Wilson West Chest Protectors

[Dave Hensley]

Originally Posted by TussAgee11

K1 isn't a hard shell. I would be okay for lower level ball, but would not trust it for High School (maybe I'd trust it, but not as much as I do my WV).

The Honig's K-1 is used by umpires calling NCAA D1 ball, so I think it's proven protective enough to work those levels.

That said, I've owned a K-1 and liked it well enough, but no matter how many chest protectors I give a whirl, and it's been more than a few - I always end up coming back to my West Vest Gold. For comfort, fit and protection, it can't be beat. As Garth mentioned, the shoulder pads are "front mounted" rather than the Platinum's "top mounted" style, so the Gold gives you better collarbone and shoulder protection if you're working a more vertical stance such as the Gerry Davis, heel-toe, etc.

[Rich]

Originally Posted by Dave Hensley

The Honig's K-1 is used by umpires calling NCAA D1 ball, so I think it's proven protective enough to work those levels.

That said, I've owned a K-1 and liked it well enough, but no matter how many chest protectors I give a whirl, and it's been more than a few - I always end up coming back to my West Vest Gold. For comfort, fit and protection, it can't be beat. As Garth mentioned, the shoulder pads are "front mounted" rather than the Platinum's "top mounted" style, so the Gold gives you better collarbone and shoulder protection if you're working a more vertical stance such as the Gerry Davis, heel-toe, etc.

I use the K1 for everything I call. I have a WV Gold and I prefer the K1.

[ToGreySt]

Originally Posted by Rich Fronheiser

I use the K1 for everything I call. I have a WV Gold and I prefer the K1.

I agree with rich, I've used both at all levels up to varsity and men's leagues and I like the K-1 better, also if you are on the larger size, the K-1 is longer than the WV and I found it does cover up more of my stomach, and that's good

just my 2c

Joe

[TussAgee11]

I respect your opinion and decision Rich to go with the K1. To each his own. If it wasn't quality 'm sure Honig's wouldn't sell it. I'm just too scared to use a soft shell, when I hear stories of people's hearts stopping and the such (not that its a defective CP, it just scares me) so I go for the thing that to me, will protect me the best. If you feel the K1 does that for you, then great. We all have to feel safe so we don't worry about safety while doing our jobs.

[nickrego]

All of the "top of the line" products protect well. The big difference is FIT, in my opinion. You need to try on several to see which fits your frame the best. You will be surprised at how different each model feels and fits.

Personally, I use the Honig's K1, because it fits my large athletic (stomach doesn't stick out past my chest) frame best. It molds to my shape, and stays put very well.

The Platinum felt like a stiff board with pads to me, and made it hard to put a shirt or jacket on. The Gold fits just about anyone under 6' well. No experience with the Hard Shell.

[ctblu40]

I use a WV Gold. When I first put a brand new one on, it was a little uncomfortable, felt "like a stiff board with pads." But after about 1/2 a season, it has conformed well to my body. I love it.

The important things are to be comfortable, and trust your equipment. Most umpires that flinch on pitches in the dirt do so because they don't trust their protection. I suppose you need to take a few shots to the chest, mask, and legs to have faith that you won't get hurt.

When I was looking for a top-o-the-line protector, I borrowed different styles and brands from others to use for a game, then based my decision on my own experience. I assured each owner that I would thoroughly clean the stuff with Lysol and such after use.