When a player gets a new baseball glove, it can be used in games right away--that is what many manufacturers tell the consumers. However, the glove may be too stiff and hard to maneuver for a fielder--especially a young player--if the glove is not broken in correctly. The process of breaking in a glove takes time after the glove is purchased, but it will give a player security that the glove will be useful as long as the player owns it.
Shaving Cream
To soften the leather in the palm and finger areas of the glove, use foam shaving cream to soften it. Place two large squirts of foam shaving cream in the glove, and work the shaving cream in with your fingers until it is all rubbed into the leather. Wipe away any excess. Repeat the process to make sure the glove gets enough lubrication to be softened.
Forming the Pocket
Place a baseball or two baseballs in the center of the pocket of the glove. Wrap the fingers of the glove around the baseballs, then fold the thumb around the fingers. Take a piece of rope and tie the glove shut. Keep the glove tied up in this manner for about eight to 12 hours.
Preparing the Glove
Untie the glove, take the glove outside and play catch with a teammate or associate for a little while. Try to do this with a hard thrower who can make the glove "pop" when he throws the ball. This will loosen and soften the leather in the glove further. Examine your glove to see if it is loose. If you can open and close it easily, the glove is game-ready. If it is still stiff and hard to move, repeat the entire process, and it will be ready after more shaving cream and retying it with baseballs in the center of the pocket.
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