Quote:
Originally posted by greymule
When I started umpiring in 1965 (age 16, in a 13–15 league), I used the outside balloon protector and actually liked it. Even in the early 1970s (semipro league), the balloon was what they gave you. I know you don't have the mobility, but I always felt safer behind the balloon than wearing an inside chest protector. You could get your whole body, arms and all, behind it. I can't remember ever getting hurt with the balloon.
But the balloon is obsolete now. I don't see them in any catalogues. And I admit they didn't look very cool.
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Honig's sells one, it is in their catalog page 13
http://www.honigs.com/detail.asp?Cat=&Sub=&Item=365. There is no picture of it but they do sell an outside chest protector. It's number is K202. I too have used an outside chest protector in the past, and I did feel very protected. And for only $42.95 it is much cheaper than a good inside protector. MC Sports aslo sels one and it is made by Rawlings. Only $39.99 too.
http://www.mcsports.com/product/inde...entPage=family. Does anyone still use one of these anymore?