Looking to buy a new glove? Here are some things to consider. For starters, what type of leather.

There are two different types of leather: cowhide & kipskin. Cowhide is a tough, heavy leather that will get the job done and is an inexpensive option. Kipskin (or Kip) leather is a high-end leather that is easily broken in, soft to the touch, and extremely durable. This glove is widely used by the serious or professional player.

Another thing to consider is the different positions on the field and what those positions demand out of your glove. One of the most demanding gloves to choose from is the catchers glove/mitt. It has a very unique design to help protect the hand with its closed web design and extra padding. The main thing to consider when buying a catchers glove is the size.

It is very important not to buy too big, which makes it hard to maneuver and hinder the transfer process when trying to throw a ball immediately after catching it.

On the flip side, buying too small may also be a burden, mainly on the overall protection of the hand and the ability to actually catch the ball. There is definitely a "Goldie locks" zone when choosing a catchers glove. Here is an easy sizing guide and the only method used in buying is in circumference in inches.

The next demanding glove is a first baseman’s mitt. It’s a very unique design with no fingers, just a shovel for those tough to reach digs. With such a unique design, it cannot be used for any other position. This glove also comes with an extra layer of leather and a closed web design to help keep up with the demands of in-game ball contact.

Picking the right length will be preference based on each players feel for the ball in the glove. If it’s too big, it may be too hard to control and close to catch & find for fast throws. If it’s too small, you may a have tough time catching & digging. You’ll choose from 12.5” to 13.5”.

Next is the third baseman’s glove. It has a deeper pocket, more like that of the outfield glove. The open back design and open web is still recommended to help with some wrist freedom and keeping dirt out of the pocket.

Shortstop and Second-baseman gloves are designed with a shallow pocket for getting rid of balls swiftly without a hitch. The small size is important, as well as the shallow pocket. Second baseman's gloves are slightly smaller. They assist in handling the high volume of double-play transfers.

Outfielder's gloves have longer fingers than infielder’s gloves and are made with a much deeper pocket. Most outfielder's gloves also have a more closed web system to aid in its overall stability. With less time-sensitive plays, their gloves are built for balls staying in.

Use some personal preferences with the length, backing, or web design to make your infield or outfield glove your own.