Rawlings

The Rawlings 2027 Halo (-9) Fastpitch Bat is a two-piece fastpitch bat with a gapped-wall barrel for a smooth, balanced swing that stays controlled as hitters build consistency. The -9 drop suits strong high school and college fastpitch hitters who want more mass behind the ball.

Key features & specs

• Two-piece gapped-wall barrel design for a smooth, balanced swing
• Halo Ring Technology reduces unwanted feedback and expands performance across more contact points
• Optimized barrel and handle flex keeps the swing fluid
• Built for hitters developing through every stage of their game
• Drop -9 · Fastpitch softball bat · 2 1/4" barrel · Model RFP7HALO9

Coach's tip: Rotate the bat a quarter turn every few swings during break-in, and use real fastpitch softballs only; no rubber cage balls. Store it indoors, and skip use below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Rawlings 2027 Halo (-11) Fastpitch Bat is a two-piece fastpitch bat with a gapped-wall barrel for a smooth, balanced swing that stays controlled as hitters build consistency. The -11 drop suits developing fastpitch hitters who want a quick, light swing.

Key features & specs

• Two-piece gapped-wall barrel design for a smooth, balanced swing
• Halo Ring Technology reduces unwanted feedback and expands performance across more contact points
• Optimized barrel and handle flex keeps the swing fluid
• Built for hitters developing through every stage of their game
• Drop -11 · Fastpitch softball bat · 2 1/4" barrel · Model RFP7HALO11

Coach's tip: Rotate the bat a quarter turn every few swings during break-in, and use real fastpitch softballs only; no rubber cage balls. Store it indoors, and skip use below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Rawlings 2027 Halo (-10) Fastpitch Bat is a two-piece fastpitch bat with a gapped-wall barrel for a smooth, balanced swing that stays controlled as hitters build consistency. The -10 drop suits travel-ball and high school fastpitch hitters.

Key features & specs

• Two-piece gapped-wall barrel design for a smooth, balanced swing
• Halo Ring Technology reduces unwanted feedback and expands performance across more contact points
• Optimized barrel and handle flex keeps the swing fluid
• Built for hitters developing through every stage of their game
• Drop -10 · Fastpitch softball bat · 2 1/4" barrel · Model RFP7HALO10

Coach's tip: Rotate the bat a quarter turn every few swings during break-in, and use real fastpitch softballs only; no rubber cage balls. Store it indoors, and skip use below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Rawlings 2027 Icon USSSA (-10) brings Rawlings’ flagship two-piece composite design and a large, responsive barrel to the plate. The -10 drop suits younger travel-ball hitters who want quick bat speed.

Key features & specs

• In/Tense Carbon Composite for a large, responsive barrel
• Zero Loss Technology stabilizes the barrel-to-handle connection for consistent feel
• Two-piece composite construction keeps the swing composed and smooth
• Cushioned, tacky RevGrip for comfort and control
• Drop -10 · USSSA 1.15 BPF certified · 2 3/4" barrel · Model RUT7I10

Coach's tip: Rotate the barrel a quarter turn every few swings, use regulation baseballs only, and store the bat indoors. Avoid hitting in temperatures below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Rawlings 2027 Icon USSSA (-5) brings Rawlings’ flagship two-piece composite design and a large, responsive barrel to the plate. The -5 drop suits advanced travel-ball hitters stepping toward a heavier bat.

Key features & specs

• In/Tense Carbon Composite for a large, responsive barrel
• Zero Loss Technology stabilizes the barrel-to-handle connection for consistent feel
• Two-piece composite construction keeps the swing composed and smooth
• Cushioned, tacky RevGrip for comfort and control
• Drop -5 · USSSA 1.15 BPF certified · 2 3/4" barrel · Model RUT7I5

Coach's tip: Rotate the barrel a quarter turn every few swings, use regulation baseballs only, and store the bat indoors. Avoid hitting in temperatures below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Rawlings 2027 Icon BBCOR brings Rawlings’ flagship two-piece composite design and a large, responsive barrel to the plate. The -3 drop suits high school and college hitters.

Key features & specs

• In/Tense Carbon Composite for a large, responsive barrel
• Zero Loss Technology stabilizes the barrel-to-handle connection for consistent feel
• Two-piece composite construction keeps the swing composed and smooth
• Cushioned, tacky RevGrip for comfort and control
• Drop -3 · BBCOR .50 certified · 2 5/8" barrel · Model RBB7I3

Coach's tip: Rotate the barrel a quarter turn every few swings, use regulation baseballs only, and store the bat indoors. Avoid hitting in temperatures below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Rawlings 2027 Icon USA (-5) brings Rawlings’ flagship two-piece composite design and a large, responsive barrel to the plate. The -5 drop suits older Little League and USA Baseball hitters ready for a heavier drop.

Key features & specs

• In/Tense Carbon Composite for a large, responsive barrel
• Zero Loss Technology stabilizes the barrel-to-handle connection for consistent feel
• Two-piece composite construction keeps the swing composed and smooth
• Cushioned, tacky RevGrip for comfort and control
• Drop -5 · USA Baseball certified · 2 5/8" barrel · Model RUS7I5

Coach's tip: Rotate the barrel a quarter turn every few swings, use regulation baseballs only, and store the bat indoors. Avoid hitting in temperatures below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Rawlings 2027 Icon USA (-12) brings Rawlings’ flagship two-piece composite design and a large, responsive barrel to the plate. The -12 drop suits younger Little League and USA Baseball hitters.

Key features & specs

• In/Tense Carbon Composite for a large, responsive barrel
• Zero Loss Technology stabilizes the barrel-to-handle connection for consistent feel
• Two-piece composite construction keeps the swing composed and smooth
• Cushioned, tacky RevGrip for comfort and control
• Drop -12 · USA Baseball certified · 2 5/8" barrel · Model RUS7I12

Coach's tip: Rotate the barrel a quarter turn every few swings, use regulation baseballs only, and store the bat indoors. Avoid hitting in temperatures below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Rawlings 2027 Icon USA (-10) brings Rawlings’ flagship two-piece composite design and a large, responsive barrel to the plate. The -10 drop suits younger Little League and USA Baseball hitters.

Key features & specs

• In/Tense Carbon Composite for a large, responsive barrel
• Zero Loss Technology stabilizes the barrel-to-handle connection for consistent feel
• Two-piece composite construction keeps the swing composed and smooth
• Cushioned, tacky RevGrip for comfort and control
• Drop -10 · USA Baseball certified · 2 5/8" barrel · Model RUS7I10

Coach's tip: Rotate the barrel a quarter turn every few swings, use regulation baseballs only, and store the bat indoors. Avoid hitting in temperatures below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Rawlings 2027 Icon USA (-8) brings Rawlings’ flagship two-piece composite design and a large, responsive barrel to the plate. The -8 drop suits youth league hitters ready for a step up in weight.

Key features & specs

• In/Tense Carbon Composite for a large, responsive barrel
• Zero Loss Technology stabilizes the barrel-to-handle connection for consistent feel
• Two-piece composite construction keeps the swing composed and smooth
• Cushioned, tacky RevGrip for comfort and control
• Drop -8 · USA Baseball certified · 2 5/8" barrel · Model RUS7I8

Coach's tip: Rotate the barrel a quarter turn every few swings, use regulation baseballs only, and store the bat indoors. Avoid hitting in temperatures below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Rawlings 2027 Icon USSSA (-8) brings Rawlings’ flagship two-piece composite design and a large, responsive barrel to the plate. The -8 drop suits travel-ball hitters ready for more swing weight.

Key features & specs

• In/Tense Carbon Composite for a large, responsive barrel
• Zero Loss Technology stabilizes the barrel-to-handle connection for consistent feel
• Two-piece composite construction keeps the swing composed and smooth
• Cushioned, tacky RevGrip for comfort and control
• Drop -8 · USSSA 1.15 BPF certified · 2 3/4" barrel · Model RUT7I8

Coach's tip: Rotate the barrel a quarter turn every few swings, use regulation baseballs only, and store the bat indoors. Avoid hitting in temperatures below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Rawlings 2027 Icon The Chosen One BBCOR pairs one-piece construction with a carbon composite barrel for a stiff, direct feel and a big, consistent sweet spot. The -3 drop suits high school and college hitters.

Key features & specs

• Chosen One-Piece Construction blends a lively handle feel into a powerful carbon barrel
• In/Tense Carbon Composite for barrel size and consistency
• Balanced swing weight for full barrel control
• Cushioned, tacky RevGrip for comfort and a confident hold
• Drop -3 · BBCOR .50 certified · 2 5/8" barrel · Model RBB7IONE3

Coach's tip: Rotate the barrel a quarter turn every few swings, use regulation baseballs only, and store the bat indoors. Avoid hitting in temperatures below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Rawlings 2027 Icon JBB (-11) packs a big composite barrel into a fast, connected one-piece design built for young hitters. The -11 drop suits younger hitters in junior big barrel leagues.

Key features & specs

• One-piece composite construction for a fast, connected swing
• In/Tense Carbon Composite keeps the barrel lively and responsive
• Balanced swing weight for smooth barrel control
• Perforated grip adds tack and comfort for small hands
• Drop -11 · Junior big barrel (JBB) design · Model RJB7I11

Coach's tip: Rotate the barrel a quarter turn every few swings, use regulation baseballs only, and store the bat indoors. Avoid hitting in temperatures below 60°F to protect the barrel.

The Catchers Hockey Style Helmet-Specify Color by Athletic Connection is a trusted piece of equipment for baseball and softball players, coaches, and officials at every level. From youth tee-ball programs all the way up to high school varsity competition, this product is built to perform when the game is on the line and the dugout is counting on every piece of gear to hold up.

Whether you're a coach running batting practice, an umpire gearing up for a full game day, or a program director outfitting your squad for a new season, this product delivers the reliability and quality you expect from Athletic Connection. Durable construction and thoughtful design make it a staple in dugouts and equipment bags across the country at all levels of play.

Built for the game: from Little League to high school programs, Athletic Connection equipment is a consistent go-to choice for teams that take baseball and softball seriously. Easy to use, well-made, and priced for programs watching their budget without sacrificing quality or longevity season over season.

Ships fast from our warehouse. Perfect for coaches, athletic directors, booster clubs, and individual players stocking their own gear bags. Buying for a team? Contact ST1 Sports for team and bulk pricing on larger orders.

ST1 Sports is an authorized dealer. 2026 pricing valid through current season.

The Rawlings Liberty Advanced Color Series 12.75" Fastpitch Glove is made for softball players looking to dominate the diamond from any position. Quality full-grain leather offers enhanced durability with a soft feel that helps deliver a quick, easy break-in, while a double-laced basket web and balanced 12.75" dimensions make it one of the most versatile options going — equally capable of running down a low liner in the outfield or picking a backhand at short.

Key features & specs:

• 12.75" pattern built for outfield range and all-position versatility
• Quality full-grain leather for durability and a soft, easy break-in
• Double-laced basket web for a deep, secure pocket
• Poron XRD palm padding reduces sting from hard-hit balls and come-backers
• Adjustable pull-strap back for a custom, supportive fit
• Statement Color Series colorways

Usage & care: Speed the break-in by playing catch and working a ball into the pocket; use only a light glove conditioner — over-oiling adds weight and softens the leather too much. Store it with a ball in the pocket, keep it out of hot cars and direct sun, and recondition lightly a few times a season to keep the leather in game shape.

Connect with the bare fundamentals of the game like never before with the special-edition Rawlings Pro Label Elements Series 11.5" Storm Infield Glove. This limited-edition Heart of the Hide model features a royal-blue design that channels the intensity of a powerful thunderstorm, giving your game a standout look on the dirt. Like every Heart of the Hide glove, it's built with world-famous, ultra-premium steerhide leather and the pro-level craftsmanship that has made the line a favorite of big-league players for generations.

Key features & specs:

• 11.5" length, 200-pattern — a favorite size and shape among pro infielders
• I-Web for fluid ball transfers and quick exchanges
• Ultra-premium Heart of the Hide steerhide leather for durability and shape retention
• Distinctive leather oval-R and leather Rawlings patch
• Storm royal-blue colorway; limited edition

Usage & care: Heart of the Hide leather is firm out of the box — break it in gradually with a ball and light glove conditioner, and shape the pocket to your hand. Store it with a ball in the pocket, keep it dry, and apply a thin coat of conditioner a few times a season to keep the steerhide supple.

The Rawlings Liberty Advanced 13" Fastpitch First Base Mitt is engineered specifically for the female athlete, with perfectly balanced patterns that deliver an improved level of control and comfort at first base. Rawlings' dynamic pattern technology advances the fastpitch game and gives players the opportunity for an upgraded level of performance, whether they're scooping short-hops out of the dirt or stretching to save a runner by a step.

Key features & specs:

• 13" first base mitt pattern balanced for the female athlete's hand
• Updated Liberty Advanced Series pattern technology for improved performance
• Hand opening and finger-back adjustments to accommodate the fastpitch player
• Designed for enhanced control and comfort at first base

Coach's tip: Break in the mitt by repeatedly working the hinge and receiving throws in the dirt so the pocket forms where you catch most. Condition the leather lightly a few times each season, store it with a ball in the pocket, and keep it out of heat and moisture to hold its shape.

The Rawlings Liberty Advanced Color Series 13" Fastpitch First Base Mitt gives softball players proven durability and scoop-and-stretch performance on the corner. Its massive pocket and balanced design make quick work of low throws in the dirt and stretch plays down the line, helping first basemen save extra bases and turn tough hops into easy outs. The eye-catching White/Mint colorway lets players bring personality to the position without giving up reliability.

Key features & specs:

• 13" first base mitt pattern with a large, forgiving pocket
• Durable construction built for the demands of fastpitch play
• Balanced design for confident scooping and receiving
• Precise craftsmanship tailored to the female athlete
• Upgraded performance features with unique Color Series styling
• Colorway: White/Mint

Coach's tip: Break in the mitt by repeatedly working the hinge and catching throws in the dirt so the pocket forms where you receive most. Condition the leather lightly through the season, store it with a ball in the pocket, and keep it out of heat and moisture to preserve the shape.

The Rawlings Liberty Advanced Color Series 12.5" Fastpitch Glove is built for softball players who want to dominate the diamond from any position — and make a statement while they do it. The balanced 12.5" pattern is versatile enough to snag a low liner in the outfield or pick a backhand at shortstop, giving utility players and position-flexible athletes one reliable glove for every inning. The striking White/Mint colorway lets players show their flair without sacrificing performance.

Key features & specs:

• Quality full-grain leather for enhanced durability and a soft, easy break-in
• Double-laced basket web for a versatile, secure pocket
• Balanced 12.5" pattern suited to multiple positions
• Precise craftsmanship designed for the female athlete's hand
• Upgraded performance features and unique Color Series styling
• Colorway: White/Mint

Coach's tip: Speed up break-in by playing catch daily and shaping the pocket with a ball tied into the web overnight. Keep the leather conditioned lightly a few times per season, store it with a ball in the pocket, and never leave it in a hot car or damp bag.

The Rawlings Pro Preferred OA1 Maple Wood Bat (RPPMOA1) is the epitome of powerful performance and premium craftsmanship at the dish. This OA1 model features a balanced construction with a huge sweet spot, giving hitters the control they need to maximize bat speed and punish any pitch. Built to meet the demands of MLB-caliber performance, it carries the same reputation for quality that defines the Rawlings Pro Preferred name.

Key features & specs

• OA1 turning model with a balanced construction and huge sweet spot
• Built for a blend of power and bat speed through the zone
• World-class wood materials and pro player-inspired design
• Finely tuned grain for best performance and durability
• Crafted to the quality and craftsmanship standard of the Pro Preferred line

Coach's tip: the balanced feel makes the OA1 a great fit for contact and gap-to-gap hitters who want quick hands rather than an end-loaded barrel. Care: hit with the label facing up or down to protect the barrel, store the bat indoors at room temperature, and keep it out of damp bags to preserve the wood.

Elevate Your Game with Sophisticated Style

Step onto the field with unparalleled confidence using the Rawlings Heart of the Hide 12.5" Outfield Baseball Glove in a striking Dark Sherry/Camel colorway. This LIMITED EDITION glove is more than just protective gear; it’s a statement piece that blends high performance with timeless style. Crafted for those who take the game seriously, this exclusive colorway available only at BaselineSports.us marks your style and dedication. Take hold of a glove that transforms every catch into a masterpiece and every play into proof of your relentless drive.

Precision Craftsmanship for Peak Performance

Experience the feel of precision engineering with the Rawlings Heart of the Hide series. This glove is meticulously constructed, with premium leather sourced from world-renowned steer hides, providing durability to withstand the rigors of intense competition. The 12.5" design is optimally sized for outfielders who value reach and flexibility in every movement. Feel the seamless connection between hand and glove, designed to deliver unmatched control and responsiveness. Your skills deserve a glove that evolves with your game, ensuring you'll be at your best every time you step onto the diamond.

Embrace Unmatched Comfort and Longevity

From the moment you slip it on, this glove offers unparalleled comfort, ensuring you're ready to focus on nothing but the game. The plush interior is tailored for a snug fit, integrating seamlessly into your hand to elevate your performance without compromising on comfort. Each stitch is a mark of quality, designed to enhance longevity and maintain just the right balance of firmness and flexibility. With Rawlings’ refusal to compromise on excellence, you possess more than a glove; you have a legacy of craftsmanship in your hands, ready to conquer the field with you.

See the ball better and stay protected with the Rawlings Mach Hi-Viz 1-Tone Matte Fastpitch Batting Helmet with Mask. As the official batting helmet of women's professional fastpitch softball, the Mach delivers pro-level protection with a revolutionary faceguard that opens up your field of view at the plate. A durable matte shell and cooling jaw pads round out a helmet built for real innings in real heat.

Key features & specs

• Hi-Viz faceguard provides a 30% larger viewing window than traditional helmet/facemask combos
• Stainless-steel faceguard with optimized variable thickness for protection and fit
• Premium 1-tone matte finish that's both stylish and durable
• Rawlings 360 Heat Exchange technology in the wrapped jaw pads for optimal cooling in the box
• Enhanced fit and comfort
• Available in Junior and Senior fits to cover a range of hat sizes — consult the size chart for exact measurements
• Official batting helmet of women's professional fastpitch

Coach's tip: the larger viewing window helps hitters pick up spin and location earlier — a real advantage against fastpitch risers and drops. Care: wipe the shell and mask with a damp cloth, let the jaw pads air-dry between games, and inspect the faceguard hardware regularly to keep it secure.

The Rawlings Pro Preferred OA1 Maple Wood Bat (RPPM4UBOA1) embodies power and premium feel at the plate. Handcrafted from world-class maple, this OA1 model delivers a huge sweet spot matched with superior balance for a first-class feel on contact with any pitch. Built to meet the demands of MLB-caliber performance, it's the choice for experienced hitters who want the craftsmanship of the Pro Preferred name in their hands.

Key features & specs

• OA1 turning model with a huge sweet spot and superior balance
• Handcrafted from premium maple for power and durable performance
• Puck knob helps manage swing weight and adds comfort and control through the zone
• Finely tuned grain built for a first-class feel on contact
• Pro player-inspired design and quality that mirrors the Pro Preferred glove line

Coach's tip: hit with the label facing up or down so the ball meets the edge grain — this protects the barrel and helps maple deliver its signature pop. Care: store the bat indoors at room temperature, keep it out of damp bags, and wipe it down after use to preserve the finish and extend its life.

Step into the box with BBCOR's premier composite bat. The Rawlings 2025 Icon BBCOR (RBB5I3) is engineered for high school and collegiate hitters who demand elite, consistent barrel performance on every swing. New and improved for 2025, the Icon pairs a massive, responsive sweet spot with a design that turns heads the moment you step into the on-deck circle.

Key features & specs

• In/Tense Carbon Composite construction for standout performance and swing-to-swing consistency
• Optimized Zero-Loss collar delivers seamless energy transfer and stabilizes the bat on mishits, so you can still slug for extra bases on off-center contact
• 2 5/8-inch barrel diameter
• -3 length-to-weight ratio; BBCOR certified for high school and collegiate play
• RevGrip for tack and comfort in the hands
• Eye-catching sand camo cosmetic

Coach's tip: composite barrels reward a proper break-in — take 100 to 200 controlled swings off a tee before live batting practice to fully activate the barrel. Care: do not swing in temperatures below 60°F, store the bat indoors at room temperature, and keep it in a sleeve to protect the finish and preserve barrel life.

A Glove That Performs with You

Embrace the exceptional playability of the Rawlings Liberty Advanced ColorSync 4.0 12.75" Outfield Fastpitch Glove, expertly crafted with high-quality full-grain leather. Engineered to enhance endurance and performance, this glove promises a dependable quick and easy break-in process, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—winning the game. The cutting-edge Pro-H web pattern delivers a formidable deep pocket, perfect for snatching those fly balls and facilitating swift, confident transitions. Elevate your outfield prowess and secure your position with a glove that’s as committed to the game as you are.

Comfort and Protection for Every Inning

Long games and challenging plays demand a glove that offers superior comfort and resilience. The Liberty Advanced series is all about providing elite comfort with its Poron XRD padding, precisely designed to absorb shocks and reduce palm stings from line drives and hard throws. This means less distraction from hand discomfort, allowing you to stay in the zone play after play. Furthermore, with its innovative pull-strap closures, you can enjoy a perfect, custom fit around your wrist, adapting seamlessly to your needs from the first inning to the last. Discover how comfort transforms your game strategy.

Stylish Performance for the Modern Athlete

Stand out on the field with the sleek and distinctive design of the Rawlings Liberty Advanced ColorSync 4.0. This 12.75" outfield fastpitch glove combines exceptional functionality with contemporary style. With its striking color integration and flawless aesthetic, this glove not only performs brilliantly but also makes a statement every time you take your position. The blend of style and performance ensures that while you captivate the crowd with your plays, your glove complements your athletic prowess visually. Own the field and the spotlight with a glove designed for stylish champions.

The Rawlings Pro Preferred FL12 Maple Wood Bat (RPPM5FL12) is the epitome of powerful performance and uncompromising luxury at the dish. Part of Rawlings' flagship wood-bat line, the FL12 turn model is crafted from strong, powerful maple that gives every hitter a firm, impactful feel on contact—a pro-quality choice for experienced players who want to feel the difference when they square one up.

Key features & specs

• FL12 pro turn model for a firm, powerful feel
• Premium maple wood construction for hardness and durability
• Built to the highest pro-quality standards Rawlings demands
• Carefully crafted to represent the pinnacle of Rawlings quality and craftsmanship
• Ideal for experienced hitters swinging wood

Coach's tip: Protect the barrel and get maximum pop by making contact with the label facing up or down, striking the strongest edge grain rather than the face. Wipe the bat down after every session, keep it out of damp bags, and store it indoors away from extreme heat or cold to preserve the maple's density.

The Rawlings Pro Preferred OA1 Maple Wood Bat (RPPM5LOA1) is the epitome of powerful performance and uncompromising luxury at the dish. This OA1 turn model features a balanced construction with a huge sweet spot, giving hitters the control they need to maximize bat speed and punish any pitch—an excellent choice for experienced wood-bat players who value balance.

Key features & specs

• OA1 pro turn model with a balanced feel
• Huge sweet spot for forgiving, consistent contact
• Premium maple wood construction for hardness and durability
• Built to the highest pro-quality performance demands
• Carefully crafted to represent the pinnacle of Rawlings quality and craftsmanship

Coach's tip: The balanced OA1 profile suits contact and all-around hitters who want quick hands through the zone. Always make contact with the label up or down to strike the strongest edge grain, wipe the barrel clean after each session, and store the bat indoors away from damp or extreme temperatures to keep the maple performing at its best.

The Rawlings Pro Preferred RA13 Maple Wood Bat (RPPM5LRA13) is the epitome of powerful performance and uncompromising luxury at the dish. Part of Rawlings' flagship wood-bat line, the RA13 turn model is crafted from strong, powerful maple that gives every hitter a firm, impactful feel on contact—built for experienced players who want a pro-quality bat.

Key features & specs

• RA13 pro turn model for a firm, powerful feel
• Premium maple wood construction for hardness and durability
• Built to the highest pro-quality standards Rawlings demands
• Carefully crafted to represent the pinnacle of Rawlings quality and craftsmanship
• Ideal for experienced hitters swinging wood

Coach's tip: Get the most from the maple by making contact with the label facing up or down, striking the strongest edge grain rather than the face grain. Wipe the barrel down after every session, keep it out of damp bags, and store the bat indoors away from extreme heat or cold to preserve its density and pop.