7 Do’s and Don’ts To Perfectly Break in a Softball Glove

Last updated on March 7, 2024

So, you’ve just purchased a new softball glove and you’re eager to start using it. But before you can hit the field, you need to break in your glove properly. Not only does every position typically break their glove into a slightly different shape, but each individual has their own unique preferences to fit their hand just right.

Luckily, Softball Ace has got you covered with some tips and tricks to get your glove game-ready. To start, take a look at our visual guide on how to break in a softball glove. This guide provides a step-by-step process to help you break in your glove quickly and easily. From there, read on for more tips on how to get your glove in top shape for the season ahead.

How to Break in Your Softball Glove - Softball Ace
Follow these simple steps and make sure your glove is properly broken in

Dos…

Breaking in a new softball glove can be a daunting task, but with the right methods, it can be done quickly and efficiently. Here are some dos to keep in mind when breaking in your new glove:

  • Use a regular at-home mallet to hit the glove in key spots to stretch the leather out a bit. Don’t beat it up too badly though, as you still want it to be pretty stiff when you first throw with it.
  • Consider steaming your glove if you need something ready to go fast. This will soften up the leather on the glove a little bit, as well as loosen the feel of the glove. However, keep in mind that the leather is being worn down in a way that isn’t specifically conformed to your hand.
  • Start throwing after giving the leather a good stretch with a mallet and/or steamer. Emphasize catching the ball directly in the pocket, as this will make for a more efficient break-in. Try to mimic catching the ball the exact way that you would if you were in a game situation.
  • Throw the ball into the exact spot you want the pocket to be. In any downtime you have with your glove on, just grabbing a ball and throwing it into the right spot will help develop the pocket to be the size of the ball.
  • Lather your glove up with some glove conditioner to keep it from drying out. This will help to maintain the quality of the leather.

Don’ts…

Breaking in your new softball glove is incredibly important and there are several things you should avoid in the process. Here are some things to NOT to do when breaking in your new softball glove:

Don’tWhy
Tie your glove with string and place it under your mattressThis is an unnatural break-in method that will likely damage your glove. Your glove won’t close like it should because it was restrained in that one twisted position for such a long time. It’s best to let your glove get fresh air and go play catch instead.
Put your glove in the microwave or ovenThis is a dangerous method that could ruin your glove. Leather has a tendency to expand when exposed to heat, which could make your glove floppy or give it a weird feeling on your hand. It’s best to avoid putting your glove in the microwave or oven.
Use harsh chemicals or oilsHarsh chemicals or oils can damage your glove’s leather and cause it to deteriorate faster. Make sure any oils you’re using are specifically made for softball/baseball gloves.
Soak your glove or play catch with a wet gloveAlthough soaking your glove will shape it to your hand faster, it will speed up the deterioration process of the leather. Playing catch with a wet glove can cause it to become stiff and lose its shape.

Bonus Video

If you’re looking for a visual demonstration on how to break in your new softball glove, check out this video. Former Division 1 softball player, Megan Rembielak, breaks down how to break in your softball glove. She also throws in some tips on how to make sure your glove stays broken in the right way, so it’s ready for the season every year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the consequences of not breaking in a softball glove properly?

A glove that hasn’t been broken in correctly likely won’t conform to your hand, which will give it a poor fit and make it uncomfortable. Additionally, an improperly broken-in glove might not have a well-formed pocket, making it harder to catch and secure the ball during games.

How can I tell if my softball glove is fully broken in and game-ready?

A fully broken-in softball glove will feel comfortable on your hand and easily open and close without stiffness. The glove’s leather will have softened to your hand’s shape, and the pocket will fit the ball well, ensuring that you can catch and hold onto the ball securely. If catching and handling the ball feels effortless and your glove feels like an extension of your hand, it’s likely game-ready.

How long should I expect the process of breaking in my softball glove to take?

The process of breaking in a softball glove can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the method you use and how often you use the glove. It’s important to be patient and not rush the process, as this can damage the leather and shorten the lifespan of the glove.


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