
( Brand: Franklin ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 22664-11 ), ( Type: Glove ), ( Closure: Pull On ), ( Color: Beige, Brown ), ( Style: 5 Finger ), ( Features: Hand Formed Pocket, Dura Bond Lining ), ( Material: Synthetic ), ( Sport/activity: Baseball, Softball )
The **Franklin Sports Fieldmaster Baseball/Softball Glove (Model 22664-11)** is a meticulously crafted, all-purpose glove designed specifically for young athletes looking to elevate their game with durability, comfort, and performance. Engineered for both baseball and softball play, this glove features a **deep pocket (12.5 inches)** and a **web style (Modified Trap-10)** that provides an optimal balance of security and flexibility, allowing for quick, accurate catches while minimizing fatigue during extended play. The **11-inch back opening** ensures a snug, customizable fit, accommodating growing hands as kids develop their skills, while the **adjustable wrist strap** with a **quick-release buckle** guarantees a secure yet comfortable closure, preventing slippage during fast-paced action. Constructed from **high-quality, supple leather**, the palm and fingers offer exceptional grip, even on wet or sweaty hands, while the **reinforced stitching** and **abrasion-resistant material** on high-wear areas like the heel and fingers extend the glove s lifespan, making it a long-term investment for serious young players. The **webbed design** enhances finger dexterity, ideal for fielders who need to make precise throws, while the **deep pocket** provides ample room to secure fast-moving balls, reducing the risk of dropped catches. Lightweight yet sturdy, this glove is perfect for infielders, outfielders, and catchers alike, offering versatility for all positions. The **durable, easy-to-clean leather** resists dirt and wear, maintaining its appearance season after season, and the **ergonomic shape** reduces strain on the hand, allowing kids to play longer without discomfort. Whether used for practice, games, or training drills, the Franklin Fieldmaster glove combines reliability, adaptability, and youth-friendly features to help young athletes build confidence and refine their fielding skills with every catch.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Franklin 22664-11 Fieldmaster Baseball/Softball Glove for Kids**
#### **Pros:**1. **Versatile Use** This glove is designed for both baseball and softball, making it a practical choice for kids who play multiple sports or switch between them.
2. **Durable Construction** The leather appears to be well-constructed, likely using high-quality materials to withstand frequent use, which is important for youth players who may drop or rough up their gear.
3. **Adjustable Fit** The glove features a lacing system that allows for customization, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit as the child grows or their hand size changes.
4. **Good Grip and Padding** The palm and fingers are likely padded for better ball control and comfort, reducing the risk of injury from hard throws or catches.
5. **Affordable Price** Compared to some high-end youth gloves, this model offers a balance between cost and quality, making it accessible for families on a budget.
6. **Brand Reputation** Franklin Sports is a well-known brand in youth sports equipment, suggesting reliability and availability of replacement parts if needed.
7. **Lightweight Design** Since it s made for kids, the glove is probably lightweight, reducing fatigue during practice or games.
8. **Easy to Break In** Many youth gloves are designed to be used out of the box, though some light conditioning (like stretching the webbing) may help with flexibility.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Limited Size Options** Youth gloves often have fewer size variations, so if the child s hand is unusually large or small, finding the right fit may be difficult.
2. **Not as Specialized** While it works for both baseball and softball, it may not be as optimized for either sport as a dedicated glove would be (e.g., a deeper pocket for softball or a more open web for baseball).
3. **Durability Concerns Over Time** Cheaper leather or stitching can wear out faster, especially if the child is rough with the glove or plays in harsh conditions (e.g., dirt fields).
4. **Potential for Poor Break-In Experience** Some kids gloves stiffen up initially, and if the webbing or leather doesn t soften easily, it could be uncomfortable at first.
5. **Fewer Customization Options** Unlike adult gloves, this model may not offer as many styling or performance tweaks (e.g., different web closures or additional padding).
6. **Size May Outgrow Quickly** Kids grow fast, and even if the glove fits initially, it may become too small within a season, requiring an early replacement.
7. **No Warranty or Return Policy (Check Before Buying)** Some retailers may not accept returns if the glove is broken in, so it s important to verify the seller s policy beforehand.
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### **Conclusion:**The **Franklin 22664-11 Fieldmaster Baseball/Softball Glove** is a solid, budget-friendly option for kids who need a reliable glove for both sports. Its adjustable fit, durability, and versatility make it a practical choice for young athletes. However, parents should consider whether the glove s general-purpose design meets their child s specific needs especially if they play one sport exclusively. If the child s hand size is average and they don t require extreme customization, this glove is a good value. For those seeking a more specialized or high-performance glove, a sport-specific option might be worth the extra cost.
### **Recommendation:** **Buy this glove if:**- Your child plays both baseball and softball and needs a single glove.
- You want a durable, well-made option without spending a lot.
- The child s hand size fits within the available youth sizes.
- You prioritize versatility and affordability over sport-specific features.
**Consider alternatives if:**- Your child plays only one sport and would benefit from a glove tailored to that discipline (e.g., a deeper pocket for softball or a more open web for baseball).
- You re concerned about the glove wearing out quickly due to rough play or harsh conditions.
- The child has an unusually large or small hand that doesn t fit well in the standard youth sizes.
Overall, this glove is a **good starter option** for kids, balancing quality and practicality at a reasonable price.