Relace or Replace? Repairing a Premium Catcher’s Mitt
Laces are repairable and structure is not. How to tell which problem your mitt has, how to relace it yourself in five steps, and when to hand it to a pro instead.

From this page you can access all of our reviews of Fastpitch Softball catcher’s gear (scroll below). In this category, reviews typically cover gear for ages 12 and up.
Our top picks for each category of Fastpitch catcher’s gear are shown below. Click the image to check the price!
Top Catcher’s Helmet: Jen Schro The Very Best

Top Catcher’s Mitt: Wilson A2000 FPCM

Top Chest Protector: Jen Schro The Very Best
Top Leg Guards: All-Star Vela

Laces are repairable and structure is not. How to tell which problem your mitt has, how to relace it yourself in five steps, and when to hand it to a pro instead.
A glove has finger stalls and a mitt has none — and only the catcher and first baseman wear mitts. Here is what that one difference changes, from the pocket to the rulebook.
A brush after every game, a damp-cloth wipe when it looks dull, and a thin coat of conditioner two or three times a season. The whole care routine, step by step.
Owner reports put a budget mitt at one season, mid-range at one to two, and premium at three to four or more. Here are the numbers, the four signs a mitt is done, and when to repair instead.
Five glove oils and conditioners worth a catcher’s mitt, prices checked August 2026 — plus the leather that should never be oiled at all.