Different Types of Baseball Gloves: Guide for Every Position

Finding the right baseball glove is one of the most important choices a player makes. A glove isn’t just a piece of leather — it’s the tool that allows you to field cleanly, react quickly, and play with confidence. The wrong glove can feel stiff, heavy, or mismatched to your position. The right one becomes an extension of your hand.

With so many different types of baseball gloves, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Outfield gloves, infield gloves, pitcher’s gloves, first base gloves, catcher’s mitts, and batting gloves all serve unique purposes.

This guide will explain the main types of baseball gloves, highlight the differences between them — including the classic infield vs outfield glove comparison — and show you how to choose the right fit for your game.

Why Choosing the Right Baseball Glove Matters

Baseball is one of the few sports where gear is built specifically for a position. A shortstop’s glove won’t work well in the outfield. A catcher can’t use a first baseman’s mitt. Each baseball glove type is carefully designed to match the demands of the role.

Here’s why it matters:

• Performance: The right glove improves reaction time and consistency.
  

• Durability: Using the wrong glove type shortens its lifespan.
  

• Development: Especially for youth players, the right glove builds confidence and proper mechanics.

Simply put, understanding the different baseball gloves available helps you play better and protects your investment.

Different Types of Baseball Gloves

There are six main types of baseball gloves, each designed for a specific position or purpose:

• Outfield gloves – Larger gloves with deep pockets for catching fly balls.
  

• Infield gloves – Smaller, quicker gloves for fast ball transfers.
  

• Pitcher’s gloves – Closed-web gloves to conceal pitch grips.
  

• First base gloves – Curved-edge gloves designed for scooping throws.
  

• Catcher’s mitts – Heavily padded gloves built to handle fast pitches.
  

• Batting gloves – Optional gloves worn at the plate for grip and comfort.

In the sections below, we’ll break down each of these baseball glove types in detail, so you know exactly what makes them unique.

• Outfield Gloves: Reach and Security

Outfield gloves are the largest of all types of baseball gloves, usually ranging from 12 to 13 inches. They’re built for reach, helping players track down line drives and fly balls in the gaps.

Key Features of Outfield Gloves:

• Longer length for maximum coverage.
  

• Deep pocket for securing balls on the run.
  

• Common webs: H-web and trapeze for better visibility when tracking fly balls.

A glove that’s too small makes catches harder. The right outfield glove gives players confidence when diving, reaching, or crashing into the wall.

• Infield Gloves: Speed and Versatility

Infield gloves are smaller and more compact, typically between 11 and 11.75 inches. They’re designed for quick transfers and lightning-fast throws.

Key Features of Infield Gloves:

• Compact size for agility.
  

• Shallow pocket for faster ball handling.
  

• Popular webs: I-web and H-web for ball visibility.

For infielders, speed is everything. A properly sized infield glove feels light, responsive, and allows quick, accurate throws.

• Infield vs Outfield Glove: What’s the Difference?

Players often wonder about the difference between an infield vs outfield glove. The main contrasts are size, pocket depth, and purpose.

If you primarily play one position, choose the glove designed for it. Players who move between the infield and the outfield may need two gloves for the best results.

• Pitcher’s Gloves: Conceal and Control

Pitcher’s gloves look similar to infield gloves but have one critical difference: closed webs. The goal is to hide the pitcher’s grip from hitters.

Key Features of Pitcher’s Gloves:

• Size: 11.5–12 inches.
  

• Closed webs like a basket or a two-piece.
  

• Clean, simple designs to avoid distraction.

Comfort and concealment are everything for pitchers. A glove that hides the ball and feels balanced gives pitchers confidence with every pitch.

• First Base Gloves: Scoops and Tags

First base gloves stand out from other baseball glove types. They feature a longer, curved edge and a shallow pocket to scoop throws and make quick tags.

Key Features of First Base Gloves:

• Length: 12–13 inches.
  

• Curved design for a wider catching surface.
  

• Shallow pocket for fast control.

First basemen handle more throws than any other player. A proper first base glove makes low scoops, short hops, and tough stretches easier to handle.

• Catcher’s Mitts: Strength and Protection

No glove takes more punishment than the catcher’s mitt. Designed for repeated high-velocity pitches, it’s heavily padded and uniquely shaped.

Key Features of Catcher’s Mitts:

• Measured in circumference: 32–34 inches.
  

• Extra padding to absorb stingers.
  

• Closed web for security and durability.

The catcher’s mitt is built for one role: receiving pitches and controlling the game. No other glove could handle the constant impact.

• Batting Gloves: Grip and Confidence

While not required for fielding, batting gloves are one of the most popular additions alongside the different types of baseball gloves. They improve grip, reduce sting, and increase comfort during at-bats.

Key Features of Batting Gloves:

• Leather or synthetic materials.
  

• Snug fit for improved bat control.
  

• Worn by youth, college, and pro players alike.

Though optional, many hitters won’t step into the box without batting gloves because of the confidence they provide.

How to Choose the Right Baseball Glove

With so many different types of baseball gloves, here’s a simple process to choose the right one:

1. Pick by position: Infield, outfield, pitcher, first base, or catcher.
   

2. Use size ranges: Infield (11–11.75”), Outfield (12–13”), Pitcher (11.5–12”), First Base (12–13”), Catcher (32–34”).
   

3. Check web style: Open webs for visibility, closed webs for concealment or durability.
   

4. Test fit: Try it on and close it around a ball — it should feel natural.
   

5. Prioritize quality: Higher-grade leather lasts longer and breaks in better.

The right glove should feel comfortable immediately and support your natural movements.

Caring for Your Baseball Glove

Glove care is key to extending its life and performance.

• Break it in naturally: Play catch often. Use glove oil sparingly.
  

• Store properly: Keep it dry with a ball in the pocket to maintain shape.
  

• Condition seasonally: Clean dirt and reapply conditioner once or twice a year.

With proper care, a glove softens with age and becomes even more reliable.

Mark Lumber: Tools Beyond Gloves

Gloves are essential for defense, but offense is defined by the bat. At Mark Lumber, we craft premium wood baseball bats from North American hard maple. Each bat is built with the same attention to detail and durability that players expect from their gloves.

Our lineup includes:

• Pro Select Bats – professional-grade performance.
  

• Customizable Bats – tailored to your swing.
  

• Youth Bats – lighter, designed for proper mechanics.
  

• Fungo Bats – for coaches running efficient practices.
  

• Training & Trophy Bats – for development or milestones.

From different types of baseball gloves to handcrafted bats, the right equipment gives you confidence on both sides of the game.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the different types of baseball gloves by position?

There are six main types of baseball gloves that players use depending on position. Infield gloves are small and compact, usually 11–11.75 inches, designed for quick ball handling and fast throws. Outfield gloves are longer, often 12–13 inches, with deeper pockets that make it easier to secure fly balls on the run. Pitchers’ gloves generally feature closed webs, such as basket or two-piece styles, to conceal the grip from hitters. First base gloves are unique, with a curved edge and shallow pocket that allow players to scoop low throws and apply quick tags. Catcher’s mitts are heavily padded and round, built to absorb fast pitches without injuring the hand. Finally, batting gloves are worn at the plate to improve grip and comfort. These different baseball gloves ensure every position has the right tool.

2. What is the difference between an infield and an outfield glove?

The infield vs outfield glove difference comes down to size, pocket depth, and purpose. Infield gloves are smaller, usually 11–11.75 inches, with shallow pockets that allow players to grab the ball and make quick transfers to their throwing hand. This design helps infielders react faster to ground balls, line drives, and double plays. Outfield gloves, on the other hand, are larger at 12–13 inches with deeper pockets, giving outfielders more reach and security when catching high fly balls or line drives in the gaps. Common infield webs include the I-web and H-web, while outfielders often prefer trapeze or H-webs for visibility. Infielders value speed and control, while outfielders prioritize coverage and ball security. These two baseball glove types serve distinct purposes and are not interchangeable.

3. How do I know what size baseball glove to buy?

Choosing the right size depends on position, age, and comfort. For most baseball glove types, infielders use gloves between 11 and 11.75 inches to allow fast ball handling and quick throws. Outfielders require longer gloves, usually 12–13 inches, with deeper pockets for tracking and securing fly balls. Pitchers often choose gloves around 11.5–12 inches with closed webs for concealing the grip. First basemen need 12–13-inch curved gloves to scoop throws, while catchers’ mitts are measured in circumference, typically 32–34 inches. Youth players should size down slightly, as smaller gloves are easier to control and close. Remember that fit and comfort matter just as much as size. Trying on different types of baseball gloves is the best way to make sure it feels natural in your hand.

4. Do professionals use different baseball gloves than youth players?

Yes, but the core baseball glove types by position remain the same. Infielders, outfielders, pitchers, first basemen, and catchers all use the same glove categories. The difference lies in construction and materials. Professional gloves are typically made from high-grade steerhide or premium leathers, offering more durability, stiffness, and longer break-in periods. This makes them last longer under heavy use. Youth gloves, on the other hand, are designed to be lighter, softer, and easier to close, helping young players develop proper mechanics without struggling. While a pro shortstop and a youth shortstop both use an infield glove, the pro model is stronger and built for higher performance. Ultimately, both levels benefit from having the right baseball glove type, but the quality and durability improve at the professional level.

5. How do you break in a new baseball glove?

Breaking in a glove takes time and should be done carefully. The best way to soften leather is to play catch consistently, which naturally forms the pocket. Apply a small amount of glove oil or conditioner to keep the leather flexible, but don’t overdo it — too much weakens the glove. Always store your glove with a ball in the pocket and secure it with a band to maintain its shape. Avoid shortcuts like microwaving, baking, or soaking in water, as these methods damage leather and drastically shorten its lifespan. A proper break-in creates a glove that feels comfortable, responsive, and reliable for years. Whether you’re working with an infield glove, outfield glove, or catcher’s mitt, patience ensures your glove molds perfectly to your hand. This process works across all baseball glove types.

Conclusion

Every position on the field requires a different tool, and that’s why there are different types of baseball gloves. Infield gloves are compact for quick throws. Outfield gloves are long and deep for tracking fly balls. Pitcher’s gloves hide grips, first base gloves scoop throws, catcher’s mitts protect against high velocity, and batting gloves improve grip at the plate.

By understanding the unique roles of each baseball glove type, you’ll know exactly what to choose. Pick the right glove — and play with confidence.