Ultimate Wilson A2000 Glove Break-In Guide: Achieve a Perfect Pocket Fast!

Updated at: 10/05/2025

The Wilson A2000 glove: a legendary piece of baseball equipment, coveted for its unparalleled quality and performance. But even the finest leather requires a dedicated break-in process to achieve that perfectly formed pocket, crucial for confident catches and lightning-fast reactions. Many players struggle with this, often leading to frustration and suboptimal performance. A poorly broken-in A2000 can feel stiff, uncomfortable, and hinder your game. Don't let this happen to you!

This guide will walk you through a proven, accelerated method to break in your Wilson A2000, transforming it from a rigid shell into a supple, responsive fielding machine. We'll cover everything from initial preparation and conditioning to advanced techniques for shaping the pocket and ensuring long-lasting durability. Ready to unlock the full potential of your A2000? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Baseball
  • Mallet (or weight)
  • Glove conditioner (Sarna recommended)
  • Cardboard (for protection)
Safety Guidelines
  • Avoid harsh chemicals or excessive heat. These can damage the leather and void warranties.
  • Be patient! Proper glove break-in takes time. Rushing the process can lead to misshaping or damage.
  • Listen to your glove. If it feels too stiff or uncomfortable, stop and adjust your methods. Don't force the leather.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Establish Hinge Points

    • Place a baseball in the pocket. Bend the glove at the thumb hinge (near the thumb loop and Wilson logo) and pinky hinge (around the laces near the pinky).
    Establish Break Points: Place a baseball in the pocket. Bend the glove at the thumb hinge (near the thumb loop and Wilson logo) and pinky hinge (around the laces near the pinky).
    Establish Hinge Points

  2. Break in Hinges

    • Use the mallet to pound repeatedly at each hinge, focusing on the areas mentioned above. This creates the hinges and helps the glove fold naturally.
    Pound Break Points: Use the mallet to pound repeatedly at each hinge, focusing on the areas mentioned above. This creates the hinges and helps the glove fold naturally.
    Break in Hinges

  3. Address Palm Issues

    • If creasing or bubbling occurs in the palm, stop pounding and use the mallet to work these areas in.
    Address Creasing and Bubbling: If creasing or bubbling occurs in the palm, stop pounding and use the mallet to work these areas in.
    Address Palm Issues

  4. Break in Heel

    • Close the glove and use the mallet to work on the heel. Alternatively, close the glove on one side and move the heel around while pounding to break it in evenly.
    Heel Break-in: Close the glove and use the mallet to work on the heel. Alternatively, close the glove on one side and move the heel around while pounding to break it in evenly.
    Break in Heel

  5. Shape Pocket and Glove

    • Use the mallet for rollovers (simulating catching motion and rolling over) to create a deep and natural pocket. Shape the glove with your hands to achieve your preferred form: a funnel shape for the thumb and a slightly straighter pinky.
    Pocket and Shape Formation: Use the mallet for rollovers (simulating catching motion and rolling over) to create a deep and natural pocket. Shape the glove with your hands to achieve your preferred form: a funnel shape for the thumb and a slightly straighter pinky.
    Shape Pocket and Glove

  6. Condition Leather

    • Apply a small amount of water-based glove conditioner, such as Sarna, to the glove, focusing on the palm. Rub it in gently.
    Condition the Leather: Apply a small amount of water-based glove conditioner, such as Sarna, to the glove, focusing on the palm. Rub it in gently.
    Condition Leather

Read more: Ultimate Guide to Staying Warm While Playing Baseball in Cold Weather

Tips

  • Use a protective surface (cardboard) to prevent damage to the glove during pounding.
  • Don't force the glove closed too early. Allow the break-in process to form natural hinges.
  • Avoid bending both the thumb and pinky inwards; aim for a funnel shape to optimize catching.
  • Conditioning is usually only needed once when the glove is new, and then once or twice a year depending on the climate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Over-Oiling

Reason: Too much oil can clog the leather pores, hindering its flexibility and making the glove stiff.
Solution: Use a minimal amount of oil, focusing on the areas needing the most conditioning.

2. Ignoring the Heel

Reason: Neglecting to break in the heel of the glove results in a poor pocket and a less comfortable fit.
Solution: Use a glove mallet or your hand to repeatedly flex and shape the heel.

3. Rushing the Process

Reason: Trying to force the break-in too quickly can damage the glove's leather and stitching.
Solution: Be patient and follow a gradual break-in routine that balances use and conditioning.

FAQs

How long does it actually take to properly break in a Wilson A2000?
The time it takes varies depending on the method used and the leather's initial stiffness, but with consistent effort, you can achieve a playable pocket within 1-3 weeks. Full break-in, where the glove feels incredibly soft and supple, might take a month or longer of regular use.