Helmet v Mask

[GarthB]

Originally posted by johnSandlin
This following along with the Head Shot thread that was already posted. I think it is only a matter of time, before you see all or most of the umpires using the Helmet.

I used the helmet last year and then switched back to the mask, because I was not impressed with brand of helmet that I was using. Now, I am going back to the helmet. I have been hit in the mask a couple of times this summer already, and have went home with headaches, so I am going back to the helmet.

I tried the helmet. I know many umpires swear by it, but for me it felt heavy and hot. The minor improvement in a wider angle of vision wasn't enough for me to stick with it.

I use the Zero Gravity mask and I am spoiled by its light weight.

The other problem I have with the helemt is illogical and purely emotional. The first, and so far, only local umpires who wear the helmet are Smitty's. Any time you see a BU clean off the rubber between innings or wearing ball bags or giving the relief pitcher the out and runner situations, you know he'll be wearing a helmet when he's got the plate.

Still, I agree that 20 years down the road we will see more helmets than masks.