How To Break In A Baseball Glove

Watch this video from Dick’s Sporting Goods on how to properly break in a new baseball glove using a baseball glove steamer.

Game-Ready: How To Break In Game Glove

Looking to get your baseball glove in game-ready shape? Players of all skill levels should break in their baseball glove before play. Properly breaking in your glove ensures it is comfortable for use and moves well with your hand. Breaking in the glove also creates a pocket that will more securely hold the ball.

Learn more to achieve a more custom glove with these steps.

• Moisten the glove’s leather. Pour a small amount of hot water at (150 to 170 degrees) over any area of your new glove you want to make softer. Do not put your glove in the microwave or use detergents to soften the glove, as this can damage the leather.
• Work the most rigid parts of your glove. Bend the thumb and pinky back and forth towards each other and away from each other. Squeeze the thumb and pinky together. Push the back fingers down and squeeze the palm liner. Pull the web top to stretch a little. Repeat this process six to eight times before your glove is completely dry.
• Soften the glove. With the glove off your hand and using a wooden mallet or 5-pound neoprene dumbbell, pound the glove at the pocket where you would catch the ball, with the glove off your hand. Pound the web as well to create a fold where you want your glove to break. Be sure to pound both the back and palm side. Try throwing a baseball into the pocket 30 or so times before the glove dries. This further breaks in the pocket and allows the glove to conform to your hand.
• Shape the glove. Put a ball in the pocket and wrap your glove with two to three rubber bands. The bands should be very snug but not tight. Allow to set for four to five hours then repeat step three. This will ensure your glove will begin to take the shape you want when it dries, and not revert back to its natural shape.
• Condition the glove. Once completely dry, rub the entire glove with a high-quality glove conditioner. Repeat the process of conditioning your glove three to four times each season and before storing for the off-season. Remember to store your glove in your house as opposed to in your garage for longer life and maintaining better condition.