How to Break In a Baseball Glove
Quick answer
Break in a new glove by playing catch with it as much as possible, applying a thin coat of glove-specific conditioner, and shaping the pocket by repeatedly closing it around a ball. Avoid microwaving or overheating a glove or soaking it in water — those shortcuts break down the leather and shorten its life.
The best way: just play catch
There's no substitute for reps. The single best way to break in a glove is to play catch with it as much as possible. Every catch shapes the pocket to your hand and softens the leather naturally and evenly.
When you're not using it, close it around a ball and secure it with a band or wrap to start forming a pocket.
Use conditioner sparingly
A thin coat of glove-specific conditioner keeps the leather supple and speeds things up. Work it in with a cloth, let it absorb, and wipe off the excess. A little goes a long way — you can always add more.
Shortcuts that ruin gloves
Don't do these
Microwaving, baking, or soaking a glove in water may feel faster, but they dry out and weaken the leather, loosen the laces, and dramatically shorten the glove's life. Skip the internet hacks and break it in the right way.
Start with the right size
A glove that fits your hand and position breaks in faster and plays better. If you're buying new, size it first.
Glove Size Calculator
Match glove size to age and position before you buy.
About the author
The Baseball Tools Team
baseball.tools publishes free, plain-English baseball tools and guides for players, parents and coaches. Content is reviewed for accuracy against official sources and updated each season.