This review delves into the Spalding Pro Select Dexter Fowler glove, offering a detailed look at its performance and value. Purchased at a significantly discounted price of $80, this 13-inch model boasts premium Kipp leather, described as incredibly soft and smooth, rivaling high-end professional gloves. However, the initial experience reveals a stark contrast: while the leather impresses, the laces feel somewhat cheap, and the glove arrives exceptionally stiff, requiring a substantial break-in period. This stiffness is particularly noticeable in the pinky and thumb areas, demanding considerable effort to mold to the user's hand.Despite the challenging break-in process, the review highlights several positive aspects. The glove's durable construction, thick heel padding, and aesthetically pleasing design, featuring white stitching and Spalding branding, contribute to its overall appeal. The thick heel is a standout feature, potentially offering superior protection compared to other models. Ultimately, this review explores whether the exceptional leather and durable build outweigh the initial stiffness and less-than-stellar laces, making it a worthwhile investment for serious players.
Pros And Cons
- Good deal ($80)
- Nice, smooth kipp leather
- Feels similar to pro preferred leather
- Super thick heel
- Cheap laces
- Super stiff (requires break-in)
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Unboxing and Initial Impressions
I recently purchased a Spalding Pro Select Dexter Fowler glove, finding a great deal at $80 – significantly less than the usual $160 price tag. It arrived quickly and was surprisingly well-packaged.
The glove itself is a 13-inch model, and the leather felt amazing from the moment I touched it. The Kipp leather is incredibly soft and smooth, feeling comparable to high-end pro-preferred gloves.
Upon closer inspection, I noticed the laces were a bit underwhelming and appeared inexpensive. However, the overall quality of the leather seemed to compensate for that minor flaw.
Stiffness and Break-In
The glove arrived incredibly stiff. Even with considerable effort, I struggled to break in the pinky and thumb areas. This stiffness was particularly noticeable in the pinky finger pocket.
The thumb and pinky are designed to be thin, but the overall inflexibility will require significant breaking-in time. The high-quality leather should soften nicely over time, but expect a lengthy break-in process.
The overall construction seems durable, suggesting this glove will last for many seasons with proper care and maintenance.
Design and Features
The glove boasts white stitching contrasting nicely against the black leather. It also features Spalding patches and a unique material on the back reminiscent of a baseball cap.
A key detail is the exceptionally thick heel, far thicker than my other glove, a Heart of the Hide model. This added padding could provide extra protection and durability.
The glove's overall design is clean and aesthetically pleasing, clearly showing its connection to Dexter Fowler and Spalding's heritage.
Final Verdict
Despite the initial stiffness and less-than-impressive laces, the Spalding Pro Select Dexter Fowler glove is a promising piece of equipment. The high-quality Kipp leather and substantial construction suggest a long-lasting glove.
The great price makes it a compelling option for serious ball players who don't mind a lengthy break-in process. Expect superb performance once the glove softens and molds to your hand.
The thick heel and overall design are additional pluses, potentially making it worth the investment even considering the initial stiffness.