Breaking in a new baseball glove is essential for comfort, performance, and durability. By following the right steps, you can shape the pocket, soften the leather, and get your glove game-ready without damaging it.

Why Breaking In Matters

A new glove is stiff, which makes catching and closing the pocket more difficult. Properly breaking it in ensures:

• A snug, comfortable fit
  
  

• A well-formed pocket for secure catches
  
  

• Long-lasting leather performance
  
  

Taking the time to break in your glove properly pays off every time you step onto the field.

Step 1: Play Catch

The most natural way to break in a glove is by using it. Toss the ball back and forth for 15–20 minutes a day. Playing catch repeatedly helps the glove conform to your hand and creates a functional pocket without damaging the leather.

Step 2: Shape the Pocket

To form a deeper, more precise pocket:

1. Place a ball in the center of the glove’s pocket.
   
   

2. Wrap the glove tightly with string, rubber bands, or tape.
   
   

3. Leave it overnight so the leather molds to the ball’s shape.
   
   

This helps your glove close easily and keeps the ball secure during play.

Step 3: Condition the Leather

Leather conditioner keeps your gloves soft and durable. Apply a thin layer with a cloth or your hands, focusing on the pocket and fingers. Avoid over-oiling, which can make the glove heavy and greasy. Regular conditioning prevents cracks and improves flexibility over time.

Step 4: Flex and Roll

Gently bend the glove’s fingers and hinge points back and forth to loosen stiffness. Roll the leather in different directions with your hands to make it more pliable. Think of it like stretching new shoes, the glove becomes easier to handle the more you work it.

Step 5: Keep Using It

Consistency is key. Take your glove to practice, backyard tosses, or even catch against a wall. Each use further softens the leather and shapes the pocket to your style of play. The more you use it, the faster it feels like an extension of your hand.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Never bake or microwave your glove. High heat damages leather fibers.
  
  

• Avoid soaking it in water. Excess moisture weakens the glove and shortens its lifespan.
  
  

• Don’t over-condition. Too much oil makes it heavy and slippery.
  
  

Patience and steady use are always better than shortcuts that can ruin the glove.

Final Word

Breaking in a baseball glove doesn’t have to be complicated. By playing catch, shaping the pocket, conditioning the leather, and staying consistent, you’ll have a glove that feels comfortable, performs reliably, and lasts season after season.

Explore our Pro Select Gloves and find the perfect model to start your break-in journey.