This review dives deep into the Wilson A1000 Superskin BBD W5 DB glove, offering a detailed examination of its design, materials, and performance. We'll explore the striking dark brown leather and black superskin combination, analyzing the feel and durability of the Echo leather construction. A key focus will be on the impact of the Superskin material, assessing its claimed strength, moisture resistance, and contribution to the glove's overall lightweight feel.The review will cover the glove's web pattern, a classic design suitable for infielders, and discuss the closure system, highlighting its personal preference aspect. Ultimately, we’ll weigh the glove's pros and cons, comparing its performance and value against higher-priced competitors like Rawlings A2000 models, to determine if the Wilson A1000 Superskin glove is a worthwhile investment for players of various skill levels.
Pros And Cons
- Super skin design makes the glove lighter and moisture repellent (waterproof)
- Classic look
- Edge web or dual post H web design
- Leather is not high-end (comparable to Rawlings gamer series, not A2000 or 82K)
- Leather is not as smooth as higher-end gloves and shows wrinkles
- Pre-owned glove showed bubbles in the palm (repairable with adhesive)
- Feels smaller than advertised size
Read more: Top 5 Wilson Baseball Gloves: Ultimate Buying Guide
Glove Specifications and Features
The Wilson A1000 BBD W5 DB glove boasts a striking design. Its dark brown leather is accented by a black superskin back, creating a visually appealing contrast. The glove features rough welting, dual posts, and a dark brown/darker brown belting and binding combination. It's constructed with 10 finger pieces and a heel, laced with 10 laces.
The model number, A1000 BBD W5 DB, is clearly visible on the glove itself. The 'DB' signifies 'dark brown,' accurately reflecting the glove's color scheme. The glove is a 11 ¾ size, although it feels slightly smaller, possibly due to previous use.
Leather Quality and Construction
The glove utilizes exclusive Echo leather, which, while not a top-tier leather like that found in Rawlings A2000 or 82K models, provides a decent feel. The leather exhibits some wrinkles and isn't as smooth as premium options, suggesting it's not built for the highest level of play.
Despite the less-premium leather, the glove's overall construction is durable and feels well-made for its price point. The dual post web is sturdy, and the 10-piece construction offers a tailored fit.
Superskin Benefits and Performance
A standout feature is the superskin. It contributes to the glove's lightweight feel, a significant advantage during extended use. Wilson claims superskin is twice as strong as leather, which may be debatable, but it does provide notable scratch resistance and moisture repellency.
The moisture-repelling property makes this glove practical in various weather conditions. Cleaning is easy; a damp towel effectively removes dirt and grime. The superskin enhances the glove's durability, making it a long-lasting choice.
Web Design and Glove Closure
The glove features what the reviewer calls an 'atrium' web—likely an edge web or dual post H web—a classic design common among infielders. The closure is a personal preference. While some prefer a tighter closure, the reviewer prefers a looser fit between the ring and middle fingers.
The reviewer demonstrates how they personally close the glove. The closure style is a matter of personal preference, and different players may find different styles more comfortable and effective for their playing style.
Overall Conclusion
The Wilson A1000 Superskin glove offers a compelling combination of features for the price. While the leather isn't top-tier, the superskin significantly enhances its durability, water resistance, and lightweight feel. The classic web design appeals to many infielders.
The glove's performance is suitable for many players, especially those who prioritize a lightweight feel and moisture resistance. While not reaching the level of premium models like the Rawlings A2000, it's a solid choice for those seeking a balance of quality and affordability.