Additional Notes from Umpire Committee

[Tru_in_Blu]

Originally Posted by NCASAUmp

Ump-Attire.com does have the shoe you're probably referring to, and it's "all black" (not really). By "all black," they mean that the logo only has the silver border, but the big MLB logo is still on the tongue and on the back of the shoe.

That's why I have Sharpies.

I recently received a mailing with the New Balance shoes, both field and plate. I agree that despite the description, the shoe is not all black, although the field shoe is moreso than the plate shoe. As you mention, the MLB logo is on the tongue and heel of the shoe.

Given that, I think ASA and NFHS should provide some latitude for its umpires so we have a bit more to choose from. I don't like the idea of having to either remove or color in a part of the shoe that isn't completely black. Seems a bit tacky to have to do that if you've found a shoe you're comfortable in.

I have a pair of NB field shoes that are mid-cut that I've enjoyed. Unfortunately, they have a big white "N" on the sides of the shoe, so I only wear them doing wreck league games. I don't use them for high school or tournament games. They are wearing out, so I might consider the NB field shoe, despite the white logos.