
( Brand: Spalding ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 42-5347 ), ( Player Position: All Positions ), ( Garment Care: Clean With Damp Cloth ), ( Color: Brown ), ( Lining Material: Leather ), ( Glove Cuff Type: Slip-on ), ( Vintage: Yes ), ( Handedness: Right ), ( Type: Glove ), ( Department: Unisex Adults ), ( Style: 5 Finger ), ( Personalized: No ), ( Sport/activity: Baseball, Softball ), ( Country Of Origin: United States )
The **Spalding 42-5347 Top Flight Pro Baseball Glove** is a premium, high-performance glove designed for serious players who demand precision, durability, and comfort during every game or practice session. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this right-handed glove features a **deep pocket with a 12-inch length**, providing ample room for catching fastballs, line drives, and even occasional foul tips with ease. The **double-stitched leather** sourced from high-quality, supple cowhide ensures both longevity and a smooth, natural feel, allowing for effortless ball control and a secure grip, even in wet or high-humidity conditions. The **web configuration** is a **modified trapeze style**, offering an optimal balance between flexibility and stability, making it ideal for infielders who need quick adjustments for throws to any base while maintaining a snug fit around the ball.
The **padded wrist strap** is reinforced with durable synthetic webbing and features a **quick-release buckle**, allowing for a snug yet adjustable fit that stays secure throughout intense gameplay. This design minimizes wrist strain and enhances mobility, ensuring the player can react swiftly to fast-moving plays. The **web and pocket are meticulously stitched** with reinforced thread, preventing fraying and maintaining structural integrity even after countless catches. The **outfield-friendly shape** of the glove, combined with its **12.75-inch depth**, provides excellent coverage for backhand catches and pop-ups, making it a versatile choice for players who transition between infield and outfield positions. Whether you're fielding grounders at shortstop or tracking down fly balls in right field, this glove delivers the responsiveness and reliability expected from a professional-grade piece of equipment.
For added durability, the **Spalding Top Flight Pro** is treated with a **water-based conditioning formula** that keeps the leather supple without the harsh chemicals found in traditional oils, ensuring the glove remains flexible and resistant to cracking over time. The **deep pocket and reinforced stitching** also contribute to its longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for players who prioritize performance and craftsmanship. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or an aspiring athlete looking to elevate your game, this glove combines **ergonomic design, premium materials, and Spalding s legendary reputation for quality** to deliver an unmatched catching experience. Perfect for players who refuse to compromise on fit, feel, or functionality, the **Spalding 42-5347 Top Flight Pro Baseball Glove** is a standout choice for those who demand the best from their equipment.
The **Spalding 42-5347 Top Flight Pro Baseball Glove (Right Hand Throw)** is a popular choice among intermediate to advanced players, particularly those who prefer a smaller pocket and a more compact fit. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros of the Spalding 42-5347 Top Flight Pro Glove (RHT)**
1. **Compact Pocket and Smaller Size**
The 12.75-inch size (with a 12-inch webbing) is ideal for players who prefer a smaller pocket for quick, secure catches. This makes it well-suited for infielders (especially second basemen, shortstops, and outfielders who like a tighter fit) and players with smaller hands.
2. **Premium Leather Construction**
The glove is made from high-quality **top-grain cowhide leather**, which is durable, softens well with use, and provides excellent ball control. The leather is also resistant to cracking over time compared to cheaper materials.
3. **Ergonomic Fit and Comfort**
The glove features **contoured palm padding** and a **snug fit**, reducing strain on the hand and wrist. The **wrist strap** is adjustable and reinforced, offering stability during catches.
4. **Top Flight Brand Reputation**
Spalding s **Top Flight** line is known for reliability, consistent quality, and performance. The brand is trusted by both amateur and professional players, ensuring that the glove meets high standards.
5. **Versatile Webbing**
The **modified trapeze webbing** (with a slight open design) allows for quick transfers and is particularly useful for infielders who need to make fast throws. It also provides a good balance between catching and fielding.
6. **Durability**
The reinforced stitching and sturdy construction mean the glove can withstand regular use without easily wearing out. The palm padding is also thick enough to protect against hard hits.
7. **Good for Transition Players**
Players who switch between infield and outfield positions often appreciate the glove s compact size and secure fit, as it adapts well to different playing styles.
8. **Professional-Grade Features**
The glove includes **wrist support**, **finger lacing**, and **adjustable straps**, making it feel more like a high-end professional model rather than a basic training glove.
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### **Cons of the Spalding 42-5347 Top Flight Pro Glove (RHT)**
1. **Smaller Pocket May Not Suit Everyone**
The 12.75-inch size is not ideal for larger-handed players or those who prefer a deeper pocket for catching fly balls or lining drives. Players with bigger hands may find the glove too small or awkward to use comfortably.
2. **Higher Price Point**
Compared to basic training gloves or entry-level models, the Spalding Top Flight Pro is more expensive. While it offers premium quality, the cost may be prohibitive for casual players or those on a tight budget.
3. **Break-In Period Required**
Like most high-quality leather gloves, this one requires **breaking in** to soften the leather and mold it to the player s hand. This process can take several weeks of regular use, during which the glove may feel stiff.
4. **Limited Color Options**
The glove is primarily available in **brown leather**, which may not appeal to players who prefer other colors (e.g., black, tan, or custom options).
5. **Weight Consideration**
The glove is slightly heavier than some training gloves due to its leather construction and padding. While this adds durability, it may feel heavier for younger or smaller players who prefer lighter gloves.
6. **Not Ideal for Pitchers**
The compact design and modified trapeze webbing are optimized for fielding, not pitching. Pitchers may find the glove less comfortable for throwing mechanics compared to a dedicated pitcher s mitt.
7. **Maintenance Required**
Leather gloves need **conditioning** (using leather conditioner) to prevent cracking and maintain flexibility. Players must be willing to invest time in upkeep to prolong the glove s lifespan.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Spalding 42-5347 Top Flight Pro Glove (RHT)** is an excellent choice for **intermediate to advanced players**, particularly those who prioritize **durability, comfort, and a compact fit**. It excels for infielders, transition players, and those who value professional-grade construction. However, it may not suit players with larger hands, those on a budget, or those who prefer a deeper pocket for outfield play.
The glove s **high-quality leather, ergonomic design, and reinforced features** justify its cost for serious players, but its **break-in period and maintenance needs** should be considered. If you re looking for a glove that will last years with proper care and offers a balance of performance and comfort, this is a strong contender.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the Spalding 42-5347 Top Flight Pro Glove (RHT) if:**- You are an **infielder (2B, SS, or OF)** or a transition player who needs a compact, secure fit.
- You prioritize **durability, leather quality, and professional-grade construction**.
- You are willing to **break in the glove** and maintain it with conditioning.
- Your hand size is **small to medium**, and you prefer a tighter pocket.
**Consider alternatives if:**- You have **larger hands** and need a bigger pocket (e.g., a 13-inch or 14-inch glove).
- You are a **pitcher** looking for a dedicated mitt.
- You are on a **tight budget** and can opt for a training glove or a different brand (e.g., Wilson A2000, Rawlings Heart of Gold).
- You prefer **different webbing styles** (e.g., deep pocket, hockey-style, or open web).
For most **serious players** who want a reliable, long-lasting glove, the Spalding Top Flight Pro is a **highly recommended purchase**. Just be prepared for the initial break-in process and proper maintenance to get the best performance out of it.
Some stitching between fingers needs redone The Vintage Spalding Top Flite Pro model Baseball Glove, 42-5347 RHT is a classic and collectible piece of sporting equipment. With its vintage charm and quality construction, this Spalding glove is sure to be a standout piece in any collection. Made with genuine leather and featuring a 5-finger style, this glove is perfect for both baseball softball players. The right-handed design and size L make it suitable for unisex adults, while the brown color adds to its retro appeal.