Much like in the insect world where the Praying Mantis is known to devour it's competition, Akadema's new catcher's mitt will do the same to conventional catcher's mitts. The Akadema patent pending Praying Mantis is the most innovative catcher's mitt ever to hit the market, with many unique features setting it apart from the competition. With new patent pending 'Stress Wedge' technology, located between the index finger and thumb, the Praying Mantis offers shock absorbing protection for the hand against injury and sting when receiving the ball. The Praying Mantis also offers two additional 'Finger Hammocks' allowing the fingers to be firmly positioned and more secure in the glove. Additional features include the 'Double-sided Slim Padding' allowing for increased pocket size and easier ball retention. Uniquely designed shape allows the throwing hand easier access into the pocket, resulting in a quicker glove to hand transfer and faster times to second base. The Praying Mantis also features a 'Double Flexhinge' which makes the glove snap closed on contact.