Best products from r/slowpitch

Yeah, I can see that - the worth toxics I've seen are junk tier, Wal-Mart shelf gloves, but maybe they make better ones too under the same name since when I googled it now they did have a full grain version...You really don't have to go top end (though I love my A2000), but make sure you get one that would normally be at least around 70-80 bucks regular price, even if you get it for 40-50 online or on sale.

Make sure you go at least 13" length for outfield, as you want the extra surface area for running catches, and make sure the palm at least is full grain leather, not one of these ones made of fabric and foam with a paper thin layer of leather overtop of it that tears away in 2 weeks.

I had one of these a few years back and loved it- great value for the cheap price, full grain leather and a comfortable all around glove. A couple guys on my team are still rocking these too.

It's still a good glove today after two seasons full time duty, but I upgraded as it was starting to get a little floppier than I like in the fingers on grounder pickups as the lower end gloves tend to do.

Bottom line: if you're only looking to spend 50-100 bucks on a glove for a couple years, this one would be one of my top recommendations.

Hey man, I started to get plantar fasciitis in both my feet from wearing cleats. I switched to turfs, but still was sore from time to time. I have now switched over to trailrunners and use them exclusively.

I am an infield/outfield player depending on what night I'm playing or what the team needs. I play almost every night from April thru November. I've played in all types of horrible field conditions and have to say that if I was going to slip or lose my footing in trail runners, I would have in cleats also.

https://www.amazon.com/Salomon-Speedcross-Running-Silver-Metallic-X/dp/B004LB4V5E/ref=sr_1_1?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1480448362&sr=1-1&nodeID=7141123011&keywords=salomon%2Bshoes&th=1&psc=1
These are what I would recommend. 2 year warranty I believe as well. Just get some when they're on sale. I think I've paid at most $75 for a pair. I use them for golf too.

My feet great after tournaments and they're nice and light without any sacrifice to footing. I'm a fast base runner and these are perfectly fine for having to round bases or stop on a dime and run back to base. As for heel cushioning, there is some, but I like that it has some (goes back to the plantar fasciitis and not wanting that ever again).

Anytime I hear people asking about what type of cleats to get I always suggest trail runners. Make the switch and your fet will thank you for it.

I had this one for a few years. Build quiality and zippers weren't great, but I did get three or so years out if it. What was great is the built in cooler holds a 12 pack. So if that is your priority and you can live with some quality issues, thumbs up. :-)

I've had this one for a few months now. Decently happy with it. I like that it can take four bats so I don't need to swap things out when I go to different leagues with different bat rules. I am seeing a hint of zipper issue but everything is working well. Much more interior room than the one I listed above. One of main reasons I moved to this bag was I wanted to bring 12+ practice ball without having to carry a bucket. Minor gripe, the cleat pocket isn't as well ventilated as my previous bag.

Got mine on Amazon and I absolutely love it. Quality is amazing and easily the best glove I've ever worn. This one is 13 inches. I play infield and outfield and it works for both.

https://www.amazon.com/Wilson-2018-A2000-Superskin-Gloves/dp/B073DG5D2W/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1527189441&sr=8-12&keywords=wilson+a2000+glove

U/clkou this is great for you. Really. I was a replacement level infielder on very good teams growing up. This is far better than having old Italian coaches hit one hoppers at you from ten feet away.

Thing you miss from not having actual fielding practice is your initial read/first step. Luckily, Hand-eye is more important than range in softball. You’re closer, you’re older, you’re slower.

I suggest just trying. One game that may amount to errors and runs but who cares. You’re not supposed to be playing there. Focus on fundamentals and footwork. If you do this drill once it’ll help you.

ONE CAVEAT: Short has the most defensive responsibility. If you’re on a competitive team you have to know all of.

If you don’t have a wall, this you can use in your living room.

I definitely second and third and fourth trail runners - I bought these off Amazon and they have been awesome for softball - super comfy - and I am a big guy - and great grip in all conditions so far. Reebok Men's Trailgrip RS 4.0 Running Shoe https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00RPMU2WM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I find a tens unit works pretty damn good for soft tissue injuries. It’s not miracle cure but combined with ice, rest, compression it’s another tool. You can pick up a good one for home use at most big drug stores. I have this one and I’ve found it to be the most powerful of the few that I’ve owned. For someone who works with their body or is an athlete or just beats themselves up in other ways, it’s great to have around for minor injuries.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00SVPNZXU/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1520363254&sr=8-3&keywords=omron+tens+unit&dpPl=1&dpID=51ihj5wUqUL&ref=plSrch

I think it was something close to this glove, it was a Mizuno and it had this web type.

I don't really know what size it was, basically it was 50% off at a store here in town and I bought it, it was a good glove but I didn't do any research.

Now, I play two games a week so I'd like to get a better glove, or at least to make an educated decision. I could pay $150 for a glove, but i'm trying to figure out what are the differences between a $60 glove and a $200 glove, and will they matter to me.

Edit: Clarity.

I wear Mizuno Jawz. They're like a hybrid between a cleat and a turf shoe. Very comfortable with great grip on dirt and grass. Can use on turf as well.
Link

If your pitcher wants the least obtrusive mask possible (it sounds like they do), then I'd recommend something like THIS

If safety is the number one concern, I'd recommend something bulkier. I personally have the Easton Mako 2

Full mask helmets are definitely heavier, and cut off some of your field of view, but they protect you from side/rear impact.

I pitch too and I've tried catchers leg guards, but they limited my mobility too much. What I ended up settling on was evoshield leg guards and your slide pads and of course a cup.

I've only been hit hard in the ankle, so the evoshields give me the best protection where I need it. Same thing major leaguers use.

I also wear a rip it mask. I probably where more armor than anyone else in my league, but I play 3 times week so I need be careful.

agree with this, if you can try and pick up a model from last year you can save yourself a few bucks. but in general the more expensive the glove the higher quality the leather. longer break in time but with use it will be really your glove and form to your hand. just over a season an half now with a Rawlings HoH and it really has taken shape. i keep a ball in it and keep it wrapped when not in use, i use the Mizuno Ball Wrap.

https://www.amazon.com/Mizuno-Glove-Wrap-G2/dp/B01GSP8BO2

I've used these for a couple years as a pitcher.

They're cheap, work great & are fairly easy to quickly put on & take off between innings.

Fox Racing Titan Sport Knee/Shin Guards - One size fits most/Black

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E9SOVW2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_DV8czbSCHHMGR

This is most likely the thumbguard you speak of. I use one and really enjoy it. It (in theory at least) is supposed to position the bat so you grip it with your fingers rather than with your palm (If that makes sense). It can take a bit of getting used to so if you do decide to get one I'd definitely hit up a batting cage or take some bp to get some hitting reps in.

Picked up an Easton walk-off. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008KZYAB2?pc_redir=1409145638&robot_redir=1 pretty nice bag for $50. has a hook, cleat compartment and a velcro strip on the front for your batting gloves. Ton of space too.

I wear a rip-it as well. Definitely the go to pick if you're looking for a sleek, less-cumbersome mask. Basically just protects the front of your face and not the top or sides of your head. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00345HHJU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_S0.UAbGQVTG08

I picked up this '15 Salvo 27oz about a 4 weeks ago for $90 at a Hibbet's Sports. If it wasn't that cheap, I wouldn't have bought it. I would have went with a Aftermath or Juggy.

I bought it to use as a better team bat, we probably have about 350 hits on it with BP and games and its opened up nicely in my opinion. Some of our guys are hitting shots with this on .52/300 balls.

My advice is avoid a 14” I had one and it was huge I much prefer the 13” I play with in the outfield now if you’re hard-set on a 14” however Louisville has a dynasty series that fits your description and it was cheap.
Louisville Slugger Dynasty Slow Pitch Softball Gloves, Left Hand, 14", Caramel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KWWPULY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5-62Bb2DVEJQB