tdt11
Addicted to Softballfans
had mine (voodoo) since I bought my first og extended niw while they were still making them in 2005. No floppiness yet best glove I have ever owned. But here good things bout the vinci as well.
What makes Vinci Gloves so good? Why All the Hype?
- Thread starter taylor714914
- Start date
had mine (voodoo) since I bought my first og extended niw while they were still making them in 2005. No floppiness yet best glove I have ever owned. But here good things bout the vinci as well.
1st Baseman
Addicted to Softballfans
A buddy of mine who has tons of experience and plays excellent 3B (no one will take advice from a scrub) swears by Vinci, so, he talked me into buying one. I ordered a 1B mitt from Smarkley3 and received a beautiful, well made glove. Yes, it's stiff but that is a sign of quality leather. I can't wait for mine to be game ready, it'll take a while but it'll be worth the wait.
Peacock
DBOTY 2011
They do make some of the best gloves out there. I am seriously looking into one of their mitts, but I cannot part with my K-Pro.
vtw8lftr
Tight But Whole
I swear by my Vinci... it is an older discontinued model I picked up 4 years ago and it literally took 2 solid years to break it in... now I couldn't imagine using anything else. After 2 seasons of use it still looks and feels brand new... Nokona runs a close second but I still prefer my Vinci... customer service is second to none.
taylor714914
Addicted to Softballfans
I'm located in south central PA, near where 81 crosses into MD. Also, I started reading about the different webs on the vinci site and how the H web helps the ball stick. Can anyone who has experienced a few of their webs speak to this point?
When the high end leathers are being used it comes down to feel and personal preference more than anything else.
Dunno...wear a glove named after an italian dude or one named after an American town with Native American heritage embedded into its image.
IJS.....nothing wrong with it.
ilyk2win
Addicted to Softballfans
I bought my first Vinci last year and my second one last week (should be here today or tomorrow)....both the 5 oz limited kip. Previously I mostly used Rawlings with my favorite then being the Pro Preferred.
One nice thing about Vinci is they make some softball specific patterns which most of the high-end manufacturers don't....and is what led me away from Rawlings (nothing of quality over 12.75").
Another nice thing, but is a matter of preference, so it is also about the only negative I have heard about Vinci.....they use a very nice palm pad. Standing at 50', this is a nice feature to me. Other players don't like a pad so they may not like this feature.
The build quality is fantastic and with the supports they use in the pinky and thumb, the glove will never go limp.
Lastly, as others have mentioned, the customer support is great on this board. I have never contacted Vinci directly, but if I had the need I am confident from the stories I've heard that I'd be taken care of properly. But as a member if this board, most needs can be handled here without having to go to Vinci.
After I got mine last year, teammates started buying them as well. Don't try 'one' on, try a couple as there are different styles made with different types of leather. I am sure there is a model that will meet your needs....well worth the extra $50.
One nice thing about Vinci is they make some softball specific patterns which most of the high-end manufacturers don't....and is what led me away from Rawlings (nothing of quality over 12.75").
Another nice thing, but is a matter of preference, so it is also about the only negative I have heard about Vinci.....they use a very nice palm pad. Standing at 50', this is a nice feature to me. Other players don't like a pad so they may not like this feature.
The build quality is fantastic and with the supports they use in the pinky and thumb, the glove will never go limp.
Lastly, as others have mentioned, the customer support is great on this board. I have never contacted Vinci directly, but if I had the need I am confident from the stories I've heard that I'd be taken care of properly. But as a member if this board, most needs can be handled here without having to go to Vinci.
After I got mine last year, teammates started buying them as well. Don't try 'one' on, try a couple as there are different styles made with different types of leather. I am sure there is a model that will meet your needs....well worth the extra $50.
boomsticks
Addicted to Softballfans
I am a big fan on Vinci gloves, I have a PJV16, and PJV0416 and I got my Fiance a BMB-L. T
The only caution I would give to someone is how heavy the larger 6.5oz kip model gloves are, if having a light glove is important to you.
As for quality, feel and durablility nothing is better imo.
The only caution I would give to someone is how heavy the larger 6.5oz kip model gloves are, if having a light glove is important to you.
As for quality, feel and durablility nothing is better imo.
taylor714914
Addicted to Softballfans
I love the BR46, I just wish it was a 13.5. For playing at 2nd base occasionally, i think the 14 may be too big.
Hebrew Hacker
Derby Jew
Careful what you say there...the "italian dude" you mentioned is a US Armed Forces vet...and the Vinci family are still the ones making the gloves. They take extreme pride in their product.
13.5 may be too big for the IF as well, though it depends on preference.
Take this for what you will- I have never found a Vinci that feels "right" on my hand, but I'm more picky than anyone I know when it comes to gloves. Small hand, thin wrist, and I like a very large pocket. My fingers aren't long enough to control a wider glove (like many Vincis are). That said, I'd still recommend a Vinci to anyone, because they are that well made and because the company (and reps) WANT to make sure that you've got the one that's best for you.
Don't matter who it is the idea of wearing something named after some dude is a non starter. IJS. Same goes for Ed Hardy, Calvin Klein or those fashion labels too....wouldn't want a Rodriguez glove for the same reason.
It wouldn't matter if the guy was JC himself wearing some other guy's name is unappealing.
Not that there's anything wrong with that.
smarkley3
Certified Trap Hoe
"wearing something named after some dude"
Some dudes story:
December 7, 1941. For some people, it is just a date in history. For Benjamin Vinci of Port Chester, New York, it was the date that his life changed forever.
Drafted in March 1941, 22-year-old Vinci successfully completed basic training within a few weeks at Fort Eustis in Virginia. He was sent to Pearl Harbor right after basic training ended, and just short months before the attack. Vinci was a Private First Class with the Company "G" 97th Coast Artillery stationed in Fort Weaver, Hawaii, on the eastern side of Oahu Island. He had spent a lot of his time boxing while he was stationed in the Schoffield Barracks. Pvt. Vinci was noticeably proud of his boxing prowess when he said, "I had a wicked left jab and a mean looping right cross…"
He was only days away from receiving a promotion up to a Sergeant rank when the Japanese planes plunged through the skies above, with their bullets ripping through the troops on the ground. Ben Vinci had once told a local newspaper, "We were just having chow [breakfast] -and I had four eggs in front of me- sunny side up, when the Japs flew over and bombed the Arizona a half mile away in Pearl Harbor." The troops were ordered to leave the mess hall and return to their posts. Vinci immediately obeyed the orders. While running back to his post, the young soldier was struck in the right side by a bullet from the Japanese warplane flying above him. Vinci didn't even realize he had been shot until he reached his post. By then, his emotions were running rampant. Fear, anger, and confusion ran through his body. Despite his injuries, he continued to shoot at the enemy. He said, "It gets you so mad to have someone come shooting at you like that…You just feel like you want to get them, too---So, I just took up my gun and started shooting [back] at them."
After the attack was over, Vinci was transported by ambulance and forced to stay the night in a field hospital with other wounded soldiers. He recalled the sounds of soldiers "in pain…crying and groaning."
On December 11, 1941 at 1:07am, back in Port Chester, New York, Vinci's parents received a Western Union Telegram." It read:
The Secretary of War desires me to express his deep regret that your son, Private First Class Benjamin Vinci was wounded in action in defense of his country in Hawaii-Dec 7th.
The family immediately tried to find out more information on the whereabouts of their son, but their wires to the War Department were never answered.
Back in Hawaii, Vinci had been taken to a hospital in Honolulu and then transported to his final destination on the road to recovery, Fitzsimmons General Hospital in Denver, Colorado. Doctors at Fitzsimmons performed the surgery to remove the bullet, however, they were unable to get it out. The bullet remains lodged in his body to this very day.
Vinci was allowed to return to active duty in June 1942. Shortly thereafter, on Monday, July 26, 1942, Vinci returned to Fitzsimmons General Hospital. Not as a patient, but this time…as a Hero. At just 22-years-old, Private First Class Benjamin Vinci was being presented with the distinguished Order of the Purple Heart. Brig. Gen. Omar H. Quade pinned the medal on the soldier' s chest citing that he was receiving the medal for being wounded "while performing meritorious acts of essential service." Vinci's Purple Heart stands for his bravery and courage on the battlefield. It serves as a continuous reminder of the Bombing at Pearl Harbor. A constant reminder that over twenty three hundred lives were lost on December 7, 1941 and he was one of the "lucky ones" who got wounded, yet still lived to tell the story. So many others were not as fortunate as he.
December 7, 1941 isn't just a date in U.S. History or World History. It's a date that jolted the lives of many American families. A date that will forever be remembered as the historic attack on Pearl Harbor that resulted in the death of so many sons, fathers, husbands and brothers. Let us take a moment from each day to show our appreciation to those who so valiantly served our country, and to honor both those who were lost as well as those who remain.
On July 27th, 2001, the following was read to the United States Senate Honoring Benjamin Vinci
HONORING BENJAMIN VINCI -- (Senate - July 27, 2001)
---
Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, Senator Clinton and I rise today to recognize and honor the service of Benjamin Vinci of Port Chester, New York--a true American hero.
In 1941, at the age of 21, Benjamin Vinci left home to serve in the U.S. Army, and by December of that year, was stationed in Hawaii with the 97th Army Coast Artillery Guard. Like so many there on the morning of December 7, 1941, Benjamin Vinci was going about his daily business. He had just completed all night guard duty and was eating breakfast when the whole base erupted in smoke and fire as Japanese war plans attacked Pearl Harbor and the surrounding area.
As bombers strafed the mess tent, a 50-caliber bullet hit Private Vinci in the back. But ignoring his wound, Benjamin Vinci reached an anti-aircraft emplacement and began to fight back. He stepped down only when he was ordered to find an ambulance and tend to his wound.
Along the way, instead of seeking cover, Benjamin Vinci ran down to the beach and rescued a man who had been shot through the legs. Helping the other soldier into a motorboat, he navigated through a hail of bombs and ammunition to the other side of the bay where he finally boarded an ambulance. But on the way to the hospital at Hickham field, planes targeted the ambulance and Benjamin Vinci was wounded again--this time a 50-caliber bullet coming to rest near his heart.
Mrs. CLINTON. In the aftermath of the attack, doctors believed Private Vinci's wounds were fatal, but he persevered. He received the Purple Heart and eventually was transferred to a hospital in Colorado, where doctors were able to remove one of the two bullets that had almost taken his life, but not both. He continues to carry with him the second bullet, which has never been able to be removed.
Disabled from his wounds, Benjamin Vinci returned to Port Chester after being discharged from the Army and resumed life as a civilian. For many years, Mr. Vinci worked as a vacuum cleaner salesman in Westchester County. He married Rose Civitella in 1945, and together they raised four children: Peter, Burnadette, JoAnn, and Joseph.
We honor and thank Benjamin Vinci for his tremendous sacrifice, vital contribution, and gallant service to our Nation. His acts of bravery are an exceptional example of the fortitude, determination, and strength of the American spirit. As Mr. Vinci carries the burden of his wounds and the bullet he received on that December morning of infamy, so too must we carry the memory of his heroic deeds, remembering and honoring all the men and women of that great generation--those veterans of World War II who saved our Nation, and the world.
On February 13th 2002, the Vinci family is very saddened that Benjamin Vinci, a father, grand father, hero, and friend had passed away.
Some dudes story:
December 7, 1941. For some people, it is just a date in history. For Benjamin Vinci of Port Chester, New York, it was the date that his life changed forever.
Drafted in March 1941, 22-year-old Vinci successfully completed basic training within a few weeks at Fort Eustis in Virginia. He was sent to Pearl Harbor right after basic training ended, and just short months before the attack. Vinci was a Private First Class with the Company "G" 97th Coast Artillery stationed in Fort Weaver, Hawaii, on the eastern side of Oahu Island. He had spent a lot of his time boxing while he was stationed in the Schoffield Barracks. Pvt. Vinci was noticeably proud of his boxing prowess when he said, "I had a wicked left jab and a mean looping right cross…"
He was only days away from receiving a promotion up to a Sergeant rank when the Japanese planes plunged through the skies above, with their bullets ripping through the troops on the ground. Ben Vinci had once told a local newspaper, "We were just having chow [breakfast] -and I had four eggs in front of me- sunny side up, when the Japs flew over and bombed the Arizona a half mile away in Pearl Harbor." The troops were ordered to leave the mess hall and return to their posts. Vinci immediately obeyed the orders. While running back to his post, the young soldier was struck in the right side by a bullet from the Japanese warplane flying above him. Vinci didn't even realize he had been shot until he reached his post. By then, his emotions were running rampant. Fear, anger, and confusion ran through his body. Despite his injuries, he continued to shoot at the enemy. He said, "It gets you so mad to have someone come shooting at you like that…You just feel like you want to get them, too---So, I just took up my gun and started shooting [back] at them."
After the attack was over, Vinci was transported by ambulance and forced to stay the night in a field hospital with other wounded soldiers. He recalled the sounds of soldiers "in pain…crying and groaning."
On December 11, 1941 at 1:07am, back in Port Chester, New York, Vinci's parents received a Western Union Telegram." It read:
The Secretary of War desires me to express his deep regret that your son, Private First Class Benjamin Vinci was wounded in action in defense of his country in Hawaii-Dec 7th.
The family immediately tried to find out more information on the whereabouts of their son, but their wires to the War Department were never answered.
Back in Hawaii, Vinci had been taken to a hospital in Honolulu and then transported to his final destination on the road to recovery, Fitzsimmons General Hospital in Denver, Colorado. Doctors at Fitzsimmons performed the surgery to remove the bullet, however, they were unable to get it out. The bullet remains lodged in his body to this very day.
Vinci was allowed to return to active duty in June 1942. Shortly thereafter, on Monday, July 26, 1942, Vinci returned to Fitzsimmons General Hospital. Not as a patient, but this time…as a Hero. At just 22-years-old, Private First Class Benjamin Vinci was being presented with the distinguished Order of the Purple Heart. Brig. Gen. Omar H. Quade pinned the medal on the soldier' s chest citing that he was receiving the medal for being wounded "while performing meritorious acts of essential service." Vinci's Purple Heart stands for his bravery and courage on the battlefield. It serves as a continuous reminder of the Bombing at Pearl Harbor. A constant reminder that over twenty three hundred lives were lost on December 7, 1941 and he was one of the "lucky ones" who got wounded, yet still lived to tell the story. So many others were not as fortunate as he.
December 7, 1941 isn't just a date in U.S. History or World History. It's a date that jolted the lives of many American families. A date that will forever be remembered as the historic attack on Pearl Harbor that resulted in the death of so many sons, fathers, husbands and brothers. Let us take a moment from each day to show our appreciation to those who so valiantly served our country, and to honor both those who were lost as well as those who remain.
On July 27th, 2001, the following was read to the United States Senate Honoring Benjamin Vinci
HONORING BENJAMIN VINCI -- (Senate - July 27, 2001)
---
Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, Senator Clinton and I rise today to recognize and honor the service of Benjamin Vinci of Port Chester, New York--a true American hero.
In 1941, at the age of 21, Benjamin Vinci left home to serve in the U.S. Army, and by December of that year, was stationed in Hawaii with the 97th Army Coast Artillery Guard. Like so many there on the morning of December 7, 1941, Benjamin Vinci was going about his daily business. He had just completed all night guard duty and was eating breakfast when the whole base erupted in smoke and fire as Japanese war plans attacked Pearl Harbor and the surrounding area.
As bombers strafed the mess tent, a 50-caliber bullet hit Private Vinci in the back. But ignoring his wound, Benjamin Vinci reached an anti-aircraft emplacement and began to fight back. He stepped down only when he was ordered to find an ambulance and tend to his wound.
Along the way, instead of seeking cover, Benjamin Vinci ran down to the beach and rescued a man who had been shot through the legs. Helping the other soldier into a motorboat, he navigated through a hail of bombs and ammunition to the other side of the bay where he finally boarded an ambulance. But on the way to the hospital at Hickham field, planes targeted the ambulance and Benjamin Vinci was wounded again--this time a 50-caliber bullet coming to rest near his heart.
Mrs. CLINTON. In the aftermath of the attack, doctors believed Private Vinci's wounds were fatal, but he persevered. He received the Purple Heart and eventually was transferred to a hospital in Colorado, where doctors were able to remove one of the two bullets that had almost taken his life, but not both. He continues to carry with him the second bullet, which has never been able to be removed.
Disabled from his wounds, Benjamin Vinci returned to Port Chester after being discharged from the Army and resumed life as a civilian. For many years, Mr. Vinci worked as a vacuum cleaner salesman in Westchester County. He married Rose Civitella in 1945, and together they raised four children: Peter, Burnadette, JoAnn, and Joseph.
We honor and thank Benjamin Vinci for his tremendous sacrifice, vital contribution, and gallant service to our Nation. His acts of bravery are an exceptional example of the fortitude, determination, and strength of the American spirit. As Mr. Vinci carries the burden of his wounds and the bullet he received on that December morning of infamy, so too must we carry the memory of his heroic deeds, remembering and honoring all the men and women of that great generation--those veterans of World War II who saved our Nation, and the world.
On February 13th 2002, the Vinci family is very saddened that Benjamin Vinci, a father, grand father, hero, and friend had passed away.
^^^
That's cool. My family was force into some horrific things during WWII as well. War sucks for everyone even the winning side pays a price.
If I had a choice I'm still not wearing something with some other guy's last name on it.
Except for maybe a sports jersey even then its a wash.
That's cool. My family was force into some horrific things during WWII as well. War sucks for everyone even the winning side pays a price.
If I had a choice I'm still not wearing something with some other guy's last name on it.
Except for maybe a sports jersey even then its a wash.
MaverickAH
Well-Known Member
No, nothing wrong with it except that it makes you sound really, really stupid.
So I guess you don't wear or use anything that bears someones last name? Someone who thought enough of the the product that they produced that they were proud enough of it that they gave it their last name?
Not wanting a product's name prominently emblazoned across your chest or butt I understand, but the rationale you're using sucks especially if your last name really is "Nietzsche".
Says the guy who swings an "Easton" bat & uses a "Rawlings" glove! Both family names of the company founders.
You really should do some research before you start espousing stupid thoughts. Native american heritage? What if I framed it as using a product that bears the name & image of a people that were mistreated & genocide was commited against?
Now I'm not saying that there's anything wrong in using a Nokona or any other product. What I am saying is don't try to drape some phony sense of morality around it! Stupid, stupid, stupid...........
BigBL87
29 oz, you say?
No, nothing wrong with it except that it makes you sound really, really stupid.
So I guess you don't wear or use anything that bears someones last name? Someone who thought enough of the the product that they produced that they were proud enough of it that they gave it their last name?
Not wanting a product's name prominently emblazoned across your chest or butt I understand, but the rationale you're using sucks especially if your last name really is "Nietzsche".
Says the guy who swings an "Easton" bat & uses a "Rawlings" glove! Both family names of the company founders.
You really should do some research before you start espousing stupid thoughts. Native american heritage? What if I framed it as using a product that bears the name & image of a people that were mistreated & genocide was commited against?
Now I'm not saying that there's anything wrong in using a Nokona or any other product. What I am saying is don't try to drape some phony sense of morality around it! Stupid, stupid, stupid...........
So much WIN here that it hurts.
taylor714914
Addicted to Softballfans
Can anyone comment on the H web vs dual post vs T web? I'm leaning towards the RV60, BMB-L, TJ1952-L, or RV65. I justify spending the money by thinking it will be the last glove I need for a very long time....
Also, does anyone know why on their website some of the gloves have a softball logo/diamond when looking at them, and some do not? IE:
http://www.vincipro.com/cart/baseball-glove-model-rv60-13-cp-baseball-glove-h-web.html
http://www.vincipro.com/cart/br46-l-bordeaux-14-inch-softball-glove-h-web.html
Also, does anyone know why on their website some of the gloves have a softball logo/diamond when looking at them, and some do not? IE:
http://www.vincipro.com/cart/baseball-glove-model-rv60-13-cp-baseball-glove-h-web.html
http://www.vincipro.com/cart/br46-l-bordeaux-14-inch-softball-glove-h-web.html
Hoffasenior
Coathanga Strangala
I had a meeting w/ escort1991 a few weeks back. He brought w/ him some examples of gloves. As an outfielder I decided that the TJ1952-L was the one I'm going to rock. I have always had a liking to the H-web design. I also started a thread about 'why' a Vinci last year, and after all of the praise that came w/ it and talking to escort1991(Mark), I am confident in my decision.
taylor714914
Addicted to Softballfans
Do you find that the H web makes any difference as far as stopping the spin on the ball? Also, do you think it would be too big of a glove to play second base with occasionally?
Hoffasenior
Coathanga Strangala
Tough call on that. I'm too much of a wuss when it comes to playing infield against the big boys. I would send a pm to escort1991, he has an incredible knowledge when it comes to the gloves.
No, nothing wrong with it except that it makes you sound really, really stupid.
So I guess you don't wear or use anything that bears someones last name? Someone who thought enough of the the product that they produced that they were proud enough of it that they gave it their last name?
Not wanting a product's name prominently emblazoned across your chest or butt I understand, but the rationale you're using sucks especially if your last name really is "Nietzsche".
Says the guy who swings an "Easton" bat & uses a "Rawlings" glove! Both family names of the company founders.
You really should do some research before you start espousing stupid thoughts. Native american heritage? What if I framed it as using a product that bears the name & image of a people that were mistreated & genocide was commited against?
Now I'm not saying that there's anything wrong in using a Nokona or any other product. What I am saying is don't try to drape some phony sense of morality around it! Stupid, stupid, stupid...........
My opinion, my choice. Don't like it? Piss off.
You can proudly wear a glove with some other dudes last name on it....your money, your choice.
No moral spin here just a personal preference.
And the war history offered up by smarkley is neat. WWII ended the lives of millions and ruined countless others. Dunno how it fit in with the convo but if it makes someone want to buy the line then great.
BigBL87
29 oz, you say?
The point is, you're saying you don't want to do it, and yet you do with Easton and Rawlings products.
WolfPack52
Addicted to Softballfans
You obviously dont know about Nietzsche...Hes a moron so dont pay any attention to this trolling tool.
smarkley3
Certified Trap Hoe
Offended
I was offended about his comment of "some dude". The Vinci family does not use this for a marketing ploy, they do it to honor the man.
America is a country built by immigrants many of whom founded businesses that help make it great today and it is still happening!
If you want a glove with ur name on it, start a company that makes gloves or just buy a Vinci, we will send u a sharpie. Oh yea, I have some white T Shirts also.....
I was offended about his comment of "some dude". The Vinci family does not use this for a marketing ploy, they do it to honor the man.
America is a country built by immigrants many of whom founded businesses that help make it great today and it is still happening!
If you want a glove with ur name on it, start a company that makes gloves or just buy a Vinci, we will send u a sharpie. Oh yea, I have some white T Shirts also.....
Madsunz
Active Member
This question is best answered when you can compare a few gloves side by side. To me, there are four or five categories of gloves, and they kind of overlap. This is how I see it...
1. Cheap big box store gloves - Wal Mart, Target, a lot of the gloves at *****, Sports Authority, etc. These gloves typically last 1-2 years of playing and are shot
2. Higher price big box store gloves - this is where the Diablo, Rawlings Silverback's and Heritage, Wilson A800 or A1000, many of the TPX/TPS gloves, etc. fit. These gloves are decent and for a rec player or one church game a week guy they will last 5+ years, for a guy that plays 50+ games a year these will last 2-3 years and either become super floppy or will dry out. IF they are treated, they get heavy most of the time. The leather is typically soft, but not high quality.
3. Cheap customs - this is all of the Rodriguez gloves and most of the other lower end Mexican model customs. There are a couple others that fit in here as well. These gloves are really just for show. I have owned one and was extremely disappointed with the quality. After hearing many good things, I bought one, and it was NOT what people said they were. I would never buy another one again. IMO wouldn't last 3 years with playing all the time, in many cases probably worse than the gloves in category 2.
4. Lower tier 'quality' gloves - this has many gloves in it, including the highest dollar gloves you can usually find at a big box store or your average mom and pop shop. You will see some good gloves like Reebok, Nike, Akadema, a few Rawlings, Mizuno, and Wilson. The Liberty's probably fit in here as well, but a case could be made that they might go in a different category. Most of these gloves will last you 10 years if you take care of them. There are others that would fit in here, like lower end Nokona, Kelley, Kazuma, Zett, SSK etc.
5. Top of the line gloves - this is the true Rawlings HOH, Pro Preferred's, the A2K and A2000 series Wilson gloves, almost all Vinci's, many Mizuno models, as well as a lot of the Japanese (Zett, SSK, etc.) The difference with most of these gloves is that they are what I would call 'lifetime' gloves. Outside of conditioning and re-lacing, they all will last you as long as you play. Sure, there might be some that will break down over time, but the investment cost of $150 - $250 is well worth it when you consider getting a minimum of 5 years, but more like 15 years out of the glove. If you average it out over 10 years, it is $15 to $25 a year, well worth the price. The difference is the leather, the other materials (welting, lacing, stitching, etc.).
I used to be hardcore Rawlings HOH for fielding gloves, used an A2000 catching (the glove lasted me 5+ seasons, probably about 200 games and numerous practices and bullpen sessions). Over time, I have migrated to other gloves, mainly because Rawlings and Wilson don't really make a lot for softball that is good. I now have Vinci, Mizuno, Kazuma, and Worth (Liberty) gloves at my house. I use the Liberty's more than anything, due to the size and configuration (13"+ and an open back H-web).
I suggest spending the money on a good glove. It doesn't have to be a Vinci, but you cannot go wrong if you get the Vinci style you like. Don't just buy a Vinci to get a Vinci though, buy a Vinci because they offer a glove in the size, web, and configuration you are looking for. Best of luck!
1. Cheap big box store gloves - Wal Mart, Target, a lot of the gloves at *****, Sports Authority, etc. These gloves typically last 1-2 years of playing and are shot
2. Higher price big box store gloves - this is where the Diablo, Rawlings Silverback's and Heritage, Wilson A800 or A1000, many of the TPX/TPS gloves, etc. fit. These gloves are decent and for a rec player or one church game a week guy they will last 5+ years, for a guy that plays 50+ games a year these will last 2-3 years and either become super floppy or will dry out. IF they are treated, they get heavy most of the time. The leather is typically soft, but not high quality.
3. Cheap customs - this is all of the Rodriguez gloves and most of the other lower end Mexican model customs. There are a couple others that fit in here as well. These gloves are really just for show. I have owned one and was extremely disappointed with the quality. After hearing many good things, I bought one, and it was NOT what people said they were. I would never buy another one again. IMO wouldn't last 3 years with playing all the time, in many cases probably worse than the gloves in category 2.
4. Lower tier 'quality' gloves - this has many gloves in it, including the highest dollar gloves you can usually find at a big box store or your average mom and pop shop. You will see some good gloves like Reebok, Nike, Akadema, a few Rawlings, Mizuno, and Wilson. The Liberty's probably fit in here as well, but a case could be made that they might go in a different category. Most of these gloves will last you 10 years if you take care of them. There are others that would fit in here, like lower end Nokona, Kelley, Kazuma, Zett, SSK etc.
5. Top of the line gloves - this is the true Rawlings HOH, Pro Preferred's, the A2K and A2000 series Wilson gloves, almost all Vinci's, many Mizuno models, as well as a lot of the Japanese (Zett, SSK, etc.) The difference with most of these gloves is that they are what I would call 'lifetime' gloves. Outside of conditioning and re-lacing, they all will last you as long as you play. Sure, there might be some that will break down over time, but the investment cost of $150 - $250 is well worth it when you consider getting a minimum of 5 years, but more like 15 years out of the glove. If you average it out over 10 years, it is $15 to $25 a year, well worth the price. The difference is the leather, the other materials (welting, lacing, stitching, etc.).
I used to be hardcore Rawlings HOH for fielding gloves, used an A2000 catching (the glove lasted me 5+ seasons, probably about 200 games and numerous practices and bullpen sessions). Over time, I have migrated to other gloves, mainly because Rawlings and Wilson don't really make a lot for softball that is good. I now have Vinci, Mizuno, Kazuma, and Worth (Liberty) gloves at my house. I use the Liberty's more than anything, due to the size and configuration (13"+ and an open back H-web).
I suggest spending the money on a good glove. It doesn't have to be a Vinci, but you cannot go wrong if you get the Vinci style you like. Don't just buy a Vinci to get a Vinci though, buy a Vinci because they offer a glove in the size, web, and configuration you are looking for. Best of luck!
Psykout
San Diego Vinci Rep
Sorry , I'll put the soap box away now.
As for an all around glove, I woulds stay with a 13" and if u like H webs the BMB-L would be the best choice IMO.
I agree completely!
Madsunz
Active Member
To specifically answer your question, one glove (RV60) is cut for baseball, the other (BR45) is cut for softball. If you like the features, the BMB-L is supposed to be a great glove. It isn't for me, but I know a few people that LOVE theirs.
taylor714914
Addicted to Softballfans
So if it doesn't have the "softball icon" it isn't cut for softball? And pardon my ignorance, but what is the difference in the cut?