Why Our Softball Gloves are Right for Your Program
Softball players know that an infielder's or catcher's glove is a highly personal, critical tool. Fastpitch softballs are larger and hit harder than ever, meaning cheap, synthetic gloves will quickly break down, become floppy, and lead to fielding errors. Our 2026 collection focuses strictly on professional, top-tier performance. We prioritize elite leather construction—specifically the legendary Rawlings Heart of the Hide series—that provides a customized break-in, stiff padding to absorb high-velocity impacts, and specific tailoring for fastpitch players' hands.
Top-Tier Leather for the Infield and Behind the Plate
We stock premium, specialized softball mitts to ensure your corner infielders and catchers have the reliable tools necessary to lock down the defense.
- Heart of the Hide Quality: Crafted from the top 5% of all steer hides available, Rawlings Heart of the Hide gloves are world-renowned for their durability and ability to form the perfect, custom pocket. They are designed to withstand years of intense varsity or collegiate play.
- Specialized First Base Mitts: Securing the out at first base requires a mitt built for scooping. Our fastpitch first base mitts feature deep pockets and reinforced webs to handle hard throws across the diamond and dig out low throws in the dirt.
- Fastpitch Catcher's Mitts: A catcher's mitt takes more abuse than any other glove on the field. The Rawlings Heart of the Hide H-Web Catcher's Mitt is engineered to handle blistering fastballs and sharp breaking pitches, providing that loud, commanding "pop" that pitchers and umpires love.
- Tailored Fit: Fastpitch gloves are specifically patterned to feature smaller wrist openings and tighter finger stalls, providing the female athlete with better leverage, comfort, and control during quick ball transfers.
Why Buy Your Softball Gear From Morley Athletic
Since 1931, Morley Athletic has been a trusted family tradition and a leading supplier of premium athletic gear for schools, universities, and community organizations. We deeply understand the purchasing processes and budget constraints of educational institutions, which is why we proudly accept school purchase orders and offer customized quotes for bulk equipment refreshes. When you shop with Morley Athletic, you are partnering with a company backed by 95 years of industry expertise, exceptional customer service, and a steadfast dedication to providing the high-quality tools your athletes need to succeed safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a softball glove and a baseball glove?
Softball gloves have larger, deeper pockets to easily accommodate the larger size of a regulation softball (11 or 12 inches compared to a 9-inch baseball). Additionally, fastpitch gloves are often designed with smaller wrist openings and narrower finger stalls to better fit the biomechanics of a female athlete's hand.
2. What makes Rawlings "Heart of the Hide" leather so special?
Heart of the Hide gloves are crafted from the top 5% of steer hides. This premium leather is incredibly thick, durable, and stiff out of the wrapper. It requires a dedicated break-in process, but once broken in, it forms a perfectly customized pocket that lasts for years without getting flimsy or "floppy."
3. How should I break in my new premium softball glove?
The best way to break in a premium steerhide glove is through natural use—playing catch and using a wooden glove mallet. Avoid using excessive oils, microwave ovens, or steaming, as these shortcuts can prematurely break down the leather's fibers, add unnecessary weight, and drastically shorten the lifespan of the glove.
4. What is the difference between "Regular" and "Right Hand" (RH) throw?
A "Regular" (or Right Hand Throw/RHT) glove means the player throws the ball with their right hand, so the glove is worn on the left hand. A "Right Hand" (or Left Hand Throw/LHT) model means the player throws with their left hand, so the glove is worn on their right hand.
5. Why do first basemen and catchers use "mitts" instead of "gloves"?
Unlike standard fielder's gloves, which have individually cut fingers, "mitts" have a continuous edge and are heavily padded around the perimeter. This solid construction creates a deeper pocket to trap the ball and prevents the fingers from being bent backward by high-velocity throws or foul tips.
6. Do you accept school purchase orders for premium softball gloves?
Absolutely. Morley Athletic has worked directly with schools and universities for over nine decades. We happily accept school purchase orders. Athletic directors and head coaches can easily submit a formal PO to purchase premium game gloves, team bats, catcher's gear, and softballs for their entire program.
