You know you have too much . . .

[Rich]

Originally Posted by Kevin Finnerty

You can't put it any better than that. It's so true. A real junkie never sells or gives away or discards the stuff he has left when he upgrades. He also never stops upgrading. I absolutely love gearing up and I feel I must look and be as sharp and well-equipped as possible when I go out there. So it takes a helluva lot of gear and uniforms.

I am just the opposite. I used to buy and buy and buy and I now look at what I need (or want) and make sure I really need (or want) it.

This basketball season I bought 2 shirts. That's it. Oh, and a pack of inflation needles. I have so many whistles, for example, I could work another 30 years and never run out.

[aschramm]

Don't want to turn this thread into a product review thread, but I'm looking for a new chest protector for spring. This is my second year and last year I bought a used one from my association which is similar to the Honig's K5C

(Honig's Whistle Stop Online Store - Products)

which is a soft protector, just a little more protection than a catchers vest. I'm looking at either the Wilson Platinum or the Wilson "W" or "WV". The difference in price is approximately 1.5 game fees for me. I'm leaning toward the Platinum, but would like a few opinions. Feel free to send me a private message if you want to keep it out of the thread. Thanks!

Edit: I did mostly 14 y/o and under last year, but am looking to get more JV games this year (next year a few varsity, etc). And while my current vest did a decent job, even in a few 14U games I took some solid shots to it and definitely felt it.

[Kevin Finnerty]

I am 6' even and about 205-210, and the Platinum covers beautifully. I have heard the same from guys as small as 175, and as large as 250. And if you do H.S. varsity and below, you will never feel a thing with this vest. It really protects. Make sure you wear a wicking undershirt, because it is not cool, but otherwise, it's very comfortable.

The original one that Wilson still offers has the arm protection like the Honig's, and it runs about $50-60.00 less than the Platinum:



But the new Platinum is worth every penny. It's the best one I've worn out of two Wilsons, a Diamond and a Honig's

[bossman72]

I have the MLU and have had it for 5 yrs. Best protector at the price that it is. (usually around 80)

[Kevin Finnerty]

I have a rebuilt shoulder, so I don't care what the price is, but for those who do ...

[Rcichon]

won't be disappointed with the WV. Bought mine two years ago (or so) after a season when I had several foul shots glance off the top of my shoulder.

For me, the WV was an excellent investment. After several shots each year after the purchase, I have yet to feel a painful shot under this vest.

FWIW.

[bossman72]

Just wondering...

What REALLY is the difference between the original WV, gold, and platinum?

From the looks of things, it seems like they would all protect equally as well...