Gem Gloves Austyn Dawe Signature Model Softball Fielding Glove - GEM146 Frontier
Gem Gloves Austyn Dawe Signature Model Softball Fielding Glove - GEM146 Frontier
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Austyn Dawe Signature Model · Dual Welting Design
GEM146 Frontier – Austyn Dawe Slowpitch Fielding Glove
Born from collaboration with Austyn Dawe and engineered for the competitive slowpitch arena, the Gem Gloves GEM146 Frontier is a signature-level glove that delivers elite performance without the elite price tag. Its standout dual welting construction reinforces the finger stalls for superior shape retention, while premium lightweight Kip leather gives you the comfort and break-in responsiveness needed for a perfectly personalized fit.
Shipping at a 30% factory / 70% player break-in ratio, the Frontier arrives game-ready while still leaving room to mold to your hand. Whether you're patrolling the outfield or locking down the infield, the H-Web and slowpitch-specific pocket deliver the control and visibility you need on every play.
GEM146 Frontier Key Features
Dual Welting Design
Double-reinforced finger stalls prevent flaring and maintain the glove's structure through seasons of heavy use.
H-Web Pattern
Open lattice construction reduces pocket weight while maintaining ball control — ideal for tracking fly balls.
Lightweight Kip Leather
Premium Kip delivers a soft, responsive feel with fast break-in and lasting durability without added bulk.
Enhanced Palm Padding
Engineered padding absorbs ball impact on every catch, protecting your hand during long game sessions.
30/70 Break-In Ratio
30% factory-broken-in for immediate use — 70% left to mold to your grip and playing style.
Wool Wrist Liner
Plush wool lining provides a comfortable, secure fit that holds up through full tournament days.
Padded Thumb Sleeve
Extra thumb protection engineered for slowpitch demands — no mobility sacrificed.
Slowpitch-Specific Pattern
Pocket depth and finger positioning optimized for the authentic slowpitch game.
What Is Dual Welting — and Why Does It Matter?
Dual welting means two leather strips are stitched along the finger stalls of the glove. This reinforcement technique keeps fingers from flaring outward over time, preserving the glove's original shape and structural integrity — even after a full season of competitive play.
Paired with Kip leather's natural elasticity, dual welting allows the GEM146 Frontier to break in faster, hold its shape longer, and perform consistently throughout the life of the glove.
H-Web Design for the Slowpitch Outfielder
The H-Web pattern is a top choice among slowpitch outfielders and multi-position players for good reason. The open design reduces pocket weight while maintaining strong ball control, and the visible lattice lets fielders track fly balls through the web before the catch — a real advantage when reading the arc of a slowpitch lob against a bright sky.
Break-In Guide for Your GEM146 Frontier
With 70% of break-in left to you, here's how to get the best results quickly:
- Play catch: 20–30 minutes of consistent throwing and catching is the most natural break-in method and the safest for the leather.
- Glove mallet: Work the pocket and palm with a mallet to deepen the catch zone without risking heat damage.
- Leather conditioner: A light coat softens the Kip leather and prevents surface cracking over time.
- Ball-and-wrap overnight: Place a softball in the pocket, wrap the glove with a rubber band, and leave it overnight to set the pocket shape.
- Avoid oven or microwave methods — excessive heat breaks down leather fibers and shortens glove life significantly.
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Frequently Asked Questions — GEM146 Frontier
What makes the GEM146 Frontier an Austyn Dawe Signature Model?
The GEM146 Frontier was developed in collaboration with Austyn Dawe to reflect his specific on-field preferences, including the H-Web configuration, dual welting construction, and 30/70 break-in ratio. It translates a player's competitive requirements into a production glove that's accessible to all serious slowpitch players.
What is dual welting and how does it benefit the glove?
Dual welting uses two strips of leather stitched along the finger stalls to reinforce the glove's structure. This prevents finger flare, helps the glove maintain its original shape, and extends durability across repeated use — a meaningful upgrade over single-welted alternatives.
Is the GEM146 Frontier designed for outfield use?
Yes. The H-Web pattern and slowpitch-specific pocket make this glove well-suited for outfield play. The open web lets you track fly balls before the catch, which is especially useful for reading the slower arc of a slowpitch fly ball. It also performs well for utility players covering multiple positions.
How does the 30/70 break-in ratio work?
The GEM146 Frontier leaves the factory with approximately 30% of its break-in completed — meaning the leather is pre-softened and the pocket has begun to take shape. The remaining 70% is completed by you through regular use, allowing the glove to conform precisely to your hand, grip pressure, and playing style.
What size is the Gem Gloves GEM146 Frontier?
Please refer to the size options listed above on this page. If you have additional sizing questions, our team is ready to help — contact us here and we'll point you in the right direction.
Does Smash It Sports offer price matching on Gem Gloves?
Yes — Smash It Sports offers a price-match guarantee on all products we carry, including Gem Gloves. If you find the GEM146 Frontier listed for less at a competing retailer, reach out and we'll match it. We also offer free shipping on most orders.
Does the GEM146 Frontier include a warranty?
Yes, the Gem Gloves GEM146 Frontier includes a warranty. For full details or to initiate a claim, please contact our customer support team or reach out to Gem Gloves directly.
