Fans of Francisco Lindor may have noticed something new on his left hand this season: a completely redesigned glove from Rawlings, the Official Glove of Major League Baseball. What they can’t see on the new REV1X glove, is the internal 3D printed padding in the thumb and pinky making this glove rather revolutionary.
The 3D printed lattice structures significantly reduce the weight of the glove without sacrificing protection, durability, or playability, according to Rawlings. For the player, the lighter weight means a faster reaction time and a more controllable glove. The ultra-lightweight, form-fitting glove’s 3D printed internal lattice also adds stiffness in the regions where it is necessary and softens regions where flexibility is required, adding another dimension of control in the design.
Because the latticed structures, 3D printed in a rubber-like material, have longer durability than traditional padding, the REV1X is a more sturdy baseball glove that players can break in faster and use longer.
Lindor helped create the REV1X with designers from Rawlings and 3D printing engineers from California-based 3D printer manufacturer Carbon, by providing several seasons’ worth of feedback on prototypes.
“Rawlings continues to work alongside pros, the best in the game, to ensure our gloves are worthy of the highest level of performance, and the feedback we’ve received from Francisco Lindor validates our belief that the REV1X will forever revolutionize defense,” says Ryan Farrar, senior director of ball gloves at Rawlings.
The REV1X’s other cutting-edge design attributes – not currently found in traditional gloves – include a laceless web that eliminates top-of-the-web lacing and improves fielding consistency, plus, an adaptive fit system that accommodates a wider range of wrist sizes for a snug, tailored fit.
The REV1X models in various sizes feature the best of advanced manufacturing technology and traditional craftsmanship, combining 3D printing with a leather palm and gusset padding that is said to mold to the hand for a proper feel while maintaining the durability needed to play at the highest level.
For 3D printer manufacturer Carbon, this isn’t the first time it has contributed to revolutionizing sporting equipment. The company’s lattice structure technology is behind better-performing bicycle seats and safer and comfier custom-fit NHL helmets. Carbon says Rawlings approached it looking for a thinner – yet sturdier – padding and a sleek profile that wouldn’t break down over time.
Although Lindor has sported the glove for months, four REV1X models are available to consumers starting today in infield and outfield patterns from 11 ½-inch to 12 ¾-inch. Available for $399.95, the gloves are sold exclusively online at rawlings.com, dickssportinggoods.com, and justballgloves.com.
Lead image source: Rawlings REV1X glove with cut-outs showing the internal 3D printed lattice structure, which are not otherwise visible.
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