Thinking about transitioning...
 

So lately, I've been paying a little more attention to the FP-related threads. Why? Well, I'm thinking of getting a CP, mask and some shin guards and making the switch over. Maybe not 100%. SP will always be near and dear to my heart (considering I've done it for over 18 years), but I'd like to make myself a little more useful to my assignor if he's ever in a pinch, especially since there are some fields that are almost within walking distance of my house.

That being said, anyone got any suggestions for a good CP and mask for a first-timer? Let's not worry about the price tag - if I make the transition, I'm going to get the right gear right away.

So if I screw up on a FP ruling here, please be gentle. It's my first time. ;)

If I muck up a SP ruling here, then definitely flame away. :D

2morrow I'll go out to the car & give you brands I use.

Can you send me a private message because I'd like to get back into ASA moved to N Carolina from Colo. & who to call or just post it here.

thanks

Sure, no problem! Welcome to NC! We'll talk via PM...

I can only tell you what I have, and what I think of it.

I have the Wilson so-called "new view" mask from about 5-6 years ago. It is a good, lightweight mask. Good protection, good view. You have to get used to pulling it off, because it is "flatter" than a normal mask. There are newer masks now that are lighter still that this one, but I have no reason or desire to replace it.

I have the Honig's K2. It provides excellent shoulder and sternum protection, but the side of the chest and belly is essentially unprotected. It is great for hot weather, but I probably wouldn't buy it again due to the lack of chest side and belly protection.

I have the Gerry Davis shin guards from about 5-6 years ago. Excellent protection, including the knee caps, relatively cool in hot weather, easy on-easy off, crappy fit. "Crappy fit" means they are too wide and won't stay on straight. Too wide - the sides kind of flare out, which means you really need full plate pants to wear them; they will be tight even under so-called combo pants. Making this "feature" worse, the guards have only two straps to hold them on, which does make them easy to get on and off, but it does not hold them securely so they tend to rotate to the side. You have to continually straighten them out, because if you don't, your knee-cap protection is seriously compromised - you can figure out how I know this. I wouldn't buy them again.

Good luck on the tansition! I came over tp FP at the high school level as well as ASA and have enjoyed it very much.

The great thing about fast pitch is that you dont have to deal with the intoxicated adults on the field in slow pitch. I still do slow pitch every week and I see somrting new evey time.

The only thing is now the drunk people are in the stands and they are looking at a college scolaship for their babies on every pitch...LOL

It is fun and I am sure you will enjoy it.

Good luck

Oh, I'm "deaf" to the other side of the fence. Been doing this too damn long to pay any attention to what's behind me, or to care about what they say. I've had other umpires try to get my attention from behind the fence, only to have to repeat my name 50 times before I realize, "oh, someone's behind me." :D

Some of it is just my desire to "mix it up" a little, some of it is my desire to get away from the "AA Leagues," but some of it is also to help out my assignor, who has been phenomenally and outrageously good to me.

Plus, damn it, I just love this sport! :D

I have the Diamond DFM-PRO mask, the Diamond DLG-UXS shin guards and the Honigs K2 chest protector. I also use the New Balance 450 Plate shoes; Honigs has them on sale for $69 right now. I am comfortable in JO and HS ball with this equipment, although I am considering going to the Honigs ZG chest protector for a little more protection. The chest protector has been a great compromise between the Texas heat and working many games on the weekends, during the summer. The mask, shin guards and shoes are great and I do not have any plans of using anything different. I have used this set up for about three years now and it works for me. Good Luck.

I just got the Honigs ZG chest protector and like it alot, but, think the harness could be a little better and its rather large in the shoulders. I typically wear a large shirt on the bases and an XL over my older Diamond blanket style cp, but the XL is stretched pretty tight over the ZG. Probably going to have to get 2XL shirts for it.

Also just got a new Wilson mask. Its the WTA3009X and got it with the black/tan leather pads. Like it alot, although I did have a tendency to yank my hat off for a couple of weeks. Took some getting used to after my old mask.

Shin guards I have yet to find a set I like. I have some Diamonds that are OK, but they are pretty wide especially at the knee and have a tendency to roll around my legs. Tried some newer Diamonds with a double knee and thigh cap, but cant stand them. The thigh cap rubs the top of my thighs raw now matter what I do with them.

I know a few guys that wear the K2 protector, in fact I have one, but wont wear it. I have taken some good hits through my blanket protector in areas the K2 wouldnt cover. Had a partner in a HS game a few weeks back that got hit just below the K2 on first pitch of game and was out of action for a few minutes.

One thing I'd recommend getting is a set of full length UnderArmour heat gear tights (or an equivalent manufacturer) to wear while working the plate. They keep the shin guards from chafing your legs and they help keep you cool(er) by wicking the sweat away from your legs.

Not sure if you wear a cup while working slow pitch but one of those are essential as well.

I've been eying up the Honig's Zero Gravity CP as well. It is on sale right now also.

Now is actually a good time to pick up gear as Honig's has a lot of it on sale.

Mask: Wilson 3009X - Nice compromise between the ridiculously priced titaniums, and he cheaper heavier masks. I had a the classic 3080 before, and I like the padding on this one better.

CP - Have the Pro nine CPU-B works just fine for 18U FP - not too bulky, protects, and comfy as all heck

Leg guards - The Gerry Davis DavisShins - perfect for FP: light weight, EXREMELY comfortable and light, but yet will take a beating...Davis also makes a nice oversized ball bag that will hold three softballs with ease.

I'm good on the cup. Shock Doctor carbon fiber. Definitely solid protection.

Good call on the Under Armour. I wear their ASA shirt under my powder blues, and wouldn't go on the field without it.

nothing like a nutty buddy.

I use the K98 with microfiber pads from Honigs and their ZG chest protector. The K98 is super light the microfiber pads are awesome against my face. The only thing I have had problems with is getting the ZG to stay put. I finally used some electrical tape to keep the straps where they needed to be and now it fits well and stays where it needs to be.

Those K2 chest protectors kind of freak me out. It just doesn't seem like there's enough there to give me peace of mind. I go to the opposite end of the scale and wear the Wilson Platinum. I'd rather be over-protected that not protected enough. It's very comfortable to me and as far as being "hotter", if it's hot out you're going to be hot no matter what you have on.

Shoes
 

Definately LOVE my Tanel plate shoes. I bought an extra pair to save until needed just in case they change them in the future. I believe they are as light weight as any plate shoe and as to comfort - one absolutely could wear them on the bases or ever to church. Actually, I should say around the house because they fit like slippers. I also wear the Tanel base shoe.

This weekend I was thinking about posting this as FYI, but this thread seemed appropriate...

I use the same mask and shingaurds for fastpitch as I do in @#%%ball. Both are Diamond the mask being the light weight model.

Fit and comfort are tops for my choice. I use the Schutt Comfort chest protector for that reason. Some don't use a CP (one guy frequents here). Those aren't being macho, just their decision and trade off of need vs comfort.

Another item that has not been addressed (and where I trade comfort for need) is the plate shoes. I wear the same shoes behind the plate that I do on base. Just haven't found a comfortable pair. I have been hit in the foot and it does sting, but because of the size of the softball vs a baseball the force is spread over a larger area. You may not want to chance it, so look into plate shoes.

My wife found and uses a pair of steel toed Skechers (sp?) and loves them. I have yet to find them in my size.

If you can find an equipment store and try stuff on, or try on some of your friends stuff you may be better able to choose.

You will want new kees after your first couple of games! Can't help you there! Hope you enjoy the fastpitch side. It can be fun.

See above post. Tanel, hands down..

I bought a pair of Tanel plate shoes about five years ago and really liked them. After about four seasons (I would estimate somewhere in the neighborhood of 200 plate games), despite taking good care of them they really began to show their age. The surface finish began peeling and cracking in spots, the metatarsal guards started to rip loose at the seam where they are sewn on, they have heavy wear and cracking at the "hinge" where your foot bends right next to the steel toe box and a couple of the eyelets where you lace them up ripped out.

Normal wear and tear? I don't know. Maybe 200 games is just the life expectancy for these shoes. They look good and feel great when they're newer. Even my well-worn Tanels look pretty decent with a good polishing and I keep them in my bag in case I wind up on a muddy field.

Last year I bought a pair of the new Rebok plate shoes and love them. I guessing about 50-60 games on them so far and no apparent wear issues. To me, these feel like a pair of tennis shoes, really comfortable and excellent protection. One issue "ASA-wise"...they do have white lettering on the heel and a while logo (about 1" square) on the tongue. I may try to black those out if I find a good way to do it. The old magic marker routine can look pretty cheesy if the white still bleeds through.

A possible tip for prolonged life. I do not use the liquid "polish" with the foam applicator brush like many do. I keep them polished with "real" Kiwi polish in the tin and only when really needed. I always keep them clean, but they may not have a super glossy "shine." I think the liquid stuff contributes to drying out.

Also, weight was important to me. My Tanels weigh 2 lbs 14 oz for the pair of size 11s.

ps - Not in any way knocking your choice of Reboks. Its most important for the individual to be happy with his/her choice. Thats why there are choices out there. My son loves his HEAVY New Balances....

I definitely plan on getting the NB 450s. I had the 350s during the short time they were out, and I LOVED them. I could call games all day in them, and if that's any indication of how the 450s will perform, I'm all in.

I also only use Kiwi polish on my shoes every night. I've never had a pair dry out on me, and I can get them to a good shine in short order (<10 minutes per pair).

You also might want to check with the FP guys in your local association. I'm sure that between them they're all using many of the CP, mask, shin guard, and plate shoe brands already mentioned. It would provide you the opportunity to not only get their opinion on the gear they use, but also allow you the opportunity to see and feel up close the weight, durability, protective qualities, and style of the equipment.
Welcome to FP....good luck with your first season.

I have been wondering who has been using my equipment......


I have the same CP and mask.

However, for shin guards I am still using the Ump-Shin, a product that I wish I could still get.

Yeah, I've tried them but my feet would work well for a duck!

It's hard to find shoes that fit over swim fins.

I always do squats before the season, sets of 10 3 times a day, up to sets of 25-30 for about 2 weeks.

The Tanel plate shoe's toe box is too cramped for my foot. The steel cuts into the top of my foot when I bend my foot at the toes to walk. I even went to the Tanel HQ and tried on several different sizes from their warehouse... no dice. IMO, they tried to make it look too much like a sneaker, keeping the toe box too short (top to bottom) so the shoe doesn't "look" big.

For the CP I use the Pro Nine and love it. For plate shoes I have the New Balance 450's and also love them. They are a little heavy but not too bad. Dave

Actually, I do get into the slot and get into the set position, even in SP. Granted, it's not NEARLY as low as, say, on a 10U batter, but for a 6' guy like myself, I can take it. The knees are just fine, and I've already got a pretty wide stance that I feel very comfortable with.

Maybe not macho, but stupid. Wonder how much comfort they will get from a solid shot in the sternum. I've seen that stop a heart (in a player). On-site EMT on another team/another field is the only reason that guy lived.

I've had my ump shins for about 10 years, and I will be sad the day I have to replace them. I have taken some rather hard shots on them (missed pitches, foul balls, etc); they still are worth the price I paid. I saw that Shutt makes a similar design (with the plastic clips rather than then metal, I think they are "comfort lite" or something like that -- anyone use these?)

I just bought to mid top Reebok plate shoes - most comfortable (between Gerry Davis and NB 450). Well worth the price (even if the white is hard to cover.

The shock doctor cup is also great, and unfortunately "field tested" a few weeks ago (that was not my decision).

Shutt Kool vest is a great FP chest protector, however that might be going out of production. Field tested on the collar bone (again, that wasn't my decision). I wear it for all FP, including men's.

I have a shutt mask, but I see the Diamond in my future. My shutt is vinyl coated and is cracking; the Diamond is "powder coated" which I see as the best selling point (well, and the weight).

Equip Chest Protector - Davis by Wilson Mod # A3290 BLA13
Shoes Spotbilt
Mask - Schutt mod #SCM-CL
Shin guards - Champpro Air tech system mod #CG04

umpshins
 

umpshins

Ump Shins UMP20 with Umpfoot

OK, maybe this topic deserves HTBT or HTBH ! :) :p

D'oh!!! The posting has already expired.

Well, I just placed my orders with Honig's and Ump-Attire, so I should have my gear here shortly. I still need a good CP and new pair of plate pants, but I'm gonna be set.

Thanks for all the good words of advice and encouragement, all!

You're moving up in life, Dave!

Now, if we could just get you working some baseball, then your mama really would have something to be proud about.

:D:D:D:D:D

My wife damn near flipped over the cost of the new gear. I don't think she'll approve me getting MORE gear (new pants, new shirts, etc.). :eek: :D

So has anyone tried the Diamond iX3 CP? I'm looking at that, as well as the aforementioned Pro Nine.

Dont know about either of those. One other I tried and can say to stay away from is the Allstar CPU28pro. It sounds good and looks like it would be cooler, but it binds you up so badly that you cant life your arms without pinching your neck and its is virtually impossible to get a shirt on over it. I wore it one game and immediatly sent it back.

I have a generic Diamond IX3 and use it for every game I work.

http://forum.officiating.com/softbal...-first-me.html

Take a look at my thread from last night ^ the Pro 9 definitely did its job for me....

After seeing an interview with Chaz Bono last night, it kind of put the term "transitioning" in a whole new light... :rolleyes:

There are just so many ways this could go right now, I will do the safe thing.

Talk about beer.

You have my attention.

Did you have the 4" abdomen extension?

No

Ah... If I get the Pro 9, I'm thinking of getting it at the same time. Might not use it right away, but I'd rather have it and not need it than the other way around.

The Diamond IX3 comes with it by default, which is what makes it a little more attractive.

On a related note, my shin guards, mask and plate shoes should be waiting for me on my doorstep when I get home today. :D

NB450s, Pro 9 shin guards, and Diamond iX3 Feather Weight mask.

Just a little help on the Pro Nine CP. The little flap that goes under the shoulder cap, likes to move out from where it should be and it sticks up when you raise your arm. Just stick that little flap underneath the body of the CP. Works great. Dave

Went with the Pro Nine CP with all the trimmings. Better to have and not need than the other way around.

I bought the Pro9 two years ago....love it.

I did buy the extension, but I am 6' 7" tall and didn't want my belly exposed...If that was case, I would have just kept the Honig's K2!

Even though I have ample natural padding, I was just tired of getting hit in areas the K2 didn't cover.

Over time, it gets better, I have noticed. I had that problem a lot when mine was new, now it only happens once in a while.

I sure do like mine. Really not as hot as it looks. Dave

As do I. And I wear mine in the Texas heat!

^^^^
This is what I need to know!

NC doesn't get AS hot as TX, but it does get pretty damn hot and humid. The last thing I want is to get cooked under my CP if a better option is available.

There is always this option. One of our forum members that I know of has one for sure, and another used to sell them if he still doesn't. I, personally, don't know how well they work.

Of course, I swear by the P9.

I looked at the Schutt when I purchased my Pro9...I'm in Phoenix, so heat is a big concern here as well as some of those other places....

The XXL size just wasn't big enough for me, so that kind of stopped the evaluation process right there.

I was told by a couple of people that had this protector that the ice packs worked fine until it got to about 90 degrees, after that they were pretty much melted away after the second inning. Around here, 90 degrees is mid-May, still a long hot summer to go after that....

You don't have a cooler next to your kitchen timer on the fence? :D

starxm07 reported