How Much Does It Cost To Restring A Baseball Glove? Real Prices & Savings Tips

So, how much does it cost to restring a baseball glove? Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $50 for professional baseball glove re-lacing. For those considering a DIY approach, the cost of materials can range from $5 to $20.

A baseball glove is more than just equipment; it’s a player’s best friend on the field. Over time, even the most well-cared-for glove can start to show wear and tear, especially its lacing. Loose, frayed, or broken laces can impact a glove’s performance and fit. Restringing your baseball glove can bring it back to life, offering improved feel and functionality. This guide will delve into the costs involved in baseball glove re-lacing, explore why it’s a worthwhile investment, and offer tips on how to save money while keeping your glove in top shape.

Image Source: www.gloverepair.com

The Value of a Well-Laced Glove

A properly laced baseball glove provides a secure and comfortable fit. The laces are crucial for holding the glove’s shape and ensuring it conforms to your hand. When these laces weaken or break, the glove can become loose, floppy, and less responsive. This can lead to dropped balls, reduced fielding control, and general frustration for the player. Restringing a baseball glove is a key aspect of baseball glove maintenance cost that pays dividends in performance.

Factors Influencing Baseball Glove Re-lacing Cost

Several elements contribute to the final baseball glove repair cost. Pinpointing an exact figure is challenging without knowing the specifics of your glove and the service you choose.

Type of Service: Professional vs. DIY

The most significant factor influencing the glove re-stringing price is whether you opt for a professional service or decide to tackle it yourself.

• Professional Glove Re-lacing: This involves taking your glove to a specialist or a sporting goods store that offers glove repair services. Professionals have the experience, tools, and materials to do the job efficiently and correctly. They can also often assess and address other potential issues with the glove.
• DIY Glove Restringing Cost: This route involves purchasing the necessary materials and performing the restringing yourself. While it can be cheaper, it requires time, patience, and a certain level of dexterity.

Glove Material and Complexity

The type of leather and the design of your baseball glove can also affect the baseball glove lacing cost.

• Leather Quality: Premium leather gloves might require specialized lacing techniques or higher-quality laces, potentially increasing the cost.
• Glove Design: Some gloves have intricate lacing patterns or a larger surface area that needs to be re-laced, which can take more time and therefore cost more. Catcher’s mitts and first baseman’s mitts, due to their larger size and specific padding, might have a higher baseball glove re-lacing cost.

Location and Provider

Where you get your glove re-strung can also make a difference.

• Local Sporting Goods Stores: Many offer glove repair services. Prices can vary widely between chains and independent shops.
• Specialty Glove Repair Shops: These businesses focus specifically on glove restoration and can sometimes be more expensive but offer superior expertise.
• Online Services: Some services will allow you to mail in your glove for re-lacing. Shipping costs will need to be factored into the overall cost to fix baseball glove.

Typical Pricing Breakdown for Baseball Glove Re-lacing

Let’s break down what you can expect to pay for different levels of service.

Professional Re-lacing Costs

For a standard baseball glove (infield, outfield), a professional re-lacing service typically falls within the following price range:

• Basic Re-lacing: This usually covers replacing the worn-out laces in the main sections of the glove, often excluding the pocket or finger stalls if they are still in good condition.
  • Average Cost: $20 – $40
• Full Re-lacing (Glove Re-stringing Service): This involves replacing all the laces on the glove, ensuring a consistent look and feel. This is the most common service requested.
  • Average Cost: $30 – $50
• Specialty Mitts (Catcher’s Mitts, First Baseman’s Mitts): Due to their size and construction, these often cost a bit more.
  • Average Cost: $40 – $60

Table 1: Estimated Professional Re-lacing Costs

Service Type	Average Cost Range	Notes
Basic Re-lacing	$20 – $40	Focuses on main lacing areas.
Full Re-lacing	$30 – $50	Replaces all laces for a complete overhaul.
Specialty Mitts (Full)	$40 – $60	Includes catcher’s and first baseman’s mitts due to size/complexity.
Additional Glove Repair	Varies	Stitching tears, pocket repair, etc.

It’s worth noting that some services might include a basic cleaning or conditioning as part of the baseball glove repair cost, while others may charge extra for these services.

DIY Glove Restringing Cost

If you’re a hands-on person and want to save some money, the DIY glove restringing cost is significantly lower. The primary expense here is the materials.

• Lace Material: You’ll need to purchase new glove lacing. These typically come in rolls or pre-cut kits.
  • Cost: $5 – $15 per roll/kit. You might need one or two rolls depending on the glove size and pattern.
• Tools: While not always strictly necessary, some tools can make the process easier.
  • Lacing Tool/Awl: A pointed tool to help push laces through holes. (Optional)
  • Scissors or Utility Knife: For cutting laces.
  • Gloves: To protect your hands.
  • Cost: Minimal if you already have basic tools. If purchasing, expect $5 – $10.
• Conditioning/Oiling (Optional but Recommended): After re-lacing, applying glove oil can restore moisture and flexibility to the leather.
  • Cost: $5 – $15 for a small bottle of glove oil.

DIY Glove Restringing Cost Summary:

• Total Estimated Cost: $10 – $30 (This assumes you already have basic tools. If buying everything, it might be closer to $20 – $40).

This makes the DIY glove restringing cost a much more budget-friendly option if you’re willing to invest your time.

Beyond Re-lacing: Other Glove Repair Services

Restringing is a common repair, but other issues might arise with your baseball glove, impacting the overall baseball glove maintenance cost.

Glove Re-conditioning Cost

Over time, leather can dry out, become stiff, and even crack. Glove re-conditioning involves cleaning, moisturizing, and conditioning the leather to restore its suppleness and prolong its life.

• Professional Re-conditioning: Many services that offer re-lacing also provide re-conditioning.
  • Average Cost: $20 – $50 (often in conjunction with re-lacing).
• DIY Re-conditioning: This involves purchasing glove oil or conditioner.
  • Cost: $5 – $15 for a product.

Pocket Repair and Deep Cleaning

Sometimes, the pocket of a glove can wear thin or develop holes. Stitching these areas or reinforcing them can be necessary. A deep cleaning can remove dirt, grime, and sweat that can degrade the leather over time.

• Pocket Repair: Can range from $15 – $40, depending on the severity.
• Deep Cleaning: Typically $10 – $25 when done professionally.

The cost to fix baseball glove can therefore escalate if multiple issues need addressing. It’s often more cost-effective to address minor wear and tear before it becomes a significant problem.

Is Professional Re-lacing Worth the Cost?

The decision between professional service and DIY often comes down to a balance of cost, time, and skill.

Pros of Professional Glove Re-lacing

• Expertise: Professionals know the best lacing patterns for different glove types and how to ensure proper tension for optimal performance.
• Time-Saving: If you’re busy, outsourcing this task frees up your schedule.
• Quality Materials: Reputable services use high-quality, durable lacing specifically designed for baseball gloves.
• Glove Assessment: They can often spot and fix other minor issues you might not notice.
• Warranty: Some services may offer a limited warranty on their work.

Cons of Professional Glove Re-lacing

• Higher Cost: This is the most obvious drawback compared to DIY.
• Turnaround Time: You’ll be without your glove for a period, which can be inconvenient during the season.

Pros of DIY Glove Restringing

• Cost Savings: Significantly cheaper than professional services.
• Customization: You can choose your lace color and experiment with different lacing patterns if you’re adventurous.
• Learning Experience: It’s a great way to learn more about your glove and how it’s constructed.
• Convenience: You can do it at your own pace, at home.

Cons of DIY Glove Restringing

• Time Commitment: Re-lacing a glove can be time-consuming, especially the first time.
• Skill Required: It requires patience, dexterity, and attention to detail. Mistakes can lead to a poorly performing glove.
• Potential for Errors: Incorrect lacing can affect the glove’s feel, shape, and even its durability.
• Material Quality: You need to ensure you’re buying the right type of lace.

Savings Tips for Baseball Glove Restringing

Whether you opt for professional service or DIY, there are ways to manage the baseball glove maintenance cost.

When Choosing Professional Services:

1. Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple sporting goods stores and specialty shops in your area.
2. Look for Package Deals: Some shops might offer discounts if you have multiple gloves re-strung or if you combine re-lacing with conditioning.
3. Off-Season Maintenance: Consider getting your glove re-strung during the off-season. Sometimes prices might be slightly lower, and you won’t be without your glove during peak playing times.
4. Ask About Loyalty Programs: Some local shops might have loyalty programs that offer discounts on services.
5. Check for Sales: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales at sporting goods retailers.

When Considering DIY:

1. Buy Quality Laces in Bulk: If you have multiple gloves or know you’ll be doing this more than once, buying a larger roll of lace can be more economical.
2. Utilize Existing Tools: Before buying new tools, check if you have suitable items around the house.
3. Watch Tutorials: There are many excellent free video tutorials online that can guide you through the process, saving you from making costly mistakes.
4. Consider Glove Re-conditioning Kits: These kits often contain lace, oil, and cleaning supplies at a bundled price.

How to Choose the Right Lacing Material

The type of lace you use can impact both the look and the performance of your glove. Most baseball glove laces are made from steerhide or cowhide leather, similar to the glove itself.

Leather Laces:

• Pros: Durable, flexible, classic look, conforms well to the glove.
• Cons: Can stretch and wear over time, requires conditioning to maintain flexibility.
• Variations: Different thicknesses and finishes are available.

Synthetic Laces:

• Pros: More durable, less prone to stretching or breaking, often waterproof.
• Cons: Can be stiffer, might not offer the same classic aesthetic, can sometimes be too slick.
• Availability: Less common for traditional baseball gloves but can be found for specialized applications.

When you’re getting a professional glove re-lacing, inquire about the type of laces they use. For DIY, ensure you’re buying laces specifically marketed for baseball gloves. The length of lace needed can vary, but a single 72-inch lace is typically sufficient for one section of a standard glove. A full glove re-lacing might require anywhere from 4 to 8 laces, depending on the design.

Maintaining Your Glove for Longevity

Beyond re-lacing, proper maintenance can prevent the need for frequent repairs and extend the life of your glove. This contributes to the overall baseball glove maintenance cost by reducing the frequency of major interventions.

Regular Cleaning and Conditioning

• Wipe Down: After each use, wipe your glove with a soft, dry cloth to remove dirt and sweat.
• Conditioning: Apply a small amount of glove oil or conditioner every few months, or whenever the leather feels dry. Too much oil can make the glove greasy and heavy.
• Avoid Over-Oiling: Excessive oil can damage the leather and make the glove too soft, potentially affecting its shape and pocket.

Proper Storage

• Keep it Closed: Store your glove with a baseball or a glove mallet in the pocket to help maintain its shape.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Don’t leave your glove in a hot car or expose it to excessive moisture, as this can damage the leather.

The Art of the Break-In

A new glove needs to be broken in. This process softens the leather and helps it mold to your hand. While some players prefer a stiffer glove, a properly broken-in glove is more responsive and comfortable.

• Glove Mallets and “Glove Mallets”: Can be used for controlled shaping.
• Playing Catch: The most natural way to break in a glove.
• Glove Ointments/Conditioners: Some products are designed to aid in the break-in process.

The initial cost to fix baseball glove issues like stiffness can be managed with a good break-in process and proper care.

When is it Time to Re-lace?

You’ll know it’s time to consider re-lacing your baseball glove when:

• Laces are Frayed or Broken: This is the most obvious sign. A broken lace can significantly compromise the glove’s integrity.
• Laces are Loose: If the glove feels “baggy” or your hand slips around inside it, the laces have likely stretched and lost tension.
• Laces are Stiff and Cracking: Dry, brittle laces are prone to breaking.
• Glove Shape is Off: Loose or uneven lacing can distort the glove’s pocket or overall form.

Don’t wait until a lace snaps completely. Addressing it when you first notice fraying or looseness will prevent further damage and make the repair process simpler and potentially cheaper.

Can You Restore an Old Glove?

Absolutely! With a good re-lacing, cleaning, and conditioning, many old gloves can be brought back to a functional and even aesthetically pleasing state. Sometimes, the baseball glove re-lacing cost can be significantly less than buying a new, comparable glove, especially if you have a beloved or high-quality older model.

If a glove has severe damage, such as significant rips in the leather, irreparable wear in the pocket, or degraded padding, the baseball glove repair cost might become prohibitive. In such cases, it might be more sensible to invest in a new glove. However, for most common wear and tear, re-lacing and conditioning are excellent ways to extend a glove’s useful life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long does it take to restring a baseball glove professionally?
A1: Turnaround time can vary from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the service provider’s workload and whether they need to order specific lace colors.

Q2: Can I use any leather lace for my baseball glove?
A2: It’s best to use laces specifically designed for baseball gloves. These are typically made from steerhide or cowhide and are treated for durability and flexibility. Using the wrong type of lace might not hold up well or could affect the glove’s performance.

Q3: How often should I restring my baseball glove?
A3: This depends on usage and care. For a player who uses their glove frequently, re-lacing might be needed every 1-3 years. For casual players, it could be much longer. The key is to watch for signs of wear like fraying or looseness.

Q4: Does re-lacing affect the glove’s feel or performance?
A4: Yes, a proper re-lacing will restore the glove’s original feel and responsiveness. Too much tension can make it stiff, while too little can make it floppy, so correct lacing is important.

Q5: What is the difference between re-lacing and re-conditioning?
A5: Re-lacing involves replacing the leather laces that hold the glove together. Re-conditioning involves cleaning and moisturizing the leather itself to keep it supple and prevent drying or cracking. Both are important for glove maintenance.

Q6: Who is the best person or place to restring a baseball glove?
A6: This can vary by location. Local sporting goods stores, dedicated baseball/softball equipment shops, or even some experienced leatherworkers can be good options. Reading online reviews can help you find a reputable service.

In conclusion, the baseball glove re-lacing cost is an investment in your game. Whether you choose to pay for professional service or take on the DIY glove restringing cost, ensuring your glove is properly laced and maintained will enhance your performance on the field and prolong the life of this essential piece of equipment.