Breaking in a baseball glove is essential for those who want to feel comfortable when they're fielding a baseball. Modern gloves can be purchased at most sporting goods stores and taken directly to the field for use in a game or practice, but they'll feel stiff. If you want your glove to be at its best while you're using it, break it in with mink oil.
Step 1
Take about a half-ounce of mink oil between your thumb, forefinger and middle finger. Apply the dollop to the palm of your baseball glove and rub the oil into the pocket area.
Step 2
Rub an additional quarter-ounce of mink oil onto the finger area of the glove. Rub all the mink oil in until the excess is gone. You should see a fine sheen on the glove's surface.
Step 3
Place a baseball in the pocket of the glove and close the fingers of the glove over the ball. Wrap the thumb of the glove over the fingers. Tie the glove closed with the rope, and keep it in this position for at least eight hours.
Step 4
Untie the glove and then go out and play 15 minutes of catch.
Step 5
Apply an additional half-ounce to three-quarters of an ounce of mink oil to your glove. Rub it all over the pocket and the fingers to make it even more pliable. Place the ball in the glove's pocket and tie the glove closed once again. Leave it in this position for at least two hours.
Step 6
Untie your glove and use it at practice or your scheduled game. It should feel looser and more comfortable.
Step 7
Rub an additional half-ounce of mink oil into your glove at various points throughout the season if you notice your glove getting hard and sun-baked throughout the summer. If you live and play in a hot climate and dry area, your glove may dry out.
Tips and Warnings
- When you play catch with a teammate or a friend to break the glove in, do it with someone who has a very strong arm. You'll want to hear a popping noise when the ball hits your glove. This will help to loosen the leather.
Things You'll Need
- Baseball
- Rope
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