Baseball is a sport that has been around for over 100 years. While many things have changed over the years, one thing that was learned since then is the need for a good baseball glove. You may be wondering how the gloves of today differ from those used in the very early days of baseball.
Let's go back 150 years. Baseball gloves were first introduced in the 1870s, but they were not the type of gloves that we know today. In those days, it was frowned upon for a fielder to wear a glove. So most games were played with the fielders catching the ball with their bare hands. Some players realized they needed some protection creating a makeshift glove out of rags or other materials. So the concept of a baseball mitt was conceived. Back then, the glove was simply made from thin leather with no real padding. It was intended to provide some protection for the player’s hand, not help them catch the ball.
It wasn't until the early 1900s that gloves began to take on a more recognizable form. Gloves were still made of leather, but they were thicker, heavier and had more padded. However, they were not very flexible and were difficult to break in. This meant that players had to spend a lot of time breaking in their gloves and molding them to their hands. Over the next 100 years the glove have morphed considerably.
Fast forward to today, and baseball gloves have come a long way. Gloves are now made of a variety of materials, including leather, synthetic materials, and even mesh. They are much more flexible but still require a break in process. It’s just a bit easier now when compared to the gloves of the past. In addition, gloves are now designed with specific positions in mind. For example, a catcher's mitt is much different than a first baseman's glove.
Another major difference between gloves of today and those of the past is the level of customization available. Players can now choose from a wide range of colors, designs, and sizes. They can even have their gloves personalized with their name or team logo.
Overall, the differences between baseball gloves of today and those of 100 years ago are significant. While the basic concept of the glove remains the same, advances in materials and design have made gloves more comfortable, flexible, and functional. Whether you are a seasoned player or just starting out, make sure you invest in a good baseball glove. It’s often a lifetime investment so buy a glove that you know will last decades. And maintain the glove leather with proper cleaning and conditioning the leather to prolong the mitt’s life. Proper long-term maintenance will help you perform at your best on the field.