What Type of Oil Do You Use for a Softball Glove?

Anyone who has ever purchased a new softball glove knows that they are very hard and stiff. There are various ways to soften the leather of a glove. One of the best ways is by purchasing an oil, and there are many choices available.

  1. Glove Brands

    • Many of the big softball glove brands, such as Rawlings, Franklin and Easton, have their own brands of glove oil. It's probably best to go to a sporting goods store to purchase one, as many retail stores carry a generic brand that isn't as effective.

    Petroleum Jelly

    • Everyday petroleum jelly is very popular among softball players. It will soften the glove and is also safe on the leather. It tends to work much quicker than other forms of oil.

    Mink Oil

    • Another option is mink oil, but it can be a bit pricier. It is used by many pro players. Only a little bit of it is needed to condition a softball glove. Some believe that mink oil tends to clog the pores of the leather and may ruin the glove.

    Neatsfoot Oil

    • Neatsfoot comes from the foot of a hoofed animal. It has been used on softball and baseball gloves for many years. Some claim that neatsfoot over time can crumble the leather. It also can make the glove appear darker in color.

    Lanolin Oil

    • Lanolin is typically found in a hardware store, but is often used for conditioning softball gloves. It's very effective because it doesn't make the glove heavier in weight or darker in color. It's often used in the formula for the glove oils found in sporting goods stores.