Quick uniform question

[stoutat]

I'm a super green brand spankin new starting official. That being said, I need some advice on a shirt

I got a Smitty shirt to start with, not crazy about it. Shopping around, I've come across mainly Smitty, Honig and Keen. Thoughts? I'd like to get a "tall" size as I'm a big guy, so it stays tucked in. It appears that Honig is the only one that offers said size. Not sure if I'm correct or not. Also need some good shoes to start with. Are the 623's decent or should I go for something else? Thanks in advance!!!

[bob jenkins]

I wear the NB623 as one of the pairs in my rotation. I like the sizing options but the shoe can be a bit slippery at times (more so with a pair I have from a couple of years ago).

Many will steer you to the Reebok Zigs, but they don't fit me.

You can try tucking your shirt in your compression shorts, or buying a rubber belt, or getting pants with a rubberized inside waistband.

[stoutat]

Thanks! I'm going with some light weight slacks I had already for pants as I don't see a huge difference between those and the official, well, official pants. I've seen officials with belts and without as well, does it really matter?

[bob jenkins]

Originally Posted by stoutat

Thanks! I'm going with some light weight slacks I had already for pants as I don't see a huge difference between those and the official, well, official pants. I've seen officials with belts and without as well, does it really matter?

Depends on your area and what level you aspire to do. Beltless is always (?) acceptable; belts might or might not be. So, given a choice, ....

The belt I was talking about goes over your shirt, under your pants -- to keep the shirt tucked in.

[stoutat]

Right, the flex belt if I'm not mistaken. I'll probably grab one of those as well. I appreciate the input!

[jTheUmp]

Regular black dress slacks will work for someone just starting out... but, IMHO, it'll be well worth the investment in a pair of actual officiating pants.

I can understand not wanting to spend the money on them initially, but if it was me, I'd use one of my early game checks on a good pair of pants.

As for shoes, buy a pair that are comfortable for you. If you're wearing ill-fitting shoes, it'll be nothing but a distraction (or worse, lead to injury).

[Stat-Man]

Originally Posted by stoutat

Right, the flex belt if I'm not mistaken. I'll probably grab one of those as well. I appreciate the input!

I received the rubberized flex belt with my starter pack last year and not even a year (and 12 game dates) later, it's already showing signs of wear and cracks in the rubber. So, I just ordered and received Honig's Ultimate Velcro belt. My next games aren't until this weekend, but I tried it on already and love it. It's easier to get on/off. And, I'm hoping it last longer as well.

[BillyMac]

Originally Posted by stoutat

I've seen officials with belts and without as well, does it really matter?

It doesn't matter one iota here in my little corner of Connecticut, but, take it from one of the few Forum members, maybe the only Forum member, who wears a belt, check your local listings. When in Kansas do what Kansan officials do.