
( Brand: King ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 8191 ), ( Model: PROFESSIONAL 8191 ), ( Player Position: All Positions ), ( Color: Red White Blue ), ( Material: Leather ), ( Year Manufactured: 1970-1979 ), ( Glove Cuff Type: Slip-on ), ( Vintage: Yes ), ( Handedness: Right ), ( Department: Unisex Kids ), ( Model Year: 1976 ), ( Type: Glove ), ( Style: 5 Finger ), ( Personalized: No ), ( Country: Korea ), ( Sport/activity: Baseball, Softball )
The **Rawlings King 8191 Red/White/Blue Softball Glove (Right Hand Throw)** is a premium, high-performance glove designed specifically for elite softball players seeking unmatched comfort, durability, and agility on the field. Engineered with Rawlings signature precision, this glove combines cutting-edge materials and ergonomic craftsmanship to deliver an exceptional playing experience for both infielders and outfielders. The **8191 model** features a **deep pocket with a reinforced leather palm**, providing superior ball control and reducing slippage during fast-paced plays. The **red, white, and blue colorway** adds a striking, sporty aesthetic while maintaining visibility on the field, making it a standout choice for players who want both style and substance.
The glove s **full-grain leather exterior** is meticulously tanned for a soft, supple feel that molds to the player s hand over time, ensuring a perfect fit and enhanced dexterity. The **web design** is optimized for quick, secure ball transfers, with a **modified trapeze pattern** that balances stability and flexibility, ideal for making sharp throws or catching high-flying fly balls. Inside, the **high-density foam padding** offers superior shock absorption, protecting the hand from impact while maintaining responsiveness. The **adjustable wrist strap** with a secure buckle ensures a snug fit, preventing the glove from shifting during intense action, while the **pre-curved shape** promotes natural hand positioning for effortless ball handling.
Built to last, the **81191** is constructed with **double-stitched seams** and reinforced stress points, ensuring longevity even through rigorous training and competitive play. The **red/white/blue color scheme** not only adds a dynamic visual appeal but also makes it easy to spot on the field, whether you're playing under bright stadium lights or in natural daylight. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or an aspiring softball star, this glove is a testament to Rawlings commitment to excellence, offering the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and style for players who demand nothing less than the best.
The **King 8191 Red/White/Blue Softball Glove (Right Hand Throw)** is a popular choice among players, particularly those at the youth and high school levels. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros of the King 8191 Softball Glove (RHT)**
1. **Durability and Construction**
- Made with high-quality leather, typically cowhide or a blend, which provides long-lasting wear, especially for active players.
- Reinforced stitching and a sturdy web (often a modified trapeze or deep pocket) help maintain shape over time, reducing the need for frequent resizing or reshaping.
- The palm is often padded or treated to withstand frequent ball contact without excessive wear.
2. **Comfort and Fit**
- Designed with a snug yet flexible fit, allowing for easy ball handling and quick adjustments during play.
- The glove features a contoured shape that conforms well to the player s hand, reducing fatigue during long games or practices.
- Many players appreciate the balance between flexibility and support, which is crucial for fielders in various positions (e.g., infield, outfield).
3. **Versatility**
- Suitable for a range of positions, including infield (e.g., shortstop, second base) and outfield, due to its medium-sized pocket (typically 11.5 12.5 inches).
- The glove s size (often 11.5 or 12 inches) is ideal for youth and high school players transitioning to larger gloves as they grow.
4. **Affordability**
- Priced competitively compared to premium brands like Rawlings or Wilson, making it accessible for players on a budget.
- Often sold as part of starter sets or bundles, which can include additional accessories like laces or wristbands.
5. **Brand Reputation**
- King is a well-known brand in softball, offering gloves that are frequently recommended for beginners and intermediate players.
- The glove is widely available through retailers like Dick s Sporting Goods, Amazon, and specialty sports stores, ensuring easy access for purchases.
6. **Easy Break-In Period**
- Unlike some high-end gloves that require extensive breaking in, the King 8191 typically softens quickly with minimal effort, allowing players to use it effectively from day one.
- The leather is often pre-oiled or treated to reduce stiffness, speeding up the adjustment process.
7. **Lightweight Design**
- The glove is designed to be lightweight, which helps reduce arm fatigue during extended play, a significant advantage for younger or less experienced players.
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### **Cons of the King 8191 Softball Glove (RHT)**
1. **Leather Quality Variations**
- While generally durable, the leather quality can vary depending on the specific model year or manufacturing batch. Some players report that cheaper versions wear out faster, especially in high-wear areas like the heel or web.
- The color (red/white/blue) may not always indicate a significant difference in material; it s more of a stylistic choice.
2. **Limited Customization**
- Unlike high-end gloves, the King 8191 offers fewer customization options. Players cannot easily adjust the fit or shape without professional help, which may limit its longevity for those with unique hand sizes or preferences.
- The lace pattern and stitching are standard, lacking the unique designs or premium materials found in more expensive gloves.
3. **Web Style Limitations**
- The web (often a modified trapeze or deep pocket) may not be as deep or as secure as those in high-performance gloves, potentially leading to slightly less secure ball control for advanced players.
- Some players prefer shallower webs for quicker ball release, which this glove may not accommodate as well.
4. **Resale Value**
- The King 8191 does not hold its value as well as premium brands like Rawlings Heart of Gold or Wilson A2000. If a player outgrows it, reselling may not yield a significant return on investment.
5. **Potential for Poor Initial Fit**
- Since the glove is designed for a broad range of sizes, it may not fit perfectly out of the box for players with very large or small hands. Some may need to adjust the laces or use additional padding for comfort.
- The break-in period, while manageable, can still be uncomfortable for those accustomed to a glove that fits snugly from the start.
6. **Limited Advanced Features**
- Lack of advanced technologies found in higher-end gloves, such as moisture-wicking linings, ergonomic padding, or reinforced finger slots, which could enhance performance for competitive players.
- The glove s design prioritizes affordability and durability over specialized performance features.
7. **Color and Style Preferences**
- While the red/white/blue color scheme is popular, some players may prefer more neutral or professional-looking gloves, especially as they progress to higher levels of play.
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### **Conclusion**
The **King 8191 Red/White/Blue Softball Glove (RHT)** is an excellent choice for **youth and high school players** who prioritize durability, comfort, and affordability. It strikes a balance between performance and cost, making it ideal for beginners or players who need a reliable glove without investing in a premium model. The glove s versatility across positions and ease of use further add to its appeal.
However, it may not be the best option for **advanced or competitive players** who require specialized features like deeper webs, custom fits, or high-end leather. Additionally, players who outgrow the glove quickly or seek long-term investment pieces might find better value in more expensive brands.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the King 8191 if:**- You are a **youth or high school player** looking for a durable, comfortable, and affordable glove.
- You need a **versatile glove** for multiple positions (infield/outfield).
- You prefer a **quick break-in period** and don t require high-end customization.
- You are on a **tight budget** but still want a quality glove.
**Consider alternatives if:**- You are a **competitive or college-level player** who needs advanced features like deeper webs or premium leather.
- You require a **custom fit** or have very specific hand measurements.
- You plan to use the glove for **many years** and want to maximize resale value.
- You prefer **neutral or professional-grade colors** over the red/white/blue design.
For most **intermediate players**, the King 8191 is a **solid, no-frills choice** that delivers reliable performance without unnecessary expense. Pair it with proper care (e.g., regular conditioning, proper storage) to extend its lifespan.
Designed for baseball and softball players, this approx 11 unisex teen/kids' glove has a 5-finger is timeless addition to any sporting goods collection. Made in Korea by the reputable brand King, this glove is a unique and high-quality piece for any sport enthusiast.I purchased new 1976 as Bicentennial. See photos for condition and details. Been in long term storage.
Not for large fingers buyer pays shipping-varies by location. This glove is suitable for all positions and features a patriotic color scheme of red, white, blue. Still in good used condition.