Warning: Equipment Thread Inside - Plate Gear
 

First of all, I apologize in advance because I know some folks don't care too much for equipment threads but I hadn't seen one in a while so I figured it was time to get a new one going for this year. :)

I am considering taking up fastpitch again (not sure if that is in addition to or in lieu of SP) and would like to get an idea as to what folks are using for their plate gear. Going through my equipment, it looks like I definitely need to replace my chest protector and shin guards. I have a double bar mask that would probably be fine but I need new pads (I currently have tan/black :o).

So, what does everyone recommend I look at in regard to gear? What should I avoid?

This is my chest protector. This is my facemask...not the lightest around but really light when compared to the old school ones. I cannot show you my shinguards, as about a year ago the company that makes them (BodyGuard Products) inexplicably and without warning went out of business. However, they are the UmpShins, and even though I know that they have their detractors, I really like them because of their adjustability to an individual's size.

Last season I bought the same Pro Nine chest protector that Scott did. I really do love it. When I first put it on it seemed a little bulky, but after wearing it a few times it doesn't seem that bulky. I didn't take any real high velocity shots to it, but the ones I did take, seemed like it absorbed them really well. I can't wait to use it for the College season this Spring. Dave

Sorry, man, but reading your post made me think of this.

For equipment information you can try: The Official Forum - Search Forums

Thank you for the responses so far. Scott, I remember the ump shins and The UMP. Several guys I worked with swore by them and they seemed like pretty solid products. Do you feel it much when you take a hard shot while wearing the Pro9? How's the collar bone protection?

Michael, thanks for the suggestion. I had picked through some older threads on equipment and just wanted to see if anybody had any new opinions. :)

Thanks again!

Monty

I use the baseball version of The Ump shin guards - they take a hard shot much better than the softball version.
I use the Pro-9 when I'm working men's, D1, or D2 ball. I've even used it a time or 2 in legion ball. I got the Pro-9 after taking one off the top of the shoulder when using The Ump - and I felt that a lot more than I want to. With the shoulder caps on the Pro-9, I haven't felt any. I've taken a foul off the chest with the Pro-9 and didn't feel it at all.
For youth ball, I use the Schutt chest protector or D3.

I use honigs shin guards and a cheapo chest protector, so I'm also in the market soon for a chest protector. I am considering the:
Schutt - Schutt Sports: Umpire's Gear - Kool-Chest Protector
I think Schutt has a great appearance under the uniform.

ProNine (already mentioned)
and the Honigs K2 (which I really like but am scared of) -
Honig's Whistle Stop Online Store - Products

For the studly 18's or Mens FP or baseball I use a tried and true West Vest and Gerry Davis Shin Guards.

I use a heavier older wilson mask than these feather weight new fangled masks but I've taken a bat to the face with it and I'm still kicken so I'm sticking with it, so no recommendations for you there.

The collarbone protection is the best I have ever found. You always feel a hard shot, of course, to some extent, but it is much better with this chest protector that any previous one I have worn. Another thing about the Pro-9, for the protection that you get, it is a great value. After having one, I can never see using another CP myself.

Hah!! :D