Rawlings Gear Reviews 2026

The Rawlings Player Preferred series is best for beginners — genuine leather construction at an accessible price. It breaks in easily and provides the feel of real leather without the investment of a premium line. The Select Pro Elite is the next step up for intermediate players who want better leather quality but aren't ready for the HOH price point.

Heart of the Hide (HOH) leather is cut from the top 5% of steer hides, specifically from the strongest central section ("heart") of the hide. This produces a firmer, more durable leather that holds its shape season after season. HOH gloves require more break-in time — typically 2-4 weeks of regular use — but last 5-10+ years with proper care and conditioning. Professional players have used the same HOH gloves for entire careers.

Rawlings has been the official ball supplier to Major League Baseball since 1977. The Official MLB Baseball (ROMLB) is used in all MLB games — it's made in Costa Rica with cushioned cork center, wool windings, and cowhide cover stamped with the Commissioner's signature. The Rawlings Official League Competition Grade (ROLB1X) is the closest recreational equivalent available for consumer purchase.

For HOH gloves: apply a small amount of Rawlings Glovolium or Lexol to the palm and fingers. Form a ball in the pocket and wrap with rubber bands or place a baseball in the pocket overnight. Repeat 3-5 times over 2 weeks while playing catch daily for 15-20 minutes per session. The steam method (brief steaming) accelerates break-in but may slightly reduce leather lifespan. Avoid microwave or oven methods — heat damages the leather fibers and weakens the lacing. The HOH takes longer than other lines but produces a perfectly molded, game-ready pocket.

Glove size depends on position and age. Infielders (adult): 11–11.75 inches — smaller size means faster transfer. Outfielders (adult): 12–12.75 inches — longer reach for fly balls. First basemen (adult): 12–13 inch first base mitt — deeper pocket for picking throws. Catchers: 32.5–34 inch catching mitt — measured differently from field gloves. Youth players (8-12): 10–11.5 inches depending on hand size. Rawlings size measurement runs from the top of the index finger down along the palm to the heel.

Rawlings was founded in St. Louis, Missouri in 1887 by George and Alfred Rawlings. It remains the official ball supplier to Major League Baseball. Today, Rawlings is owned by Seidler Equity Partners and headquartered in St. Louis. Manufacturing happens across the US and internationally — official MLB balls are made in Costa Rica. Premium gloves are manufactured in multiple countries depending on the line.