To break in a Wilson GST football, apply a small amount of leather softener and rub it in with your hands. Then, repeatedly toss and catch the ball while applying pressure to the seams to break them in.
Breaking into a new Wilson GST football can be tedious, but it’s essential to get the most out of this football. A good break-in period helps the ball conform to your grip and playing style – improving accuracy, control, and spin.
Many different ways exist for breaking in the ball, but using some leather softener, applying pressure to the seams, and tossing it around is a straightforward and widely practiced method. Whether you’re a football enthusiast or a professional player, it’s imperative to follow the proper break-in techniques to benefit from your new ball.
Understanding the Wilson GST Football: Features, Construction, and Performance Benefits
If you’re new to football, you might wonder what makes the Wilson GST football stand out. Here’s what you need to know about its features, construction, and performance benefits.
Features
The Wilson GST football has many features, making it a top choice for players. These features include:
- A patented ACL lacing system offers better grip and control on the ball, ensuring a more accurate throw.
- The composite leather cover gives the ball a better grip and durability while maintaining a soft feel.
- Multi-layered lining protects the ball from wear and tear, making it a long-lasting choice.
Construction
The Wilson GST football has been engineered with high-quality materials and construction techniques.
Here’s how it’s made:
- Panels: The ball comprises 4 panels, each of three lining layers.
- Bladder: The bladder is made of high-quality rubber, ensuring the ball is properly inflated and retains shape.
- Lacing: The patented acl lacing system ensures that the ball is easy to grip, with laces running through the entire length of the ball.
Performance Benefits
The Wilson GST football offers a range of performance benefits, making it an ideal choice for players of all levels.
Some key benefits include:
- Better grip: The composite leather cover and patented acl lacing system offer better grip and control of the ball.
- Accuracy: The acl lacing system helps to ensure a more accurate throw, allowing players to improve their game.
- Durability: The multi-layered lining and high-quality construction ensure the ball is durable and long-lasting.
The Wilson GST football is a top player choice, thanks to its features, construction, and performance benefits. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this ball will surely enhance your skills on the field.
Preparing for the Break-in Process
Before you start breaking in your Wilson GST football, preparing it for the process is crucial.
Here are some key points to remember:
- Choose the right ball: Footballs come in different sizes and shapes. Make sure to select a ball suitable for the level of play and age group. A ball that is too heavy or light can be difficult to break in.
- Inflation: Before breaking in the ball, inflate it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Over-inflating or under-inflating the ball can affect its performance and durability.
- Stretching the ball: Gently stretch the football with your hands to loosen the leather and make it more pliable. This makes the leather softer, making it easier to break in.
The Break-in Process
Once you have prepared the ball, you can begin the break-in process.
Follow these steps:
- Play catch: Playing catch is one of the best ways to break in a football. The repeated impact and movement of the ball help to loosen up the leather and make it softer. Start with short throws and gradually increase the distance as the leather becomes more pliable.
- Apply oil: Special football leather oil can speed up the break-in process. Apply a small amount of oil to the leather, focusing on the seams and laces.
- Kneading and massaging: Another method to break in a football is by kneading it with your hands. Firmly knead the ball to soften the leather. If there are any hard spots on the ball, focus on massaging those areas.
- Hammer the ball: Another method is to hammer the ball with a rubber mallet. Hit the ball gently on all sides, focusing on the seams and laces. This helps to stretch the leather and make it more flexible.
Breaking into a football takes time and effort but is worth it in the long run. A properly broken-in football will perform better and last longer than a brand-new one. Following these steps, you can break in your Wilson gst football and prepare for your next game.
Methods for Breaking in a Wilson GST Football: Traditional, Rapid, and Natural Techniques for Optimal Performance
As soon as you bring your brand new Wilson GST football home, you can’t wait to start playing with it. But before hitting the field, you need to break in the ball to get optimal performance and grip.
Here are some traditional, rapid, natural techniques for breaking into a Wilson GST football.
Traditional Technique
Traditional techniques take time and patience, but they wear down the leather and help the ball to form your grip.
- Rubbing oil: Rub the ball with mink, linseed, or saddle soap using a soft cloth. This process stimulates leather fibers and helps to break in the ball.
- Kneading technique: Squeeze the ball and apply pressure to the ball with the fingertips to loosen the leather. Apply force on the ball from every angle to create dents or indents in the ball.
- Playing catch: Practice throwing and catching with the ball regularly. It exposes the ball to elements like dust and sun while breaking it in.
Rapid Techniques
Rapid techniques are the way to go if you need to break in the ball quickly. These techniques require simple items and can save you time.
- Blow dryer: Use a blow dryer to heat up the ball. When the ball gets soft and pliable, knead it using your fingertips to break it in quickly.
- Pvc pipe: Put the ball into a PVC pipe, apply around 10psi of air pressure, and move the ball around to put pressure on various points, causing the ball to soften and break in.
- Put the ball in the dryer: Put the football in the dryer with a towel and use low heat. This will help loosen the leather, and you can apply the kneading technique once it’s removed.
Natural Techniques
Natural techniques
- Use it: Play regularly with the ball. Activities like throwing, catching, and running help break in the ball naturally, and you don’t need any additional items.
- Expose to sunlight: Leave the ball in the sunlight for a few hours. The heat from the sun softens and loosens the fibers, making it easier to grip.
- Soak in water: Soak the ball in water for a day and then use it. The water softens the leather, making it easier to grip.
There you have it, the traditional, rapid, and natural techniques for breaking in a Wilson GST football. Try them out and see which one works best for you. With these methods, you can quickly break into your new football and achieve optimal performance.
Caring for a Broken-in Wilson Gst Football: Maintaining Performance and Longevity
A football may be used for several games before it finally breaks in. Once that happens, the ball has adapted to the gameplay and feels better to catch, throw and kick. It’s essential to note that well-maintained football lasts longer and performs better.
Incorporate a Pre-Game Prep Routine
Before playing with the ball, pump it to the recommended pressure, usually 13 pounds per square inch (psi). Remember to check the pressure once per week. Using a hand air pump is advisable to avoid overfilling or underfilling.
Keep the Ball Clean and Dry
Keeping the ball clean and dry is crucial to prolong its lifespan. Clean the ball with water and mild soap after each game and wipe it dry. Do not submerge it in water or use harsh cleaning chemicals, which may damage the surface.
Also, store it dry and avoid exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Store the Ball Appropriately
Storing the ball correctly influences its performance and longevity. Avoid placing anything heavy on the ball or overinflating it, as this can distort it. Store the ball flat or upright on its base, away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
Also, avoid storing it in humid or damp places that can cause mildew and mold.
Inspect the Ball Regularly
Inspecting the ball helps in identifying any signs of wear and tear. Check for scratches, cuts, or punctures, and replace the ball if it’s deflated or leaking air. Also, check its shape and ensure it’s round, not distorted or lopsided.
FAQs
How Long Does it Take to Break in a Wilson GST Football?
It takes around two weeks to break in a Wilson GST football. It is essential to condition the football with a leather softener and knead it regularly to loosen the leather fibers.
What is the Best Way to Break in a Wilson GST Football?
The best way to break in a Wilson GST football is to use leather softener, petroleum jelly, or shaving cream to condition the leather. After conditioning, play catch with the ball or practice kicking it to loosen up the leather fibers.
How Do You Maintain a Wilson GST Football After Breaking it in?
To maintain a Wilson GST football after breaking it in, keep it clean and dry. Store it in a cool, dry place to prevent it from getting damaged. Also, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
Can You Speed Up the Breaking-in Process of a Wilson GST Football?
Yes, you can speed up the breaking-in process of a Wilson GST football by using a softening cream, which can soften the leather fibers faster. However, be careful not to over-soften the leather, as it may lose shape and grip.
How Do You Ensure that the Wilson GST Football Lasts Long?
To ensure that the Wilson GST football lasts long, maintain it properly by keeping it dry and clean. Also, avoid using it on rough surfaces and playing in extreme temperatures. Additionally, use it for its intended purpose only and store it properly when not in use.
Conclusion
As you can see, several methods exist to break in a Wilson GST football. Whether you prefer the traditional method of throwing and catching or more modern techniques like baking or using a washing machine, it’s important to take your time and be patient.
Remember to fully season the ball with a good amount of playtime before using it in a game situation. A properly broken-in football will increase your grip and improve overall throwing and catching accuracy. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can break in your Wilson gst football in no time and get ready to shine on the field.
So grab a ball, invite your teammates, and start breaking it in!
