Lacing your Glove in 5 Simple Steps

What You Need

• Laces: Standard glove laces are typically 72 inches long. Most gloves require 3 to 4 laces, but larger models like trapeze, modified trapeze, catcher’s mitts, or first base mitts may need up to 6.
• Lacing Needle: Use a U-wire or straight-groove lacing needle to thread the lace through the glove holes.
• Glove Conditioner: Helps soften the leather, making it easier to work with and extending the glove’s lifespan.
• Knife or Scissors: For trimming laces to the correct length.
• Pliers: Useful for pulling laces through tight holes and removing old, stuck laces.

Need laces, conditioner, or relacing tools? Check out our Glove Maintenance Collection to get everything you need in one place. Or check our products below.

Step 1: Prep Your Glove

• Film or photograph the glove before removing the laces.This helps you follow the original pattern correctly.
• Clean the glove: Use a soft cloth or brush to remove dirt and debris. This prevents grit from damaging your new laces.
• Apply glove conditioner: Lightly rub conditioner into the leather—especially between the fingers and on the inside. This softens the glove and makes relacing easier.Rub a little conditioner onto the new laces to soften them. This helps with easier threading and is gentler on your fingers. Avoid overapplying. 
• If you're new: relace one section at a time instead of stripping the whole glove. It’s easier to stay on track.

Step 2: Remove the Old Laces

• Cut the old laces: Use sharp scissors or leather shears to carefully cut the old laces. Start with the parts that are the most damaged.
• Pull out the laces: Use pliers to remove the laces from the holes. Pull gently to avoid damaging the leather.
• Check the lace holes: Look closely at each hole in the glove. If any holes look stretched, torn, or damaged, you may need to repair or reinforce them before adding new laces.

Step 3: Start Relacing the Glove

• Begin at the wrist area: Start threading the lace through the holes at the wrist opening of the glove. This is usually the easiest section to relace and helps you get used to the process.
• Follow the original lace path: Use photos or video (if you took them) to follow the same lace pattern your glove had before. Always go one hole at a time to avoid mistakes.
• Keep the lace tight: Pull the lace snug after each hole to maintain strong structure and shape. Don’t leave any sections too loose or too tight.
• Use pliers if needed: If a hole is tight or hard to reach, carefully use pliers to pull the needle through. Be gentle to avoid damaging the leather or the lace.
• Smooth side out: Make sure the smooth side of the leather lace is facing outward on the glove for the best appearance and durability.
• Pull lace tight, but don't deform the glove.

Step 4: Secure the Laces

• Finish each section with a tight knot: Once you’ve laced one full section (like the webbing or palm), tie a firm overhand knot at the end of the lace. This keeps the lacing from slipping or loosening during play.
• Use pliers for extra grip: Gently pull the knot tight using pliers to make sure it’s secure. A tight knot helps the glove keep its shape and structure.
• Leave a bit of extra lace: After tying the knot, trim the lace but don’t cut it too short. Leaving a small tail (about 1–2 cm) gives you the option to re-tie it later if the knot loosens over time.
• Double-check for tightness: Before moving on to the next section, gently pull on the lace to confirm the knot holds. This will save you time from having to redo the same section later.

Step 5: Final Touches

• Apply glove conditioner: Condition the glove and laces again. Don’t use too much — a light coat is enough.
• Shape the glove properly: Place a baseball or softball in the pocket of the glove and close the glove around it. Then wrap it tightly using string, a glove wrap, or even an old belt. This helps shape the glove to your preferred fit and create a nice, deep pocket.
• Break it in with use: The best way to finish the break-in process is simply to use the glove. Play catch, take ground balls, and use it during practice. This will naturally soften the glove and help it feel game-ready again.