Gear

[grunewar]

You'll probably get a lot of differing answers for this one. Much is personal preference. Trial and error. Good and bad experiences. May want to see if you can find a local official or two and check out their gear for quality and sizing, etc. That said, there's a good many on-line stores to choose from - Official's Choice, Honigs, Refshop, etc.

PS - welcome to the Forum and our avocation. Good luck!

[JRutledge]

Shirt--Any that is comfortable. Probably stay away from buying the polyester fabric type.

Pants--Sansabelt is the best IMO. But there are other quality types. Buy beltless and have them hemmed by a tailor or someone you know.

Shoes--Totally personal preference. Just try to get as much black on them as possible. Listen to what is even acceptable in your area as it is hard to find all-black shoes and what is available might not be comfortable. Also consider as much leather on them as a starting point. But as stated check your local listings.

Most importantly, only order from an official's outlet store (Honigs, Gerry Davis Sports, Official's Call, Purchase Officials) that is online or you can call them. Do not go get stuff form a local sporting good store or try to save a few extra dollars by getting a black pair of pants at Wal-Mart or Target. The only thing you can buy at one of those stores are shoes as shoes are often about availability and style that sometimes you cannot get everywhere at the same time. Otherwise go to those stores listed and you can get a lot of the same type of stuff and brands if you look over their inventory.

Peace

[HokiePaul]

Before spending any money, you should check with the association or scheduler you will be working with. You don't want to buy something only to find out that you won't be allowed to use for the games you are planning to work.