Product Care Guide

Break In Your Glove The Right Way

Here's everything to do — and not do — to break in your new glove to its perfect shape.

Last updated: 21 January 2026 | 4 min read

Did you just buy a new baseball or softball glove and find it stiff and hard to use? That’s completely normal — especially with high-quality gloves. It means it’s time to break in your glove the right way. A proper break-in will make your glove more flexible, create a custom pocket shape, and help you get the most out of your gear on the field.

Some glove series, such as the All-Star Pro-Elite, All-Star System7, Rawlings Heart of the Hide, and Rawlings Pro Preferred, are known for their durability and high-performance leather — but they’re also notoriously stiff when brand new. Even more affordable glove models will require a break-in period to become comfortable and game-ready. No matter the glove, a little time and care during this process will make a big difference in how it performs and how long it lasts.

The most effective and natural way to break in your glove is simply by using it. Playing catch regularly or catching balls from a machine helps mold the glove to your hand and your playing style. The repeated motion of catching high-speed throws naturally softens the leather and shapes the pocket over time. The more intense the throws (whether from your dad, a friend or machine) the quicker the glove will begin to feel broken in.

Pounding: A Hands-On Way to Break In Your Glove

Pounding is a great way to shape and soften a baseball or softball glove. Tools like the All-Star Mitt Masher or Rawlings Glove Mallet let you target specific areas of the glove. For example, outfielders can create a deeper pocket by focusing impacts at the base of the web, while infielders can form a shallow pocket by pounding the center of the palm.

If you don’t have a glove mallet, the barrel of a bat works as a simple alternative. You can also break in your glove by tossing a ball into it repeatedly — using a weighted ball can speed up this process.

To reduce finger soreness during break-in, try rotating finger positions. This not only gives your hand a break but can also improve glove-closing strength. You can also soften the backside of the web, though this area is usually flexible enough from the start.

Outfietders Outfielder's Glove Mitt Anatomy

Breaking In Your Glove: Hinge Points, Flexing & Conditioning

To properly break in a baseball or softball glove, it’s important to focus on the hinge points — particularly at the “heel” of the glove. One effective method is to grip the glove by the thumb and pinky (with the web facing away from you), then repeatedly open and close it using a light twisting motion. This helps loosen the hinge and improves the glove’s flexibility where it matters most.

Another break-in technique used by some pro players involves flipping the glove inside out. To do this, hold the glove with the back side facing you and push the pocket area outward using both thumbs. This stretches the leather and lacing slightly, softening the glove and initiating the break-in process. However, be cautious — overstretching can damage the lacing or enlarge the holes that the laces pass through.

Glove conditioning also plays a role in long-term leather care, though it doesn’t directly speed up the break-in process. All-Star gloves, for example, use oil-treated leather, so applying extra conditioner won’t make the glove more flexible immediately. Still, using a glove conditioner once a year can help keep the leather hydrated and prevent cracking. Just be sure to avoid products that contain silicone, which can dry out the leather over time. Look for ingredients like lanolin and beeswax instead.

Also, keep in mind that applying water or steaming your glove may void its warranty. While steam can temporarily soften the glove, it adds weight and may cause the leather to dry out in the long run. We do not recommend steaming your glove.

The Glovolium Collection

Proper Glove Storage

Taking care of your glove doesn’t stop after breaking it in — the proper space to store your glove is key to maintaining its shape, flexibility, and longevity.

If your glove gets wet during a game or practice, always let it dry naturally in a warm, dry place. Never try to speed up the process with direct heat, as this can dry out or crack the leather. Before storing, make sure to remove any excess dirt using a dry or slightly damp cloth to keep the leather clean and in good condition.

When your glove is not in use, store it with a ball placed in the pocket, exactly where you want the glove to form. Tightly secure it with a shoelace, rubber band, or glove wrap to help retain the pocket shape over time.

It’s also important to store your glove in a mild or room-temperature environment. Avoid leaving it in cold or damp places like a garage or basement, as extreme temperatures can harden the leather or cause unwanted warping.

By following these simple glove storage tips, you’ll extend the life of your glove and keep it game-ready year-round.

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