A new baseball mitt can be an exciting acquisition --- until you try to use it. Good mitts are well-worn, pliant, and more likely to serve you well in the game. Plus, a broken in mitt is considered a sign of luck in some circles --- and a source of intimidation for opposing teams. Luckily, there are many ways to enhance both the look, feel and performance of a new mitt.
1. Beat It
It may feel wrong or even disrespectful, but mitts can be broken in a bit faster by slamming them on the ground, stomping on them or even taking hammers to them.
2. Wear It
Put the mitt on and flex your hand until the mitt becomes pliant. This will take a long time, but it will also help fit your mitt to your exact hand as well as make it easier to use.
3. Leave The Ball In It
Take a baseball and a piece of twine and tie the ball into the mitt, wrapping the mitt tightly around the ball. Then leave the mitt like this overnight or even for a few days. This will help form the pocket where the ball will be caught.
4. Put Pressure On It
Leaving the ball in the mitt overnight will help form the pocket. Putting the ball in mitt and then storing that mitt under your mattress will help form the pocket faster.
5. Play Catch
Repeatedly catching the call in the new mitt will help soften the leather and form the ball pocket.
6. Oil It
Shaving cream or baby oil can be used to break in a mitt to help soften the leather. Apply just enough to give a light shine --- never over oil your mitt as this could cause it to deteriorate too quickly.
7. Leave It In The Sun
Leave the mitt out in the sun on a hot day. The leather will heat up and soften, becoming easier to use.
8. Bake It
If the sun is not out, preheat your oven to 350 degrees and bake the mitt for 10 to 15 minutes, checking to make sure nothing catches on fire. However, extreme heat has been known to deteriorate the mitt faster than desired.
9. Microwave It
10 to 15 seconds in the microwave is enough to break in a new mitt. However, although this is a quick and sure-fire way to loosen up a new mitt, most players decide against this technique as it can damage the leather in the long run, causing you to get a new replacement sooner.
10. Use It
Though it can be a slow process, there is nothing more satisfying than completely breaking in a new mitt through hours of use.
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