A stiff baseball glove can be a real pain and can take away from the game. Even the most experienced players know the struggle of trying to break in a new glove. It can take months to get it to the perfect shape and feel for your hand, but luckily, there are a few tricks to help you loosen a stiff baseball glove quickly so you can get back to playing.
Soaking the Glove
One of the most popular methods of loosening up a stiff baseball glove is to soak it in warm water. This is best done after you have formed the glove to your hand. To soak the glove, fill a sink or tub with warm water and place the glove in the water. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or until the leather is soft and pliable. After it has finished soaking, gently squeeze out the excess water.
Once the glove is dry, you can begin to break it in. To do this, you will need to use a glove mallet or a rolling pin. Place the glove on a flat surface and use the mallet or rolling pin to pound the glove into a more comfortable shape. Be sure to hit the glove evenly and from all angles.
Oil the Glove
Another way to help loosen a stiff baseball glove is to oil it. This will help to soften the leather and make it more pliable. The best type of oil to use is mink oil, as it is the most effective. To apply the oil, put a small amount on a clean cloth and rub it into the glove. Be sure to cover the entire glove, paying special attention to the stiff areas.
Once you have rubbed the oil into the glove, you can then use a glove mallet or a rolling pin to help break it in. Again, use the mallet or rolling pin to pound the glove into a more comfortable shape.
Using a Glove Stretcher
If you are looking for a quicker way to loosen a stiff baseball glove, you may want to consider using a glove stretcher. This is a tool that is designed to help stretch the leather of the glove in order to make it more pliable.
To use a glove stretcher, first insert the glove into the stretcher and then use the screws to tighten it. Be sure to not over-tighten the screws, as this can damage the glove. Once the glove is secure, you can then use the handles to stretch the glove. This will help to loosen the leather and make it more pliable.
Using Heat
The last method to help loosen a stiff baseball glove is to use heat. This can be done by using a hair dryer or by placing the glove in the oven. If you choose to use a hair dryer, set it to the lowest setting and hold it about 6 inches away from the glove. Be sure to move the dryer around the glove and not to focus on one single area for too long.
If you choose to use the oven method, place the glove in an oven that is preheated to between 100-150°F. Let the glove sit in the oven for about 10 minutes. Then, remove the glove and use a glove mallet or rolling pin to help break it in.
Conclusion
Breaking in a stiff baseball glove can be a long and tedious process, but with a few simple tricks, you can loosen it up quickly so you can get back to playing. Soaking the glove in warm water, oiling it, using a glove stretcher or heat, and using a glove mallet or rolling pin can all help to get your glove in game-ready shape. With a little bit of effort, you can get your glove in perfect condition and be back to playing in no time.