Rawlings has been making baseball gear for over a century, and the Clout batting gloves sit near the bottom of their lineup. Priced around $20, they’re aimed at casual players, weekend warriors, or anyone who needs a reliable pair without spending $50 or more. But do they offer enough to justify even that modest price? We took a closer look at the design and considered how they hold up in real-world use.
The Clout gloves are made from a synthetic leather palm and a mesh backhand. That combination is common in this price range: the synthetic leather aims for durability, while the mesh provides breathability. The wrist closure is a simple hook-and-loop strap, and there’s a small amount of padding in the palm. They come in a few colorways, including the black-on-black version we’re reviewing here.
In practice, these gloves are best suited for batting practice, casual games, or for players who don’t put in heavy weekly reps. The synthetic leather palm offers decent grip on a standard bat handle, and the mesh back keeps hands from overheating on hot days. However, the materials are not as soft or as tacky as higher-end gloves, so you may need to adjust your grip more often. Also, the padding is minimal, so if you’re facing hard-throwing pitchers or take a lot of swings, you might feel more sting than with gloves that have thicker palm padding.
One area where the Clout gloves show their budget nature is in the stitching and overall construction. After a few weeks of regular use, some players report seams starting to fray or the strap losing its elasticity. That’s not to say they fall apart immediately—many users get a full season out of them—but they’re not built to last multiple seasons like premium gloves. The fit is also somewhat generous; if you’re between sizes, you might want to size down. The MED size fits most average adult hands, but those with smaller hands may find them loose.
Compared to similar gloves from other brands, such as the Franklin Powerstrap or the Easton Gametime, the Clout holds its own in terms of basic function but lacks the extra features like adjustable wrist straps or enhanced palm padding. The Franklin Powerstrap, for example, offers a more secure fit and slightly better durability for a few dollars more. If you’re on a tight budget, the Clout is a reasonable choice, but if you can stretch your budget, there are better options.
Who are these gloves for? They’re ideal for casual players, youth players moving up to adult sizes, or anyone who needs a spare pair for practice. They’re also a decent option for coaches who need to outfit a team without breaking the bank. On the other hand, serious high school or college players who practice daily and face live pitching will likely want something with more padding, better grip, and longer lifespan. Those players should look at gloves in the $40–$60 range, such as the Rawlings Workhorse or the Marucci Blacksmith.
In summary, the Rawlings Adult Clout batting gloves are a serviceable, no-frills option for recreational use. They provide adequate grip and breathability, but they cut corners on materials and construction. If you’re a casual player who plays a few times a month, they’ll get the job done. If you’re logging heavy hours at the cage or on the field, consider investing in a higher-tier glove. At this price, you’re getting what you pay for—nothing more, nothing less.
