Article: How to Soften New Cricket Gloves Safely

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May 8, 2025

How to Soften New Cricket Gloves Safely

How to Break In New Cricket Gloves Without Damaging Them

New cricket gloves often feel stiff out of the box. While they offer great protection, they can hinder your movement and grip until properly broken in. However, breaking them in incorrectly can damage their structure and shorten their lifespan.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to safely break in your new batting or wicket-keeping gloves, ensuring comfort, flexibility, and durability—all without voiding the glove's integrity.

Why Breaking In Matters

Improves flexibility and comfort
Enhances bat control or ball catching
Reduces the risk of blisters and discomfort
Prolongs the lifespan of the gloves when done correctly

Do You Need to Break in All Gloves?

Not necessarily. High-end gloves made from premium materials often have a shorter break-in period. However, mid-range or entry-level gloves usually require more time to soften up.

How to Break In Batting Gloves Safely

Step-by-Step Method:

Wear Them at Home

Start by wearing them indoors while watching TV or handling a bat.
Mimic grip positions and hand movements.

Use Gentle Flexing

Lightly bend the fingers, flex the palm, and move the wrist area.
Don’t force or fold them sharply, which can cause damage.

Batting Drills with Soft Balls

Practice shadow batting or light throwdowns using soft or tennis balls.
This helps shape the glove naturally with your batting grip.

Moist Cloth Trick (Optional)

Lightly dampen a clean cloth with warm water and wipe the palm area.
This softens leather slightly but must be done cautiously to avoid over-wetting.

Avoid Heat or Direct Sunlight

Never use a hairdryer, heater, or leave gloves in the sun.
Excess heat can dry out leather and crack padding materials.

How to Break In Wicket Keeping Gloves

Step-by-Step Method:

Use Inner Gloves from the Start

Always wear inners during the break-in phase to mold the gloves with correct fit and grip.

Practice Catches

Start with softballs or underarm throws. Focus on technique rather than power.

Massage the Palm Area

Gently massage the palm and finger areas to soften padding and improve flexibility.

Simulate Glovework

Perform movements like squatting, catching, and glovework drills to naturally wear them in.

What to Avoid While Breaking In Gloves

Don’t soak them in water
Don’t over-bend or fold
Don’t use oils or conditioners not meant for sports gear
Don’t skip the break-in — stiff gloves increase injury risk

How Long Does It Take?

Depending on glove quality and usage frequency:

Batting Gloves: 3–5 sessions to feel comfortable
Keeping Gloves: May take 4–6 light practice sessions

Final Tips

Store gloves in a cool, dry place after use.
Always use inners to reduce sweat damage and improve fit.
Rotate between two pairs if playing frequently.

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All Zee Sports Cricket Balls Pages Links.

Written by Zahid Mahmood

Share

How to Soften New Cricket Gloves Safely

Why Breaking In Matters

Do You Need to Break in All Gloves?

How to Break In Batting Gloves Safely

Step-by-Step Method:

How to Break In Wicket Keeping Gloves

Step-by-Step Method:

What to Avoid While Breaking In Gloves

How Long Does It Take?

Final Tips

All Zee Sports Cricket Balls Pages Links.

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