Any experienced baseball player knows new baseball gloves should be broken in to ensure peak performance. Unfortunately, there tends to be a lot of misinformation about the best ways to break a glove in. If you’re in the market for a new glove, take a few moments to learn the dos and don’ts of breaking in your new sports equipment.

Do:

Play Catch

The single most effective way to break in a glove is to just start using it. Play catch with anyone you can find, and before you know it, your glove will begin to feel just right.

Use a Glove Mallet

It’s okay to get a little rough with your new glove. In fact, there are glove mallets designed specifically for this purpose. While wearing the glove, “catch” the mallet in your hand to loosen up the leather.

Tie It Up

In between catch sessions, you can speed up the break-in process by placing a ball in your glove, then tying it up with string. Place it under your mattress in this shape to encourage it to hold the form.

Don’t:

Try to Cook Your Glove

Baseball gloves do not belong in microwaves or ovens. The material is simply not meant to withstand high temperatures, so don’t involve heat in the break-in process.

Overdo It with Oils

Some players like to use oils and conditioners to soften leather. This is fine to do sparingly, but follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to prevent damage.

Use Your Car

Some players leave their glove in a hot car in an attempt to speed up the break-in process, while others drive over it with their vehicles! Both approaches can cause irreversible damage, so leave your car out of the equation.

As many ball-players know, there are few things as satisfying as the feeling of a perfectly fitted glove. No matter your preferred method for breaking them in, Daubys Sports Center is your best source for new baseball gloves. When sports enthusiasts in the Sioux Falls, SD, area need equipment, trophies, or clothing, they turn to this one-stop sporting goods store. To learn more about their inventory, visit their website or call (605) 332-8041 to speak with an associate.