Best Fastpitch Softball Outfield Gloves (2026): 12.5" and Up, by Budget
The best fastpitch outfield glove for most players is the Wilson A500 Siren 12.5" (about $80): light, easy to close, and big enough for real reach in the gaps. We ranked 8 outfield gloves from a $40 Franklin to the Rawlings R9, including three 13" options for high school outfielders, with a size chart by age, web advice and a break-in routine.
In this guide · 10 sections
- At a glance
- Fastpitch outfield gloves compared
- What size glove does a fastpitch outfielder need? Size chart by age
- Which web type is best for the outfield?
- Right-hand throw vs left: which to buy
- How to choose a fastpitch outfield glove
- Leather vs synthetic, and when to step up
- How to break in an outfield glove
- Also worth a look
- FAQ
Quick picks
Our top recommendations, full reviews below.
Best overall: the light 12.5" outfield glove most players buy
~$80 price and availability on Amazon
View on Amazon →Key takeaways
- #1 pick: Wilson A500 Siren 12.5" (about $80). Budget: Franklin Fastpitch Pro 12.5" (about $40). Best 13": Mizuno MVP Prime (about $130). Premium: Rawlings R9 12.5" (about $150).
- Outfielders use a bigger glove than infielders: about 12" to 12.5" for youth and 12.5" to 13" for high school, for extra reach on fly balls and gap shots.
- Closed, H, basket and trapeze webs suit the outfield: a deeper pocket that holds the ball on a run and shades the sun on a high fly.
- The glove goes on the non-throwing hand. A right-handed thrower buys RHT and wears it on the left.
- Leather lasts and forms a better pocket but needs a break-in; entry-level gloves are soft on day one but wear out faster.
- Size by hand strength, not by wish. A glove a young player cannot close drops fly balls.
The best fastpitch outfield glove for most players is the Wilson A500 Siren 12.5" (about $80): light, popular, and big enough for real outfield reach without being too much glove for a 10U to 14U player. The Franklin Fastpitch Pro (about $40) is the budget first glove, the Wilson A700 (about $112) and Easton Fundamental (about $92) are the leather step-ups, and high school outfielders who want 13" should look at the Mizuno MVP Prime or the budget Rawlings Shut Out 13".
The outfield is its own job: balls hang in the air, players cover ground, and the glove has to reach, hold a ball on a dead run, and block the sun on a high fly. That is why outfielders go bigger than infielders, with a longer glove and a deeper pocket. Below are 8 gloves worth buying, a size chart by age, which webs work in the outfield, and how to break one in so it is ready by opening day.
At a glance
| Pick | Best for | Price* | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 · Best overallWilson A500 Siren 12.5" Outfield Fastpitch Glove | Best overall: the light 12.5" outfield glove most players buy | ~$80 | View →View on Amazon → |
 | #2 · Best for younger playersRawlings Sure Catch Youth Series Softball Glove (12.5") | Best for younger players: a youth glove built to be easy to close | ~$50 | View →View on Amazon → |
 | #3 · Budget pickFranklin Fastpitch Pro Glove (12.5") | Best budget: the cheapest real 12.5" fastpitch glove | ~$40 | View →View on Amazon → |
 | #4 · Quality mid-tierEaston Fundamental Series 12.5" Fastpitch Glove (Basket Web) | Best leather step-up for travel outfielders | ~$92 | View →View on Amazon → |
 | #5 · Step-upWilson A700 12.5" Outfield Fastpitch Glove | Best step-up gamer: game-ready leather in a 12.5" outfield pattern | ~$112 | View →View on Amazon → |
 | #6 · Best 13-inchMizuno MVP Prime 13" Fastpitch Glove (H Web) | Best 13": maximum reach for high school outfielders | ~$130 | View →View on Amazon → |
 | #7 · Budget 13-inchRawlings Shut Out Series 13" Softball Glove | Best budget 13": outfield reach for less | ~$75 | View →View on Amazon → |
 | #8 · Premium pickRawlings R9 12.5" Fastpitch Glove (Double-Lace Basket Web) | Best premium 12.5": R9 leather with an outfield basket web | ~$150 | View →View on Amazon → |
*Prices at time of writing, they move; check the listing.
Wilson A500 Siren 12.5" Outfield Fastpitch Glove
~$80
The Wilson A500 Siren is the outfield glove you see on the most youth fields, and an easy default: a light 12.5" outfield pattern (the linked listing is the 2026 model, right hand throw) that gives a developing outfielder real reach without feeling heavy at the end of a long arm. 12.5" is the fastpitch outfield sweet spot for 10U to 14U.
It is a well-rounded pick rather than a specialist's tool, which is what most families want: one glove that covers the outfield from 10U through travel ball.
- Light for its size
- 12.5" outfield sweet spot
- Popular and easy to find in both hands
- Good from youth through travel ball
- Not a high-end gamer
- Serious high school outfielders may want stiffer leather or 13"
Rawlings Sure Catch Youth Series Softball Glove (12.5")
~$50
The Sure Catch line is built around one idea: helping a young player actually close the glove. Smaller hands struggle to squeeze a stiff mitt shut, and a glove that will not close drops the ball. This youth 12.5" version gives outfield length in a softer, easier-closing youth build with colors kids like.
It is the pick for a 9U to 12U outfielder moving up from a small infield glove. As hand strength catches up, she will move into leather like the Easton Fundamental.
- Youth build designed to close easily
- 12.5" outfield length
- Kid-friendly colors
- Builds catching confidence
- Outgrown as hand strength develops
- Not a long-term gamer
Franklin Fastpitch Pro Glove (12.5")
~$40
If the choice is "this $40 glove or no glove," buy the glove. The Franklin Fastpitch Pro is the lowest-priced pick here, a 12.5" fastpitch glove marketed for adult and youth players in the infield and outfield. It is a fine first outfield glove for rec ball.
It is not built to last five seasons or form the broken-in pocket a serious player wants, but it gets a kid into the outfield catching today. Spend the savings on a good break-in session and a tub of conditioner. Stock is limited at time of writing.
- Lowest price here
- 12.5" outfield length
- Soft enough to play right away
- Low-risk first purchase
- Will not last like quality leather
- Less refined pocket
- Limited stock
Easton Fundamental Series 12.5" Fastpitch Glove (Basket Web)
~$92
The Easton Fundamental sits between the A500 and the A700: a 12.5" fastpitch glove with a basket web and better leather that breaks in to a reliable pocket. Nicer leather holds its shape, closes the same way every time, and lasts more seasons, which matters once a player is committed to the outfield.
It needs a proper break-in (see below). Once there, you get a pocket you can trust on a dead run. There is also a 13" Fundamental (about $95) in the same line for bigger players.
- Better leather, reliable pocket
- Basket web for the outfield
- Lasts multiple seasons
- Middle price
- Needs a break-in
- More than a beginner needs
Wilson A700 12.5" Outfield Fastpitch Glove
~$112
The Wilson A700 is the step-up gamer: better leather in a 12.5" outfield pattern for a serious or older player who wants a glove that performs and lasts. It is a clear move up from the A500 Siren in materials and feel.
For a younger or occasional outfielder it is more glove than she needs; for a player who lives in the outfield, it is worth the jump.
- Game-ready leather that lasts
- 12.5" outfield pattern
- Clear step up from the A500
- Trusted Wilson build
- More than a young or occasional player needs
- Priced near the 13" Mizuno
Mizuno MVP Prime 13" Fastpitch Glove (H Web)
~$130
The MVP Prime is Mizuno's pro-feel fastpitch line, and this 13" glove with an H web is the outfield pick for a high school player who wants every inch of reach. The H web gives a deep pocket that still lets a little light through, a good middle ground between shading the sun and seeing the ball into the glove.
13" is a lot of glove. It suits taller, stronger outfielders who can close it one-handed; for most younger players, 12.5" is the better choice.
- 13" reach
- Pro-feel MVP Prime leather
- H web deep pocket
- Softball-first brand
- Too big for most youth hands
- Needs a break-in
Rawlings Shut Out Series 13" Softball Glove
~$75
The Shut Out Series is Rawlings' value softball line, and this 13" glove is the cheapest way to get a 13" outfield pattern from a major brand. It is the pick for a high school player who needs more reach than a 12.5" but plays on a budget, or as a backup gamer.
It will not have the leather of the Mizuno or R9, and it is softer out of the box because of it.
- 13" for about $75
- Major-brand build
- Softer, quicker break-in
- Good backup gamer
- Value leather
- Too big for younger players
Rawlings R9 12.5" Fastpitch Glove (Double-Lace Basket Web)
~$150
The R9 line is Rawlings' step toward pro leather at a non-pro price, and this 12.5" fastpitch glove with a double-lace basket web is a proper outfield gamer. The basket web gives a deep, closed pocket that shades the sun on a high fly.
At about $150 it is the most expensive glove here. For a varsity or elite travel outfielder who wants a 12.5" she will use for years, it is the one.
- R9 premium leather
- Double-lace basket web
- 12.5" controllable size
- Built to last
- Most expensive glove here
- Needs a real break-in
Fastpitch outfield gloves compared
| Glove | Size and web | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wilson A500 Siren | 12.5" outfield | Most 10U to 14U players | ~$80 |
| Rawlings Sure Catch Youth | 12.5" youth | Easy close, 9U to 12U | ~$50 |
| Franklin Fastpitch Pro | 12.5" | Budget | ~$40 |
| Easton Fundamental | 12.5" basket | Leather step-up | ~$92 |
| Wilson A700 | 12.5" outfield | Serious players | ~$112 |
| Mizuno MVP Prime | 13" H web | Max reach | ~$130 |
| Rawlings Shut Out | 13" | Budget 13" | ~$75 |
| Rawlings R9 | 12.5" double-lace basket | Premium | ~$150 |
All links open the right-hand-throw version; switch the hand on the listing for a lefty. Prices are Amazon at time of writing.
What size glove does a fastpitch outfielder need? Size chart by age
Most 10U to 14U fastpitch outfielders use a 12" to 12.5" glove, and high school outfielders use 12.5" to 13". An outfielder's job is covering ground, so a longer glove that adds reach helps. The catch is hand strength: a 13" glove only helps if she can close it.
| Level | Outfield glove size | Good fit from above |
|---|---|---|
| 8U to 10U | About 11.5" to 12", easy close | A youth fastpitch glove; move to the Sure Catch at 12.5" as she grows |
| 10U to 12U | 12" to 12.5" | Rawlings Sure Catch, Franklin Fastpitch Pro, Wilson A500 Siren |
| 12U to 14U travel | 12.5" | Wilson A500 Siren, Easton Fundamental, Wilson A700 |
| High school and up | 12.5" to 13" | Wilson A700, Rawlings R9, Mizuno MVP Prime, Shut Out 13" |
| Position | Typical fastpitch size | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Outfield | 12.5" to 13" | Reach and a deep pocket |
| Middle infield | 11.5" to 12" | Quick transfer |
| Third base | 12" to 12.5" | Reach on hard shots |
| First base | 12" to 13" mitt | Scoop and target (see our first base mitts) |
The test: she opens and closes the glove one-handed and squeezes a softball in the pocket. If she cannot close it around the ball, it is too big for her right now. Our glove size chart has the full breakdown by age and position.
Which web type is best for the outfield?
Closed, H, basket and trapeze webs all suit the outfield because they create a deeper pocket and let a player shade the sun on a high fly ball. An outfielder catching a towering fly in the afternoon sun puts the glove between her eyes and the ball; a closed or basket web does that, where an open, shallow infield web does not. The deeper pocket also helps secure a ball on a long run.
The H web (Mizuno MVP Prime) is a common outfield compromise: deep, but with gaps that let her see a little through the web. Infielders often prefer open I or H webs that let dirt fall through and the ball pop out fast for the transfer.
Right-hand throw vs left: which to buy
The glove goes on the non-throwing hand, so a right-handed thrower buys "RHT" and wears it on the left hand; a left-handed thrower buys "LHT" and wears it on the right. The label describes the throwing hand, not the hand the glove goes on. Get this wrong and the glove is unusable, so confirm it before size or web.
How to choose a fastpitch outfield glove
- Confirm the throwing hand and buy RHT or LHT.
- Pick the size from the chart and run the one-hand close test.
- Pick the web: closed, basket or H for the outfield.
- Match the leather to her commitment. Rec or growing fast: Franklin or Sure Catch. Travel: A500, Fundamental. High school: A700, R9, Mizuno.
- Buy early enough to break it in before the first game.
Two cheap add-ons that make a real difference in the outfield: youth softball sunglasses so she does not lose fly balls in the sun, and softball cleats that grip on wet outfield grass.
Leather vs synthetic, and when to step up
Leather gloves last longer and form a custom pocket but need a break-in; entry-level gloves are soft on day one but wear out faster and never break in to the same fit. A leather glove like the Easton Fundamental, Wilson A700 or Rawlings R9 rewards a player who will use it for years. Entry-level gloves like the Franklin are soft and ready on day one, which is why they suit the youngest players and rec ball.
Rule of thumb: entry-level for a young, fast-growing player; real leather once she is committed and her hand has stopped growing every season.
How to break in an outfield glove
Work it open and closed, condition it lightly, play catch, and shape the pocket around a ball. Do not bake or microwave it.
- Apply a thin coat of glove conditioner. Too much makes the glove heavy and soggy.
- Work the glove open and closed by hand, flexing the hinge and web, over several days.
- Play catch with it as much as possible, including high throws caught overhead.
- Put a softball in the pocket, close the glove around it, and wrap it shut overnight. Repeat until the pocket holds the ball naturally.
Microwaving, baking or soaking can dry, scorch or warp the leather. A Rawlings break-in kit (about $11) has the conditioner and a wrap. Our glove break-in guide has the full routine.
Also worth a look
Mizuno Prime Elite 12.5" Pitcher/OF GloveMizuno Prime Elite 12.5" pitcher/outfield glove (~$190)~$190 · View on Amazon →
RIP-IT Defense Fielder's Mask (Adult)A fielding mask for infield innings~$40 · View on Amazon →
FAQ
What is the best fastpitch softball outfield glove?
For most players, the Wilson A500 Siren 12.5" (about $80) is the best all-around pick. The Franklin Fastpitch Pro (about $40) is the budget choice, the Mizuno MVP Prime 13" (about $130) is the best 13-inch, and the Rawlings R9 12.5" (about $150) is the premium pick.
What size glove should a fastpitch outfielder use?
About 12" to 12.5" for 10U to 14U and 12.5" to 13" for high school. The exact size should match her hand strength: she needs to close it one-handed around a softball.
What size outfield glove for a 12U softball player?
Usually 12.5". The Wilson A500 Siren, Rawlings Sure Catch Youth and Easton Fundamental are all 12.5" and fit most 12U outfielders.
Is a 13-inch glove too big for softball outfield?
Not for a high school or older outfielder who can close it. 13" gives maximum reach. For most youth players, 12.5" is easier to control and catches more balls.
What web type is best for an outfield glove?
Closed, basket, H or trapeze webs. They create a deeper pocket and let a player shade the sun on high fly balls. Infielders usually prefer more open webs for faster transfers.
Should I buy a right-hand-throw or left-hand-throw glove?
The glove goes on the non-throwing hand. A right-handed thrower buys RHT and wears it on the left; a left-handed thrower buys LHT and wears it on the right.
Leather or synthetic for an outfield glove?
Leather lasts longer and forms a custom pocket but needs a break-in. Entry-level gloves are ready out of the box and cheaper but wear out faster. Go entry-level for young, fast-growing players and leather once she is committed.
How do I break in a new outfield glove?
A light coat of conditioner, working it open and closed over several days, lots of catch, and a ball wrapped in the pocket overnight. Avoid microwaving, baking or soaking.
How much should I spend on a fastpitch outfield glove?
About $40 to $80 for youth and rec players (Franklin, Sure Catch, A500 Siren), $90 to $130 for committed travel and high school players, and about $150 for the Rawlings R9.
We're the team behind MAVTRAX, a free pitch-calling app. This is a research guide: picks are chosen on manufacturer specs, league rules, build quality and real-world price, checked against live listings, not on who pays the highest commission. We haven't hands-on tested every product. Full criteria on how we pick.