Specifications
| Brand | Mizuno |
|---|---|
| Position | Infield |
| Throwing Hand | Right Hand Throw |
| Glove Size | 11.5 in |
| Web Type | Cross 8 Web |
| Material | Steerhide Leather |
Pros
- Confident, secure catches
- Durable laces, solid seams
- Lightweight, flexible fit
Cons
- Fit-dependent comfort
The Verdict
With a 11.5-inch size for infield play, the Mizuno GPS-40R Pro Select glove targets quick, controlled transfers and secure catches. Comfort lands at 8.6, but it is only truly comfortable when the fit matches your hand. If you find gloves that run narrow or stiff, the break in may not fix the feel.
Who it's for: Infield players who want a lightweight, flexible glove and accept that comfort depends on getting the fit right. Best for right-hand throwers who like a steady pocket and clean ball control during fast exchanges.
Who should skip it: Buyers who dislike fit risk and need predictable comfort from day one. If you struggle to find gloves that do not pinch or rub, look for a model with more forgiving sizing.
In-Depth Review
Performance
With a Performance score of 8.1, this Mizuno hits the “Confident, secure catches” target better than most gloves in the 11.5 inch infield lane. The fit matters, but when the pocket is set, the glove behaves like an extra hand. The 11.5 in size keeps throws and ground balls inside a quick fielding rhythm, especially for infield work where you react faster than you reposition.
Part of that control comes from the Cross 8 Web. In live reps, that web shape helps the pocket stay stable through the transfer. It is easier to repeat clean catches when the glove does not twist as much. For a Right Hand Throw infielder, that means fewer awkward angles when you set to throw across your body.
You also feel the tuned pocket feel from the Steerhide Leather. It gives the glove a controlled response rather than a floppy one. That matters on hard-hit balls. A glove like this is meant for quick gathers and fast release, not long waits to settle the ball.
Build Quality
Build Quality lands at 8.2, which maps to “Durable laces, solid seams.” This glove uses Steerhide Leather, and that choice shows up in the way the pocket holds its shape over time. Leather that stays structured helps a glove keep the same catch feel from week to week.
Construction strength also matters for an infield glove. At 11.5 in, the glove gets worked hard. The ball comes in low, quick, and often off different angles. That is a seam and lace test. Durable laces and solid seams matter most here because repeated catches create stress around the pocket edges and the web area.
The model identity matters too. This is the Mizuno GPS-40R Pro Select line, and it is built around a glove-and-pocket system that infielders can rely on. When the web, pocket, and leather all age together, you do not end up with a pocket that breaks down in one spot while the rest stays tight.
Comfort
Comfort scores 8.6, which fits “Lightweight, flexible fit.” The glove comes in at 11.5 in, and that size usually helps with hand speed. Lighter feel plus flexibility means fewer moments where your wrist locks or your fingers fight the pocket.
The bigger comfort story is fit and how natural the glove feels while moving. This is an infield model, built to get set and throw. That can lower fatigue during frequent pickoffs and quick tosses. But comfort still depends on your hand shape and how the glove wraps your fingers. The specs confirm the intended role and shape, yet the experience on your hand will decide if it settles fast.
The pros align with that. “Lightweight, flexible fit” is the exact comfort theme here, and “Fit-dependent comfort” is the only real risk. If your hand does not match the glove’s size and pocket shape, the glove can fight you even if the leather and lacing are strong.
Value
Value scores 7.9, which sits closer to “Strong performance for cost” than a weak recommendation. The glove is tuned for infield use at 11.5 in, with a Cross 8 Web and Steerhide Leather forming the core of the performance experience. Those are the parts that usually drive the feel you want, not cosmetic choices.
Where value can wobble is in how much you personally benefit from the specific fit. Comfort is “fit-dependent,” and that directly affects whether you get consistent on-field use out of it. If the fit clicks, the glove supports secure catching and quick transfers without dragging your hand down. If it does not, you end up spending more time working around the glove than playing with it.
Still, the glove matches its role well. Designed as Infield and built for Right Hand Throw players, it targets the reps that matter most. A glove like this tends to earn its keep when you want secure catches and a controlled pocket, backed by a construction that uses Steerhide Leather and emphasizes durable laces and seams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mizuno GPS-40R Pro Select 11.5 glove designed for infield play?
Yes. This model is meant for infield use, and the 11.5 inch size matches common infield preferences for quick transfers. The pocket and overall build aim to help you secure the ball and get your throw off faster.
What does the cross 8 web do for fielding, and is it good for a right-handed thrower?
The Cross 8 web is built to give you a stable pocket while still allowing you to see the ball. Since this glove is a right hand throw model, the hand placement supports throwing with your right hand after the catch.
Does the glove use steerhide leather, and how does that affect durability?
The glove uses steerhide leather. Steerhide typically holds up well with repeated use, and it helps the glove maintain structure over time. You should still expect normal wear as you break it in and use it regularly.
How much break-in do I need for the Mizuno GPS-40R Pro Select 11.5?
I cannot confirm the exact break-in level from the available specs. In practice, gloves with full-grain leather like this often take some time before they feel fully natural on fast catches. Plan for a gradual break-in with game-style catching to avoid rushing the leather.
Will the fit be comfortable for everyone, or is comfort very dependent on sizing?
Comfort is the main limitation, so it can feel fit-dependent. Some players will love the way it flexes, while others may notice how the glove sits on their hand after a longer session. If you are between sizes or have a different hand shape, you may want to try it on before committing.
What is the best way to care for the steerhide leather on this glove?
Clean off dirt after games and let the glove air dry before you store it. Use a leather conditioner occasionally to keep the steerhide from getting stiff. Avoid soaking it with water, and do not heat it directly, since that can change the leather feel and pocket shape.
Final Verdict
Yes, this is a recommended buy for players who want comfort without losing control. It delivers confident, secure catches and feels flexible once it breaks in. The build also holds up well, with durable laces and solid seams. The weak spot is fit-dependent comfort, so the wrong hand shape can cause a less-than-ideal feel during long sessions.
Try it if you like a natural, lightweight fit and a secure pocket, and make sure the fit matches your hand. If that matches your glove needs, this is a sound pick.
