How To Break In A Football With Shaving Cream?
Breaking in a football with shaving cream involves using the cream’s moisturizing properties to soften the leather, improving grip and feel. The process entails applying shaving cream, massaging it into the leather, and then drying the ball completely to achieve a broken-in feel faster.
Why Break In A Football?
A brand new football, fresh out of the box, often feels stiff and slick. This is due to the natural oils and waxes in the leather and the manufacturing process. Breaking in a football aims to:
- Improve Grip: Softer leather allows for better tackiness, which enhances grip, especially crucial in wet conditions.
- Enhance Feel: A broken-in football conforms better to the hand, providing a more natural and comfortable feel for throwing and catching.
- Increase Throwing Accuracy: A football with improved grip and feel translates to better control and, consequently, more accurate throws.
The Benefits of Using Shaving Cream
While there are various methods to break in a football, using shaving cream offers several advantages:
- Moisturizing Properties: Shaving cream contains lanolin and other moisturizing agents that hydrate the leather, making it more pliable.
- Gentle Approach: Unlike more abrasive methods, shaving cream is relatively gentle and less likely to damage the leather.
- Accessibility: Shaving cream is readily available and relatively inexpensive, making it a convenient option.
The Shaving Cream Breaking-In Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a detailed guide on how to break in a football using shaving cream:
- Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need:
- A brand new or stiff football.
- A can of non-gel shaving cream.
- A clean, soft cloth or sponge.
- A football brush (optional, but recommended).
- Apply the Shaving Cream: Liberally apply the shaving cream to the entire surface of the football, ensuring even coverage. Don’t be shy – a good coating is key.
- Massage the Leather: Using the cloth or sponge, massage the shaving cream into the leather in a circular motion. Focus on the seams and areas that feel particularly stiff. This helps the cream penetrate the leather fibers. Spend at least 15-20 minutes on this step.
- Let it Sit: Allow the shaving cream to sit on the football for approximately 30-60 minutes. This allows the moisturizing agents to work their magic. Monitor the football – don’t let the cream dry out completely.
- Wipe Away Excess Cream: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away the excess shaving cream. Be thorough, but avoid over-wetting the leather.
- Brush the Football: Use a football brush (or a clean, soft-bristled brush) to gently brush the football. This helps to remove any remaining residue and fluff up the leather.
- Dry Thoroughly: Allow the football to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight or heat, as this can damage the leather. This may take 24-48 hours.
- Repeat if Necessary: Depending on the initial stiffness of the football, you may need to repeat the process once or twice to achieve the desired level of softness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Breaking in a football with shaving cream is relatively straightforward, but here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Using Gel Shaving Cream: Gel shaving cream doesn’t penetrate the leather as effectively as non-gel cream.
- Over-Wetting the Leather: Excess moisture can damage the leather and lead to cracking.
- Using Direct Heat to Dry: Direct sunlight or heat can dry out the leather and make it brittle.
- Skipping the Brushing Step: Brushing helps to remove residue and restore the leather’s texture.
- Rushing the Drying Process: Patience is key. Allow the football to dry completely to prevent mold or mildew growth.
Alternative Breaking-In Methods
While shaving cream is a popular choice, here are some alternative methods for breaking in a football:
| Method | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tossing/Kicking | Repeatedly tossing and kicking the football to soften the leather. | Simple, requires no special equipment. | Can be time-consuming, less effective on very stiff footballs. |
| Using a Brush | Aggressively brushing the football to loosen the leather fibers. | Relatively quick, good for removing dirt and debris. | Can be abrasive if done too forcefully. |
| Leather Conditioner | Applying a leather conditioner specifically designed for footballs. | Helps to moisturize and protect the leather. | Can be more expensive than other methods, requires specific product. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it safe to use shaving cream on a football?
Yes, non-gel shaving cream is generally safe to use on football leather as long as you avoid over-wetting the leather and allow it to dry thoroughly. The moisturizing agents in the cream can actually benefit the leather.
Will shaving cream damage my football?
When used correctly, shaving cream should not damage your football. The key is to use non-gel cream, apply it evenly, and allow the football to dry completely after wiping away the excess.
How long does it take to break in a football with shaving cream?
The process itself takes about an hour, including application and massaging. However, the drying time can take 24-48 hours depending on the humidity. Therefore, plan accordingly.
What type of shaving cream should I use?
Use non-gel shaving cream that contains moisturizing agents like lanolin or glycerin. Avoid shaving creams with harsh chemicals or fragrances, as these could potentially damage the leather.
How often should I apply shaving cream to my football?
You should only need to apply shaving cream once or twice to break in a brand new football. After that, regular brushing and conditioning should be sufficient to maintain its broken-in feel.
Can I use other types of soap instead of shaving cream?
While some people use saddle soap or other mild soaps, shaving cream is preferred due to its moisturizing properties. Other soaps may dry out the leather if used improperly. Stick to shaving cream for best results.
What happens if I get the football too wet?
If the football gets too wet, it can become stiff and brittle after drying. To prevent this, avoid over-wetting the leather during the cleaning process and allow it to dry completely in a well-ventilated area. You may need to apply a leather conditioner to restore moisture.
Does the brand of shaving cream matter?
No, the specific brand of shaving cream doesn’t matter as long as it’s non-gel and contains moisturizing agents. Choose an affordable and readily available option.
Can I use a hairdryer to speed up the drying process?
Using a hairdryer is not recommended as direct heat can dry out the leather and cause cracking. Allow the football to air dry naturally for best results.
How do I maintain the broken-in feel after using shaving cream?
To maintain the broken-in feel, regularly brush the football with a football brush or soft-bristled brush. You can also apply a leather conditioner specifically designed for footballs every few months to keep the leather moisturized and supple.
Will using shaving cream make the football slippery?
No, using shaving cream correctly will not make the football slippery. By wiping away the excess cream and allowing the football to dry completely, you’ll achieve a tacky, grippy surface.
Is this method suitable for all types of football leather?
This method is generally safe for most types of football leather, but it’s always a good idea to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. If you’re unsure, consult the football manufacturer’s recommendations.