Getting the perfect fit in a baseball glove can be a difficult task, especially if you’re trying to break in a new glove. Breaking in a glove can take some time, but there are a few tricks you can use to speed up the process and make sure your glove fits perfectly. Here are some tips on how to break in a baseball glove fast.
Choose the Right Glove
The first step in breaking in a baseball glove is to make sure you’re starting with the right glove. While it may be tempting to buy the most expensive glove you can find, this isn’t always the best option. High-end gloves are often made from stiffer leather and may take longer to break in. On the other hand, a less expensive glove with softer leather may be easier to break in, but may not last as long. Consider the type of glove you need, such as an infield or outfield glove, and make sure it fits your hand properly.
Pre-Stretch the Glove
Once you’ve chosen the right glove, you can begin to break it in by pre-stretching it. This helps to loosen the leather so that it’s more pliable and easy to work with. To do this, insert a baseball into the pocket of the glove and use your non-dominant hand to pull on the fingers of the glove. This will help to stretch the leather and make it easier to break in.
Condition the Glove
Conditioning the glove is the next step in breaking in a baseball glove. It’s important to use the right kind of conditioner when conditioning your glove, as some products can actually damage the leather. Look for a product that’s specifically designed for conditioning leather gloves. Apply the conditioner to the entire glove, including the webbing, as this will help to soften the leather and make it more pliable.
Use a Glove Mallet
A glove mallet is a tool that’s specifically designed to break in gloves. It’s made from a heavy-duty rubber or plastic and is used to pound the glove into shape. To use a glove mallet, place your glove on a flat surface and use the mallet to pound the pocket area and the laces. The mallet helps to soften the leather and form it into the shape of your hand.
Apply Heat
Applying heat is another effective way to break in a baseball glove. This method is best done in moderation, as too much heat can damage the glove. To apply heat, use a hairdryer or a heat gun to gently heat the leather. This will help to soften it and make it easier to break in. Make sure to keep the heat source moving to avoid overheating any part of the glove.
Use a Ball
The last step in breaking in a baseball glove is to use a ball to form the pocket. To do this, insert a ball into the pocket of the glove and use your non-dominant hand to grip the ball. Then, use your dominant hand to work the glove around the ball. This will help to form the pocket and make it easier to catch the ball.
Conclusion
Breaking in a baseball glove can be a long process, but there are a few tricks you can use to speed up the process. Start by choosing the right glove and pre-stretching it to loosen the leather. Then, condition the glove and use a glove mallet to pound the pocket and laces. Finally, apply heat and use a ball to form the pocket. Following these steps will help you break in a baseball glove fast.