How to Break in Goalie Gloves

Breaking in goalie equipment is time-consuming. But, you can't just put on the gear and expect to perform at the top of your game. For gloves (also called trappers), get used to the feel and performance. Get used to how the puck feels in the glove. Softer leathers and new manufacturing processes make today's gloves more flexible. Still, there are a few steps that goalies regularly take to break in their gloves.

Things You'll Need

• Pucks
• Rubber ball
• Elastic bands

Instructions

1. Use your goalie glove immediately and often, but not in a game until you are comfortable with it.

2. Have a friend shoot pucks or rubber balls at you. Catch and hold the objects in the glove.

3. Play catch. Toss a puck or a ball wearing your glove. Squeeze the glove closed to snag the objects.

4. Stack pucks in the web. Close the glove and place elastic bands around it. Let the glove sit overnight. In the morning, remove the bands and pucks. Flex the glove a number of times. Repeat this step for several nights, a week or more.

5. Watch TV. Wear your glove while you watch a hockey game on television. When the game stops, continuously open and close the glove until the game resumes.This will get you in tune with your glove, help break it in and strengthen you forearm.

Tips & Warnings

• Before you buy a glove, make sure you can close it. It may take a little effort, but the glove should be flexible. Inferior gloves are very stiff and difficult to close.

• Some people recommend placing the glove in a heated oven. Others soak their glove in water or place in the dishwater. Some people even place the glove under a car tire. All these methods can destroy the leather and shape of the glove, and may also void your warranty.