Originally Posted by gugie

Back in the day it was common to squirt down a new pair of leather cycling shoes with water after you put then on for the first ride. They'd mold to your foot on a hot summer day. Same idea with baseball gloves - some put it in hot water for a few minutes, then put a ball in the pocket, tie it up, and let it dry. Shortens the break in period, but also the life of the glove.