Likewise, soaking it in oil will loosen up but waste the oil and could shorten living of the glove. However, children's bodies are still growing, and aren't as durable as adult athletes'. Rubber absorbs shock better than most other liner coatings too. Just require cleaning and conditioning. https://Inspiredcollectors.com/component/k2/author/46154-top10pitchinggloveseveryseriousbaseballplayerneedsin2024