Most sports have its own equipment to protect players from injuries and to enhance playing conditions. In baseball it is the baseball glove which gives protection for player’s palms and fingers. Since the ball is caught and handled by the palm and fingers the heavy ball had been notorious in causing injuries to players before baseball gloves were introduced in 1870’s until which time the players were expected to bear the pain.

But the first baseball gloves have been very thin helping the players only up to some extent. It is also reported that players who used baseball gloves were teased in the early days, until using baseball gloves became a habit, gradually. Baseball glove not only gives the protection but it also helps to provide more grip to handle the ball.

Various types of baseball gloves are available according to its requirement. Each player has a different position in the ground giving them different duties. According to the duty they have different kinds of baseball gloves are to be used. There are four basic types of gloves designed for catchers, outfielders, infielders and first basemen. Since the catchers deal with extra momentum of the ball their glove is heavily padded. For first batsmen it should be heavily padded since he has to face hard throws. Out fielders glove is relatively larger to give them better help in catching and more surface for the ball to hit on to. In-fielder’s gloves are the smallest to suit their agile movements. The baseball gloves vary greatly in size and you should choose the ones that fit you best. 

A professional baseball glove would be up to 12 inches in size and often comes in leather and synthetic. But in some instances they are made of buffalo skin, pig skin and also kangaroo skin which are understandably expensive. Synthetic gloves are the cheapest and much suitable for a beginner. Leather baseball gloves are mostly used nowadays, and it has many variations of quality as well. For the inner pad of the glove there are instances where wool is used, too.

There is another type of baseball glove that does not have fingers, and it is called mitts. The glove should feel right and comfortable. The glove should feel right and comfortable. Oil or a lotion can be used to break it in. Care must be taken though not to use oil rapidly which will cause the glove to deteriorate faster. From 1970’s the baseball glove has become a fashion in USA. For kids who love baseball it has become a must to keep in their rooms. If you live in the USA, you can easily buy a pair of baseball gloves to match your size, purpose, and fashion. Online stores selling baseball gloves are increasing in numbers making it more convenient for customers. It is not necessary to be a baseball player to own a glove, you can simply show your support or enthusiasm by this wonderful and innovative product