Breaking in a new baseball glove is an important step for any player who is looking to get the most out of their equipment. A new baseball glove can be stiff and difficult to use if it is not steamed and conditioned properly. Steaming a baseball glove is a simple process that will make it more supple and easier to use. Understanding the process of steaming a baseball glove, and the best techniques to use, will help any player get the most out of their equipment.
What is Steaming?
Steaming is a process of using heat and moisture to soften a baseball glove. The heat from the steam helps to relax the fibers in the leather, making it more supple and easier to use. It also helps break in the pocket of the glove, making it easier for the player to catch the ball.
Why Steam a New Baseball Glove?
A new baseball glove can be very stiff and difficult to use. Steaming the glove helps to soften the leather and break in the pocket of the glove, making it easier to use. The heat and moisture from the steam also helps to condition the leather, making it more durable and longer lasting.
What Do You Need to Steam a Baseball Glove?
The following items are needed to steam a baseball glove:
- Steamer: A steamer is the best way to steam a baseball glove. It is important to use a steamer that is designed for leather.
- Glove Mallet: A glove mallet is used to help break in the pocket of the glove.
- Glove Oil: Glove oil helps to condition the leather and keep it soft and supple.
- Glove Conditioner: Glove conditioner helps to protect the leather from damage and make it more durable.
How to Steam a New Baseball Glove
Step 1: Prepare the Glove
The first step is to prepare the glove for steaming. It is important to remove any dirt or debris that may be on the glove. This can be done with a damp cloth or a leather cleaner. Once the glove is clean, it is important to apply some glove oil to the leather. This will help to condition the leather and make it more supple.
Step 2: Steam the Glove
Once the glove is prepared, it is time to steam it. Place the glove in the steamer and allow it to heat up for a few minutes. It is important to move the glove around in the steamer to ensure that it is evenly heated. Once the glove is heated, it is important to remove it from the steamer and shape it.
Step 3: Shape the Glove
The glove should be shaped while it is still warm. It is important to use a glove mallet to break in the pocket of the glove. This will help the player to catch the ball more easily. It is important to be gentle when shaping the glove to avoid damaging the leather.
Step 4: Condition the Glove
Once the glove is shaped, it is important to condition the leather. This can be done with a leather conditioner or a glove oil. The conditioner will help to protect the leather from damage and make it more durable.
Step 5: Let the Glove Dry
Once the glove is conditioned, it is important to let it dry. This can be done by placing the glove in a warm, dry place. It is important to avoid direct sunlight, as this can damage the leather. It is also important to avoid using a hairdryer or other heat source to dry the glove.
Step 6: Play Catch
Once the glove is dry, it is time to play catch. This is the best way to break in a new glove and make it easier to use. It is important to use a softball or a tennis ball when breaking in the glove. This will help to break in the pocket and make it easier to catch the ball.
Conclusion
Steaming a new baseball glove is an important step in getting the most out of the equipment. Understanding the process of steaming a glove, and the best techniques to use, will help any player get the most out of their glove. With the proper steaming and conditioning, a player can have a glove that is soft and easy to use, and will last for years.