How To Size Softball First Base Glove

When it comes to playing first base in softball it is imperative that you know how to size a softball first base glove so that you’re using something that has the proper fit. After all, in the field you’ll be taking throws from other infielders, scooping softballs out of the dirt, and fielding softballs hit to you at lightening speed. Here is how to properly size a softball first base glove.

1. Select the proper size glove. Softball gloves come in two main sizes: youth and adult. Because the first base glove is a specialty glove (like a catcher’s mitt), there aren’t smaller sizes on the market for things like tee ball. A youth softball glove will be about eleven inches tall, while an adult softball glove will be in the range of twelve to twelve and one half inches.
2. Slip your hand into the softball glove. In order to size softball first base glove, it is important that the glove feel comfortable on your hand. Slip your hand in and make sure that the fingers go deep enough into the webbing that you’ll be able to squeeze the glove comfortably once it has been broken in.
3. Adjust the strap on the back of the softball glove. The final piece to size a softball first base glove is to adjust the strap on the back of the glove. This strap is found on the reverse side of where the hand enters the glove. Pull the strap so that the hand feels secure, but not restricted from movement. Voila! You have just properly sized a softball first base glove.

Tips:

• After you size a softball first base glove, apply a healthy amount of glove oil to the glove, insert a softball, and wrap the glove tightly with twine. This will help form the pocket after a few days.
• Apply glove oil liberally several times throughout the season so that the glove doesn’t dry out and crack.
• At the beginning of each season, have the softball first base glove re-strung. This will ensure that the webbing remains firm and properly catches the ball when fielding softballs or retrieving throws.