Baseball players, softball players, and outdoor enthusiasts know the importance of having a well-fitted glove that molds perfectly to the shape of their hand. Breaking in a glove is a necessary part of the glove buying process that allows the leather to take shape and become more comfortable to wear. Breaking in a glove can be a long and tedious process, but it is necessary in order to get the most out of your glove. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to breaking in a glove so that you can enjoy your glove for many years to come.
Safety Considerations
Before you begin breaking in your glove, it is important to consider safety. The leather and materials used to make gloves can be flammable, so it is important to take safety measures to prevent any fires. Make sure that you do not use any open flames, heaters, or other sources of heat when breaking in your glove. Also, avoid the use of any oils or chemicals that could damage the material or leave a foul smell.
Preparing Your Glove
Before you start breaking in your glove, you must first prepare it for the process. Start by removing any tags or stickers from the glove and ensuring that there are no sharp edges that could cause discomfort. After that, you will need to apply some leather conditioner to the glove. This will help to soften the leather and make it more pliable. Make sure to massage it into the glove, particularly the palm and finger areas, to ensure that it is evenly distributed.
Stretching the Glove
One of the most important steps of breaking in a glove is stretching it. Start by firmly gripping the glove and stretching the leather. You should focus on the areas around the thumb and pinky, as these are the areas that are likely to be the tightest. You can also use a baseball or softball to help you stretch the glove. Place the ball in the pocket of the glove and squeeze around it. This will help to loosen the leather and make it more comfortable to wear. Make sure to do this several times over a few days to ensure that the glove is properly stretched.
Adding a Ball
Adding a ball to the glove helps to break it in and make it more comfortable to wear. Start by placing a baseball or softball in the pocket of the glove. Then, wrap the glove around the ball and tie it off using a rubber band or string. Allow the glove to sit like this for several days to allow the leather to mold around the ball. You can also use a sock or a soft cloth to help cushion the ball and make it more comfortable.
Using a Glove Mallet
Using a glove mallet is another great way to break in a glove. Start by placing the glove on a flat surface and then lightly tapping it with the mallet. Make sure to focus on the areas around the thumb and pinky, as these are the areas that are likely to be the tightest. You can also use a baseball or softball to help you stretch the glove. Place the ball in the pocket of the glove and tap it with the mallet. This will help to loosen the leather and make it more comfortable to wear.
Using a Glove Steamer
Using a glove steamer is another great way to break in a glove. Start by placing the glove in the steamer and making sure that the entire glove is exposed to the steam. Allow the steam to penetrate the leather for several minutes before removing the glove. This will help to soften the leather and make it more pliable. Make sure to do this several times over a few days to ensure that the glove is properly broken in.
Using a Glove Form
Using a glove form is another great way to break in a glove. Start by placing the glove in the form and making sure that the entire glove is properly secured. Allow the leather to sit in the form for several days to allow the leather to take shape. This will help to soften the leather and make it more pliable. Make sure to do this several times over a few days to ensure that the glove is properly broken in.
Conclusion
Breaking in a glove is a necessary part of the glove buying process that allows the leather to take shape and become more comfortable to wear. It is important to consider safety when breaking in a glove, and to prepare the glove beforehand by removing any tags and applying leather conditioner. Stretching the glove is also important, as is adding a ball and using a glove mallet, steamer, or form. With this comprehensive guide, you will be able to break in your glove and enjoy it for many years to come.