What is the best left-handed baseball glove? The Rawlings Player Preferred is the best left-handed glove for most adults. The Franklin Field Master is the budget pick, and the Rawlings Remix is the best choice for kids.
A left-handed thrower wears the glove on the right hand. Retailers label these gloves "Left Hand Throw" or LHT. Most listings sell both versions on one page, so check that left hand throw is selected before you order.
Best left-handed baseball gloves: our picks
| Glove | For | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Rawlings Player Preferred | Adults | Recreational baseball and slowpitch |
| Franklin Field Master | Adults and teens | Tight budgets |
| Wilson A700 | Adults and teens | A step up in quality |
| Rawlings Remix | Kids | Youth baseball and T-ball |
| Rawlings Sure Catch | Kids | First gloves |
| Rawlings Shut Out first base mitt | Fastpitch softball | Left-handed first basemen |
| SSK Z5 Craftsman | Catchers | Left-handed catchers |
1. Rawlings Player Preferred: best overall
Rawlings Player Preferred Glove
An adult glove for baseball and slowpitch softball, sold in several sizes. Select left hand throw on the listing.
The Player Preferred is one of the most reviewed gloves on Amazon. It is a recreational glove, which means it is soft enough to use without a long break-in. The listing includes larger slowpitch sizes and first base models.
2. Franklin Sports Field Master: best budget
Franklin Sports Field Master Glove
A low-cost glove sold in many sizes. Select left hand throw on the listing.
The Field Master is the inexpensive option for casual play, a backup glove, or a growing teenager. It is sold in a wide range of sizes in both throwing hands.
3. Wilson A700: best step-up
Wilson A700 Glove
Part of Wilson's A-series, sold in right and left hand throw. Select left hand throw on the listing.
Wilson's A-series runs from the entry-level models up to the A2000 used by professionals. The A700 sits near the start of that range and suits a player who wants a better glove than a basic recreational model.
4. Rawlings Remix: best for kids
Rawlings Remix Youth Glove
A youth glove for baseball, softball, and T-ball. Select left hand throw on the listing.
The Remix is the highest-rated youth glove in our search, and it is made in left hand throw. Check the size options against the sizing guide below.
5. Rawlings Sure Catch: best first glove
Rawlings Sure Catch Glove
A glove line with T-ball, youth, and adult recreational models. Select left hand throw on the listing.
The Sure Catch is designed to close easily, which helps young players who do not yet have the hand strength for a stiffer glove.
6. Rawlings Shut Out first base mitt: best for softball first base
Rawlings Shut Out First Base Mitt, Left Hand Throw
A 12-inch fastpitch softball first base mitt, listed as left hand throw.
First base is the infield position that most favors left-handed throwers. This listing is left hand throw only, so there is no option to get wrong. It is a fastpitch softball mitt, so baseball players should look at the first base models on the Player Preferred listing instead.
7. SSK Z5 Craftsman: best catcher's mitt
SSK Z5 Craftsman Catcher's Mitt
A baseball catcher's mitt sold in four sizes, in right and left hand throw. Select left hand throw on the listing.
Left hand throw catcher's mitts are hard to find, because left-handed catchers are rare. See why there are so few left-handed catchers. The SSK Z5 is one of the few mitts with a left hand throw option in stock.
Understanding left-handed baseball glove sizes
How can you determine your ideal size for a left-handed baseball glove? It's simpler than you might think.
- Know how gloves are sized: Glove size is the length of the glove itself, measured from the heel to the top of the index finger. Youth gloves run from about 9 to 11.5 inches, and adult gloves from about 11.5 to 13 inches.
- Consider the Break-In Period: New gloves can feel stiff. Ensure you're patient, as they'll loosen up with use.
Quality of material matters
Once you've determined the right size, the next critical factor is the quality of the material.
- Leather Gloves: Preferred by professionals; durable but require longer to break in.
- Synthetic Gloves: Softer and easier to break in; ideal for beginners but less durable.
Importance of glove webbing
The webbing of your baseball glove is crucial to your success in the game.
- Closed Web: Great for pitchers as it hides your grip.
- H-Web/Trapeze Web: Perfect for outfielders, offering a deeper pocket and better visibility for catching fly balls.
Left-handed glove brands to consider
Explore these notable brands crafting exceptional left-handed baseball gloves:
- Wilson is known for the A2000 series, which offers durability and a snug fit.
- Mizuno: Their Classic Pro Soft series provides rich leather and great structure.
- Rawlings: Heart of the Hide series, praised for comfort and longevity.
- Easton: Professional series gloves balance flexibility and strength.
- Marucci: Founders' series, revered for customization options.
Reading and understanding user reviews
Before finalizing your choice, read and analyze user reviews:
- Look Beyond Star Ratings: Read comments for fit, grip, or durability insights.
- Long-Term Performance: Seek reviews from users who have had their gloves for an extended period.
- Be Skeptical: Balance glowing and negative reviews; they may not always be genuine.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect left-handed baseball glove doesn't need to be tough. Remember these key points:
- Understand glove sizes.
- Check the quality of the material.
- Don't overlook the importance of webbing.
- Consider reputable brands.
- Read and comprehend user reviews.
These tips will ensure you snag a top-rated glove to improve your game. The right glove can significantly impact your performance on the field.
For more left-handed sports gear, see our picks for left-handed golf clubs and left-handed baitcasters.
Frequently asked questions
Which hand does a left-handed baseball glove go on?
A left-handed thrower wears the glove on the right hand and throws with the left. Retailers call this a left hand throw glove, often shortened to LHT.
What does left hand throw mean on a glove listing?
Left hand throw means the glove is made for a player who throws with the left hand, so it fits the right hand. Right hand throw is the opposite and fits the left hand.
What size baseball glove does a left-handed player need?
Size depends on age and position, not on throwing hand. Youth gloves run from about 9 to 11.5 inches, and adult gloves from about 11.5 to 13 inches. Outfielders and slowpitch softball players use the larger sizes.
Do they make left-handed catcher's mitts?
Yes, but few models are sold in left hand throw because left-handed catchers are rare. The SSK Z5 Craftsman is one catcher's mitt that lists a left hand throw option.
What positions do left-handed players usually play?
Left-handed throwers most often play first base, the outfield, and pitcher. Second base, shortstop, third base, and catcher are harder for a left-hander because of the throwing angles to first base.
