How To Flare A Baseball Glove

Ever heard of "flaring your glove"? By flaring out the tips of the thumb and pinky finger stalls, a flat, shallow pocket is created. This might sound like the exact opposite of what a player should be looking for, but the flatter pocket creates a larger catching surface and allows a faster transfer to the throwing hand.

Infielders most often prefer flared gloves, because it offers a quick transition when throwing across the diamond or turning a double play. However, some outfielders have been known to break-in their gloves in this fashion too.

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There are a few manufacturers that offer pre-flared models, such as Louisville Slugger, but you can easily shape your own glove to achieve the benefits of a flare. Although a very basic approach, here is how to flare your glove:

• Constantly shaping the thumb and finger stalls with your hands (best method and will maintain the stiffness of the rest of the glove).
• Bending and holding the thumb and pinky finger stalls away from the pocket with moderate effort (the leather can be molded to create this flare design).
• The longer the pressure is applied to the glove, the more pronounced the flare will be.
• Repeat these processes multiple times. You want to continue until you achieve your desired flare.

Applying a light coat of glove oil would be beneficial in softening the leather, but it is not essential. With little effort, you can sport the flare and enjoy the same on-field benefits as many collegiate and professional players seek.

The "Breaking In A Glove" section of JustBallGloves' Glove Resource Guide has more about breaking in gloves. Many alternative methods will recommend excessive heating of the glove (i.e. steaming, placing in an oven, dunking in very hot water) to flare your glove. However, this could damage or shorten its life.

If you have further questions on flaring your glove and break-in techniques, visit JustBallGloves or give one of our pros a call at (866) 321-4568.