How to Break In an Easton Leather Glove

A baseball or softball glove should be an extension of the player's hand. An ideal glove feels as if it is naturally connected to the player. New gloves, fresh from the factory, have an intoxicating leather smell, but are generally stiff and difficult to control. Rubbing an oil-based or soap product on the glove can help loosen up the leather and make it more functional. Breaking it in through constant use and wrapping a ball around it when not in use are necessary steps to giving your Easton leather glove the pliability it needs when you take the field.

Things You'll Need

  • Easton Glove Oil
  • Cloth (optional)
  • Petroleum jelly (optional)
  • Saddle soap (optional)
  • Mink oil (optional)
  • Shaving cream (optional)
  • Other glove manufacturer's oil (optional)
  • Baseball or softball
  • Shoelaces, belt or rubber bands
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use Easton Glove Oil applied in small amounts using your hand or a cloth. Allow the oil to dry for 24 hours before using the glove.

    • 2

      Use other suitable substitutes if you don't have Easton Glove Oil, such as petroleum jelly, saddle soap, mink oil, shaving cream (not gel) or another glove manufacturer's oil. Apply in the same manner and wipe off any excess to avoid spotting on the glove. Allow to air-dry for at least one day.

    • 3

      Use the glove often during practices and games to help it loosen up even more. Push down on the fingers, thumb and webbing while you are wearing it to make it even more supple.

    • 4

      Form the pocket of the glove by placing a baseball (or softball) into the part of the glove where you want the pocket to be. Fold the thumb section of the glove over the finger sections snugly. Wrap the glove tightly, using shoe laces, a belt or large rubber bands. Leave the glove in this position overnight whenever it is not in use until you get the desired pocket formed.