A baseball glove is a vital piece of equipment for any baseball player, from a seasoned professional to a casual weekend warrior. But in order for a glove to perform at its best, it needs to be properly maintained. One of the most important steps in glove maintenance is conditioning. In this article, we’ll discuss whether or not you need to condition your baseball glove and, if so, how to do it right.
What is Glove Conditioning?
Glove conditioning is the process of restoring a baseball glove’s leather to its original shape and softness. Over time, a glove’s leather can become stiff and brittle due to the natural oils in the leather evaporating. This can cause the glove to lose its shape and become harder to close and catch with.
Conditioning your glove can help to restore its original softness, making it easier to catch and close. It can also help to waterproof the leather and prevent it from drying out and cracking.
Do I Need to Condition My Glove?
Generally speaking, most baseball gloves should be conditioned at least once a year, though some players may need to condition their glove more often depending on how much they use it. If your glove is starting to feel stiff or is losing its shape, it is probably time to condition it.
How to Condition Your Glove
Once you’ve decided to condition your glove, there are a few steps you can take to ensure the best results. First, you’ll need to prepare the glove by wiping away any dirt or debris with a damp cloth. Once the glove is clean, you’ll need to apply a leather conditioner or glove oil to the leather. Be sure to work the conditioner or oil into the leather with your fingers or a soft cloth, paying special attention to the areas that are prone to cracking, such as the heel and the thumb.
Once the conditioner or oil has been applied, you’ll need to let it sit for at least 15 minutes before buffing it to a shine with a soft cloth. This will help to ensure that the conditioner or oil has been fully absorbed by the leather.
Finally, you’ll need to form the glove into its original shape. This can be done by stuffing the glove with newspaper and then tying it with a string or rubber band. This should be done for at least an hour, though it is best to leave it overnight for maximum results.
Conclusion
Caring for your baseball glove is an important part of maintaining it in top condition. Conditioning your glove is one of the best ways to ensure that it lasts for many years to come. As long as you follow the steps outlined above, your glove should be in great shape for many seasons to come.