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<\/p>\nIf you have ever watched a game of baseball, you will notice that first basemen wear a very different type of baseball glove than other teammates, who all seem to (more or less) wear the same type of glove. The first baseman\u2019s glove is usually a bit wider, a little bigger and it looks like it has a larger pocket. Your eyes don\u2019t deceive you – a first baseman does have a very unique glove that is different from others.<\/p>\n
It should be noted that at lower levels of baseball and softball, first baseman will use the same type of glove as any other position. The reason for this is that while kids are still young the coach may have them try multiple positions to find what they like, and so it is rare for a child to already have a specialized glove that is only suitable for first base. As they play more and more and become more tailored to one unique position, it will be more common for them to get a glove specially for first base.<\/p>\n
The biggest difference between first base gloves and gloves worn by other position players is the extra padding in a first base glove. The reason for this is that a first baseman, much like a catcher, will require extra protection from balls that are thrown at high speed or velocity. Although the amount of padding is not as much as a catcher\u2019s mitt, it is more than any other player\u2019s glove.<\/p>\n
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Via: kingsofkauffman.com<\/p>\n
A first base glove will also need to be a bit larger than other gloves, to help with scooping balls that are thrown in the dirt. A good first baseman needs to be able to pick balls that are thrown low or short-hopped, and a larger oversized glove will help with this task. As a result, one side of the mitt will be quite flat, while the back will be slightly rounded – it somewhat resembles a burrito. The sizing of a first base glove is usually 13 inches or larger.<\/p>\n
First base gloves also do not feature separate finger compartments, instead opting for a single large compartment so you can move all your fingers in unison to close and open the mitt. This will help in holding onto balls, and eliminate the risk of balls bouncing off the edge of the mitt. The lack of separate finger compartments is the main reason why many call the first baseman\u2019s glove a mitt, as it resembles a mitten.<\/p>\n
The most common web type for first base mitts are H-webs, although some also have a single post design. You may be able to find gloves with differing web types, but these are the two that you will most frequently encounter.<\/p>\n
Before you jump into your purchase of a first base glove, here are some considerations to keep in mind that will help you with your selection:<\/p>\n
Let\u2019s move on to 5 great options for first base gloves:<\/p>\n
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Rawlings is up first on the list with their Renegade line, a terrific first base glove that is ready to go right away. It comes at a low price and is excellent value as it is constructed from fully-grained leather for enhanced durability. It has a fairly deep pocket which makes it a good choice for first baseman, and has a single post web design with dual bars. The conventional back is capped off with velcro adjusted straps that gives a customized fit for every hand.<\/p>\n