How to Reduce Glove Sting in SteerHide Gloves (And Why It’s Normal at First)
At DeOro Sports, we work with premium SteerHide leather for one reason: durability. SteerHide is thicker, tougher, and built to last season after season—but that strength comes with an important reality many players experience early on:
👉 SteerHide gloves can sting until they are fully broken in.
This doesn’t mean the glove is low quality. In fact, it’s usually the opposite. Below, we explain why SteerHide stings at first and the best ways to manage it during the break-in process—without sacrificing performance
Why SteerHide Gloves Sting Early On
Premium SteerHide leather is:
- Thicker than kip leather
- Stiffer when new
- Designed to hold its shape longer
When a SteerHide glove is new, the pocket isn’t fully formed yet. That means the ball may hit the palm or fingers directly instead of settling into the web. Until the glove softens and molds to your hand, some sting—especially on hard catches—is normal.
The good news? Once broken in correctly, SteerHide absorbs impact extremely well and becomes more protective over time. Keep reading to learn how to reduce glove sting.
Palm & Finger Inserts (Temporary Solution to Reduce Glove Sting)
Palm Pad Inserts are thin shock-absorbing pads placed inside the glove
between the lining and your hand.
- Ideal during the break-in period
- Reduce sting without changing glove performance
- Easy to remove once the glove is fully broken in
Finger Inserts slide into the finger stalls and help prevent finger stingers.
- Popular with infielders and pitchers
- Especially helpful when leather is still stiff
These inserts are a great short-term solution while SteerHide softens naturally.
To view or purchase this Palm Pad Insert on Amazon, click here. *DeOro Sports is not affiliated with Amazon or Rawlings. This image is displayed strictly for comparison and informational use and does not imply endorsement.
Inner Gloves or Batting Gloves
Batting Gloves Under the Mitt
A simple and affordable option.
- Adds a thin cushion layer
- Helps with sweat control
- Minimal impact on glove feel
Protective Inner Gloves Designed specifically for fielding protection.
- Look similar to batting gloves
- Include gel or foam padding in high-impact zones
- Excellent for players sensitive to sting during break-in
Proper Break-In = To Reduce Sting
Many sting complaints disappear once the glove is broken in correctly.
A proper break-in focuses on:
- Forming a deep, defined pocket
- Softening only the hinge points (not the entire glove)
- Directing the ball into the web, not the palm
Using controlled mallet work, catch play, or a professional break-in service helps SteerHide gloves protect the hand the way they’re designed to.
Optional Padding Upgrades (Long-Term Comfort)
For players who want extra protection long-term:
- Additional palm padding can be installed inside the glove
- Finger stall padding can be reinforced
- Pocket re-lacing can improve ball absorption
These upgrades maintain the glove’s external look while improving internal comfort. You can search for local Relacing or Repair GloveServices in your area that can help you with this.
Catching Technique Matters
Even the best SteerHide glove won’t eliminate sting if the technique is off.
- Catching in the web reduces direct impact
- Proper glove angle helps the pocket absorb energy
- Younger players may feel more sting while developing mechanics
As the technique improves and the glove breaks in, sting naturally decreases.
Why DeOro Chose Steerhide for Our Ice Cream Line
Using kip leather would’ve been easier.
It would’ve been cheaper.
And it would’ve followed the trend.
But DeOro has never been about shortcuts.
We chose premium steerhide because it aligns with what truly matters:
- Serious players demand durability that holds up through long seasons
- Parents want value—a glove that lasts more than one year
- SteerHide delivers consistent performance, game after game
- Quality should outlast hype, especially in competitive play
We believe an Ice Cream glove should look clean and play tough.
Which One Is Right
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose an Ice Cream Kip Glove if:
- You want the softest feel right out of the box
- You play occasionally or at a lighter intensity
- Style matters more than long-term durability
Choose a DeOro Ice Cream Steerhide Glove if:
- You play year-round or at a high level
- You want a glove that holds its shape and pocket
- You value craftsmanship and premium materials
- You want a glove built to perform—not just follow trends
Build Your DeOro Ice Cream Steerhide Glove
Why settle for soft leather that fades fast when you can have Ice Cream style with Steerhide strength?
👉 Design your custom DeOro Ice Cream Steerhide glove today.
Clean look. Strong leather. Built to last.
🧤 In-Stock Gloves – Game-ready quality with fast shipping
Keep Learning & Level Up Your Game
Learn tips to sharpen your skills and elevate your performance on the field? Explore more from the DeOro Sports Blog, where we break down the game and the gear that helps you play at your best.
Popular Reads:
- The Complete Guide to Understanding the Sport of Baseball – Baseball, often hailed as “America’s Pastime,” is more than just a sport.
- Understanding the Rules of Baseball – Covers everything from fundamental plays to game-changing regulations.
