How to Break in a Catcher's Glove Fast

Learn how to break in a new catcher's mitt fast.

There is nothing better than getting a new catcher's mitt right before the start of the baseball season. But there is also nothing worse than having a new catcher's mitt that isn't broken in. By employing just a few tricks and a lot of perseverance you can break in a glove in no time.

Things You'll Need

• Baseball
• Twine
• Glove oil
• Partner
• Rag
• 30 pound dumbbell

Instructions

1. Pour a 1/2 ounce of glove oil onto the rag and spread it all over the catcher's mitt. The catcher's mitt will be very stiff when you first buy it. Soften the leather by lubricating it and allowing the oil to soak through. Keep the mitt lubricated at all times. As soon as it dries, re-lubricate the glove.

2. Place a baseball inside the catcher's mitt to establish the pocket of the glove. Wrap the glove tightly with twine and tie a knot.

3. Rest the 30 pound weight on top of the catcher's mitt. The weight will help loosen the leather by stretching the leather fibers. This will provide a quicker result than sleeping on the catcher's mitt, which is commonly done by baseball players.

4. Play catch non-stop. This is one of the fastest ways to break in a catcher's mitt. The harder your partner throws the better as the stiff leather fibers will start to break down and soften from the repeated impact of the ball. If you do not have a partner to play catch with, then throw a baseball into a catcher's mitt over and over while relaxing or watching TV.

References

• Info Sports: Breaking in a Catcher's Mitt?
• Baseball Gloves: Breaking-in Baseball Gloves