Walk into any slowpitch tournament and you'll see gloves ranging from a compact 13" to an outfield-commanding 15". That size difference matters far more than most players realize. Use a glove that's too large at shortstop and you'll fumble transfers all night. Use a glove that's too small in center field and that gap-shot you should have caught sails to the warning track. Choosing the right slowpitch glove size for your position is one of the most impactful gear decisions you'll make this season.
In this guide, we break down every slowpitch position — pitcher to center field — with the exact size range that works best and why. We've also linked in-stock options from Smash It Sports so you can go from guide to game-ready in minutes, backed by our price-match guarantee and free shipping on every order.
Why Slowpitch Glove Size Matters More Than You Think
Slowpitch softball gloves are built around one core truth: the ball is bigger. At 12 inches in circumference, the slowpitch softball is over 30% larger than a 9-inch baseball — meaning you need significantly more pocket to secure it reliably. Most slowpitch gloves run from 13" to 15", compared to baseball gloves that typically top out at 12.75".
But within that 13"–15" range, size directly affects four critical things:
- Transfer speed — How fast you get the ball from glove to throwing hand
- Fielding range — How much surface area you have to work with
- Ball security — How reliably the pocket closes around the softball
- Feel and control — Whether the glove moves with you or feels oversized and clunky
The right size for your position optimizes all four. Let's break it down.
Slowpitch Glove Size by Position — Quick Reference Chart
| Position | Recommended Size | What to Prioritize |
|---|---|---|
| Pitcher | 13" – 13.5" | Closed web, quick response on comebackers |
| First Base | 13" - 14" First Base Mitt | Deep scoop pocket for low throws |
| Second Base | 13" | Fastest possible transfer time |
| Shortstop | 13" – 13.5" | Balance of range & transfer speed |
| Third Base | 13.5" – 14" | Security on hard-hit balls at the hot corner |
| Left Field / Right Field | 14" | Fly ball security and fielding range |
| Center Field | 14" – 15" | Maximum gap-to-gap coverage |
Slowpitch Glove Size by Position — Full Breakdown
Pitcher — 13" to 13.5"
In slowpitch, the pitcher is a reactive fielder. After releasing the ball, your job is to be ready for hard comebackers and sharply-hit balls up the middle — fast. A 13" to 13.5" glove with a closed web (H-web or modified trapeze) is the right call for two reasons.
First, a closed web conceals your grip — a habit worth keeping even at recreational levels. Second, a smaller glove closes faster. When a line drive comes back at you from 46 feet, the difference between a clean stop and a ball to the chest is how quickly your glove can close. Pitchers who use 14"+ gloves consistently report slower reaction time. Keep it between 13" and 13.5".
First Base — 13" First Base Mitt
First base is the only position that uses a first base mitt rather than a standard fielding glove — and there's a very good reason for that. First base mitts feature a curved scoop-shaped edge and a deeper pocket designed specifically to handle what first basemen deal with on every play: low throws in the dirt, wide throws that require a stretch, and short-hops that bounce unpredictably.
A 13" first base mitt is the standard for slowpitch. If you've been playing first base with a regular outfield glove, you'll immediately notice the difference.
Second Base — 13"
Second base is where transfer speed rules everything. Whether you're flipping to shortstop for a force, turning a double play, or firing to first on a sharp grounder, the time between ball hitting glove and ball leaving your throwing hand determines whether the out happens. A 13" glove is compact enough to dig the ball out fast while large enough to confidently secure a 12" softball.
Avoid the temptation to go 13.5" or larger at second. That extra half-inch creates real drag on your transfer in competitive play. When an inning is on the line with a runner going, 13" wins every time.
Shortstop — 13" to 13.5"
Shortstop is the most demanding infield position in slowpitch. You need range to go deep into the hole on your backhand and the transfer speed to make the long throw across the diamond. A 13" to 13.5" glove serves both demands without sacrificing one for the other.
Most competitive slowpitch shortstops land at 13.5" as their preferred size. The extra half-inch over a pure 13" gives meaningful reach extension when going to your right or backhanding in the hole, while still being fast enough on the transfer. Speed-first shortstops often prefer 13"; range-first defenders typically choose 13.5".
Third Base — 13.5" to 14"
The hot corner in slowpitch sees some of the hardest-hit balls on the field. Players in competitive leagues send rockets down the third base line with regularity, and third basemen have less reaction time than any other infielder. A 13.5" glove is the most common choice, providing enough surface area to absorb hard shots while staying light enough for quick transfers and throws across the diamond.
Some third basemen — especially those playing men's A or competitive co-ed leagues — prefer 14" for the added security on extra-hard shots they can barely get a glove on. Recreational league players are almost always well-served by 13.5".
Left Field & Right Field — 14"
Corner outfielders in slowpitch primarily deal with fly balls, sinking line drives, and balls hit into the power alleys. A 14" glove is the sweet spot for left and right field — large enough to secure fly balls with confidence, manageable enough to field turf hops and pick up balls that sneak under the outfield. The 14" is also the most versatile size for players who rotate positions throughout a tournament, covering both corner outfield and third base duty without switching gloves.
Center Field — 14" to 15"
Center field requires the most range of any position on the slowpitch field — and your glove should match that demand. A 14" to 15" glove gives you maximum coverage for deep fly balls and gap-to-gap line shots. Many competitive center fielders choose 15" specifically for the extended reach it provides when going all-out to the warning track.
If you're newer to the outfield or you rotate multiple positions, 14" is your safest bet. But if you're a dedicated center fielder who prides their game on range, the jump to 15" is worth it — the extra inch of glove has made the difference on more diving catches than players can count.
Glove Web Style — The Second Most Important Decision
After you've landed on the right size, web style is the next choice. Here's how the most common web patterns perform in slowpitch:
- H-Web — The most versatile web in the game. Allows dirt to fall through on grounders. Works at any position. A safe default if you're unsure.
- Modified Trapeze — Deep, wide pocket built for outfield. Excellent fly ball security. Common in 14" and 15" gloves.
- Single Post / Dual Post (Closed Web) — Preferred by pitchers and some infielders. Conceals grip, closes cleanly, and performs well on grounders.
- Basket Web — Deep enclosed pocket, maximum fly ball security. Popular with outfielders who want the safest possible catch.
When browsing our full selection of slowpitch fielding gloves, check the web style listed in each product description alongside the glove size.
Top Slowpitch Glove Picks by Size — In Stock Now
Every glove below is available now at Smash It Sports with free shipping and our price-match guarantee. Use the position guide above to find your size, then pick the model that fits your game and budget.
Top Slowpitch Glove Picks by Size — In Stock Now
Every glove below is available now at Smash It Sports with free shipping and our price-match guarantee. We've focused this list on the brands and models our competitive slowpitch customers trust most — Miken Pro Series, Miken Player Series, Gem Gloves, and Easton Tantrum Series. Use the position guide above to lock in your size, then find your model below.
Best 13" Slowpitch Gloves
-
Gem Gloves 13" Slowpitch Fielding Glove IN STOCK
Gem Gloves have quietly become one of the most talked-about gloves in the competitive slowpitch community — handcrafted construction, premium leather, and a fit that feels custom from the first catch. If you haven't tried a Gem yet, the 13" is a perfect starting point for infielders who take their gear seriously. -
Rawlings 13" Slowpitch Fielding Glove IN STOCK
The same pro-grade steer hide leather used by MLB players - now in slowpitch specific patterns. If you want the highest quality leather available in slowpitch softball, the Heart of the Hide is the answer. -
Miken Player Series 13" Slowpitch Fielding Glove — PS130-PH IN STOCK
The entry point into the Miken Player lineup and one of the cleanest 13" infield gloves in slowpitch. Game-ready leather, solid pocket depth, and a break-in that doesn't take all season. Purpose-built for pitchers and second basemen who need quick, confident transfers every play. -
Miken Gold PRO Series 13" Slowpitch Fielding Glove — PRO130-BG IN STOCK
The PRO Series steps up the leather quality significantly over the Player line. The Black/Gold colorway is sharp, and the construction is built to hold its shape deep into a long tournament season. If you play shortstop or pitch at a competitive level, this is the glove that matches your game. - Easton Tantrum Series Slowpitch Fielding Glove IN STOCK
- The Tantrum is Easton's most aggressive slowpitch glove yet — premium steer hide leather, a deep-set pocket, and a bold colorway that backs up the name. Infielders in competitive leagues who want a step up from the El Jefe line will find the Tantrum a significant upgrade in feel and durability.
Best 13.5" Slowpitch Gloves
-
Gem Gloves 13.5" Slowpitch Fielding Glove IN STOCK
At 13.5", the Gem really shines. Handcrafted leather, a pocket that breaks in to your hand shape, and a build quality that's hard to match at any price point. Third basemen and shortstops who try a Gem rarely go back to anything else. -
Miken Player Series 13.5" Slowpitch Fielding Glove — PS135-PH IN STOCK
The most popular slowpitch glove we carry — and for good reason. The PS135 hits the sweet spot between infield responsiveness and outfield security, making it the go-to choice for shortstops, third basemen, and pitchers who want one reliable glove for every situation. Excellent leather quality, solid break-in, and priced right for any competitive player. -
Miken Gold PRO Series 13.5" Slowpitch Fielding Glove — PRO135-BG IN STOCK
Pro-grade full-grain leather in the classic Black/Gold finish. The PRO Series at 13.5" is built for competitive shortstops and third basemen who need a glove that performs identically in game 1 and game 7 of a weekend tournament. Holds its shape over multiple seasons — an investment that pays off every time you take the field. -
Miken PRO Series 13.5" Slowpitch Fielding Glove — PRO135WS IN STOCK
A newer colorway in the PRO Series lineup with the same premium leather construction. If you want the pro build without the Black/Gold finish, the PRO135WS delivers the same game-day performance in a fresh look. One of the best-feeling 13.5" gloves in the Miken lineup for competitive infielders. -
Miken White Gold PRO Series 13.5" Slowpitch Fielding Glove — PRO135-WG LOW STOCK
The White/Gold colorway is one of the sharpest-looking gloves in the entire Miken lineup. Same PRO Series construction — full-grain leather, deep pocket, season-long durability — but in a clean, premium finish that stands out at any tournament. Only a few left at this size. - Easton Tantrum Series 13.5" Slowpitch Fielding Glove IN STOCK
- The Tantrum at 13.5" is Easton's answer to the competitive infield market — aggressive pocket, premium steer hide, and a break-in that's noticeably faster than previous Easton slowpitch lines. A great option for third basemen and shortstops who want a modern Easton build at a level above the El Jefe.
Best 14" Slowpitch Gloves
-
Gem Gloves 14" Slowpitch Fielding Glove IN STOCK
The Gem at 14" is a favorite among outfielders who want maximum pocket security without the stiffness that plagues many larger gloves. Handcrafted leather forms to your hand naturally and the break-in period is dramatically shorter than mass-market alternatives. Left and right field players in competitive leagues continue to rank Gem among the best gloves they've ever worn. -
Miken Player Series 14" Slowpitch Fielding Glove — PS140-PH IN STOCK
The PS140 is one of our best-selling gloves across all sizes — and it earns that spot every season. Deep pocket construction, reliable leather that breaks in fast, and a size that covers third base, left field, and right field equally well. If you're looking for one glove that can do it all at a price that doesn't hurt, this is it. -
Miken Black Gold PRO Series 14" Slowpitch Fielding Glove — PRO140-BG IN STOCK
Pro-level leather at 14" in the signature Black/Gold finish. Built for outfielders and corner defenders in competitive leagues who demand a glove that performs at a high level and holds its construction across a full tournament schedule. The PRO Series build is a noticeable step up — and it shows on the field. - Easton Tantrum Series 14" Slowpitch Fielding Glove IN STOCK
- The Tantrum at 14" gives outfielders everything they need — aggressive pocket depth, premium steer hide construction, and a size that handles fly balls and gap shots with confidence. If you've been an Easton player your whole career and you're ready to step up your glove game, the Tantrum is the move. Check availability at SmashItSports.com.
Best 15" Slowpitch Gloves
-
Gem Gloves 15" Slowpitch Fielding Glove IN STOCK
At 15", the Gem is a beast for center fielders. The handcrafted construction that makes Gem famous at smaller sizes translates perfectly to a 15" frame — a deep, formed pocket that secures softballs on diving plays and warning track shots alike. If you're a center fielder who takes pride in your range, a Gem 15" is worth every penny. -
Miken Player Series 15" Slowpitch Fielding Glove — PS150-PH
Maximum coverage for center fielders who play range-first, gap-to-gap defense. The PS150 gives you the largest reliable pocket in the Player Series lineup — ideal for high-arc leagues where fly ball security is the number one priority. -
Easton Tantrum Series 15" Slowpitch Fielding Glove
The Tantrum stretched to 15" is made for center fielders who go all-out on every fly ball. Premium steer hide in a large format gives you the security of a pro-grade glove with the range that matters most when the gap is in play. The biggest, most capable Easton slowpitch glove they've built to date.
How to Measure Your Slowpitch Glove Size
Glove size is measured in inches from the tip of the index finger along the inside of the glove down to the center of the heel. To measure an existing glove:
- Lay the glove flat with the pocket facing up
- Use a soft tape measure from the top of the index finger along the inside of the glove to the center of the heel pad
- That measurement in inches is the glove size
If you're estimating size before buying:
- Measure from the tip of your index finger to the base of your palm
- Add 4 to 5 inches to account for pocket depth and glove construction
- Cross-reference with the position chart above to confirm the right size range for your role
💡 Tip: Most slowpitch gloves at Smash It Sports are eligible for free returns — so if a size feels off when it arrives, you can exchange without hassle. Look for the "Free Return Eligible" label on each product page before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions — Slowpitch Glove Sizing
What size slowpitch glove do I need?
It depends entirely on your position. Pitchers and second basemen do best with 13". Shortstops play well with 13" to 13.5". Third basemen typically land at 13.5" to 14". Left and right fielders prefer 14", and center fielders typically use 14" to 15" for maximum range. First base players use a specialized 13" first base mitt — not a standard fielding glove.
Is a 14" glove too big for slowpitch infield?
For most infield positions, yes. A 14" glove slows your transfer time and costs you on close force plays. The exception is third base — some third basemen in competitive leagues prefer the extra surface area to handle hard-hit shots at the hot corner. For second base and shortstop, stick with 13" to 13.5".
What is the best slowpitch glove size for outfielders?
Left and right fielders perform best with a 14" glove. Center fielders benefit from going to 14" or even 15" when range is the priority. The deeper pocket of a larger glove helps secure high-arc fly balls and gap-to-gap shots that are the bread-and-butter of outfield play in slowpitch.
What size glove should a slowpitch pitcher use?
A 13" to 13.5" glove with a closed web — H-web or modified trapeze — is the standard recommendation for slowpitch pitchers. The closed web conceals your grip, and the smaller size helps you close the glove quickly on comebackers and sharply-hit balls up the middle, which are the most common plays you'll see from the mound.
Does glove size actually make a difference in slowpitch softball?
Absolutely. The right size improves fielding efficiency, reduces errors, and helps you execute faster transfers on close plays. Using a glove that's too large at infield creates drag on your transfer and leads to late throws. Using a glove that's too small in the outfield means balls you should catch hit off the edge of your pocket and fall in. Size matters — at every position.
What's the difference between a slowpitch glove and a baseball glove?
Slowpitch softball gloves are built to accommodate the larger 12" softball and run significantly bigger than baseball gloves — typically 13" to 15" compared to 11.25" to 12.75" in baseball. The pocket depth, shape, and break-in stiffness are all calibrated for softball play. Using a baseball glove for slowpitch results in a glove that can't reliably secure the larger ball and breaks down faster under different impact patterns.
What brands make the best slowpitch softball gloves?
The top brands for slowpitch softball gloves are Miken, Worth, Easton, and Rawlings. Miken and Worth are especially dominant at the competitive slowpitch level, known for leather quality, pocket construction, and durability. At Smash It Sports, we carry the full lineup from all major brands with our price-match guarantee — so you always know you're getting the best price available.
Can I use the same glove for multiple positions in slowpitch?
You can — and many recreational players do. A 13.5" glove is the most versatile option, covering most infield positions well and handling corner outfield duty in a pinch. But if you're a dedicated center fielder or a serious shortstop in a competitive league, you'll perform noticeably better with a glove sized for your specific role. Many competitive slowpitch players own two gloves: one sized for infield rotations and one for outfield.
Find Your Glove. Get Game-Ready.
You now know exactly what to look for — size by position, web style, and top brands to consider. Browse our complete slowpitch fielding glove collection at Smash It Sports. Every order ships free, every price is backed by our price-match guarantee, and qualifying gloves include free returns so you can order with confidence.