Master the Art of Breaking in and Maintaining Your Goalie Glove
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Proper Storage
- Using a Soft Ball to Maintain Shape
- Using Heat to Break in the Glove
- Working on the Palm and Other Key Areas
- Breaking in the Glove in Both Open and Closed Positions
- Stretching the Glove for Better Balance
- Tips for Junior Goalies
- Reshaping and Refurbishing Bent Gloves
- Conclusion
How to Properly Break in and Maintain Your Goalie Glove
As a goalie, breaking in your glove properly is crucial for optimal performance on the ice. In this article, we will discuss some effective tips and techniques to break in and maintain your goalie glove. From storage and heat to working on specific areas, we will cover everything you need to know to keep your glove in top shape.
1. Introduction
Your goalie glove is a fragile piece of equipment that requires proper care and attention. Many goalies make the mistake of throwing their glove in their bag without considering the potential damage caused by piling gear on top of it. In this section, we will discuss the importance of proper storage and securing your glove shut.
2. Proper Storage
To maintain the shape and condition of your goalie glove, it is essential to store it correctly. Avoid simply throwing it in your bag and piling gear on top of it. Instead, take the time to position it in a way that keeps the angle and shape you prefer. Folding it neatly and tucking it securely in the side of your bag is a good start. Additionally, using a soft ball in the pocket can help prevent the webbing area from getting smooshed and maintain a nice open palm.
3. Using a Soft Ball to Maintain Shape
A simple yet effective tool for maintaining the shape of your glove is a soft ball. By placing the soft ball in the pocket and closing the glove around it, you can help prevent the glove from losing its shape. This technique stretches the pocket and maintains the desired curvature, resulting in a glove that feels comfortable and performs optimally.
4. Using Heat to Break in the Glove
Heat is your ally when it comes to breaking in your goalie glove. Using a skate oven or a convection oven set at a low temperature (around 180-200 degrees) can help soften the materials and expedite the break-in process. Be cautious not to saturate the glove with water, as it might lead to the breakdown of materials and a crusty feel over time. Instead, consider using steam heat from a shower or a small amount of hot water to aid in the break-in process.
5. Working on the Palm and Other Key Areas
When breaking in your glove, focus on softening up the palm and certain spots in the “T” area. The edge of the T, where the thumb meets the fingers, is a critical area to work on. By opening and closing the glove, pushing and getting that area to soften up, you ensure a comfortable fit and optimal functionality. Remember, it's not just about breaking it in the closed position; breaking it in open is equally important.
6. Breaking in the Glove in Both Open and Closed Positions
To achieve a well-balanced break-in, it is essential to break in your glove in both the open and closed positions. Some gloves tend to get stuck in a narrow, closed position, making it harder to catch pucks effectively. By using an object to stretch out the glove in the open position, you can achieve a more balanced and versatile break-in. Experiment with different motions, such as opening and closing the glove repeatedly, to speed up the break-in process.
7. Stretching the Glove for Better Balance
In addition to breaking in the glove open and closed, stretching it out in specific areas can improve its balance. Rather than just stretching it from the edge of the T to the T, focus on stretching the lower section slightly. This provides a better balance, improves sealing capabilities, and maintains a quick response time. A balanced break-in ensures that the glove feels comfortable, allowing you to make quick movements and secure saves.
8. Tips for Junior Goalies
Junior goalies often encounter unique challenges with breaking in and maintaining their gloves. In this section, we will provide tips specifically tailored to the needs of junior goalies. From proper squeezing techniques to using clamps for refurbishment, we will discuss ways to ensure that junior goalies get the most out of their gloves.
9. Reshaping and Refurbishing Bent Gloves
If you find that your glove has lost its shape and is no longer performing effectively, there is still hope. By reshaping and refurbishing bent gloves, you can breathe new life into your equipment. Using clamps and following a simple refurbishment process, you can restore the glove's shape and functionality. We will provide step-by-step instructions on how to reshape and refurbish your glove effectively.
10. Conclusion
Properly breaking in and maintaining your goalie glove is essential for optimal performance and longevity. By following the tips and techniques discussed in this article, you can ensure that your glove fits comfortably, responds quickly, and lasts longer. Remember to store your glove properly, use heat as a tool, focus on specific areas, break it in open and closed, and consider the unique needs of junior goalies. With these insights, you will be on your way to a well-functioning glove that supports your performance on the ice.
Highlights
- Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the shape and condition of your goalie glove.
- Using a soft ball in the pocket helps prevent the webbing area from getting smooshed.
- Heat, whether from a skate oven or steam, can aid in the break-in process.
- Working on the palm and key areas, such as the edge of the T, softens the glove and improves functionality.
- Breaking in the glove in both open and closed positions ensures a well-balanced break-in.
- Stretching the glove in specific areas improves balance and sealing capabilities.
- Junior goalies can benefit from tips tailored to their unique needs.
- Reshaping and refurbishing bent gloves can restore their shape and functionality.
FAQ
Q: Can I break in my goalie glove without using heat?
A: While heat can expedite the break-in process, it is possible to break in your goalie glove without heat. Using a soft ball, working on specific areas, and regularly using the glove on the ice can also help break it in naturally over time.
Q: How often should I refurbish my bent glove?
A: The frequency of refurbishing a bent glove depends on how frequently you use it and the extent of the bending. As a general guideline, consider refurbishing your glove whenever you notice a significant loss of shape or compromised functionality.
Q: Can I use regular clamps to reshape my glove?
A: Regular clamps can be used to reshape a bent glove. However, it is important to ensure that the clamps are gentle and do not damage the materials of the glove. Alternatively, you can also use practice jerseys or other objects that provide a secure grip without excessive pressure.
Resources:
