how to break in a softball glove with shaving cream

Discover the game-changing technique of breaking in a softball glove with shaving cream. Say goodbye to stiffness and hello to enhanced performance on the field. Our step-by-step guide makes it easy.

Introduction:

Picture this: you’ve just acquired a brand-new softball glove, sleek and full of promise, but there’s one glaring obstacle between you and peak performance on the field – stiffness. A rigid glove can hinder your ability to make that crucial catch or deliver that perfect throw. So, what’s the secret to transforming that stiff glove into a supple, game-ready piece of equipment? Enter the unconventional yet highly effective method of breaking in your softball glove with shaving cream. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps, from preparation to the final test, unlocking the hidden potential of your glove and ensuring you step onto the softball field with confidence and precision. Get ready to discover how a simple can of shaving cream can make all the difference in your game.

The Preparation

Breaking in your softball glove with shaving cream begins with the crucial step of preparation. Just as a solid foundation is essential for a sturdy building, preparing your glove is the foundation for a comfortable and high-performing piece of equipment. Here’s how to get started:

1. Gather Your Materials: 

Before you dive into the process, ensure you have everything you need. You’ll require your stiff softball glove, a can of shaving cream, a clean towel, a softball or baseball, and a plastic bag. Having these materials ready will make the process smoother and more efficient.

2. Clean Your Glove: 

Begin by giving your glove a thorough cleaning. Use a damp cloth or sponge to remove any dirt or grime from the surface. Pay special attention to the areas that tend to collect dust and sweat, such as the webbing and pocket. Allow the glove to air dry completely before moving on to the next step. This step ensures that the shaving cream can penetrate the leather effectively.

3. Choose the Right Shaving Cream: 

Not all shaving creams are created equal. Opt for a basic, white shaving cream without any fancy additives like gels or fragrances. These can leave residue on your glove or interfere with the leather’s absorption process.

4. Find a Well-Ventilated Area: 

Safety first! Shaving cream can have a strong odor and may cause discomfort if inhaled in large quantities. Perform this process in a well-ventilated space, preferably outdoors, or use a fan to maintain good airflow. You’ll want to avoid inhaling those fumes.

By preparing your glove and having the necessary materials at your disposal, you’re setting the stage for a successful glove-breaking experience. This preparation step ensures that the shaving cream can do its job effectively and transform your rigid glove into a flexible, game-ready piece of equipment. In the next steps, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of applying shaving cream to your glove and shaping it for the perfect fit.

The Application

Once you’ve prepared your softball glove, it’s time for the exciting part: applying the shaving cream. This step is where the magic happens as the shaving cream works its way into the leather, making your glove more supple and game-ready. Here’s a detailed guide on how to go about it:

1. Even Coverage is Key:

• Start by squeezing a generous amount of shaving cream onto your glove’s palm.
• Use your fingers to spread the shaving cream evenly across the entire surface of the glove. Make sure to cover every inch, including the palm, fingers, webbing, and the back of the glove. The goal is to ensure that the shaving cream penetrates the leather uniformly.

2. Rub It In:

• With the shaving cream evenly applied, use your hands to massage it into the glove’s leather. Apply a bit of pressure but avoid being overly aggressive, as you don’t want to damage the glove.
• Pay special attention to the areas that tend to be the stiffest, like the pocket and the laces. Massaging these areas will help the glove become more flexible.

3. Use the Plastic Bag:

• Once you’ve massaged the shaving cream into the glove, it’s time to shape it. Place a softball or baseball in the pocket of the glove.
• Carefully fold the glove around the ball, ensuring that the leather molds snugly around it.
• Now, put the glove, with the ball inside, into a plastic bag. Tie the bag securely to keep the glove in the desired shape.

4. Let It Rest:

• After shaping your glove, allow it to sit undisturbed overnight. This gives the shaving cream ample time to work its softening magic on the leather.
• Find a cool, dry place for your glove to rest, away from direct sunlight or extreme heat.

The application of shaving cream is where your glove’s transformation begins. The even distribution and massaging of the cream ensure that it seeps deep into the leather, making it more pliable. When combined with the shaping process using a ball and plastic bag, this step will help your glove conform to your hand’s contours, giving you that perfect fit you need for a stellar performance on the softball field.

The Final Steps

After preparing your glove and successfully applying the shaving cream, you’re now in the home stretch of breaking in your softball glove. These final steps are crucial for ensuring that your glove becomes a reliable companion on the field. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Removing Excess Shaving Cream:

• Start by carefully removing the glove from the plastic bag. Be gentle to avoid altering the shape you’ve molded.
• Use a clean, dry towel to wipe off any excess shaving cream from the glove’s surface. This step is important because leaving excess cream on the leather can make it sticky or uncomfortable to wear.
• Pay attention to the seams, laces, and any crevices where cream might have collected. A thorough wipe-down ensures that your glove is clean and ready for action.

2. Check for Flexibility:

• Gently flex your glove’s fingers and palm to check its flexibility. You should notice a significant improvement in how easily the glove moves compared to its original stiffness.
• If you find that your glove is still too stiff for your liking, don’t hesitate to repeat the shaving cream application process. Sometimes, stubborn gloves may require a second treatment to achieve the desired level of flexibility.

3. Test Your Glove:

• Before taking your glove to the field, it’s a good idea to test it out. Catch and throw a few balls to get a feel for how the glove performs.
• Pay attention to how the ball sits in the pocket and how the glove closes around it. You should notice improved control and comfort.

4. Glove Maintenance:

• To keep your glove in top-notch condition, clean it regularly with a damp cloth to remove dirt and sweat.
• Store your glove properly by placing a ball or a glove shaper in the pocket to maintain its shape.
• Avoid extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or prolonged exposure to moisture, as these can damage the leather.

Conclusion:

In the world of softball, having a gloves that fits like a second skin can be the difference between victory and defeat. You’ve now unlocked the secret to breaking in your softball glove with shaving cream, transforming it from a rigid obstacle into a reliable companion on the field. With patience and a little unconventional magic, your glove is ready to help you make those game-changing plays. So, go ahead, step onto the diamond with confidence, and let your well-broken-in glove be your ultimate tool for success. Play on, champion!