Mizuno Prospect Select Fastpitch Softball Glove - Youth Performance

In this review of the Mizuno Prospect Select Fastpitch Softball Glove we look at a youth-focused mitt designed for young players aged 10-12. The bottom line: this glove is for coaches, parents, and players who want a purposely gender-engineered, easy-to-close fastpitch glove with comfortable padding and a durable full grain leather shell that breaks in quickly. Its single biggest selling point is the combination of PowerClose Technology and a thumb cut hinge that makes catching and closing the glove noticeably easier for younger hands.

Key Features

• Gender engineered fit: Built with Mizuno engineering philosophy to tailor performance to the female athlete, helping younger players get a more natural feel.
• Full grain leather shell: Provides solid durability so the mitt stands up to repeated use during practices and games.
• PowerClose Technology: Makes it simpler for youth ages 10-12 to close the glove and form a secure pocket on contact.
• Parashock Palm Pad: Absorbs impact and improves comfort so catching repeated hard throws is less jarring on the hand.
• Mzo lining and PU pull tab: The lining wicks perspiration away while the polyurethane power lock and optional PU pull tab deliver a secure, adjustable fit.
• Less 2 Lacing and thumb cut: Design changes increase flexibility along the closing axis and at the thumb area for easier, faster closing.

Who It's For

The Mizuno Prospect Select is best for youth fastpitch players around ages 10-12 who need a glove that breaks in quickly and helps them develop catching mechanics. Coaches and parents who prioritize an easy-to-close mitt and protective padding will appreciate the Parashock Palm Pad and PowerClose Technology.

Players with larger youth hands or those needing a heavy-duty adult mitt should look elsewhere; some customers reported a snug fit for bigger hands and occasional strap durability issues, so competitive older teens may prefer a larger or higher-end model.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy to close for younger players thanks to PowerClose Technology and thumb cut hinge.
• Comfortable catching with Parashock Palm Pad and moisture-managing Mzo lining.
• Well-made full grain leather shell that generally breaks in quickly and feels durable.
• Good value for parents seeking performance features in a youth glove.

Cons

• Fit can be mixed for larger hands in the 10-12 range and may feel tight to some players.
• Some users reported strap durability issues shortly after purchase, which may require attention.

Specifications

Brand	Mizuno
Model	Prospect Select Fastpitch
Intended age	Youth ages 10-12
Shell material	Full grain leather
Padding	Parashock Palm Pad
Fit features	Polyurethane power lock with PU pull tab
Special tech	PowerClose Technology, Less 2 Lacing, Thumb cut hinge

Our Verdict

The Mizuno Prospect Select is a sensible choice for youth fastpitch players who need a glove that is easy to close, comfortable to use, and durable enough for regular practice. It offers strong value through features like PowerClose Technology and a full grain leather shell, though parents should check fit carefully for larger youth hands and monitor strap wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this glove appropriate for a 12 year old?
Yes, it is designed for youth ages 10-12 and includes features to help that age group close the glove and form a pocket.

Does the lining manage sweat well?
Yes, the Mzo lining disperses perspiration away from the skin to improve comfort during play.

How durable is the leather and strap?
The full grain leather shell is durable and breaks in well, though some users reported strap durability issues so inspect the strap after initial use.