equipment help

[mrm21711]

For equipment, I would recommend the Honig's elite equipment package (http://www.honigs.com/detail.asp?Cat=1&Sub=97&Item=786)

$240 may seem like a ton, but it really isnt considering you will get a lot of use out of these pieces of gear, and are capable of standing up to a college Division I fastball. I have a Honig's mask and the K30 leg guards (almost identical to the K20's in the package), and I can honestly say they are excellent. The K1 chest protector usually gets fab reviews, but I dont have any experience with it personally.

Normally, you are not going to want to wear plate shoes on the bases. Along with your chest protector, this is one area you do not want to skimp on. You want a good steel toed shoe with good Metatarsal (the big plate covering the laces) protection (make sure its Steel Toed, the Spot-Bilt plate shoes, for example, are not steel toed. Many umpires have had toe injuries while wearing this shoe). I personally wear the New Balance 450 plate shoes, and they are excellent and very comfortable. However, personal style & choice are important as well. I can tell you the Plus Pos plate shoes are quite heavy. The Protector plate shoe, offered by Gerry Davis Sports, is a more economical option while still retaining those key features. Personally I dislike the patent leather, and this shoe can be ordered in the traditional leather.

Many veterans will tell you that it pays to buy the best the first time around. Then if and when you move up the ladder, you wont be forced to upgrade inferior equipment. A few dollars saved on a chest protector is useless when you need a new one due to an injury suffered or the fact it cannot stand up to the level of ball you will be calling. Besides, the Honig's, Wilson, ect. gear will give you many many years of life and protection.

Best of luck and welcome to the board.