Best First Base Gloves
Written by Zach Kerr
Published March 8th, 2026 · Updated March 10th, 2026
First base mitts are unlike any other glove on the diamond with a rounded pocket built specifically for scooping throws in the dirt.
We've rounded up the best first base mitts for 2026, evaluating each on pocket depth, padding, leather quality, and break-in characteristics. Whether you're playing travel ball or competing at the varsity level, there's an option on this list for you.
Best Gloves for First Basemen
When shopping for a first base mitt, focus on pocket depth, wrist padding, and overall size. Most first base mitts run between 12.5" and 13". A deeper pocket makes it easier to secure throws in the dirt, while solid padding protects your palm when receiving hard shots from third or short.
Listed as a first base mitt at 13", Rawlings Pro Preferred 13" First Base Mitt is intended for picks, scoops, and stretches around first base. Technical details in the listing point to an extra-stiff feel that usually takes longer to break in, the web is listed as a single-post web, and spec tags include Pro Preferred line. Listed color options are Blonde, Navy, Red, Tan.
This model is configured as a first base mitt in 12.75", with a shape aimed at picks, scoops, and stretches around first base. Available product details indicate a softer feel with less break-in required, the web is listed as an oxbow web, and materials called out include rawhide leather. Listed color options are Black, Tan.
Wilson A2000 SuperSkin 1620 12.5" First Base Mitt is a first base mitt in 12.5" built for picks, scoops, and stretches around first base. Technical details in the listing point to a stiff feel with a moderate break-in period, the web is listed as a single-post web, and spec tags include A2000 series. Colorways shown for this listing: Black, Grey.
Listed as a first base mitt at 12.25", Wilson A2000 SuperSkin 2820 12.25" First Base Mitt is intended for picks, scoops, and stretches around first base. From the listed specs and product notes, expect a stiff feel with a moderate break-in period, the web is listed as a single-post web, and spec tags include A2000 series. Current listing options include Black, Tan.
The Mizuno Pro Select 13" First Base Mitt (13") is categorized as a first base mitt for picks, scoops, and stretches around first base. From the listed specs and product notes, expect a stiff feel with a moderate break-in period, the web is listed as an H-Web, and materials called out include kip leather. Colorways shown for this listing: Black, Gold.
Listed as a first base mitt at 13", Rawlings Heart Of The Hide 13" First Base Mitt is intended for picks, scoops, and stretches around first base. From the listed specs and product notes, expect an extra-stiff feel that usually takes longer to break in, the web is listed as a single-post web, and spec tags include Heart of the Hide line. Colorways shown for this listing: Black, Brown, Tan.
Listed as a first base mitt at 12.75", Rawlings Pro Preferred Anthony Rizzo 12.75" First Base Mitt is intended for picks, scoops, and stretches around first base. From the listed specs and product notes, expect an extra-stiff feel that usually takes longer to break in and materials called out include steerhide leather and kip leather. Listed color options are Black, White.
Rawlings Heart Of The Hide R2G 13" First Base Mitt is a first base mitt in 13" built for picks, scoops, and stretches around first base. From the listed specs and product notes, expect a softer feel with less break-in required, the web is listed as a single-post web, and spec tags include Heart of the Hide line. Listed color options are Black, Blue.
Break-In Is Everything
A properly broken-in first base mitt is one of the most important tools in your bag. Unlike infield gloves, first base mitts often require more effort to open up and form the deep, flexible pocket you need for scooping. Look for steerhide or full-grain leather construction, they break in slower but last significantly longer than cheaper alternatives. Give yourself at least a few weeks of consistent conditioning before the season starts to get that pocket exactly where you want it.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Closed Web
First base mitts come in two primary web styles: the single post (one-piece) and the modified post (two-piece). The single post web is stiffer and more traditional, offering excellent stability when scooping. The modified post adds a bit more flexibility and can make it slightly easier to close the mitt on tough half-hops. Both are effective, it ultimately comes down to personal feel and how you prefer to break in your glove.
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Zach Kerr
Author
Zach is a former college pitcher & Founder of Baseball Near You.