Updated July 28th, 2026.
Sliding mitts or gloves have become a popular item for baseball and softball players in recent years. Good for any level of ball player, a sliding mitt helps protect your hands, in particular, your fingers and wrist, while running the bases. These gloves come in all shapes and sizes, allowing the player to find one that best fits their size and comfort level. Designed to protect yourself on the base paths against being cleated or otherwise, friction burns, sliding mitts have protected base runners from incurring extensive injuries for a number of years.
What to look for in a Sliding Glove or Mitt
Every player is different – and in a sport where superstitions are normal, the importance of finding a mitt or glove that feels good and protects you on the base paths is paramount. Every player has varying slide aggressions and a slide can change trajectories depending on the player’s speed. A sliding glove helps compensate for players no matter their aggression level on the base paths. When looking for a sliding glove, there are several pieces to consider.
Protection level and durability
Playing surfaces differ from field to field so it’s important to find a mitt that can protect against cuts or scrapes caused by gravel or dirt on the infield. The protection level should also help the base runner from defenders and bang-bang plays at the plate. Not all sliding mitts are created equal but choose one that has good padding so performance on the field doesn’t suffer. The baseball or softball season can be a long one so finding a mitt that can withstand the grind of a long season and the beatings that come with it will go a long way.
Durability is a key factor in the course of a season. The Franklin Youth CFX Sliding Mitt and Franklin Adult CFX Sliding Mitt are built to withstand the long haul of a season. Though you’ll see them in games, they’re just as good for practice to get the feel of it.
Practice makes perfect!
Adjustability and Mobility
Sliding mitts can be adjustable allowing for maximum comfort and quick to take off. While running the base paths, comfort level is important to the runner because you don’t want unwanted distractions on the field. You never know what will transpire in the field so having proper mobility in a sport where centimeters count is vital. Consider your hand size when choosing the best glove to use. Whether it’s Velcro or elastic in nature, a properly adjustable sliding mitt will work wonders for players at any level. Along with adjustability comes numerous options to choose from. No matter how big your hand is, there’s an adjustable option like the Marucci Youth Sliding Mitt available.
Design Features
There is no shortage of design features in sliding mitts. You can choose baseball mitts that include thumb guards, internal padded plates, wrist straps, and much more. Every ball player is different so choosing the design features that work best for the player is crucial for success.
Softball Players, You’re Covered Too
Everything above holds just as true on the softball side – sliding hard into second deserves the same protection, no matter which sport you’re playing. At Play Softball, the Marucci Youth Sliding Mitt and Evoshield Youth Sliding Mitt are great starting points for younger players, while the Evoshield Adult Pro-SRZ 2.0 Shorty Sliding Mitt gives older players the same coverage in an adult fit.
Whether you’re rounding the bases for Play Baseball or Play Softball, there’s a sliding mitt out there built for how you play. Browse our full lineup and find the one that fits your hand – and your game.
