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I went cheap when I first started umpiring. Like most guys, I used league provided equipment at first when I just did little league. The second year I bought my own stuff and started doing some high school ball. I bought a cheap waffle protector, a decent mask, cheap shins and no plate shoes. I still use the mask. I used that CP for one season then gave it away to another guy. I got several bruises on my chest, plus there was a big gap between the shoulder pads and the protector around the front of the armpit as well as no collarbone protection. I also ended up with a black and blue pinkie toe after a couple of foul balls.
I learned my lesson and bought a K1 the next season and plate shoes. You may only need plate shoes one or two times a season, but will be glad you have them when you do need them.
If that guy was serious, it will only take a few shots off the collarbone or a broken toe to show him the error of his ways. I discovered I really didn't know what I didn't know about gear until I had already purchased some crap. I think that probably happens to a lot of guys.
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