Local Firm Revives Gloves for a Sustainable Future

A North Central native is changing perceptions about baseball gloves, particularly the worn-out ones. Chris Petroff and his father, David, have established a successful refurbishment business, The Glove Lab, that breathes new life into tired equipment.

Chris, reminiscing about his own baseball days in Phoenix, recalls, “My trusty Wilson A2000 had served me well, but the laces had loosened and the leather was in bad shape.” His father’s rejuvenation of the glove ignited Chris’s passion. “I started reconditioning my gloves and my kids’ gloves here and there. It was always so cool to see the difference I could make in them.”

In 2019, after years in economic development, the duo launched The Glove Lab. “Yes, there is a Lab involved,” Chris says. The name honors Louie, their Labrador Retriever, while their workspace sits in their garage in the 12th Street and Northern neighborhood.

Family plays a vital role in the operation. Kids convey gloves between homes, using scooters and big blue Ikea bags. This hands-on approach keeps the business nimble and connected to the community.

What began as a hobby has flourished into a service catering to both Little League and professional players across the United States. “Every glove has a story, and it’s really fun to get to know those stories and add to them,” Petroff explains. The challenges they face range from gloves chewed by pets to those damaged in fires or left in adverse weather conditions.

Petroff emphasizes the deep sentimental value of gloves, which often leads clients to seek out their services. “Some require such extensive repair that we essentially rebuild the glove with new leather,” he states. These projects feel especially rewarding due to their emotional significance.

The Glove Lab has garnered attention from Sports Illustrated, Men’s Journal, and various podcasts. While 70% of their business is out-of-state, Arizona remains pivotal due to its vibrant baseball culture, encompassing both professionals and youth leagues.

Beyond repairs, Petroff actively advocates for glove care among young players. “They will last a lifetime if you do some simple things to maintain them,” he insists. His tips include keeping gloves out of extreme heat and regularly conditioning the leather to avoid drying out.

Many clients schedule regular maintenance, while others save until their gloves show significant wear. “We’re happy to work on any of them,” he assures. In addition to restoration, Chris aims to provide gloves to children lacking access. “We take donations of gloves in any condition and share them with kids through an organization my buddy founded,” he says.

Donations are welcomed through The Glove Lab’s website or Instagram. “We’ll fix them up and get them to kids who will enjoy them,” he adds, highlighting the joy of connecting youth through the sport.

As for Louie? “He has no interest in the gloves, thankfully,” Petroff laughs. “But baseballs? He’ll chew one without remorse.”