Distinction without a difference, as far as I can see. But, jk and I have abjectly apologized more than Don Imus, ok? ;)

Gentlemen,

Perhaps this is just a question of semantics, but I would consider this a legal FED mask/helmet combo (manufacturer states it meets NOCSAE standards) which I would not call an HSM.

http://www.onlinesports.com/images/mw-rai1.jpg

JM

Thanks JM, I was going to add my pennys worth by stating that the Fed rule states that any helmet mask combo must have ear protection for the catcher, not an HSM only. Therefore it CAN be a traditional mask with a skull cap type helmet with ear protection that meets NOSCOE. As you pictured here. Nope, not HSM IMHO also. The picture makes it a heck of a lot easier to explain it.. so thanks and yes, I have seen catchers using this style of protection vs. the HSM.

You would be wrong. For one I will not speak for what LL or Babe Ruth does. I do not work those levels and do not give a rat's behind what they do. FED has no such rule requiring a player to wear a helmet in the style that an umpire would have to wear. A FED catcher can wear the traditional mask if they like.

Let me say it was not a very good point you were trying to make.

Wearing a watch is a lot different than telling us what specific type of uniform to go out and buy. All that is required is a mask, it does not matter what kind of mask you wear. Would you like it if we told you what type of shirt you had to buy (not talking about color here)? Maybe you like a specific shirt because that you feel is comfortable for you that might not be required if we use your logic.

Considering I have yet to see any evidence of such a bigger liability. I have been hit in the mask with a ball several times and I have never been hurt or slightly hurt. I have known more people that have attributed some other problems to their helmet, so I would really like to see how liability will play a role.

Peace

Umpire Bob,

I don't wear a watch or jewelry because I don't want to ruin my watch and because some jewelry is a safety hazard. If I wanted to wear jewelry or a watch I damn well would. What about the coach's we see that wear 10 lbs of bling and such? Don't the players look to their adult "ROLE MODELS" before looking at us to determine right from wrong? The clinics you talk about that instruct such nonsense must be Little League, right?

As to the liability issue, most associations I know don't carry insurance on the umpires in the first place. We have to buy our own.

We don't wear watches or jewlery other than a wedding ring and the associaton purchases liability insurance that covers all members.

The only struggle we have over this is with one JV umpire who is upset that he can't wear eyebrow rings when he works.

Garth, I think your association is a rarity. I work for 3 different groups and in each on our contracts state.. "no insurance is included".

In my association insurance is covered.

I'm not sure what you classify as a "traditional mask"

Just so there is no confusion - here is the exact FED rule.

ART. 3... The catcher shall wear, in addition to a head protector, a mask with a throat protector, body protector, protective cup (male only), and baseball protective shin guards.

ART. 4... The catcher's helmet and mask combination shall meet the NOCSAE standard. Any helmet or helmet and mask combination shall have full ear protection (dual ear flaps). A throat protector, which is either a part of or attached to the catcher's mask, is mandatory. A throat protector shall adequately cover the throat. The commercially manufactured catcher's head, face and throat protection may be a one-piece or multi-piece design. While in a crouch position, any non-adult warming up a pitcher at any location shall wear a head protector, a mask with a throat protector and a protective cup (male only).

Where on Earth did you hear this? Catcher's haven't been allowed traditional masks w/skull caps for years now.

Semantics
 

Remember our discussion about calling the NO EAR flap helmet prohibited by FED rules a batting helmet?
Do you remember the old LL batting helmets that only protected 3 sides of your head?

Although correct, I do not use the term helmet/mask combo on the ballfield.
I would call that a picture of a new baseball catcher's helmet or, to be politically correct, a fastpitch softball catcher's helmet.
I wore a similar one when I was a 12 year old many many moons ago.
If a catcher's helmet becomes mandatory, I will comply.
If a HSM ever becomes mandatory, I will quit.

It depends on your definition of "traditional." I'm sure Jeff just meant "non-HSM style", not necessarily "skull cap". The tyep as pictured in CoachJM's post are allowed.

Well, the helmet/mask combo CoachJM posted is far from "traditional," IMO.

I would think that if umpires commonly wore this combo that it would still be viewed as a "helmet" by the umpiring community, whereas a mask worn with a hat would be viewed as "traditional."

Alright, traditional for kiddie ball, then. . .
 

but not for "shaving age" players. They have "traditionally" worn the mask/skull cap, or mask/hat backwards combos through the years.

You vigorously and tearfully ask for some people to stop repeating them and then you repeat every one of them! The word MORON comes to mind.