Hockey-style mask, et al?

[Dakota]

Occasionally, this topic comes up, and tends to divide into the traditionalists, the sanctioning body apologists, and the use the best technolgy advocates.

Such a discussion recently happened on the NFHS board, which caused me to ask (in jest), if we are seeking the best protection technology has to offer, why stop with just the hockey-style mask / helmet?

For the "benefit" (?) of those of you who do not frequent the NFHS board, here is a peek (courtesy of some crude photoshoping) at the future of umpiring once all of us hidebound traditionalists get out of the way...

[CelticNHBlue]

There is no way s/he gets to that calling position on that play with that equipment. I don't care if it's 3-man in an over 80 rec league, you just ain't gettin' there. However, the blocker could be useful in dealing with coaches...

[wadeintothem]

There are a few fields where I'd wear it, just because of dangerous backstop desig.

I just can't find one that is more comfy than my old faithful and I've tried on several.

Nothing local prevents me from wearing one if I choose too.