If you’re a baseball player, or simply an avid fan of the game, you have probably seen players using sliding mitts while running the bases. And if you’ve caught yourself wondering what they are and what purpose they serve, no worries! They’re actually quite new in the baseball world still, having just been incorporated into pro ball in 2008. 

While sliding mitts might look a bit surprising to see on your favorite player given their newness to the game, they have a very important purpose: safety. And as sliding mitts become more and more popular, the team of experts at Guardian Baseball is on a mission to help you understand why the trend is taking flight. 

What are Baseball baseball sliding mitts?

A baseball sliding mitt is a specialized piece of protective equipment designed to safeguard a player's hand and fingers while he or she is running the bases.

These mitts feature extra padding and durable materials to minimize the risk of injuries caused by friction and impact while sliding. If you’ve ever seen a baseball player’s sliding hand get stepped on or “cleated,” you’ll know it’s a serious injury. Sliding mitts are here to prevent that from happening.

With a non-slip surface on the palm, they provide improved grip and control, allowing players to execute smooth and controlled slides. Whether you're a professional athlete or a recreational player, investing in a high-quality sliding mitt can enhance your performance, instill confidence, and ensure your safety on the diamond.

How do sliding mitts work?

Baserunners put on sliding mitts after reaching base and wear them throughout the baserunning.

They’re easy to take on and off, so just slip them over your hand, fasten the elastic wrist strap, and you’re ready to run.
They feature extra cushioning on the palm, fingers, and hand to absorb impact and reduce the risk of injuries. The elastic wrist band gives the wrist extra support as well.

Check out all fo Guardians Sliding Mitt styles!

3 Reasons to Wear Sliding Mitts 

1. Injury Prevention 

Sliding mitts offer crucial protection to the hand and fingers during slides. The extra padding helps absorb impact and reduces the risk of abrasions, cuts, and bruises caused by contact with the ground or bases. By wearing sliding mitts, players can minimize the potential for hand injuries and play with peace of mind.

2. Enhanced Performance

Sliding mitts provide a better grip on the ground, allowing for improved control and balance during slides. Additionally, the added padding can help players slide further without discomfort, increasing their chances of reaching bases efficiently.

3. Increased Confidence

Wearing sliding mitts instills a sense of security and assurance in players. Knowing they have the necessary protection for their hands can boost their confidence, allowing them to focus on their performance without fear of injury. This mental edge can lead to more assertive and aggressive play, as players can slide with full commitment, taking risks and seizing opportunities on the field.

Are they difficult to take on/off quickly?

Not at all! Sliding mitts can be put on or taken off in a matter of seconds, and they’ll fit in your back pocket so you can put it on once you get to base.

Do MLB players use sliding mitts?

Yes! Sliding mitts are commonly used by professional baseball players, including those in Major League Baseball. Injury protection and more precision in your slides is especially important in high-stakes games where players need to perform at their best while minimizing the risk of getting hurt. Many MLB players recognize the benefits of sliding mitts and incorporate them into their regular collection of gear.

What hand does a sliding mitt go on?

You should wear your sliding mitt on your non-throwing hand. This is typically the left hand for right-handed players and the right hand for left-handed players.

Ready to get your own sliding mitts?

Are you ready to get your own sliding mitts? Great! While there’s not a huge selection of them on the market right now, many star players are using Guardian Baseball sliding mitts and we’re confident that they are the best quality in the game at the best price you’ll find.

We also welcome you to check out our whole selection -  we have other protective gear from the leading brands in baseball. Shop our protection collection and don’t leave anything to chance. 

Thank you for trusting Guardian Baseball for all your gear needs and questions. Our team includes former MLB players, college athletes, top-rated coaches and gear experts that way in on all our content, so you know you’re getting the best info in baseball.

Shop the Guardian Baseball Sliding Mitts HERE!