The journey with a glove begins with the break-in process. This ritual shapes the leather to your unique grip and creates the perfect pocket. Modern methods involve specialized conditioners, wrapping with bands, and repetitive pounding of the pocket with a mallet or ball. The goal is a natural hinge and a concave pocket that secures the ball effortlessly. Long-term care involves regular, light conditioning to prevent the leather from drying out and cracking, storing it at room temperature with a ball in the pocket to retain its form, and addressing loose laces promptly to prevent structural sagging.
