Buying a first base glove is a major decision for any baseball player, and selecting the right one can make a huge difference in your performance on the field. One of the most important choices you’ll need to make when selecting a first base glove is whether to flare or not. Here, we’ll cover the key considerations for this decision and help you determine whether or not to flare your first base glove.
What is a Flared Glove?
A flared glove is a type of glove that features a wider opening than a traditional first base glove. This makes it easier to catch and scoop up errant throws and gives a player greater control over the ball. The flared design also makes it easier to scoop up balls that make a hard turn as they roll into the glove.
Benefits of Flaring Your Glove
There are a few key benefits to flaring your first base glove.
Improved Ball Control
Improved Ball Control
The wider design of a flared glove makes it easier to scoop up throws that aren’t perfect. This is particularly beneficial for fielding grounders and line drives, as the wider opening gives you more control over the ball and reduces the risk of throwing away a potential out.
Better Reception
A flared glove also helps improve reception when catching throws from other players. The wider opening makes it easier to catch the ball, and the flared design helps ensure that the ball is securely caught in the glove.
Drawbacks of a Flared Glove
Although there are some benefits to using a flared glove, there are also some potential drawbacks.
Decreased Durability
One of the drawbacks of a flared glove is that it can be less durable than a traditional glove. The wider opening makes it easier for the glove to become worn and torn, and the extra material can also add extra weight to the glove.
Reduced Dexterity
A flared glove can also be less dexterous than a traditional glove. The wider opening can make it more difficult to control the ball, and the extra material can also make it harder to move and manipulate the glove.
Should I Flare My First Base Glove?
Ultimately, the decision to flare your first base glove is a personal one and will depend on your own preferences and playing style. If you’re a player who tends to struggle with errant throws and needs extra help to catch them, then a flared glove may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you’re a player who prefers more control over the ball and wants a more dexterous glove, then a traditional glove may be the better option.
Conclusion
Selecting the right first base glove is an important decision for any baseball player, and the choice to flare or not should not be taken lightly. Flared gloves can provide a number of benefits, but they also come with some potential drawbacks. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to flare your glove should be based on your own personal preferences and playing style.