Douglas Vest

RAC · #1 (**permalink**) Mon Apr 01, 2002, 02:22pm

I would like to know if anyone has used the Douglas chest protector. I would like to know how it fits.

Thanks,

johnSandlin · #2 (**permalink**) Mon Apr 01, 2002, 07:02pm

Rac,

I use the West Vest which is just a step up from the Douglas Vest. I absolutely LOVE the West Vest. It is made by Douglas, but it is a great piece of equipment. I have taken a few "quality shots" off the protector and have barely felt them. Both the West Vest and the Douglas Vest are two great investments.

Doug · #3 (**permalink**) Mon Apr 01, 2002, 09:32pm

west vest all the way man!!

etbaseball · #4 (**permalink**) Tue Apr 02, 2002, 02:05am

RAC -

I've worn out my 'Douglas' West Vest that I bought in 1996. Wilson I believe bought the rights to manufacture the protector few years ago and now promotes several different models of the West Vest. I recently purchased the new 'platinum' model from Gerry Davis (Wilson's price on this is reportedly about $25 less) and it cost about $160. I really like it; the protection is second to none. Check it out before you commit to any other.

ENelson · #5 (**permalink**) Wed Apr 03, 2002, 10:20am

I have had my Douglas for 3 years now. For the previous 14 years I used the old Randy Marsh Chest Protector.

At first it took a while to adjust. I am now sold on the Douglas huge. The difference in West and Douglas is minimal. The good thing is Douglas is here in Houston and the refurbish the straps and velcro for $25. I can stop by and get it back in a day or two.

West is done by Wilson and they are made out of the country. Not the best quality.

I took a foul lasy night in the collar bone. I managed to take it without a flinch. It is so intimidating to take the 90+ mile an hour hit and stay solid.

etbaseball · #6 (**permalink**) Wed Apr 03, 2002, 08:03pm

Hey Guys ...

I just purchased the new 'platinum' model of the WV for about $160. It's terrific, even better than the Douglas that I've worn out since '95. With the newer models you don't have to mess with the velcro, repositioning etc. Everything is pretty much locked into position. The platinum, I feel, offers better protection under the throat as well as accross the shoulders. I'm feeling very well protected behind the plate, don't even think about taking a missed caught ball or a foul tip. I recommend the 'platinum' highly. "hit me with your best shot!"

Mark Pierce · #7 (**permalink**) Thu Apr 04, 2002, 09:24am

RAC,
I have used the Douglas Vest the past 4 seasons and I like it very much. I have the 13" length and it fits me(48 reg) very well. The collar bone and shoulders are well protected. If I were in the market for a new vest I would probably look at the new Platinum West Vest. It seems to offer a little more side protection than the Douglas does.

Mark Pierce