Ok guys...been wearing low cut Nile refin shoes. So far this season, I've worked a respectable 37 games, all 3rd - 9th.

My problem: My ankles are killing me I think because my 20+ years of playing hoops I wore 3/4 cut. Anyone out there wear 3/4 cut shoes to ref? I saw them somewhere on line and of course I've seen Refs doing Rec games in shorts wearing 3/4s. One of my assignors said I had to "wear the shoes" so if there is an "approved pair" out there, I sure would like to hear about it.

Larks - Old Refs never die....they keep low cuts in style!

I wear the Converse Whistle Mids. Very comfy and good ankle support. I'm on my second season with them and all I had to do was put new insoles in them. As far as an approved pair of shoes. Black is the only requirement that I know of. Find something black and comfy cuz working games with sore feet isn't much fun. And of course, whatever you buy, keep em nice and polished.

If your assignor has said to wear those shoes, you had better do it.

But, I recall converse making a 3/4 whistle. Don't know if they still do.

converse all star whistle patent leather shoes, all the way!

They do. My partner just bought a pair.


Love to have'em. Can't find'em. :(

Got a friend who sells them! $79.99, got a pair, love em! E-mail me and i will give you the number

hick partner
 

My problem is, my partner is a hick and won't buy a pair, so I am left looking a little odd in my shiny shoes!

[Edited by Doug on Jan 2nd, 2002 at 08:56 PM]

There are websites out there w/ Patent leather shoes....
 

Here are a couple:

http://www.refereestore.com/basketba...ball_shoes.htm

http://www.theofficialschoiceinc.com/catalog

I ordered mine from the officials choice, took me almost 2 months to get them, (after many phone calls, asking where they were) and they were overnighted at a $10 extra charge, still haven't figured that one out. The shoes are great, the service is just poor. A better alternative is Ralph Sirmons, sells the same shoes with much better service. If you are interested, I can give you his e-mail and phone number. From my expierence, the officials choice is not the way to go.

If you want mid-cut All-Star Whistles, they are available for $65/pair on that "other" discussion board - http://www.gmcgriff.com/refonline/ then click on the "equipment" link at the top of the page.

I would add Parson's Officials Supply (POS) to your list of online companies to stay away from if you think you may need to return something. It took nearly two months after I returned an item before it was actually credited to my credit card.

Re: There are websites out there w/ Patent leather shoes....
 

I got my patent leather Whistles from theofficialschoice. Awesome customer service and prompt shipping.

I highly recommend them!