The Wilson A2000 and Rawlings Heart of the Hide are both premium, pro-grade gloves in the same price range ($260–$360). The A2000 uses stiffer Pro Stock leather that holds its shape and breaks in firmer; the Heart of the Hide uses slightly softer steer-hide that breaks in faster and feels more supple. Neither is “better” — the A2000 favors players who want structure, the Heart of the Hide favors those who want a quicker, softer break-in.
Side by side
| Wilson A2000 | Rawlings Heart of the Hide | |
|---|---|---|
| Leather | Pro Stock — stiff, dense, holds shape | Steer-hide — slightly softer, supple |
| Break-in | Longer; breaks in firm | Faster; breaks in soft |
| Feel | Structured, stable pocket | Softer, quicker closing |
| Best for | Infielders wanting structure | Players wanting fast, soft feel |
| Price | $260+ | $260+ |
| Longevity | Excellent — relaces beautifully | Excellent — relaces beautifully |
Which should you buy?
- Choose the A2000 if you want a glove that holds a firm, structured pocket and you don’t mind a longer break-in. Popular with infielders.
- Choose the Heart of the Hide if you want a softer feel and a faster break-in out of the box. Popular across every position.
- Either way, both are worth restoring rather than replacing. We relace and restore A2000s and Heart of the Hides back to game-ready.
The part nobody mentions
Both gloves outlive their laces. The Pro Stock and steer-hide leather on these gloves can last 10+ years, but the factory laces stretch and snap long before that. That’s good news: a $95 relace brings either glove back to life for a fraction of the $300 replacement cost. Don’t retire a great glove over broken lace.
Frequently asked questions
Is the A2000 or Heart of the Hide better?
Neither is objectively better. The A2000 has stiffer leather that holds a structured pocket and breaks in firm; the Heart of the Hide is slightly softer and breaks in faster. Pick based on the feel you want.
Which breaks in faster, A2000 or Heart of the Hide?
The Rawlings Heart of the Hide generally breaks in faster because its steer-hide is a touch softer than the A2000’s dense Pro Stock leather.
Are the A2000 and Heart of the Hide the same price?
Yes, both are premium gloves that typically run $260–$360 depending on model and pattern.
Can you relace an A2000 or Heart of the Hide?
Yes. Both relace and restore beautifully. A full relace is about $95 versus $300+ to replace — well worth it for these gloves.
Which lasts longer?
Both use top-tier leather that can last 10+ years. The limiting factor is the laces, which is why periodic relacing keeps either glove going for a decade or more.