is waiting to help you make those game-changing catches!