How to Break In a Rawlings Brown Fielding Glove

By Reading Fightin Phils Official Store | Published: 2026-11-03

Category: أدلة إرشادية

Learn a simple, step-by-step method to break in your Rawlings Brown Fielding Glove without over-oiling or damaging the leather. Includes youth glove break-in tips.

Quick answer

To break in a Rawlings Brown Fielding Glove, apply a thin layer of glove oil, work the pocket with a ball, and play catch regularly. Avoid soaking the leather or forcing the hinges.

Why the Rawlings Brown Fielding Glove breaks in easily

The Rawlings Brown Fielding Glove is made by Rawlings with a focus on quality and durability, and it is designed for comfort and control. That means you can shape it to your hand without excessive force. Because the catalog does not specify leather type or stiffness, start with the mildest method and add oil only if needed.

When to use oil—and when to skip it

Leather glove conditioning helps keep the leather supple, but too much oil softens the structure and adds weight. For a new Rawlings fielding glove, one light application is usually enough. If the glove already feels soft or you play in humid conditions, skip the oil and rely on catch play. Youth glove break in follows the same rules but with shorter sessions and lighter oil.

Step-by-step break-in process

Clean the glove: Wipe off dust and dirt with a damp cloth and let it dry completely before applying anything. Never oil a dirty glove—dirt gets pushed into the leather.
Apply glove oil sparingly: Put a pea-sized amount of baseball glove oil on a cloth and rub it into the palm, pocket, and hinges. Avoid the laces and logos. Over-oiling is the most common mistake; a thin sheen is enough.
Work the pocket: Place a baseball or softball in the pocket and wrap the glove with a rubber band or string. Let it sit for a few hours. Don't tie it too tight—you want a natural pocket, not a crease.
Play catch regularly: Throw and catch with a partner for 15–20 minutes a few times a week. This is the safest way to break in a baseball glove. Avoid using a pitching machine or hard throws until the glove starts to soften.
Store it properly: Keep the glove in a cool, dry place with a ball in the pocket to maintain shape. Never leave it in a hot car or direct sunlight—heat cracks leather.

Product facts

Rawlings Brown Fielding Glove: Rawlings Brown Fielding Glove is designed to provide maximum comfort and control. That comfort goal means you can focus on forming the pocket rather than fighting stiff leather.
Rawlings Brown Fielding Glove