No one likes to break in a new baseball glove. It’s a tedious process that can take weeks of regular use to soften. But what if you don’t have the time to wait? If you need to soften a new glove quickly, here are some tips that will help you do it faster.
Steps to Soften a New Baseball Glove
1. Rub the Glove with Oil
The first step in softening a new glove is to break down the leather fibers. The best way to do this is to rub the glove with oil. Oil helps the leather to relax and become more pliable. Use a natural leather conditioner or olive oil to rub the entire glove, paying special attention to the lacing and finger stalls.
2. Place a Ball Inside the Glove
Once you’ve finished oiling the glove, place a ball inside the pocket. You can use a softball, a tennis ball, or even a rolled-up sock. This will help the glove to form to the shape of the ball and create a pocket.
3. Wrap the Glove in a Towel
Next, take a towel and wrap it around the glove. This will help to hold the ball in place and will also create pressure against the leather.
4. Place the Glove in a Freezer
Now, you’re ready to put the glove in a freezer for a few hours. This will help to speed up the break-in process and make the glove softer.
5. Put the Glove on and Bend it
Once the glove is out of the freezer, put it on and bend it several times. This will help to further break down the leather fibers and make the glove softer.
6. Repeat if Necessary
If the glove still isn’t as soft as you’d like, you can repeat the process. Just make sure to oil the glove again and use a new ball each time.
Additional Tips for Softening a New Baseball Glove
1. Wear the Glove as Much as Possible
The best way to break in a new glove is to wear it as much as possible. Put on the glove and spend time tossing and catching a ball. This is the most effective way to soften the leather over time.
2. Consider a Pre-Stretched Glove
If you don’t have the time to break in a new glove, consider buying one that’s already pre-stretched. These gloves have undergone a special stretching process that makes them softer and more flexible right away.
3. Use a Glove Conditioner
Using a glove conditioner can also help to speed up the break-in process. These conditioners are specially formulated to soften leather and make it more pliable.
Conclusion
Breaking in a new baseball glove can be a long and tedious process. But with the right steps, you can soften it quickly and get it ready for the diamond in no time. Start by rubbing the glove with oil, place a ball inside the pocket, wrap it in a towel, put it in a freezer, and finally, bend it several times. You can also wear the glove as much as possible and consider buying a pre-stretched glove. Using a glove conditioner can also help to speed up the process.
By following these steps, you can soften a new baseball glove fast and get it ready for the game.