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.
Final Thoughts: Trust the Break-In Process
Sting during the early stages of a SteerHide glove is normal—and temporary. Premium leather takes time to mold, but once it does, it delivers unmatched durability, protection, and performance.
If you’re breaking in a DeOro Sports SteerHide glove, small adjustments like palm pads, batting gloves, or professional break-in support can make the process more comfortable—without compromising the long-term benefits of elite leather.
SteerHide rewards patience. Once it’s game-ready, it’s built to stay that way season after season.
