Breaking in an Outfield Baseball Glove

Wilson Glove Guru Shigeaki Aso and MLB players Ryan Braun, Chris Young, and Josh Hamilton explain how to break in an Outfielder's glove. They identify the ideal glove break points, the advantages to using two fingers in the pinky stall, break in tips, and more!
These techniques can also be used to break in a softball or fastpitch outfield glove.
Visit us on Facebook at on. MjyC8D

[@wilsonballgloves]

Both of the gloves use such a high quality of leather that they’ll last for a long time. The A2Ks are built with an even more flawless leather so they should last longer. The key is to take care of your glove - use Wilson Pro Stock Glove Conditioner at the beginning and end of the season, always let your glove air dry, and store it in a breathable place with a ball in the pocket.

[@matto7810]

Hey @wilsonballgloves I just got my new A2000. O got the outfield model BBELO! It is so nice and i just want to compliment you on your gloves. Thank you for making the greatest gloves in the world

[@wilsonballgloves]

Great news! Thanks for being a member of Team Wilson.

[@wilsonballgloves]

Great question! The answer partially depends on personal preference. We feature a pro-laced T-web on our KP92 and JH32, a dual post web on the RB8/1799, a six finger web on the OT6 and a reinforced single post web on the ELO. The RB8 and the KP92 have been very popular with MLB outfielders, but the OT6 is increasing in popularity. The best glove for you depends on how it feels on your hand, and if the pocket is conducive to your style of play.

[@wilsonballgloves]

Great question! We believe our gloves and mitts are superior because of the materials, patterns and techniques we use when making them. A2000s are made with Pro Stock Leather that comes from American Steerhide - known for its rugged durability and unmatched feel - and chosen because it will perform and outlast other gloves. We also invented Dual-Welting, the thin pieces of leather along the back of the fingers, which provides the most durable pocket and long lasting break in.

[@VMART4]

Just got my new Wilson a2000 Josh Hamilton model I love it!

[@wilsonballgloves]

We’d be happy to! The biggest differences between the Wilson 1799 and KP92 models are the size and web. The 1799 (12.75") is 1/4" inch longer than the KP92 and features a reinforced Dual Web Post Pattern, which will keep your glove in great condition long after you’ve broken it in. The KP92 is 12.5” and has a Pro Laced T-Web Pattern, which is going to provide solid pocket stability. If you’re looking to get a little extra range, go with the 1799, but you can’t go wrong with either.

[@wilsonballgloves]

The A2K KP92 has a T-web while the OT6 has a 6-finger web. Both are great options for outfield and used by the pros. We recommend trying them on in the store to see which you prefer.

[@wilsonballgloves]

We recommend what feels best for you, Brad. Most of our outfielders do prefer to have two fingers in the pinky stall but some prefer to use a glove more traditionally as well. Chris Young does use two fingers in the pinky stall.

[@wilsonballgloves]

Hi Marshall, both are premium gloves used by pros. The A2K uses our most premium leather and it will break in a little quicker than the A2000 while the A2000 offers a little more feel because it does not have Double Palm Construction. We recommend trying both on to see which feels the best on your hand.

[@wilsonballgloves]

Our most popular OF glove is the KP92 which is 12.5”. Many outfielders choose mits that are between 12” and 12.75” (Ryan Braun uses the RB8 which is 12.75”). Depending on the size of the wiggle ball, this could be a suitable substitute. Any similarly large, round object could stand in place for the softball.

[@wilsonballgloves]

Hey Josh, we recommend using Wilson’s Pro Stock Glove conditioner because it’s easy to control the amount of oil you use. But there’s no need to apply glove conditioner to the SuperSkin -- just use it on the leather portion. For more info, check out our video titled "How To Apply Baseball Glove Conditioner and Oil." Hope this helps!

[@wilsonballgloves]

The six finger pocket is one of the most ideal webs for outfielders. You can find this web on the 12.75” OT6 and the 11.5” OTIF. This web allows for total control when catching fly balls as well as a deep pocket. Because of the way the six finger web is laced, it allows the glove to form around the ball and give you maximum control and ability to catch every bit of the baseball.

[@wilsonballgloves]

The last big difference is the amount of time the glove is hand pounded at the factory to begin softening the leather - A2Ks get three times the pounding that A2000s receive. In general the A2K will arrive a little softer than the A2000, but it is designed to last even longer. More pros choose the A2000, but you’ll see both on MLB diamonds. If you can we suggest you try on both an A2K and A2000 at a local store and choose the one that feels best on your hand.

[@nelsonespinal5285]

Thanks, the inside out helped !

[@wilsonballgloves]

The traditional thumb has been replaced with more of a "harness" in the A2K - try adjusting the thumb harness by untying the knot on the outside of the thumb. This will probably help!

[@wilsonballgloves]

The A2000 and A2K gloves are both made in Japan and Vietnam - production depends on the demand at the time and factory capacity.

[@brettline07]

if this helps at all i have had my a2000 1799 outfield glove for about 8 months and i have used 2 fingers in the pinky stall the whole time. the glove feels great and has not had one issue with durability or stretching out too much. the leather on the inside of the glove is beautiful in my hands and the glove spreads out nicely when i am catching the ball. i wont go back to the traditional way again. 2 in the pink is the way to go.

[@wilsonballgloves]

All A2000 and A2K patterns have been developed by Aso and our Wilson Advisory Staff members, and we continue to refine them year after year so that our gloves are optimized for play on pro fields. Those same gloves are made available to you. What’s most important when choosing your glove is that it feels right, so we encourage you to visit a Wilson dealer near you and try our gloves on. We’re confident that your hands-on experience will seal the deal!

[@TheOverload13]

Hey wilson, i've had my glove for a few months now (a custom ot6) and I love it. The only problem is the fingers are still pretty stiff, and i was wondering if you had any ideas for softening that up a little quicker

[@wilsonballgloves]

Try to pound that out using a mallet or weight with a neoprene cover. Bumps like that can form depending on the techniques used to break in the glove or the way you form the glove.

[@wilsonballgloves]

Many outfielders prefer to use two pinkys in the pinky of the glove to help give them more leverage when closing their mitt. To do this, each finger slides over one slot so that the index finger stall is left empty and the pinky has both your ring and pinky finger inside of it. Wearing your glove this way will allow you to have more control when you close your mitt.

[@wilsonballgloves]

The fingers will be the last thing that will break in fully and will help keep your glove’s form strong. To help break this in more, you can stretch the leather in and out (much like a flare) to help loosen it quicker. We do not recommend doing this often though, as it can make your glove “floppy” if you over stretch the fingers.

[@wilsonballgloves]

Flaring the outsides of your mitt instead of “bowling” them (inwards toward the pocket) will help give your glove a shape that will maximize your time in both the infield and the outfield.

[@wilsonballgloves]

If you can we suggest you try on both an A2K and A2000 at a local store and choose the one that feels best on your hand.

[@RJMANFIT]

Alright thanks guys that really helped me a lot! #teamwilson

[@wilsonballgloves]

We don't have any shortcuts to recommend, but if you use the tips Aso recommends, your new a700 will be game ready soon enough!

[@wilsonballgloves]

Check out the A2K DW5 GM, David Wright's Game Model glove.

[@wilsonballgloves]

We recommend the A2K DW5 or A2000 OTIF.

[@bradrauman9493]

Great video Wilson! But I was wondering why on my a2k kp92 that I received yesterday, the thumb hole is so narrow and small and hard to fit my finger into? Please explain

[@wilsonballgloves]

Unfortunately we do not have a video slated to show how to flare your baseball mitt (yet). We recommend bending the thumb and pinky of your (halfway up on both) out away from the pocket. When you do this, bend in the middle of the thumb and pinky, and not too far up on the glove. You also should avoid over-flaring. You really only need a little flare to open up the glove. Josh Hamilton does a very good job showing how the glove should look when you close it using two fingers in the pinky.

[@H2oFrAnK1]

Hey Wilson. I have a question al Aso. Why is it better to close the thumb between the ring finger and pinky and not just on the little finger? Because I close thumb to pinky on my A2000 RB8 and it's perfect. Easy to close but all the glove stay very stiff

[@wilsonballgloves]

Yes, the A2000 CJW works great for outfield as well. However, we do not recommend getting your glove steamed as it could damage the leather and voids your warranty.

[@wilsonballgloves]

Our glove guru Aso is holding the A2K 1799.

[@drewmcelvany2]

Is A2K leather ever going to be available for customization in the Custom Glove Shop?

[@jbcatcher28]

thanks

[@jakebetts8926]

Hey Wilson! I am starting highschool summer ball and my coach really wants me playing first during school. I need a new first base mitt, but I was wondering if i should wait. Are there any first base mitts coming in the 2013 glove line?

[@wilsonballgloves]

The ideal close point is to have the thumb tip touch between the tip of the ring and pinky. This will help the ball roll into the pocket if it hits the fingers first while making a catch.

[@nsbchildrenofthecorn]

just got the a2000 rb8, shes beautiful

[@wilsonballgloves]

Flare should be used on a case-by-case basis - some players prefer the expanded opening that flare yields while others prefer to have the fingers rounded so that a ball hitting the fingers is more likely to roll into the pocket (Josh Hamilton).

[@liamwhiteside3796]

thanks bro

[@wilsonballgloves]

Both are made using the same glove patterns, but there are some differences. A2Ks use ProStock Select Leather while A2000s use ProStock Leather. The ProStock Select makes for a softer leather that is easier to break-in but is also more durable. A2Ks have double palm construction, but A2000s do not. This makes it so that A2000s have a little more “feel”, but the double palm construction makes A2Ks more durable.

[@Marylandterpenes831]

That A2K Aso has is the one ! That Orange tan , & Black power stripe! Id customize one just like that! Just my opinion but they shoulda left the logos the way they were.. if it aint broke !

[@bradrauman9493]

would you recommend me to use two fingers in the pinky stall on my a2k kp92? also does chris young put two fingers in the pinky stall?

[@wilsonballgloves]

Try using Aso’s hot water technique on the pocket then pound the wrinkles out. Let dry then pound again. This should help.

[@arod8015Beast]

I got a g5 and I plan on playing mostly infield next season but if need be, would the g5 be able to be used in the outfield?

[@wilsonballgloves]

We recommend the A2000 GG47 GM.

[@joshuapang4673]

Hey Wilson, My new superskin ot6 just got in. Should I use glove oil? And do you have any specific tips for breaking in a superskin glove?

[@joshuabae3535]

Oh thanks! :)

[@jbcatcher28]

hey wilson does the turning the glove inside out method work for catcher's mitts?

[@Jholt1525]

Another question. I have the A730 just got it a month ago . I have a crease where the A730 is where u close the glove. What does that mean?

[@coltonbp]

I have a KP92 and I think the spacing between the fingers tends to go further apart then I would like. Do you have any suggestions to keeping them closer together and not stretching too far apart?

[@Pineapple9621]

Will you guys do an Angels glove Day?

[@bbnoreaster15]

you guys should make an outfield moldel thats like the ichiro. i have the ichiro but i dont like mizunos leather and i like your leather

[@cougars109]

I have an a700 and I got it a few day ago and our season is about to start. Have any suggestions on how to break it in faster?

[@dbcproductions1296]

Hey Wilson, im looking at buying an A2k outfielders glove but I am stuck on what web to pick. would you prefer the 6-finger web or the T web?

[@jasoncastro9839]

Can you use Vaseline on your glove as a conditioner because it helps a lot with the cleaning of dirt. Also do u recommend using it on your a2000 leather .Please respond ASAP

[@wilsonballgloves]

The last big difference is the amount of time the glove is hand pounded at the factory to begin softening the leather - A2Ks get three times the pounding that A2000s receive. In general the A2K will arrive a little softer than the A2000, but it is designed to last even longer. The A2000 would allow you to choose your colors and personalization while the A2K DW5 is only available in orange tan and jet black. More pros choose the A2000, but you’ll see both on MLB diamonds.

[@Jholt1525]

Do you guys relace gloves or any suggestions

[@tylervalentino7619]

I have the A2000 JH32 and I love it but I need the wrist strap tightened. How do you tighten it?

[@arod8015Beast]

Hey wilson, I got a g5 over the summer and I love it. I play mostly infield but if I need to could I get away with using it in left field?

[@wilsonballgloves]

Yes! The G5 is 11.75" while outfield models are typically longer (12.25"-12.75"), but as long as you feel comfortable catching flies with the G5 then you'll be good.

[@brandonko7839]

Should i put 2 fingers in the pinky for my infield 1786 glove? I want a shallow pocket and i don't like the 2 fingers but some of my friends do it.

[@joshuabae3535]

Is wilson a2k more durable or the a2000?Because im choosing if i should buy the a2000 jh32 or the a2k 1799

[@phillydude35]

question, i am considering an 2013 a2k kp92 but I'm siding against because i am unsure about the color. Is the orange more like BRIGHT orange or like light tan? because i dont wanna flashy glove and orange is a tad too much color for me.

[@BidenLikesMinorss]

They I do it and is I get a softball, put it in the glove, wrap the glove around and get a tie wrap and tighten it tight around the glove. It works really well trust me!

[@bradrauman9493]

Al's Wilson, I didnt really understand the part about putting two fingers into the pinkie pocket, can you please go into further explanation for me?

[@wilsonballgloves]

The A730 comes fairly broken in and shouldn't require any treatment. Using oil on the glove can add weight and break the leather down faster. We recommend our Pro Stock Glove Conditioner when the glove starts to feel dry because it can help preserve the leather.

[@XxnickthequikxX]

Hey Wilson what do u think the best size and web for an outfielder is and for the break in if u don't have a softball would a wiggle ball be good?

[@Mr12greenbay]

I play Third base and the outfield , is there a glove size or type that has a big enough pocket for the out field but still allows me to field a ground ball to third cleanly

[@joshuabae3535]

Hi wilson i want to ask if all a2k's are made in japan?and what a2000's are made in

[@RJMANFIT]

Heyy Wilson i cant decide whether to get the 1799 model or the KP92 model can you guys help me?

[@wilsonballgloves]

We do not have plans to make custom A2Ks at this time. A2Ks use Pro Stock Select Leather which is the top 5% of our ProStock Leather, and because the amount of leather is limited there would not be enough leather available to offer custom colors in it.

[@hunterwood7086]

My glove is on step 7 of 9 and it say it's like the break in step. But I ordered mine to be pro stiff. So does it just have to go through each step no matter what cause I'm confused on that! But it's almost done!

[@ballinsicknasty]

what is your take on flare in outfield gloves?

[@belindablock1102]

*man gives aso very stiff glove* Man: hey aso break this in for me Aso:ok I will *aso beats the crap out of the glove* Aso:game ready Man: wow 😳😳😳

[@jasoncastro9839]

How come its really hard to flare the pinky on the jh32 I have one and the pinky and all of the other fingers are really stiff but keep up the great gloves

[@wilsonballgloves]

Yes it helps a lot! Just don’t leave it like that for too long. Maybe 5 minutes or so then put it back the right way and pound the shape back into it. Pay attention to the palm area because you do not want to stretch the leather too much which can result in wrinkles.

[@Jholt1525]

I have a A730 should I use oil I just got it 1 month ago

[@DatDudePSJ]

Hey Wilson, when I close my glove it closes thumb to middle-ring finger and when I go two fingers in the pinky it barely makes a difference. Any advice?

[@ivanhostetler8344]

Hey wilson, I got an a2k kp92 for christmas, and I love it but it's still pretty stiff, I've done the hot water method and that seemed to add more weight. Any thoughts?

[@wilsonballgloves]

Hi Ivan, the best thing to do is to keep playing catch with it. The weight that you felt after doing the hot water method should go away when the glove has fully dried.

[@Elsanta666]

I have a problem with my glove..the pocket is just how i want but on hard balls or balls with a weird spin the balls tend to spin out of my glove..any tips

[@wilsonballgloves]

What are you hoping to achieve with two fingers in the pinky slot? The main benefit of using two fingers in the pinky slot is a deeper pocket, which some players feel more comfortable with - but it’s a personal preference. It also gives you more strength when closing the glove and minimizes sting.

[@rpalanati123]

Is there a way I. Can break in a 12 inch gave for both infield and outfield

[@GRILLZnPILLZ]

Wilson I have a outfield glove (rawlings sadly) and the bottom of the glove like the bottom palm isn't breaking in and the ball always pops out when I catch It can you help? Btw next glove I get I'm getting wilson.

[@dylanball2377]

can you use these methods for a rawlings pro preferred custom????

[@tosivlogs175]

could u do this with rawlings

[@wilsonballgloves]

We recommend, above all else, that you break your glove in how you feel most comfortable using it. Many of our players like to have two fingers in the pinky, while others prefer to use each finger slot. Watch our video “Breaking in a Middle Infield Glove” for more details on how to break in your mitt with a shallow pocket!

[@marshallstitt2700]

Is the a2000 better than the a2k for outfield

[@JKredsox24]

What model is he wearing in the very beginning?

[@VMART4]

hey wilson quick question why cant i leave my glove inside out for more than two hours

[@TheDifferenceLegacy]

Wilson I have a glove of the month April Gerardo Parra, Is this good for Center Field? Thanks

[@Jonesboss]

#parraforpresident

[@GRILLZnPILLZ]

And the thumb doesn't close in the middle of the pinky or ring finger any help with that too.

[@ebirdhall5572]

Hello wilson, I got an a2000 pp05 model and I love it to pieces but I can't get the pocket deep. I like having a pretty deep pocket in my gloves even though I am an infielder. Do you perhaps have any tips or tricks that I could use to help make my pocket deeper. Thanks

[@Jholt1525]

If you form a crease in the pocket. How long will it take for it to go away?

[@Davinho]

Someone help me I need to choose between an a2k dw5 2013 model or an a2000 dw5 customized please reply!

[@joshuabae3535]

Ok thanks

[@cdaleyhinkens]

What WILSON glove should I buy I am a pitcher and center feild

[@justinrisdall6886]

The glove that Aso is using in this video, is it the same as the September glove of the month???

[@funkycoldmedina26]

Yes he had the a2k 1799 the september glove of the month was an a2000 1799 superskin

[@belindablock1102]

“So thicc” Best aso quote

[@wilsonballgloves]

Try to check them out at a store so you can decide which feels best on your hand!