equipment

[mbyron]

A good rule with respect to buying equipment: Decide the highest level of ball you expect to be working in the next 10 years. Buy the kind of equipment used by the guys in your association who do that level.

If you expect to be working HS varsity or up in that time frame, then I would by a West Vest (gold or platinum), a mask or helmet that costs more than $100, and Davis or Honigs shins.

And: don't forget plate shoes. I picked up a pair of New Balance 450s last offseason for under $100.

It's a lot of money up front for officiating, but (a) it's tax deductible, and (b) it's cheaper than a new head.