Wilson’s D33 Outfield glove comes in an A2K and an A2000 version. It is an 11.75-inch glove built mostly for pitchers, although an occasional third baseman might like the deep pocket and intricately laced webbing.
At least fifteen MLB players use the D33 pattern design from Wilson—all but one use the A2K version of the D33. Each of those players are pitchers. After our experience with the glove, we would suggest the Wilson D33 is a good fit for the elite pitcher who wants a serious investment in a glove and likes the look of the webbing over a more classic look like the CK22. We cover more details in the following Wilson D33 review.
Wilson D33 Glove Review Sources
There are a few other places you may look for good insight on the Wilson D33 Glove. We like, as always, Wilson’s site directly. In terms of seeing the D33 as a part of the entire line, that Wilson site is invaluable. You might also find some insight on the Amazon reviews page.
On this site, other pitching gloves like the CK22 would be worth considering since they are the same glove aside from the webbing. Also, our Wilson A2K Review and our Wilson A2000 Review overviews may be helpful in grasping the landscape of pitching gloves Wilson offers.
Wilson D33 Recommendations
Considering at least fifteen MLB pitchers use the A2K version of the D33, we have no hesitation recommending the A2K version of the glove to elite pitchers looking for a lifetime glove with great durability, shape and ball coverage. As an 11.75 inch glove, you’ll find it works well for the athletic pitcher who needs to make a play now and again.
The A2000 version of the D33 is a less expensive option that lacks the premium, premium leather of the A2K. Only one MLB guy uses the A2000 D33 (Yovani Gallardo), but even one proves it is worthy of the best. It also serves as a less expensive, yet still considered premium, leather glove.
We dedicate an entire article to the differences between the A2K and the A2000. These differences hold true between the D33 A2K and D33 A2000. Although detailed there, we give a light overview here.
Rolled Welting. The back of the glove’s fingers are sewn together using a strip of leather. Wilson uses two pieces on opposite sides of the finger back. You can see these as lines going up the backhand. A2K gloves, generally, smooth out the welting before attaching it. They smooth it by rolling it. A2000 gloves generally do not roll the welting, and as such, have rough welting. This difference holds true on the D33 Wilson A2K vs A2000.
Dual Palm Leather. A2K gloves use a double layer of leather on the palm of the glove. This makes the gloves more difficult to work in, but it also makes them more durable and adds more padding to the palm.
Leather. The A2K glove leather is selected out of the top grain leather groups the A2000 is made from. That is, take the premium A2000 glove leather, find the best within those piles and that is what the A2K’s are made of. Wilson calls the leather on the A2K Pro-Stock Select, whereas on the A2000 it is called just Pro-Stock.
At 12.5-inches, the KP92 is the shortest outfield glove Wilson produces. In fact, it is one of the shortest pro quality gloves produced for outfield on the market. As such, the Wilson KP92 serves the agile and smaller outfielder who values greater mobility over length. At least nine MLB outfielders prefer this glove with its pro-lace single post web design. More prefer the A2000 than the A2K for reasons we discuss below. We recommend the glove heartily to players looking for an agile, top shelf, outfield glove. Count the following as our in-depth Wilson KP92 glove review.
As the glove comes in both an A2000 and an A2K, you may find our A2K review and A2000 review pages helpful.
Wilson KP92 Glove Recommendations
If you remember the glory days of Kirby Puckett, then you’ll know the exact type of player the KP92 works for. The KP92 is his namesake, after all, and was created after his conversations with famed Wilson glove designer Aso. In general, the glove is made for an agile outfielder that makes up in speed and athleticism what he may lack in size.
As the most popular outfield glove that Wilson makes, we recommend it to most players comfortable with a 12.5-inch glove. The pro-lace design and reinforced top bar are well thought out for snow cone catches, and the glove boasts a pocket large enough to make any play you can get your feet to.
The decision between the A2K, A2000 and A1K will be largely personal. We dissect the differences in the three versions below. These insights hold true across the Wilson brand when comparing the three models.
A2K KP92 Features
The A2K is the premier glove Wilson produces. The major difference between it and the gloves below is it comes with the Pro-Stock Select leather that incorporates only the top 3.5% of Wilson’s already top shelf leather. The glove also uses a double layer of leather on the palm. This makes it thicker and gives a bit more padding. That extra layer also requires a longer break in time, but in theory, it will hold its shape longer.
A2000 KP92 Features
The A2000 uses Wilson’s Pro-Stock leather. Notice that lacks the “Select” found only on the A2K Stock offerings. An A2000 KP92 is the more popular model at the professional level. Close to ten MLB players use it. We suspect the thinner palm that runs a bit lighter than the A2K version is a contributing factor to that decision. Do note, however, gloves issued to pros directly come with a Pro Issue stamp and are given the best leather Wilson can find. Better even, some would claim, than the Pro-Stock Preferred found on the A2K gloves.
A1K KP92 Features
The A1K KP92 comes in the same web dimensions of the A2K and A2000, but uses a slimmer fit on the wrist. This makes it an ideal choice for smaller players looking for a well designed glove but who need a tapered fit for a smaller hand. The A1K uses quality steer-hide leather available on the open market instead of the specially bred Pro-Stock and Pro-Stock Preferred leather found on the A2000 and A2K respectively.
Wilson KP92 Glove Comparable Gloves
Shoeless Joe Pro Select 12.5-Inch
The reinforced top bar on along the edge of the KP92 is a unique feature on a 12.5-inch glove. Most in in the industry refer to this structure as a modified T-Web. In those terms, comparable gloves within the market are few. In fact, we only know of the Shoeless Pro Select 1250 that uses a modified T-Web with pro lacing on a 12.5 inch quality glove. This glove, however, only comes in leather most comparable to the A2000. Of course, Wilson would disagree with that characterization.
Outside of that 1250 from Shoeless, we cannot find a comparable glove either within or without Wilson.
Wilson’s B212 is the new iteration and namesake of the Wilson B2, a legend in Wilson glove culture. Made for pitchers, it is one of the most popular gloves they make, not counting fielding gloves. The Wilson B212 is currently offered in an A2K and an A2000 Superskin version. Over forty MLB players use the B212 and they are split almost evenly between the A2K features and the A2000 features. After our experience with them, we would recommend the glove to any serious pitcher looking for a life long glove with a namesake older than they are. If they wanted an A2000 version of the glove (no Superskin), then the the CK22 Game Model would be their best best. More details in our full Wilson B212 Glove Review are found below.
In putting together this review on the B212 Wilson A2K and A2000, we looked at a number of sources. You may also find them helpful. The Wilson product page on the B212 was quite helpful. So was the video and short, canned, write up on closeoutbats about the B212. We also found the reviews, few no doubt, on Amazon somewhat helpful.
On this site, our Clayton Kershaw CK22 Game Model glove review was useful. That glove, you should know, is the same as the B212, but in the A2000 model instead of the Superskin or A2K model. As a general overview, we found our Wilson A2000 Superskin reviews as well as our Wilson A2K reviews useful.
Wilson B212 Glove Recommendations
If you are an elite pitcher, or aspire to be, and have grown to roughly your full size, we would recommend the B212 wholeheartedly. It is the most popular pitcher’s glove pattern in the MLB and that is not just because Wilson is better than anyone at Professional glove distribution. The glove’s deep pocket and two piece web for full ball concealment is a feature most elite pitchers require.
If an 11.75 inch pitchers glove is what you are looking for, then the only real decision is whether you want the B212 in the A2K or A2000 Superskin version. The Superskin will give you a faster break in time, better handling when wet and a lighter feel. The A2K will give you more premium leather and thicker padding in the palm. Just over twenty MLB players use the A2K version, while only a couple use the A2000 Superskin version. To the average consumer, the Superskin will also save you $100.
Wilson B212 A2K vs B212 A2000 Superskin
We dedicate an entire article to the differences between A2K and A2000 Wilson gloves. But, since the D33 comes in only an A2K and an A2000 Superskin, we thought it appropriate to bullet point the main differences between an A2K and a Superskin Wilson gloves.
Price. The A2K gloves run about $100 more than the A2000 gloves.
Double Leather Layer. A2K gloves use two layers of leather in the palm. This allows for more durability and a more padded palm, but it also adds a longer break in time and a slightly heavier glove.
Rolled vs Rough Welting. As an entirely cosmetic difference, the A2K gloves soften the leather strips that hold together the fingers (called welts) by rolling them before they sew them together. The A2000 Superskin does not roll the welts, and as such are considered rough welting.
Superskin vs Leather. The A2000 Superskins use a synthetic backing on the gloves. This allows for a much lighter glove with a faster break in period. Those who like the Superskin also prefer how it does not get bogged down in wet weather and claim it is more durable than traditional leather. The A2K’s only use the Pro-Stock Preferred leather on the entire glove.
Pro-Stock Preferred vs Pro Stock Leather. A2K gloves are known for their premium select leather. That leather, called the Pro-Stock Preferred, is the best leather Wilson produces. Some claim it is best glove-making leather in the world. The A2000 Superskin uses, in addition to the synthetic Superskin on the backhand, a premium leather too, just not as premium as the A2K. They refer to the A2000 leather as just Pro Stock.
Wilson B212 Comparable Gloves
CK22
The most comparable glove to the B212 A2K or A2000 Superskin is obviously the CK22. The CK22 is Clayton Kershaw’s Game Model version and it uses the same exact pattern as the B212. Its different name comes from the fact that it is Kershaw’s Game Model glove. The CK22 is the A2000 version of the B212. The B212, you should have noticed by now, only comes in an A2K or an A2000 Superskin version.
Another similar glove within the Wilson brand is the Wilson D33. The Wilson D33 is an 11.75-inch pitcher’s glove that comes in an A2000 and an A2K model. Expect a very similar feel, but with a slightly deeper pocket and a full lace webbing, instead of the two-piece webbing made famous by the B212 Wilson.
Outside of the Wilson brand, Rawlings also makes a two-piece web on an 11.75 inch premium leather glove. This 205 series glove is made for the pitcher who likes complete concealment on the glove and a tan leather look. Expect very similar dimensions to the B212 from Wilson.
Wilson’s 1799 glove stands as a classic example of an outfielder’s glove. It runs a 12.75 inch length with a massive dual post pocket design. The 1799 is so popular, it is one of only three gloves Wilson offers in an A2K, A2000 and an A2000 Superskin. The other two (1786 and DP15) are infield gloves. The Wilson 1799 classic design, big pocket and good wide measurement make recommending the glove easy enough. Serious outfielders at nearly every level of the sport should have this on their short list. After some use, discussions with manufacturer, major vendors and players on the glove, we write this Wilson 1799 review.
As the most popular outfield glove from the most popular glove brand the in the world, the Wilson 1799 pattern is rather simple to recommend. In short, serious outfielders who want a classic feel and traditionally sized outfield glove should really consider the 1799. As a 12.75-inch dual post glove in a near full catalog of model lines, the only real struggle is to decide if you want an A2K, A2000 or A2000 Superskin.
A2K 1799 Review
The A2K offers the unique advantage of the best leather Wilson produces. We use the word produces instead of uses because Wilson literally owns the cows in Japan that produce this leather. The Pro-Stock Preferred leather found on the A2K is the top 3% of leather found within their system. As a stock model glove, it is the nicest leather an individual can buy.
As well, the 1799 A2K uses a double layer of leather on the palm. Compared to the A2000 or A2000SS, this gives a slightly thicker feeling with the added padding. However, it also forces a longer break in period.
The A2000 is the traditional feel that made Wilson gloves famous. Of the twenty some odd MLB outfielders who use the 1799, almost fifteen use the A2000 version of the 1799.
We should note, the A2000 Pro-Issue version has a thinner palm, and it does not get the same leather that stock A2000 gloves get from the local sporting goods store. Rather, Pro-Issue versions of any A2000 are specially made for a specific player in terms of how well it is broken in and its use of premium leather. In other words, don’t think your A2000 1799 is the exact quality of glove the pros get. Yours will be a fine glove no doubt, but until you sign that Big League contract, expect gear not quite as impressive as what’s on the hands of the pros.
The Superskin 1799’s most notable feature, like all A2000 Superskins in the Wilson line up, is the use of a synthetic material on the backhand of the glove. This improves the durability of the glove, keeps it drier in wetter conditions compared to a full leather glove and also benefits mobility by creating a lighter glove.
As a general rule, many infielders—especially second basemen—prefer this feature. But, we have yet to see a pro guy use it in the outfield.
We did not mention Hanley Ramirez’s glove in the above as it is not offered by Wilson any longer. But, you can still find some of the HR13 in a few stores. It is the Game Model glove design of Ramirez and for all intents and purposes, is the 1799 A2000 Superskin. The obvious exception being the colors that match the Boston Redsox.
Wilson’s OT6 is another 12.75-inch glove in the outfield space that Wilson produces. It comes in an A2000 and A2000SS only and uses a pro-lace web design with no top cross bar. It is not as popular as the 1799, but at least for some, has the draw of a more flashy web design.
Outside of the Wilson brand we struggled to find a dual post web on a 12.75-inch glove design. Don’t get us wrong, there are many 12.75 inch gloves focused on outfield play. But only one, as far as we could tell, also used a dual post design for the wider pocket and good durability. That glove was SSK’s Professional 12.75-inch outfield glove. SSK makes good stuff, and if these are the exact specs you want on a glove, it will come down to the 1799 in an A2K, A2000, A2000SS or the SSK 12.75 outfield glove.
The Wilson 2800 first baseman’s mitt is a classically designed single post web that comes in both a premium A2K and a noteworthy A2000. In terms of functional design, it is the spitting image of Miguel Cabrera’s first baseman’s mitt that comes in Tigers’ colors. No fewer than ten MLB players use the Wilson 2800 glove in either the A2K or A2000. As a full leather glove featuring reinforced webbing and a stamp of approval from many MLB players, most unpaid first basemen will love the glove. After using the glove ourselves and discussing it with major vendors and the manufacturer, we put together our Wilson 2800 first baseman mitt review.
If you are looking for a classically designed and laced first baseman’s glove, it is impossible to go wrong with Wilson’s 2800 first baseman’s mitt. It uses a traditional single post web design and shapes for a wide pocket and great reach. If you are comfortable with the Wilson top end brand of gloves (and who isn’t?) then the only real decision is between the 2800 A2000 and the 2800 A2K.
A2000
The 2800 A2000 rocks the same features other A2000 gloves do. That is, it uses Pro-Stock leather and is crafted in-house, among the master glove crafters of Wilson. The A2000 is likely the most popular first baseman’s glove in the world. We have never heard any complaints and all reviews we can find online are glowing.
More pro players choose the A2000 version of the 2800 over the A2K. Do note, however, the Pro-Issue gloves come with special care and premium Pro-Issue leather. They are not simply taken off the assembly line of 2800 stock models and shipped to an MLB clubhouse.
The A2K model of the 2800 comes with features we now expect on an A2K. That is, the upgraded leather from the Pro-Stock found on the A2000, the rolled welting for a smoother feel on the backhand, and the double palm layer for more padding on the forehand. In terms of quality in a stock model, it is the best first baseman’s mitt Wilson produces.
At 12 inches, the 2800 Wilson first baseman’s mitt is very traditional. Although not all companies produce a single post web on a glove made for 1st, they all make 12-inch gloves. In fact, Wilson makes two other first base gloves that also measure 12 inches. The most comparable option to the 2800 within the Wilson line looks like this:
The glove pictured above is Miguel Cabrera’s Game Model glove. You’ll notice it looks much like the A2000 2800 first baseman’s glove, just in Tigers’ colors. It also has a less obvious difference in the lace design along the single post. The claim is this lacing gives better reinforcement and a nicer look. To each his own.
Outside of the Wilson brand, the most comparable glove to the Wilson 2800 we could find is the Shoeless 1200FB. It also runs a 12-inch design with a single post webbing. Of course each company will argue which leather is better, but it is a comparable glove in quality to the A2000. It’s major difference is the faux fur on the back of the wrist slot. Wilson’s A2K’s and A2000’s use a dry fit system.
Wilson’s 1787 baseball gloves come in an A2K and an A2000 Superskin version. We took them for a spin, spoke directly to the manufacturer about the gloves and worked with a major vendor to get a feel for which players prefer this pattern over others. We found, on the whole, this 11.75-inch utility infield to be the least popular of Wilson’s infield gloves. Turns out, most either want an 11.25, 11.5 or 12 inch glove for infield. The 11.75 1786 Wilson pattern serves the proverbial no man’s land of infield gloves. That said, the glove is packed with top shelf features, quality construction and premium leather.
On this site we checked our Carlos Correa glove review, as it is the same glove, but with different colors. We also referred to our A2K vs A2000 Wilson glove comparison article. In addition, we spent some time on our Superskin review article making sure we had our facts straight.
That data, combined with both our experience with the 1787 and conversations with Wilson glove reps and a major glove vendor, gave us a thorough view of the glove for this article.
Wilson 1787 Wilson Glove Recommendations
We would recommend the 1787 pattern to any player who wants a bit more length than the the traditional 11.5-inch middle infield glove provides. We also think, the H-Web design lends itself better to the middle infielder who needs a smooth glove flip every now and again. That said, an 11.75-inch glove should work just fine on a third baseman’s hand, and in younger classes, might even serve as a utility outfield glove.
Wilson’s 1787 comes in both an A2K and an A2000 Superskin. We dive into many of the functional differences below, but in terms of recommendations we would suggest the A2K is more appropriate for the elite player who wants the best stock leather available. They may also prefer the thicker palm and better factory work in.
The 1787 A2000 Superskin is for players who have decided on an 11.75 inch glove, but also want the light feel of Superskin. In theory, the Superskin will also last longer.
In short, the major differences between the A2K and the A2000 in the 1787 pattern are the upgraded leather and the additional support and thickness the A2K provides. Otherwise, both are 11.75 inch gloves built for the utility infielder who likes the H-web pocket.
The other difference really worth noting is that the A2K usually runs $100 more expensive than the A2000. We refer you to our A2K and A2000 differences article if you would like more details.
Wilson 1787 Wilson Glove Features & Sizing
As we see it, there are three main features those thinking about the Wilson 1787 should consider. They are the type of leather, the I-Web design and the need for an 11.75 inch glove.
Pro-Stock or Pro-Stock Preferred
One major difference between the A2K and the A2000 1787, as with all A2K vs A2000’s, is the difference in leather. The A2K uses a more premium stock leather than the premium stock leather found in the A2000. This leather is specially bred in Japan by Wilson to deliver the best glove, they believe, on the planet. A choice for the Wilson 1787 in either the A2K or the A2000 is ultimately a choice to use this select leather.
We should note, the leather you will be getting on either the A2000 or A2K is not Pro-Issue. Rather, this is a stock leather glove. This is not to imply the stock leather A2K or A2000 1787 is not elite, but rather, the very best of all the Wilson leather is reserved for the gloves issued to the professionals.
I-Web Design Purposes
Wilson has made the I-Web (or H-Web depending on how you look a it) quite famous. It is the quintessential middle infielder pattern that allows for good access to the ball and easy flipping. Those considering the 1787 should prefer the I-Web design.
Who Uses
An 11.75-inch glove is often no man’s land. Many third basemen think it is too small and would prefer a more durable single post web design, while many short stops think the 11.75-inch glove is too long and bulky to make smooth plays, despite the glove’s I-Web.
Second basemen are usually deciding between an 11.25-inch glove and an 11.5 glove. To them, an 11.75-inch glove feels like something that belongs in the outfield.
As such, the 11.75-inch I-web design is not very common. It is, as far as we understand, the least popular infield glove Wilson makes.
Wilson 1787 Wilson Glove Comparable Gloves
The most comparable glove to Wilson’s 1787 pattern is the CC1 glove. That is, the Carlos Correa Game Model Glove. The glove pattern is identical to the 1787, but serves the A2000 non-Superskin category. In fact, we can consider a full line of A2K, A2000 and A2000 Superskin categories offered in the 1787, with the A2000 represented by the CC1 Wilson glove with Astros’ colors.
Outside Wilson, not many companies offer a traditional H-Web on an 11.75-inch utility infield glove. We could find only two. The first is likely the most similar model. Marucci’s Honor the Game series has an H-Web on an 11.75-inch glove. It is the same price as the CC1. Rawlings has a top shelf Wing Tip Pro Preferred 11.75-inch utility infield glove with an H-Web. In terms of price and attention to detail, it is more similar to the A2K version of the 1787 than the A2000 CC1.
Until you have touched and felt an A2K glove from Wilson, it is hard to understand what reviews mean when they speak of a quality feel. The A2K M1, Wilson’s A2K Catcher’s mitt, is a prime example. The leather feel is remarkable, and you know that on first touch. The M1, as Wilson’s only A2K Catcher’s glove, is recommended for top flight players who prefer the best leather money can buy in a 33.5-inch design. In more detail, the following is our Wilson A2K Catcher’s mitt Review.
Any dead serious player who wants arguably the best 33.5 inch catcher’s glove on the market, should seriously consider the A2K M1 Catcher’s Mitt from Wilson. It is good enough for a few pro guys, so likely will be good enough for you and your budding career.
A 33.5-inch design isn’t the biggest on the market, nor is the full leather design on the A2K M1 the lightest 33-5-inch on the market. But the half moon web and the premium leather with dual palm construction has a great fit, long tough work in and as much durability as you could ever hope for.
Generally speaking, we would recommend the glove to any serious catcher who is playing varsity high school ball or above.
Comparable Options
Within the Wilson Brand, the most comparable option to the M1 A2K Catcher’s Mitt is the A2000 Superskin version in the same M1 pattern. Both gloves use the half moon web and the same 33.5-inch circumference. Chief among the major differences is the use of Superskin on the back of the A2000 Superskin. This superskin makes the glove lighter and little more manageable. It may also make it more useful in wet weather. But, the A2000 Superskin M1 lacks the premium leather and double palm construction that A2K’s have.
Outside of the Wilson Brand, the All-Star 33.5 Pro Elite Series is a serious contender. Some would argue it is THE 33.5 inch catcher’s glove on the market. Both the All-Star and the M1 A2K use full leather and a traditional half moon web. Both, it turns out, also look quite similar. These two compete head to head in the 33.5-inch market and it is really hard to go wrong either way. Traditional catcher’s might give the edge to the All-Star.
There are three aspects of an A2K that make it different, at least when compared to an A2000. They are Pro-Stock Select leather, a double palm construction and rolled dual welting.
Pro-Stock Select Leather
As we discuss in our A2K Reviews, Wilson has access to a certain breed of cow that produces, they claim, the best leather that can be found. That leather is sorted thoroughly to find the best pieces possible. It is then used to build the A2K. This leather is referred to as Pro-Stock Select and differs from A2000 leather that is referred to as Pro-Stock.
Many make the argument that several pros are comfortable with the A2000 instead of the A2K. Hence, they argue, the leather on the A2000 is good enough for them, then why not us? Do note, however, the gloves that get sent to the professionals are not the same as the stock versions that get sent to the public for purchase. The A2000’s on the shelf at your local sporting goods store is not the same leather the pros get.
In other words, the A2K is the closest to professional grade leather you can buy in the Wilson line.
Double Palm Construction
In addition to a premium, premium leather found on the A2K, the A2K also uses a double palm construction for a little more padding and a longer work in. For a catcher’s glove, it may mean all the difference. However, this also comes with a longer break in time.
Rolled Dual Welting
Although it makes no functional difference, the A2K’s such as the M1, use a rolled welting construction on the back. That means the pieces of leather used to seam together different parts of fingers have been rolled smooth. It makes for a smoother feel on the back and something you would not get with the M1 in an A2000 Superskin, for example.
The Wilson A2K 1788 is an 11.25-inch glove designed with the elite second baseman in mind. The 1788 will also serve well the smaller handed high school player, or the normal sized, but younger travel ball kid looking for top shelf leather and a durable, well respected glove.
The Superskin on the stock 1788 A2K is a good touch for a light feel. After using the glove extensively, speaking with vendors and players about the glove and gathering feedback from a number of ballers who tried on the glove, we write this Wilson A2K 1788 review.
If you are willing to afford it, the Wilson A2K 1788 comes highly recommend for the 2nd baseman or short stop who likes or needs an 11.25-inch glove. The extra padding in the palm over the A2000 version makes for a fantastic feel at catch. We also think the Superskin backing on a glove meant to be light and quick-witted makes a lot of sense on an 11.25-inch mitt.
On the whole, the A2K 1788 Superskin is one of our favorite 11.25-inch gloves on the market today. It really is as good as the market can offer.
Wilson A2K 1788 Review Video
Wilson A2K 1788 Comparable Options
The most comparable glove to the 1788 A2K is the Wilson A2000 Superskin. Like the A2K version, it is an H-Web pattern on an 11.25-inch glove. It lacks the premium leather feel and the extra padding in the palm, but few can truly tell the difference in terms of their ability to perform. The A2000 SS version priced $100 less makes a compelling case.
Outside the same class of glove, Wilson also makes a 1788A version in an A2000. This glove, as pictured above, is the same exact glove, but with a single post webbing with reinforced laces. Some would argue the web on the 1788A is more durable. Do note, however, the 1788A is only available in an A2000. As such, you would lose the A2K leather upgrade, double layered palm and the Superskin backing. But, you’d save about $100 and have a more durable webbing.
Like every A2K from Wilson gloves, the 1788 is made with a select leather Wilson refers to as Pro-Stock-Preferred. That leather is a Wilson proprietary. It comes from specially raised cows in Japan and then is sorted into good, better, and best piles. The best pile is then sorted again into a good, better, and best pile two more times to come up with the best leather Wilson can find. Some argue it is the best leather on the planet. It is a measurable step above the A2000 stock gloves made available to the public.
Also, like every A2K, the 1788 comes with a double lined palm. This makes for a tougher break in, but more durability and more cushion. As well, the A2K is more worked in than the traditional A2000.
Superskin Addition
However, quite different than other A2K’s in Wilson’s line, the 1788 A2K is the only one in its class that uses Superskin backing. This is a considerable change from other A2Ks in the class. The 2017 version has more Superskin than the 2016 version.
Superskin, you can learn from reading our Wilson Superskin reviews, is a synthetic backing for the A2000 and this particular A2K. The Superskin makes the glove lighter, easier to work in and more durable.
Some wonder why a glove with less leather and more synthetic should cost more, or as much as, a glove with full leather. It is a fair question and one Wilson has yet to answer entirely. But, suffice it to say, Superskin backing on A2000’s and this A2K is used by big time professionals. So, if it is good enough for them, then it is fair to think it is good enough for the occasional travel ball kid or high school player, as well.
We spent several hours using the 1786 pattern from Wilson gloves and spoke to a couple players that have used it for years. We did so in A2K and A2000, and the Superskin versions of the glove. As well, we spent time on the phone with people at Wilson Corporate and with major glove vendors to get a feel for their take. Our intent is to take that information and derive a Wilson 1786 Glove Review for the A2000, A2K and SS versions. As those gloves are updated, so will be this page.
In addition to our own experience and a number of phone calls with Wilson and vendors, we found some insightful information online about the 1786 Wilson glove pattern and its accompanying reviews. Most helpful, Wilson’s site gave us ideas on how many 1786 gloves were in existence. Closeoutbats 1786 search helped us in terms of understanding pricing for different high end models.
Wilson 1786 Glove Review Video
1786 Construction
The 1786 is the most popular glove for Wilson because it has the most needed glove dimensions and construction. In particular, the glove’s desirable attributes fit in four general categories.
Pro-Stock Leather
Several top shelf glove companies have their own secret sauce when it comes to harvesting fantastic leather. Wilson is clearly in that mix. There are specially raised cows in Japan that have no other purpose in life but to deliver the best leather for Wilson gloves. Wilson refers to this leather as Pro-Stock, and the A2K, A2000 and A2000 Superskin (SS) use it. In fact, the A2K uses the best of the best leather from those specially bred cows.
Entrance
The 1786 uses a very traditional hand entrance. Meaning, not too big and not too small. This general fit on the hand is most infielder’s dream glove. Extra padding is found in the heel but not too much to be distracting when making exchanges. The A2K version actually has even more padding in the palm than the A2000 and A2000SS.
Pocket Depth and Design
The A2000 1786 sets the industry standard on pocket depth for a middle infield glove. The glove’s popularity and market penetration is so pervasive it is likely most other manufacturers use the 1786 as their template for creating a successful middle infield glove.
Size
The glove runs 11.5 inches from heel to web tip. This is the preferred size for most middle infielders and a number of 3rd baseman.
1786 Recommendations
If you are willing to afford the glove, then we would recommend the Wilson 1786 glove in an A2K, A2000 or A2000 Superskin to just about anyone who ever plays 2nd, Short Stop or 3rd base. It is truly a fantastic infield utility glove.
Some 2nd baseman may prefer an 11.25″ inch glove and some 3rd baseman may like a bit more length in a 12″ mitt. If that is not you, then stick with what everyone thinks is the best overall glove on the planet and buy the 1786 Pattern. Whether you should go with the A2K, A2000 or A2000 Superskin, is a conversation for another post (or two, or three).
1786 Other Options
Looking for comparisons to a top shelf 11.5-inch middle infield glove is as easy as walking into any sporting goods store and finding a glove priced over $200. It is the most coveted size.
Within the Wilson brand there are a number of other 11.5-inch middle infield options. We suggest you see our Wilson Glove Reviews page where they are listed in full.
As a general suggestion, we would guess those looking for something other than a 1786, but who still fall in the 11.5-inch realm, might want something a bit flashier and less known. If that is you, then the DP15 A2K is a sweet glove. It also has a smaller entry way for your hand giving a tighter fit. As well, you might like Jose Altuve’s JA27 in an A2000. It runs and feels much like the 1786 but with a little bit of flash. Same goes with the CC1 from Wilson in an A2000.
If none of those float your boat, and your plan is to go big or go home, then why not drop some confidence in the 2017 DATDUDE glove? It is as flashy as you’ll find, but still fits well in that 11.5-inch middle infield type glove work.
So many options, so few games.
A2K 1786 Review
The 1786 A2K is the highest quality glove anyone can buy directly from Wilson. Although many pros use an A2000, our experience is the commercial A2000’s do not get the same leather as the ones really made for the professional ball player. As such, if you want the very best leather, tender care and craftsmanship money can buy from Wilson, then the A2K is your answer. If you play middle infield or are comfortable with an 11.5-inch glove at 3rd base, then you will never go wrong in buying the 1786 Wilson A2K.
The A2000 1786 is the most popular glove Wilson makes. The reasons are pretty simple. First, the 1786 is the most popular pattern of glove in the world, as it is an 11.5-inch middle infield glove with a traditional I-Web. Second, the A2000 is the most popular glove class in the world. Put those circuits together, and tada!, you have the most popular glove on the planet.
The A2000 1786 is a superb glove and we have never spoken to anyone who has used the glove for any length of time who did not also absolutely LOVE it.
This 1786 A2000 from 2015 is the same as the 2017 model that we just drooled over. The only difference, and it is obvious, is the color. Wilson is still actively selling this glove, so don’t expect to see any discounts.
The Superskin version of the 1786 is quite popular, just not as popular as the traditional A2000. Parents and players, we suspect, still struggle to spend as much on these gloves as ones that have more leather—like the A2000. They think, probably incorrectly, that more leather should also mean more quality. In the palm we will give you that.
But, on the back hand, why do you need leather? Superskin is a legit option that keeps the glove in better shape for longer, requires less maintenance, is easier to break in and is lighter for quicker hands. Superskin is not plastic. It is not Wilson’s way to save a few dollars. It is a legit option that a number of big time players use.
Also, when it gets wet it does not get heavy.
Is the 1786 Superskin from Wilson the right glove for you? We are confident you will not be disappointed.
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