The Best Gloves for High School Shortstops
In 10U and 12U, you can get away with a big, floppy outfield glove at shortstop. You just need to catch the ball.
But once you hit high school varsity speed, the game changes. The runners are faster (2.8 seconds down the line), and the ball is hit harder (65+ mph exit velo). You don’t just need to catch the ball anymore—you need to get it out of your glove instantly.
A 13-inch bucket glove will eat you alive at shortstop. You need a smaller, flatter pocket for lightning-fast transfers.
I’ve narrowed it down to the two “Gold Standards” found in almost every D1 infield: The Wilson A2000 and the Rawlings Heart of the Hide.
Here is which one fits your game.
1. The Technician’s Choice: Wilson A2000 (11.75″)
Best for: Quick Transfers & Durability
If you watch the College World Series, you see the A2000 everywhere. For a high school shortstop, I specifically recommend the 11.75-inch H-Web model with “Spin Control” technology.
The “Spin Control” Factor: Wilson adds a dimpled texture to the leather in the palm. It sounds like a gimmick, but it works. It creates friction that stops the ball from spinning the moment it hits the pocket. No more ball rattling around in the web.
Why Coaches Love It:
The “Flat” Pocket: The A2000 is famous for developing a shallower, flatter pocket. This is critical for a shortstop. It forces you to use “soft hands” and allows you to transfer the ball to your throwing hand without digging for it.
SuperSkin Weight: If you get the “SuperSkin” version (the back is made of a synthetic material), the glove is significantly lighter. This improves your “hand speed” on bad hops.
The Downside:
Stiff as a Board: A brand new A2000 is a brick. Do not buy this on Friday for a Saturday tournament. It requires a solid 2 weeks of mallet work and catch.
[Check Price: Wilson A2000 Fastpitch Infield Glove at Dick’s Sporting Goods]
2. The “Custom” Feel: Rawlings Heart of the Hide (12″)
Best for: Comfort & Deep Pocket Security
Rawlings takes a different approach. The “Heart of the Hide” (HOH) steer hide leather is legendary for how it molds to your hand.
The Fit: Rawlings fastpitch patterns generally have slightly tighter finger stalls than Wilson, which is great if you have smaller hands but still want a pro-level glove. For shortstops who get nervous about the ball popping out, the Rawlings 12-inch pattern offers a slightly deeper pocket than the Wilson, giving you a bit more security on backhands.
Why Players Love It:
Custom Break-In: The leather is softer and more oil-treated. It allows you to flare the thumb and pinky exactly how you like it.
Padding: The palm padding is generally a bit thicker, which helps if you are playing 3rd base or facing hitters with serious power.
The Downside:
Gets Floppy Faster: Because the leather is softer, it requires more maintenance. You need to tighten the laces midway through the season to keep it from getting too loose (“floppy”) for infield play.
[Check Price: Rawlings Heart of the Hide Fastpitch at JustBats.com]
The Verdict: Which One Wins?
Choose the Wilson A2000 (11.75″) IF:
You pride yourself on fast hands and quick double plays.
You prefer a lighter glove.
You want a glove that holds its shape for 3+ years.
Choose the Rawlings Heart of the Hide (12″) IF:
You play both Shortstop and 3rd Base (the deeper pocket helps at the hot corner).
You have smaller hands and need a tighter fit.
You prefer a softer, more “molded” feel over a stiff, flat glove.
Coach’s Pick: For a pure shortstop? I’m taking the Wilson A2000 with SuperSkin. The weight difference makes your hands faster, and speed kills in this game.
[Shop All Infield Gloves at Dick’s Sporting Goods]