How to Flare a Baseball Glove
Flaring a baseball glove can help a player increase the size of the glove’s catching surface and improve visibility when fielding ground balls. This process involves bending the thumb and pinky finger stalls away from the palm to create a flatter, wider pocket. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to flare your baseball glove effectively.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Materials
Before starting, you will need:
- Your baseball glove
- A glove mallet, or a similar tool like a baseball bat or old rolling pin
- Glove conditioner (optional, but helps in making the leather more pliable)
- Clean cloth
- Something to tie the glove with, such as shoelaces or rubber bands
Step 2: Apply Glove Conditioner (Optional)
If you decide to use glove conditioner, apply a small amount to a clean cloth and rub it into the leather of the glove, especially in the area between the thumb and pinky. This will help make the leather more flexible and easier to flare.
Step 3: Warm Up the Glove
Gently heat the glove using your hands by massaging the areas you plan to flare. This helps loosen up the leather, making it easier to shape. Avoid using direct heat sources like hair dryers as they can damage the leather.
Step 4: Flare the Thumb and Pinky Stalls
Use your glove mallet or substitute to firmly press against the outer edge of the thumb and pinky stalls. You’re aiming to bend these areas outward, away from the palm of the glove. Do this evenly and gradually to avoid creasing or damaging the leather.
Step 5: Secure the Flare
Once you’ve achieved the desired flare, use your shoelaces, rubber bands, or other ties to hold the thumb and pinky in the flared position. This will help set the new shape as the leather cools and adjusts.
Step 6: Let the Glove Rest
Leave the glove tied up in its flared shape for a few hours, or even overnight, to allow the leather to retain the new form. A warm, dry place is ideal for this resting period.
Step 7: Test and Adjust
After the resting period, untie your glove and test its shape by playing catch or fielding some grounders. If you feel it needs further flaring, you can repeat the process until getting a satisfactory result.
Tips for Maintaining a Flared Glove
- Recondition your glove periodically to keep the leather supple.
- Store your glove with a ball in the pocket to help maintain its shape.
- Avoid wet conditions as much as possible, and always allow your glove to dry naturally if it gets wet.
By following these steps, you should be able to successfully flare your baseball glove to your liking. Just remember to be gentle and gradual in your adjustments to avoid damaging the glove.