what size wv gold to buy
 

I want to thank you guys for all your help an I have settled on the gold after long thought but the sizing isnt just chest size I see it is coat size and I definatley dont know what mine is I am 5'7" 165lbs and my chest is 40 " but my coast size I am lost lol anyway I have had two different guys about my size they wear two different sizes one small and one M-L I just dont want to be dissapointed with the fit so what size do yo0 guys think

Thanks

Try on before buying
 

The chest protector is designed to cover a number of sizes. The harness straps are adjustable and you adjust them to wrap around fit. After proper adjustment and time, the chest protector should mold to your frame. Like wearing a new stiff product that becomes more comfortable over time.

Perhaps there is a sporting good store nearby. Chances are they only carry one size. Give it a try. If chest size is 40 regular, then size 42 or 44 coat should fit reasonably well. Like shoes, the numbers could be off a size or more but the adjustable harness will make up for any minor difference in size.

Great advice.

Go slightly larger (in this case: M-L).

You need the smaller size that WV came out with last season. You will not need the bigger one. Chris

No there are three sizes:
S-M
M-L
L-XL

The "S-M" size came out last year. Looks like some retailers like Davis and BTL are no longer carrying the Gold for some reason - cant figure out why.

so now I am more confused lol s-m or M-L ? got guys saying both and since I dont live anywhere close to a store that has these so I cant try them on before buying I dont want to order the wrong size

Im slightly larger than you and have the "M-L" size and like it. I would recommend the S-M size for you. Just remember one thing: The vest can & will conform to your body after several wears. So if it feels a little stiff or awkward the first time you put a brand new one on dont worry. My Gold fits like a glove and I cant imagine wearing anything else. I see the S-M size being perfect for you.

I think most guys are saying "Medium" in reference to the M-L size because it is in the middle of the 3 sizes offered...it is the "medium" size compared to the other sizes. Wilson should consider changing it to S, M, & L to avoid confusion I do think.

first off, i wear the wilson gold, and love it, i have been trying too figure that out too, from what i read on these forums, the gold is the most popular of wilsons' hard shells, yet it is getting increasingly harder too find, not that you can't get one, but some suppliers seem too be getting away from it, maybe mr. kirk can chime in here and let us know what he has observed. i know i appreciate his input and why when i finally get my needs list done, ump-attire will get most of my business.

steve

go to zebrasports out of alabama and buy the S-M for $99.00! it's a steal at that price and that is the size you want, we are about the same. you won't be sorry. they only have a couple left and what is the worst that can happen, you get it, put it on and hate it; send it back for a refund, all you are out is the shipping.

Or, sell it on ebay for $100 and have the buyer pay for the shipping.

Or, the most likely scenario: Sell it on ebay for a modest profit. Used golds and platinums go for $120 minimum.

Zebra Sports is no longer in business, as the Wingards grew tired of trying to run two businesses. They will be missed in this market.

that's funny, i just purchased a gold from them for $99 from their website and it is on its way, should arrive on wednesday. they also have a gold listed on ebay right now for $110. sounds like they are still in business to me.

I ordered the s-m from Zebra sports sounds like a good deal to me now on to find me a good mask

thanks guys

okay, now masks are an entirely different animal ... do you want a standard mask or bucket style? double-bar or single? there are tons to choose from. west vest, honigs, all-star, diamond, schutt, etc. i use a west vest mask because that is what i am comfortable with and used to. but the possibilities with masks are endless. if you want a bucket then someone on here will be able to guide you in the right direction. good choice on the protector, let me know what you think of it.

Go ultra-light no matter what you choose. Diamond's new one is a pretty good answer to the titanium at less than half the cost. And the Diamond cage design offers a tab on top for a little extra skull protection. Wilson pads are better, though.

I definatley want a standard mask most I have seen are single bar but a question I did have is the weight on a long day how much difference is one that weighs half a pound more vs one that weighs half a pound less , does that half of a pound add up to equal 10 pounds at the end of the day lol and I heard that low profile masks get more of the impact than the others is there any truth to that

Low profile tends to absorb a between-the-eyes shot more than the rounder traditional profile. A true between-the-eyes shot happens a few times a season, but for the thousands of other pitches, the low-profile definitely helps you track more pitches--especially in the low part of the zone. A slightly off-center shot and the low-profile spins off just like it's supposed to. So for a periodic straight shot, the standard profile gives you slightly better deflection, but takes away some of your view. It's a trade-off.

And if you do choose the silver diamond or a gray titanium, the lighter bars are less distracting than the black bars. Another thing about the weight: Every ounce counts. For the thousands of times that you are not getting hit, the lightweight is a wonderful relief to the neck. And the other benefit is that it's less of a strain on your arm if you peel it off a few hundred times. With the old mask, I used to have a sore arm the day after a game. Now, I don't. I never even thought of that benefit.

The $200 is a tough swallow when you start out, I know, but comfort and visibility should count for a lot.

Diamond silver= One game fee (H.S.)
All-Star titanium= Two game fees
Wilson titanium= Two and a half game fees

That's the way I justify gear purchases.

thanks for the info I have been thinking about the diamond but you among others say the pads arent all that good I was curious if you replace them and if so with what or just use them

I love the calfskin wraparound pads that come with the Wilson titanium, and I was able to acquire two sets of backup pads from private parties.

The only ones I have seen available online that are similar are these:

http://www.btlofficialsgear.com/catI...C131_large.jpg

The first time I upgraded my pads on my regular Wilson, I upgraded to these, which are all doeskin. The calfskin/vinyl two-tones above are slightly lighter.

http://www.btlofficialsgear.com/catI...C483_large.jpg

You can order the Wilsons here:

http://www.btlofficialsgear.com/deta...&category=1471

Wilson leather wrap-arounds are the best I have tried at absorbing blows.