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Old Tue Sep 09, 2008, 12:07pm
Rita C Rita C is offline
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Join Date: Jan 2001
Posts: 872
Quote:
Originally Posted by ozzy6900
I normally advise even the young male umpires to go with a hard shell chest protector (such as the Wilson gold or the West Vest Platinum). However, a female's chest may not lend itself well to a hard shell.

May I suggest you look into a Honig's K1 (click to go to the web page). The K1 is not a hard shell but from what hear from the wearers, it is very good. The K1 may also help disperse the shock away from her breasts, which is definitely a concern for the female umpire. Personally, I and my son only use the West Vest Platinum.

Having tried on a K1, I would say that the biggest benefit is it's adjustability. However, if expense is a concern, a good start might be the proNine which is a bit of a knock off. I use one and it is adequate for the level of ball she'll be starting off with.

Even with the shock being dispersed, it's still felt since it doesn't disperse over the ribcage, but over the breast tissue. It might be just as important to wear a sports bra that flattens the chest.

Rita
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