Master the Art of Breaking in Your Hockey Gloves
Table of Contents
- The Importance of Breaking in Your Hockey Gloves
- Breaking in Gloves: The Traditional Method
- Breaking in Gloves: Cam's Method
- Breaking in Gloves: Kevin's Method
- Dealing with Half Closure Issues
- Re-lacing Your Gloves for a Better Fit
- Adding Extra Padding with Lizard Skins
- Getting Maximum Life Out of Your Gloves
- Share Your Glove-Breaking Techniques with Us!
The Importance of Breaking in Your Hockey Gloves
When it comes to playing hockey, having a comfortable and properly fitting pair of gloves is essential. However, new gloves often feel stiff and can restrict your hand movements. This is where the process of breaking in your hockey gloves comes into play. Breaking in your gloves not only improves comfort but also allows for better control of the stick and pucks. In this article, we will explore different methods of breaking in your gloves and share some tips to help you get the most out of your gloves.
Breaking in Gloves: The Traditional Method
One of the most popular and time-tested ways to break in hockey gloves is the traditional method. This method involves using the gloves frequently and repetitively to help mold them to the shape of your hand. Start by wearing your gloves for short periods each day, opening and closing them repeatedly. This repetitive motion helps to loosen the leather or synthetic materials and softens the padding inside the gloves. Over time, the gloves will become more flexible and comfortable, allowing for a better feel on the ice.
Breaking in Gloves: Cam's Method
Cam, our resident glove expert, has his own tried-and-true method of breaking in gloves. Cam recommends utilizing a skate oven to kick-start the break-in process. However, it is important to note that this method should not be attempted at home, as the temperatures of a skate oven are specific to the process and could damage the gloves. Cam suggests placing the gloves in a skate oven set to a safe temperature for approximately five minutes. This helps to activate the thermo-activated foam inside the gloves, which molds the gloves to the shape of your hand. While this method provides a head start in breaking in the gloves, additional follow-up breaking-in steps are still necessary to achieve the desired level of comfort.
Breaking in Gloves: Kevin's Method
Kevin, another expert at The Hockey Shop, prefers a slightly different approach to breaking in gloves. He suggests using a bungee cord or exercise band to wrap the glove closed for one day, and then wrapping it open the next day. This repetitive stretching motion helps to loosen the glove's pocket and promotes flexibility in the closure. Kevin also recommends inserting a butt end from a player's stick into the pocket while the glove is wrapped open. This helps to establish the preferred pattern of the closure, ensuring a comfortable fit. By alternating between closed and open positions and utilizing the butt end method, Kevin has found success in breaking in gloves to his liking.
Dealing with Half Closure Issues
One common issue that goaltenders encounter while breaking in gloves is half closure. This occurs when the glove wants to close on the wrong side of the brake. To fix this, it is recommended to place a puck in the center of the palm and tape the glove shut. This encourages the closure to happen on the other side, overlapping the fingers and creating a better seal. While it may take a few tries to get the closure just right, taking the glove into the store for additional assistance can be beneficial in restarting the break-in process.
Re-lacing Your Gloves for a Better Fit
Sometimes, gloves can come from the factory with laces that are too tight, hindering the break-in period. In such cases, it is worth considering re-lacing your gloves to achieve a better fit. The Hockey Shop offers a re-lacing program, allowing you to choose between skate laces or regular nylon laces based on your preference. By loosening up the laces, you can promote flexibility in the glove and optimize the breaking-in process. The choice between skate laces and nylon laces ultimately comes down to personal preference and the level of flexibility you desire.
Adding Extra Padding with Lizard Skins
As gloves age and wear out, the padding may become less effective, leading to discomfort or reduced grip. To address these issues, The Hockey Shop suggests using Lizard Skins. Originally designed for baseball, Lizard Skins are padded gloves that can be added to hockey gloves for extra protection and grip. Particularly useful in the palm and finger areas, these skins provide additional padding and enhance grip, ensuring a secure hold on the stick. Available in various sizes and thicknesses, Lizard Skins are a practical solution for prolonging the life of your gloves and maintaining optimal performance.
Getting Maximum Life Out of Your Gloves
To make the most out of your hockey gloves and ensure they last as long as possible, it is important to follow some key maintenance tips. Firstly, avoid excessive wear and tear by using your gloves only for their intended purpose. Using them for activities other than hockey can damage the materials and affect performance. Additionally, properly drying your gloves after each use is crucial to prevent odor and keep the materials in good condition. You can use a fan or a glove dryer specifically designed for this purpose. Lastly, always store your gloves in a cool, dry place to avoid mold and deterioration.
Share Your Glove-Breaking Techniques with Us!
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to breaking in hockey gloves, and every goaltender has their own unique methods and preferences. We would love to hear about your favorite techniques for breaking in gloves. Whether you swear by the traditional method or have discovered your own innovative ways, we value your input. Share your glove-breaking techniques with us in the comments below and let's discuss what works best for you and how it contributes to your on-ice performance.
Highlights:
- Breaking in hockey gloves is crucial to improve comfort and control on the ice.
- The traditional method involves wearing the gloves frequently and repetitively.
- Cam suggests kick-starting the break-in process with a skate oven.
- Kevin recommends using a bungee cord or exercise band to stretch the gloves.
- Dealing with half closure issues can be resolved by taping the glove shut with a puck in the palm.
- Re-lacing your gloves can optimize the fit and flexibility.
- Adding Lizard Skins can provide extra padding and grip for worn-out gloves.
- Proper maintenance and storage can prolong the life of your gloves.
FAQ
Q: Can I break in my hockey gloves by using them in games and practices?
A: Yes, using your gloves in games and practices is a natural way to break them in. However, it may take some time for them to mold to your hand properly.
Q: How long does it usually take to break in hockey gloves?
A: The time it takes to break in gloves can vary depending on factors such as the type of glove, the materials used, and how frequently you wear them. Generally, it can take a few weeks of regular use to achieve optimal comfort.
Q: Can I use Lizard Skins on any type of hockey glove?
A: Yes, Lizard Skins can be used on most types of hockey gloves. However, it is important to choose the correct size and thickness to ensure a proper fit.
Q: Can I wash my hockey gloves to soften them?
A: It is generally not recommended to wash hockey gloves, as submerging them in water can damage the materials and affect their performance. Instead, focus on the breaking-in techniques mentioned in this article.
Q: How can I prevent my gloves from smelling bad?
A: Properly drying your gloves after each use is essential to prevent odor. You can use a fan or a glove dryer to ensure thorough drying. Additionally, regularly airing out your gloves in a well-ventilated area can help maintain freshness.
