new chest protector

[Tru_in_Blu]

I've reviewed old threads on this topic looking for inputs. Also did some research online for various ideas as well.

Today I pulled the trigger on 2 different CPs.

First is the Champro Umpire Gear Champro Pro-Plus Umpire Chest Protector for $60. This is a soft shell version.

Second is the Wilson Umpire Gear Wilson MLB West Vest Gold Umpire Chest Protector for $153. This is a hard shell version.

Both are coming from Ump-Attire. The attraction with this site is that they offer free shipping and free return shipping. This allows me to try on both items and return one or both at no cost.

I'll probably end up keeping either one or the other, but not both. My "the Ump" finally wore out after 11 years. It was basically the strapping that gave out and the CP wouldn't stay in the right spot. It would slip down exposing m lower neck and collar bone areas. So it's time to move on from that. I think I paid $99 for it back in 2006. Honig's lists it on their site, but claims it is in limited supply and the sizing was listed as either "R" or "S". Not knowing what that meant, I called Honig's and was on hold for 15 minutes before being directed to a voice-mail. I left my information, but didn't hear back from them. So I moved to other options.

Anyone in here use either of the above models? Comments appreciated.

[MT 73]

The hard shell is a little overkill for softball.
Do you also umpire baseball?
I have used The Platinum vest for baseball and it comfortable and going strong after 9 seasons.

[Skahtboi]

After working my way through many chest protectors I really think the Pro 9 is the best for softball. However, if you are set on using Ump Attire for the supplier, I didn't see one on there.

[ASA/NYSSOBLUE]

Originally Posted by Skahtboi

After working my way through many chest protectors I really think the Pro 9 is the best for softball. However, if you are set on using Ump Attire for the supplier, I didn't see one on there.

In my 'Gear earned it's keep today' post below, I describe the shots my Pro 9 took, and it's a good 10 years old now....

[shipwreck]

I also have had the Pro 9 for about 10 years. Love it.