Need New Shin Guards

[David B]

Originally Posted by jkumpire

I did some shopping on the internet yesterday, and it is discouraging.

It seems that the number of manufacturers making umpire guards are very, very few.

Tons of people sell one of the two flavors of WV guards. All Star used to make umpire guards, which surprises me because I never saw them before yesterday. Diamond makes them in several different flavors, but I have never liked their equipment. Pro Nine makes them, and the there are the ultra light weight Davis model.

It seems that two or three other makers who used to have good ones don't make them any more. I am half tempted to make my own, as some guy on umpire.org is doing with building a new chest protector( http://www.umpire.org/modules.php?na...ewtopic&t=7072 ).

As to hockey shins, I have never found a pair long enough for me to use, and some guys who have used them say they are not meant for Baseball umpiring. If there are more than just one or two who have used them I would be interested in your experience.

Look at the Gerry Davis model that he designed. Bought several years ago and its great. Only two straps but holds very well, have recommended to several others who have also liked the guard.

And the price is not bad either for a good quality piece.

Thansk
DAvid

[ASA/NYSSOBLUE]

Originally Posted by David B

Look at the Gerry Davis model that he designed. Bought several years ago and its great. Only two straps but holds very well, have recommended to several others who have also liked the guard.

And the price is not bad either for a good quality piece.

Thansk
DAvid

I will second that - the Davis leg guards are very comfortable, and last. The protect well for FP softball, and can imagine they do as well for BB....

[MajorDave]

I also have Gerry Davis by Wilson. Comfortable-only two straps on the lower leg so no chafing behind the knee. Do not ride up. I got hit with a foul ball at college level showcase this past sunday right on knee cap and did not feel a thing. I cut the ankle guards off today while cleaning them and getting packed for International Umpires Camp in Atlanta this weekend. I wear NB 450 high top plate shoes so the extra ankle padding was superflous. Price is right at around $50 bucks or so. I am 5'9" and wear the 17.5 inch size. I use GD stance and I put my hands on top of knee/thigh and rest them behind the knee cap protector. Thus, no foul balls to the knuckles/metacarpals. Works for me.

My two cents, your mileage may vary.