Playing baseball with a glove that is too tight can be very uncomfortable and can even impede your performance on the field. If your glove is too tight, you may not be able to make a catch or grip the ball effectively. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to make your baseball glove looser and more comfortable.
Choose the Right Size Glove
The first step to having a comfortable glove is to choose the right size. If your glove is too small, it will be too tight no matter what you do. The best way to find the right size is to measure your hand size. Measure around the circumference of your hand, starting at the base of the thumb and wrapping around the widest part of your palm. Compare this measurement to a size chart to find the right size glove for you.
Break in Your Glove
Once you’ve chosen the right size glove, it’s time to break it in. Breaking in your glove will help to make it more flexible and comfortable. There are several different methods you can use to break in your glove.
Oil the Glove
One way to break in your glove and make it looser is to oil it. Apply a glove oil or petroleum jelly to the leather and rub it in. This will help to soften the leather and make it more flexible. Be sure to focus on the areas of the glove where it is tightest.
Wrap It and Wear It
Another way to break in your glove and make it looser is to wrap it and wear it. Wrap your glove in a towel or a piece of cloth and tie it securely with a rubber band. Leave it like this overnight. This will help to stretch the leather and make it more flexible.
Heat It Up
You can also break in your glove by using heat. Use a hairdryer or a heat gun to heat up the glove. Be sure to keep the heat source away from the leather to avoid burning or damaging it. Heat will help to soften the leather and make it easier to break in.
Use a Glove Mallet
Using a glove mallet is another way to make your glove looser. A glove mallet is a tool that is designed to break in a glove. It is a mallet-shaped piece of wood with a rubber head. Hold the glove with one hand and use the mallet to tap it all over. This will help to loosen up the leather and make it more comfortable.
Try Softball
If your baseball glove is still too tight, you may want to try using a softball glove. Softball gloves are usually a bit larger than baseball gloves, so they may be more comfortable for you.
Conclusion
Having a tight baseball glove can be very uncomfortable and can even impact your performance on the field. The best way to make your glove looser is to choose the right size, break it in, oil it, wrap it and wear it, heat it up, use a glove mallet, and even try a softball glove. By following these steps, you can ensure that your glove is comfortable and ready for the game.