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How to Make That Well-Worn Glove Feel Brand New Again. Baseball Glove Conditioning: Revitalize Your Mitt for Peak Performance

alexxlab 2 years ago 37 min read

How does glove conditioning improve baseball and softball performance. What are the benefits of conditioning your mitt. How often should you condition your baseball glove. Which glove conditioners work best for baseball and softball mitts. How can you properly condition your glove at home.

Table of Contents

The Importance of Glove Conditioning in Baseball and Softball

A well-worn baseball or softball glove is a player’s most trusted companion on the field. However, even the most beloved mitt can lose its magic over time. The leather dries out, becomes stiff, and the pocket may sag, affecting your performance. This is where glove conditioning comes into play.

Glove conditioning is the process of nourishing and revitalizing your mitt with a high-quality leather conditioner. This practice not only extends the life of your glove but also significantly enhances its performance on the field.

Why is glove conditioning crucial for optimal performance?

Restores flexibility and responsiveness of the leather
Maintains the shape and structure of the pocket
Protects against dirt, sweat, and environmental elements
Prevents cracking and brittleness of the leather
Enhances overall grip and control

The Transformative Benefits of Baseball and Softball Glove Conditioning

High-quality glove conditioners penetrate deep into the leather, hydrating parched fibers from the inside out. This process keeps the mitt supple and helps prevent brittleness and cracking. Let’s explore the top benefits you’ll notice after conditioning your mitt:

Improved flexibility and responsiveness in the leather
A fuller, more defined pocket that’s easier to close
Better moisture retention for sustained pliability
Restored tactile softness and smoothness in worn areas
Enhanced grip and control when catching balls
A more custom, contoured fit
Reduced stiffness and discomfort

In essence, a conditioned glove performs and feels better. It conforms to your hand like an old friend, ready for action with each pitch, catch, and throw.

Determining the Ideal Frequency for Glove Conditioning

The frequency of glove conditioning can vary depending on usage and personal preference. However, there are some general guidelines to follow:

How often should you condition your baseball or softball glove?

At least once or twice a year, especially before the start of a new season
Monthly during peak playing time for optimal performance
After every few games to maintain leather suppleness
Whenever the glove starts feeling dry, rigid, or cracked
When the pocket begins to sag or balls frequently pop out

A good rule of thumb is to treat your glove whenever it shows signs of wear, such as darkened or discolored leather. Regular conditioning will help maintain your glove’s performance and extend its lifespan.

Selecting the Best Glove Conditioner for Baseball and Softball

With numerous glove conditioners available in the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a glove conditioner:

What should you look for in a high-quality glove conditioner?

Specifically formulated for sport gloves and mitts
Deep penetration capabilities to nourish interior leather fibers
Natural oils and waxes for optimal moisturization
Ingredients like mink oil, beeswax, cocoa butter, and lanolin
Additional protective elements like Vitamin E, tea tree, and eucalyptus oils
Aloe Vera for soothing stiffness and restoring suppleness
UV blockers to shield against sun damage
Antimicrobial properties to prevent odor buildup

Avoid heavily oil-based products designed for work boots or shoes, as these may oversaturate and weaken the leather of your baseball or softball glove.

Professional Tips for Conditioning Your Baseball or Softball Glove

To achieve professional-quality results when conditioning your glove, follow these expert tips:

Start with a clean, dirt-free glove for maximum conditioning benefits
Apply a thin, even layer of conditioner over the entire outer glove and into the pocket
Gently rub the conditioner into the leather using circular motions to encourage deep penetration
Pay extra attention to high-wear areas like the palm and finger holes
Allow the conditioner to soak in for a few hours or overnight if possible
Remove any excess conditioner with a clean cloth before using your glove
Break your conditioned glove in gradually with light catch and soft toss
Consider wearing a batting glove under your mitt if the leather feels overly sticky at first

With patience and proper technique, your glove will soon feel softer, more flexible, and game-ready in no time.

The Science Behind Glove Conditioning: Understanding Leather Care

To truly appreciate the importance of glove conditioning, it’s essential to understand the science behind leather care. Baseball and softball gloves are typically made from high-quality leather, which is a natural material composed of collagen fibers.

How does leather conditioning work at a molecular level?

Leather conditioning works by replenishing the natural oils in the leather that are lost over time due to use, exposure to elements, and natural aging. The conditioner’s molecules penetrate the leather’s porous structure, lubricating the collagen fibers and preventing them from becoming brittle and cracking.

This process not only restores the leather’s flexibility but also creates a protective barrier against moisture and dirt. The right conditioner will maintain the leather’s pH balance, preventing it from becoming too acidic or alkaline, which can lead to deterioration.

What are the key components of effective glove conditioners?

Emollients: Soften and smooth the leather
Humectants: Attract and retain moisture
Occlusives: Form a protective barrier on the leather surface
Antioxidants: Prevent oxidative damage to the leather
UV inhibitors: Protect against sun damage

Understanding these components can help you choose a conditioner that will provide comprehensive care for your glove, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.

Advanced Conditioning Techniques for Specific Glove Issues

While regular conditioning is crucial for maintaining your glove’s overall health, there are times when you might encounter specific issues that require targeted treatment. Let’s explore some advanced conditioning techniques for addressing common glove problems:

How can you fix a saggy pocket in your baseball glove?

A saggy pocket can significantly affect your catching ability. To address this issue:

Apply a generous amount of conditioner to the pocket area
Reshape the pocket by placing a baseball in the desired spot
Tie the glove tightly around the ball with rubber bands or string
Leave it in a warm, dry place for 24-48 hours
Remove the ball and flex the glove to distribute the conditioner evenly

What’s the best way to soften an overly stiff glove?

If your glove feels too rigid, try this intensive conditioning method:

Warm the glove slightly with a hairdryer (don’t overheat)
Apply a liberal amount of conditioner all over the glove
Work the conditioner in thoroughly, paying extra attention to stiff areas
Put on the glove and flex it repeatedly to work the conditioner deeper into the leather
Leave the conditioner on overnight, then wipe off any excess in the morning

Remember, these techniques should be used sparingly and only when necessary, as over-conditioning can potentially weaken the leather structure.

The Environmental Impact of Glove Conditioning: Eco-Friendly Options

As environmental awareness grows, many players are seeking more sustainable options for glove care. Fortunately, there are eco-friendly alternatives that can keep your glove in top shape without harming the environment.

What are some environmentally friendly glove conditioning options?

Natural beeswax-based conditioners
Plant-based oils like coconut or jojoba
Biodegradable conditioning sprays
Reusable application cloths instead of disposable wipes

These options not only reduce your environmental footprint but can also be gentler on your skin and the leather of your glove.

How can you extend your glove’s lifespan to reduce waste?

Extending the life of your glove is another way to minimize environmental impact. Here are some tips:

Store your glove properly when not in use
Clean your glove regularly to prevent dirt buildup
Rotate between two gloves if you play frequently
Consider repairing your glove instead of replacing it
Donate old gloves to youth programs instead of discarding them

By taking these steps, you can enjoy peak performance from your glove while also being environmentally conscious.

The Role of Glove Conditioning in Professional Baseball and Softball

Glove conditioning isn’t just for amateur players; it’s a crucial aspect of equipment maintenance in professional baseball and softball as well. Many professional players have their own unique rituals and preferences when it comes to glove care.

How do professional players approach glove conditioning?

Professional players often take a meticulous approach to glove care, recognizing its importance in their performance. Some common practices include:

Daily light conditioning during the season
Using specific conditioners trusted by team equipment managers
Customizing conditioning routines based on playing conditions and personal preference
Employing professional glove technicians for major reconditioning

Many pros also emphasize the importance of breaking in a new glove properly, which often involves strategic conditioning from the start.

What can amateur players learn from professional glove care techniques?

While amateur players may not have access to professional equipment managers, they can still adopt some pro-level practices:

Develop a consistent conditioning routine
Pay attention to how different conditions affect your glove
Invest in high-quality conditioning products
Learn to recognize when your glove needs attention
Don’t neglect other aspects of glove care, like proper storage and cleaning

By emulating the dedication professionals show to their equipment, amateur players can significantly enhance their glove’s performance and longevity.

The Future of Glove Conditioning: Innovations and Trends

As with many aspects of sports equipment, glove conditioning is an area that continues to see innovation and new trends. Understanding these developments can help players stay ahead of the curve in glove care.

What are some emerging trends in glove conditioning?

Nanotechnology-infused conditioners for deeper penetration
Smart gloves with built-in moisture sensors
Customized conditioning formulas based on leather type and playing conditions
Subscription services for regular, professional-grade conditioning

These innovations promise to make glove care more efficient and effective, potentially enhancing player performance across all levels of play.

How might glove conditioning evolve in the coming years?

Looking ahead, we might see developments such as:

Integration of glove care with player performance analytics
More sustainable, biodegradable glove materials requiring specialized care
Advanced 3D printing for custom glove repairs and modifications
Virtual reality tutorials for optimal glove conditioning techniques

As technology continues to advance, the art and science of glove conditioning are likely to become more sophisticated, offering players new ways to optimize their equipment’s performance.

In conclusion, proper glove conditioning is a crucial aspect of baseball and softball equipment care. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a professional athlete, taking the time to nourish and maintain your glove can significantly enhance your performance on the field. By understanding the science behind leather care, employing proper conditioning techniques, and staying informed about new developments in the field, you can ensure that your trusted mitt remains your reliable partner game after game, season after season.

Why Your Glove Needs Conditioning for Peak Performance

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of slipping on a well-worn baseball or softball glove. The supple leather molds perfectly to your hand after years of breaking it in. But even the most beloved glove can start to lose some of its magic over time. The leather dries out and becomes stiff. The pocket gets saggy. Pretty soon, catching and fielding those blistering line drives doesn’t feel quite as effortless. What’s a glove-loving baseball or softball player to do?

The answer is glove conditioning. Taking the time to nourishing and revitalize your mitt with a good leather conditioner pays off big time in performance. A well-conditioned glove just feels right. The pocket snaps closed on ground balls. The outer leather remains sturdy yet flexible. Your hand feels like it belongs there. While there’s no substitute for actually playing to break in a new glove, conditioning is key to maintaining peak performance season after season.

The Benefits of Baseball and Softball Glove Conditioning

High quality glove conditioners penetrate deep into the leather, hydrating parched fibers from the inside out. This keeps the mitt supple and helps prevent brittleness and cracking. Conditioners also protect your glove from dirt, sweat and other elements that can cause the leather to dry out. Here are some of the top benefits you’ll notice after conditioning your mitt:

Improved flexibility and responsiveness in the leather
A fuller, more defined pocket that’s easier to close
Better moisture retention so the glove stays super pliable
Restored tactile softness and smoothness in worn areas
Enhanced grip and control when catching balls
A more custom, contoured fit
Reduced stiffness and discomfort

In short, a conditioned glove simply performs and feels better. It conforms to your hand like an old friend. Your mitt is ready for action with each pitch, catch and throw.

How Often Should You Condition Your Baseball or Softball Glove?

Most players make it a point to thoroughly clean and condition their gloves at least once or twice a year. Especially before the start of a new season. Some folks religiously condition their mitts on a monthly basis during peak playing time. Others do a quick conditioning treatment after every few games to keep the leather supple.

While more frequent conditioning never hurts, a good rule of thumb is to treat your glove whenever it starts feeling dry, rigid or cracked. If the pocket is sagging or balls are popping out, it’s definitely time to condition. Watch for signs of wear like darkened, discolored leather. Then simply pick a day to restore the suppleness and sheen.

Choosing the Best Glove Conditioner for Baseball and Softball

With so many glove conditioners on the market, how do you choose? First, opt for conditioners made specifically for sport gloves and mitts. Avoid heavily oil-based products made for work boots and shoes. Look for conditioners that offer deep penetration to nourish those interior leather fibers.

High-end baseball and softball glove conditioners typically contain some combination of natural oils and waxes to moisturize leather. Ingredients like mink oil, beeswax, cocoa butter and lanolin hydrate without excessive greasiness. Vitamin E, tea tree and eucalyptus oils help protect your mitt from the elements too.

Conditioners infused with Aloe Vera soothe away stiffness while restoring suppleness. Those with added UV blockers shield your glove from sun damage. Antimicrobial products prevent odor buildup. Just a quick rubdown with the right high-quality conditioner transforms your glove back into peak playing form.

Tips for Conditioning Your Glove Like a Pro

Follow these tips to get professional-quality results when you condition your baseball or softball glove:

Start with a clean, dirt-free glove for maximum conditioning benefits.
Apply a thin, even layer of conditioner over the entire outer glove and into the pocket.
Gently rub the conditioner into the leather using circular motions to encourage deep penetration.
Pay extra attention to high-wear areas like the palm and finger holes.
Allow the conditioner soak in for a few hours or overnight if possible.
Remove any excess conditioner with a clean cloth before using your glove.
Break your conditioned glove in gradually with light catch and soft toss.
Consider wearing a batting glove under your mitt if the leather feels overly sticky at first.

With some patience and proper technique, your glove will soon feel softer, more flexible and game-ready in no time.

Give Your Glove the Star Treatment

Your glove works hard for you all season long as your trusty companion on the diamond. Don’t neglect it. With regular cleaning and conditioning, you can add years of life to your favorite mitt. A well-maintained glove forms perfectly to your hand and still feels great after years of play.

Make glove conditioning a habitual part of your baseball or softball preseason prep and maintenance routine. Have your mitt looking and performing like new with the right leather conditioner. Your glove will thank you with seasons more of peak comfort, control and flawless response in the field.

What to Look for in a Quality Baseball Glove Conditioner

As a passionate baseball player, keeping your glove in tip-top shape is a top priority. A high-quality glove conditioner can be the difference between a stiff, hardened glove and one as supple and responsive as the day you bought it. But with so many products on the market promising to rejuvenate your glove, how do you know which one to choose?

Here’s what to look for in a glove conditioner that will truly bring your glove back to life:

Natural Oils

The best baseball glove conditioners contain natural oils like mink oil, neatsfoot oil, or coconut oil. These oils penetrate deep into the leather fibers, softening and rehydrating from the inside out. Synthetic chemicals may work initially but can dry out the leather over time. Stick with natural oils for long-lasting softness and suppleness.

Beeswax or Lanolin

Quality conditioners often contain beeswax or lanolin as well. These ingredients provide a protective barrier on the outside of the glove leather to seal in moisture. The wax or lanolin gives the glove a nice sheen too. Just a small amount of wax or lanolin goes a long way, so avoid products that list them as the first or main ingredient.

Minimal Odor

Some glove conditioners, especially those high in neatsfoot oil, have a strong unpleasant odor. Seek out products with minimal scent or an enjoyable leather aroma. You want to enjoy putting on the conditioner, not be repelled by the smell.

Easy Application

Whether it’s a cream, oil or spray, the product should go on smoothly without feeling overly greasy. It should spread evenly into the pocket and absorbs within minutes. Messy conditioners that sit on the surface tend to transfer to balls and your hands, interfering with grip and feel.

Fast-Acting Formula

Quality glove conditioners deeply penetrate to soften and revitalize your glove right away, not days later. Within minutes you should notice improved pliability as you work the product into the pocket and break points. If a product needs overnight application or days of breaking in, keep looking.

Minimizes Glove Shrinkage

While you want a suppler glove, you don’t want the leather to shrink or warp. High-end conditioners soften the leather fibers without causing the glove to distort or lose shape. Measure your glove’s dimensions before and after to see if any noticeable shrinkage occurs.

Non-Sticky Finish

After you’ve worked the conditioner into your glove and let it fully dry, it shouldn’t leave a sticky, tacky residue on the leather that could impact ball handling. Feel for any stickiness on the palm or outer fingers of the glove after application.

Long-Lasting Effects

A single application of a high-performance glove conditioner should keep your glove soft and pliable for multiple games, not just one or two. With regular use after each game or practice, your glove stays broken-in all season long.

Weatherproof

Look for glove conditioners specially formulated to protect your glove in all weather conditions – hot, humid, rainy or dry. The product seals the leather to prevent moisture loss in dry climates and repel water in wet conditions.

Won’t Discolor or Darken

Certain products, especially those with silicone or petroleum, can alter your glove’s color, leaving dark spots or discoloration. Make sure to test a small amount in an inconspicuous area first before applying to the entire glove.

Positive Reviews

Before purchasing a glove conditioner, read reviews from verified buyers. Look for products with overwhelmingly positive feedback from baseball players citing noticeable improvement in glove suppleness, pocket break-in and longevity. Beware of reviews that seem exaggerated or fake.

While no product checks every box, prioritize the factors above that matter most to your needs and type of glove. Leather quality, frequency of use, and environmental conditions should dictate the specifics to look for. With a little trial and error, you’re sure to find your glove’s ideal match.

Remember – don’t overlook proper glove conditioning between games. A diligent post-game ritual with a premium conditioner is just as important as your pre-game practice. With the right product and routine, you’ll always be ready for the big play with your trusty, broken-in glove.

Now get out there and play ball!

Rawlings Glove Conditioner: A Top Choice of the Pros

As a serious ball player, you want a glove conditioner trusted by the pros. Look no further than Rawlings’ line of high-performance glove conditioners, designed to break-in and revitalize gloves at any level.

Known for its premium gloves worn by countless MLB stars, Rawlings leverages that expertise into its glove care products. Here’s a look at why Rawlings glove conditioners stand out from the crowd.

Used by MLB Stars

From Derek Jeter to Mookie Betts, countless pros rely on Rawlings glove conditioner to keep their gloves game-ready. If it’s good enough for the majors, it’s good enough for your glove too. The Rawlings name provides peace of mind from a trusted brand.

Softens & Rehydrates Leather

The key to Rawlings’ fast-acting formula is penetrating oils that deeply condition leather fibers from within. Ingredients like neatsfoot oil rapidly soften and rehydrate the leather for a broken-in feel in minutes.

Improves Pocket Flexibility

Focusing conditioner on the pocket accelerates forming the shape you need at your position. The oils significantly improve pocket pliability so you can easily close the glove around the ball for secure catches.

Conditions All Leather Types

Rawlings conditioners work on leather gloves of any type – synthetic, oil-tanned, or pro-quality full-grain. The oil-based formula saturates fibers while beeswax seals the outer surface. Your glove stays soft and supple whatever leather it’s made from.

Revives Dried-Out Gloves

Over time, glove leather can become dried-out and stiff. Rawlings conditioners penetrate cracked fibers to restore lost oils and flexibility. No matter how long it’s been unused, your glove comes back to life.

Protects Against Elements

Rawlings conditioners guard against damage from sun, wind, and dirt. UV protectants prevent sun damage while beeswax creates a barrier against wind and abrasion. Your glove maintains its form whatever the playing conditions.

Minimizes Glove Shrinkage

A common concern with glove conditioners is unintended shrinkage. Rawlings’ non-petroleum formula softens leather without compromising the glove’s shape or dimensions. Before and after measurements reveal no shrinkage.

Quick & Easy Application

Rawlings sprays allow targeted application so you can quickly treat high-wear areas like the pocket. Creams spread easily too without a greasy feel. The fast absorbing formula means no waiting time to use your glove.

Pleasant Scent

Who wants to apply a conditioner with an obtrusive odor? Rawlings’ light, pleasant scent makes conditioning your glove an enjoyable ritual. It’s a scent you and your teammates will come to associate with game-ready gloves.

Trusted Since 1887

Since manufacturing its first gloves in 1887, Rawlings has become synonymous with quality gloves. That 130+ years of glove expertise goes into every bottle of Rawlings conditioner. It’s a trusted brand with a proven track record.

Affordable Price

Considering the performance, Rawlings conditioners are very competitively priced. Compare it to boutique brands and you’ll see Rawlings provides professional-quality conditioning without the premium price.

The bottom line is that Rawlings glove conditioners check all the boxes: penetrates to soften leather, protects against elements, revives aged gloves, applies easily, smells great, prevents shrinkage, and retains flexibility. All from the most iconic name in gloves.

Breathe new life into your glove with Rawlings conditioners. Take a tip from the pros and make it your go-to product for a game-ready glove every time. Your glove will thank you!

Wilson Baseball Glove Conditioning Oil: Revitalize Leather

Every baseball player knows Wilson for their high-end gloves, balls, and equipment that grace fields at all levels. But did you know Wilson also makes a top-rated glove conditioning oil?

Wilson glove oil penetrates and revitalizes glove leather so it performs like new. Here’s a look at why it’s a go-to choice for serious players.

Trusted Wilson Brand

When you choose Wilson, you know you’re getting a premium product backed by their 100+ years as an industry leader. Wilson is synonymous with quality and their glove oil lives up to the brand’s reputation.

Softens & Rehydrates Leather

Wilson glove oil delivers deep conditioning thanks to ingredients like neatsfoot oil. The oil saturates individual leather fibers to soften and replenish lost moisture from the inside out.

Conditions Without Sticky Residue

Some oils leave behind a tacky finish that impacts grip and feel. Wilson oil absorbs quickly to eliminate stickiness. Your glove stays soft without compromising ball handling.

Reduces Break-In Time

Working glove oil into a new glove speeds the break-in process. The oil increases pliability so the leather forms to your hand faster. Less break-in means you’re game-ready sooner.

Ideal for All Glove Types

Wilson glove oil works equally well on leather or synthetic gloves. The formula penetrates oil-tanned leather while also conditioning vinyl and plastic-based synthetics.

Revives Hardened & Dried-Out Gloves

Over time, glove leather can harden, crack and lose moisture. Wilson oil resuscitates aged gloves by replenishing oils into damaged fibers and restoring suppleness.

Protects Against Elements

Wilson glove oil creates a protective barrier against abrasion, wind and sun damage. Your glove maintains its structure no matter the weather conditions during a game or practice.

Easy No-Mess Application

Wilson glove oil sprays on evenly with no dripping or running. The nozzle delivers a targeted stream right where you need it. No greasy feeling or slippery fumbling.

Lightweight Non-Greasy Formula

Wilson oil has a lightweight consistency that absorbs rapidly without that heavy, greasy feeling of some conditioners. Your glove stays soft and pliable without the mess.

Pleasant Scent

Treat your glove to Wilson’s light leather scent. It’s a refreshing smell you’ll associate with a broken-in, conditioned glove ready for the field.

Won’t Discolor or Stain

Certain products can leave dark spots that ruin a glove’s look. Wilson glove oil maintains color uniformity. Test first, but discoloration is rarely a concern.

No Petroleum or Silicone

Unlike products with silicone or petroleum, Wilson oil won’t cause gloves to become misshapen. Your glove keeps its form and dimensions with regular conditioning.

Affordable Price

For a trusted brand like Wilson, the glove oil is very competitively priced. Wilson provides professional quality without the premium price tag.

In summary, Wilson glove oil checks off everything you need: penetrates and softens, easy no-mess application, revives old gloves, protects leather, retains flexibility, prevents residue buildup, pleasant scent, and affordable cost. Start rejuvenating your glove like the pros today.

Don’t let a dried-out, stiff glove come between you and playing your best game. With regular conditioning from Wilson glove oil, you’ll always be confident in your most important piece of equipment. Get the most out of your glove with this top conditioning product from a trusted brand.

Nokona Glove Conditioner: Frequent Rejuvenation for Longevity

Serious players know that proper glove care is essential for peak performance. For Nokona gloves, their proprietary conditioner is specially formulated to maintain the signature feel and flexibility of these American-made classics.

Regular conditioning with Nokona products ensures your glove ages gracefully while retaining that right-off-the-shelf feel. Here’s a look at why Nokona conditioner is a must for protecting your investment.

Made for Nokona Leather

Nokona has crafted gloves in Nocona, Texas since 1934 using proprietary leathers. Their conditioner is specifically designed to nourish these American steerhides from within while sealing the outer surface.

Softens & Rehydrates

The lanolin and oils in Nokona conditioner penetrate deep into leather fibers to moisturize and soften from the inside out. The formula revitalizes drying leather before it becomes brittle.

Restores Suppleness

Even quality leather can stiffen over time. Nokona conditioner penetrates cracked or hardened fibers to restore the supple flexibility that conforms perfectly to your hand.

Frequent Use Recommended

Nokona advises applying conditioner before AND after each game or practice. This frequent application ensures your glove ages slowly and evenly for long-lasting performance.

Protects Against Elements

On-field conditions rapidly degrade unprotected leather. Nokona conditioner seals out moisture and creates a barrier against abrasion, keeping your glove game-ready in any environment.

Pleasant Scent

The light, clean fragrance makes conditioning your glove an enjoyable experience. It’s a refreshing scent you’ll come to associate with a glove ready for the diamond.

Won’t Discolor or Darken

Some products can alter a glove’s appearance from discoloration or darkening. Nokona conditioner maintains uniform coloring while nourishing the leather.

Prevents Glove Shrinkage

A concern with any conditioner is unintended shrinkage. Nokona’s non-petroleum, silicone-free formula keeps the leather fibers supple without distortion.