A new baseball glove is an essential piece of equipment for any serious ballplayer. But no matter how great the glove is, it won’t be able to perform at its best until it’s broken in. Breaking in a glove isn’t hard and it doesn’t take long, but it’s an important step that all players should take. Here’s how to break in a brand new baseball glove:
Oil the Glove
The first step in breaking in a glove is to oil it. Oiling a glove helps to soften the leather and make it more pliable. You can use any type of glove oil, but neatsfoot oil is the most popular choice. To oil the glove, apply a small amount of oil to the leather and rub it in with your fingers. Make sure to cover the entire glove, including the laces. Once you’re finished, let the glove sit for at least an hour before moving on to the next step.
Work the Glove
The next step is to work the glove. This is done by repeatedly opening and closing the glove, bending it back and forth, and squeezing the pocket. This will help to soften the leather and form it around your hand. Be sure to take your time and move slowly. Overworking the glove can make it too soft, which will make it difficult to form a pocket.
Shape the Glove
Once the glove has been oiled and worked, it’s time to shape it into a pocket. Start by rubbing the pocket between your hands, which will help to form the pocket. Then, use a baseball to form the pocket by repeatedly inserting it into the glove and pulling it out. You may also want to use a ball mallet to really shape the glove.
Condition the Glove
The last step is to condition the glove. This is done by applying a leather conditioner to the glove and rubbing it in with your fingers. This will help to protect the leather and keep it from becoming brittle and dry. Once you’re finished, let the glove sit for a few hours before using it.
Conclusion
Breaking in a brand new baseball glove doesn’t have to be a difficult or time-consuming process. By following the steps outlined above, you can get your glove ready for action in no time. So the next time you buy a new glove, be sure to take the time to break it in properly.