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Warning: Cannot modify header information - headers already sent by (output started at [path]/includes/class_core.php:3277) in [path]/external.php on line 865 Umpire-Empire - Umpire Equipment Reviews
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enWed, 08 Sep 2010 12:18:52 GMTvBulletin60http://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/images/blaze/misc/rss.jpgUmpire-Empire - Umpire Equipment Reviews
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Force3 Ultimate Umpire Socks
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Tue, 03 Aug 2010 22:15:38 GMTThis review was originally posted at Midwest Ump (http://midwestump.blogspot.com):
Today Midwest Ump reviews the Force3 Pro Gear Ultimate Umpire...This review was originally posted at Midwest Ump:
Today Midwest Ump reviews the Force3 Pro Gear Ultimate Umpire Socks. Force3 is a new product line from the Jim Evans Academy and the Amateur Baseball Umpires' Association (owned by Jim Evans). Force3 currently offers three products: the Dry-Low Ball Bag, the Ultimate Equipment Bag, and the Force3 Ultimate Umpire Socks available at Jim Evans websites:
The Ultimate Umpire Socks are made from CoolMax, Cotton, and Lycra, and are advertised to keep “your feet at the right temperature no matter if it is cold or hot outside.” Coolmax is a specially engineered polyester that wicks away moisture and has improved breathability compared to natural materials like cotton. The CoolMax fabric is a popular choice in moisture wicking socks. Manufacturers like Champion, Adidas, and Thorlos use CoolMax in their performance socks.
I was sent the Ultimate Umpire Socks to test and review, and I have worn these socks in the Midwest heat and humidity for two months. As an ex-military guy, I wear Thorlo combat boot socks as my umpiring socks, so my standards in reviewing the Force3 Ultimate Umpire Socks are pretty high.
The first thing I noticed about the Ultimate Umpire Socks is the light weight. A pair of Ultimate Umpire Socks weighs a mere 3 ounces, compared to my Thorlos at 4.5 ounces. The Thorlos are quite a bit thicker. The CoolMax fabric in the Ultimate is very cotton-like and soft. There is additional padding on the toe, sole, and heel. A mesh weave to increase air flow is located just behind the toe area and in front of the metatarsal. There are two “compression points” made of a Lycra material at the metatarsal and ankle for support and to prevent bunching. The Ultimate Umpire Socks stretch over my calves and Lycra material located at the top prevent the socks from falling.
The Ultimate Umpire Socks breathe well and the socks do wick moisture away from the foot. They are comfortable even on the hottest days. In comparing the Ultimate to the Thorlos side-by side, the Thorlos are thicker and have a slightly more comfortable sole, but this comfort comes at a price of decreasing airflow. After wearing the Ultimates during hot July games, I consider the Force3 socks cooler than the thicker Thorlos.
The Ultimate Umpire Socks are holding up well after two months of wear. I just toss them into the washer on cold with my shirts and other under garments. Tumble dry on medium heat. The Ultimate Umpire Socks dry quickly and do not hold odor.
At $12.95 these socks are on-par with the Thorlo socks I ordinarily wear. While I have not stopped wearing the Thorlos, I have added the Force3 to my sock rotation. The Force3 Ultimate Umpire Socks are well constructed from a thoughtful design engineered especially for umpires. When it is time for new socks, I will purchase the Force3 socks from Jim Evans.
]]>Umpire Equipment Reviewsmidmoumphttp://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=29640Wilson A9779 Umpire Bag
http://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=25941&goto=newpost
Tue, 22 Jun 2010 06:12:03 GMTFirst off, I would like to thank ump_24 for giving me his own "mini" review. Him and I are somewhat in the same boat: we wanted a quality equipment bag, but price was a factor. Thanks, Chris. I would also like to thank Anessa from Ump-Attire.com for some information and even going into their warehouse to see which version they had.
There are two versions of the bag. The newer version has three compartments (see photo). The right compartment is for shoes. It is vented and I was able to fit my Reebok Field Magistrates and my Reebok Field Magistrate Plate Shoes. This was a pleasant surprise. The middle compartment is for whatever you like. I can fit my Wilson Charcoal 17" guards , my Wilson Platinum chest protector with a bunch of room to spare. The left compartment is lined with fleece. It is the same material that comes with a bag when I purchased my Wilson Shock FX 2.0 and it fits very well.
The older version doesn't have the compartment for the HSM. Non bucket wearers may find this a little more convenient.
Both versions have a clam shell design and I could fit my entire umpire wardrobe with room to spare in the bottom compartment. I keep my shin guards and my CP in the bottom compartment and keep my hats, undershirts, cups, indicators, brushes, lineup wallets, shoe laces, drugs, and gloves in three separate Tupperware boxes in the top middle compartment. If I needed to though, I could carry my apparel in the bottom, but I choose not to. It's easier for me to just hang them up in my car because they get washed so often.
COMPARED TO THE DIAMOND:
My father has the Diamond Ultimate Umpire Gear Bag. The bags are very similar. The Diamond he has measures 36" x 15" x 16" while the Wilson measures 36" x 16" x 16". The Diamond doesn't have the HSM compartment like the newer Wilson model does, it has the same configuration as the old Wilson model. They both came with laundry bags which I find handy. Also, on the flap that covers the middle compartments are different. On the Diamond, there are seven compartments on the flap, and on the Wilson, there is one.
The biggest difference is the material in which they are made. The Diamond is made of 840D Polyester while the Wilson is 600D Polyester. The Diamond definitely feels more durable, but the Wilson certainly doesn't feel flimsy. What the Wilson lacks in the thread count of it's polyester, it gains in price. The Wilson model is $119 from Ump-Attire and the Diamond is $142.
The bag will stay in my car 80% of the time. So, if you are constantly taking your bag in and out spending the extra 20-some-dollars may be a good idea. But if are like me and keep it in your Standard Umpiring Vehicle, you can save a little coin by going with a very nice bag. I like it very much and am kicking myself for not buying this bag sooner.
I'm waiting for a check from Wilson as I have purchased yet another piece of equipment with their huge "W" logo and the MLB logo on it. :hi5:
In a nutshell, this bag is very good. The polyester isn't as durable as the Diamond bag, but I don't see this is being that big of a deal for me. I saved some money and got a great bag that can accommodate EVERYTHING I own. It's the only item in the back of my car and I love it.
I paid the $119.99 + $16 for shipping. International buyers, you may want to shop around to avoid an increase in shipping.
]]>Umpire Equipment Reviewskcfan102http://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=25941PBUC Manual for the Two Umpire System
http://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=23711&goto=newpost
Mon, 31 May 2010 01:01:10 GMTThis should be required reading for every person interested in umpiring. Maybe it is for other associations. I sort of stumbled across it on...This should be required reading for every person interested in umpiring. Maybe it is for other associations. I sort of stumbled across it on another website.
I wish that I had known about and purchased this book 4 years ago when I first got into umpiring seriously. It would have saved me half a season of looking like a complete Noob (The only good thing is I worked mostly solos). Next to my Platinum CP & SGs and my NB450's this is my favorite piece of gear.
This book explains so much about mechanics, postioning and procedures for each and every situation. If you do not have this, I recommend that you get it. I have a NFHS manual and it is no where near as informative or useful. It is also a "peek behind the scenes" of what the expectations are for minor league umpires.
]]>Umpire Equipment Reviewsboyinrhttp://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=23711Diamond Featherweight Shin Guards
http://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=21754&goto=newpost
Thu, 06 May 2010 14:02:53 GMTSince I began umpiring last fall, I have been using some "modified" (hacked up :)) catcher's shin guards with good success. But I have always thought they were heavy and even with good plate pants they were still pretty bulky. So I took the plunge and purchased a set of Diamond Featherweights from ump-attire.com. After about a month of waiting they came off of backorder and arrived last week. I got the 17" version, there is also a 15" version.
Comfort - The light weight of these really is pretty amazing. That coupled with the two-strap system makes them virtually unnoticable when you wear them. I feel much more mobile and comfortable with them on. Like most of Diamond's gear, the foam is lined with a wicking fabric which is very effective (it was in the high 80's with humidity the other night and I was comfortable). I have worn these for 4 9U plate games so far and the comfort difference is very noticable.
Convenience - Putting on and taking off is easy with the buckles on these. Instead of the j-hook fasteners these use a nylon "snap" buckle. I hardly have to even roll up my pantleg to take them off with the 2-strap system. For my plate game last night I decided to leave the plate pants in the car and wore a pair of combos from the fall which were always very snug with the catcher's guards on - no issues whatsoever. If I had to these may even fit under base pants (not that I will try to do this).
Construction/Fit - These are essentially a one-piece guard with a shin plate and a knee cap attached to the foam. There are no hinges. Also, with the 2-strap system there is no strap behind the knee. I will preface this part of the review by saying that even though these are the largest size, they are just a touch too small for me. If Diamond offered these in an 18" or 19" size they would be perfect for me. In spite of this they fit pretty well and are secure in use. Since they are just a bit on the small side, they "creep" just a bit towards my shoes during the game but they are easy to pull up a bit between innings. There is an instep plate which attaches with velcro - I removed this as I wear plate shoes but I will mention that the plate is very small.
Protection - So far I have been doing little guys games (pitchers that can't find the plate and catchers that couldn't catch a cold) and have taken quite a few hits with no issues. Compared to more substantial guards I feel there is less "hard" protection around the knee area but there is quite a bit of padding. The kneecaps stay in place even though the "hinge" is a thick layer of padding. I'd have no problem doing youth games in these. For older players and pitchers bringing it a bit harder I'll probably wear these for a few games to see if additional protection is needed. Shin protection is fine, it's the softer areas around the knees (the bony parts are well protected) that have me wondering a bit still.
Overall - Overall I give these a thumbs up. Once I got used to the dramatic decrease in weight and increase in comfort I really like them. They will be my go-to guards for youth ball, especially in warmer weather. If Diamond comes out with an even longer version I will buy them.
]]>Umpire Equipment Reviewsbikeriderhttp://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=21754reebok base shoe
http://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=20963&goto=newpost
Sun, 25 Apr 2010 19:15:48 GMTi recently bought the reebok base shoe from honigs . the new 2010 version , all black style . there is a white (reebok logo) version .the only white...i recently bought the reebok base shoe from honigs . the new 2010 version , all black style . there is a white (reebok logo) version .the only white or other logo showing are on the heel and the tongue . the studded tread grips well and the shoe has a list of other features , all of which are designed for various comfort . i wore the shoes the same night , with no break in . and had no issues at all . i have since worn them for another game , still with no issue to speak of . it was nice to just put them on and go for it , no break in required:yippie: . btw i wear custom orthotic's (foot insoles) , which i tried in the shoes at honigs , no problem with the fit:cheers: . the upper is a combination of synthetic and leather , that has some breathability feature . the shoe seems to clean-up easily with little more than some water , how well the upper will look after a couple of seasons tbd . overall the shoes are fine , and dont fore see any issues . i believe reebok produces this line of shoes , for MLB,NFL, and possibly other's . it is the same product design for all .
]]>Umpire Equipment ReviewsD62 bluehttp://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=20963Mcdavid Hex Pad comp short
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Sun, 25 Apr 2010 18:43:02 GMTi bought the hex pad comp short from honigs last week . i tried them on at the honigs, and noticed how the cup pocket was only attached at the waste...i bought the hex pad comp short from honigs last week . i tried them on at the honigs, and noticed how the cup pocket was only attached at the waste band, but they felt good and fit well other than that . i worked with an umpire last year (winter league) who was wearing the pant version . he commented that he wears these when working certain levels of ball , due to the pitching being not so good .i didnt ask and he didnt offer any insight into the product . i have seen mc david products on several sites , comp short.pant and a shirt which all have the hex pads & hDc mositure management feature . i believe that these product are a cross over from the football equip/apparel , that mc david has been making for years. i like the idea of this technology (hex pad) , for some added protection to certain areas of the body to minmize the severity of a bruise . however with regard to the short and pant , which i presume have the same cup pocket design , i think some added design needs to be done . i wore the shorts for a LL minor B division this weekend , this would be the perfect situation to try them , due to the pitching:( . the cup is only attached at the waist band"free floating" , so it moves quite a bit when you walk or go down in youre stance or any other umpire mechanics . i continually was grabbing at the cup to try and stay covered (protect the junk), the cup was moving with almost every motion i made:wow: . i was not protected very well , and was very un-comfortable :(. the cup pocket needs to be sewn down to keep it over the area you want to protect(junk) . much like you would have in a shock doctor type comp short , or similar . the hex pad and the other features of the short , felt & work fine . but the fact that the cup is un-attached"free floating" from the fabric(except at the waste band), making the cup loose and moving around is a deal breaker for me :(. i did not take any shots to the thigh area which is what the comp short or pant is trying to protect with the hex pad feature . the mc david hex pad products and other moisture wicking garments that they produce are also a little pricey as well . i was willing to pay that , but not when my junk is in jeopardy . mc david needs to really re-think the cup pocket design .
]]>Umpire Equipment ReviewsD62 bluehttp://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=20962<![CDATA[Honig's Major League Style Shirts]]>
http://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=20773&goto=newpost
Thu, 22 Apr 2010 18:43:56 GMTI ordered my first Honig's shirt the other day. I received it Monday and I must admit, I am highly unsatisfied with the quality of the shirt. I mean, come on, there are already other brands out there that are affordable (i.e., Dalco) and look almost identical to this Honig's shirt I purchased. I posted the picture of the cream shirt, as that is the one I purchased. You can see completely through the shirt since it is open-hole fabric. Come on guys, I don't mind paying an extra $10 for a well-made, high quality umpire shirt so I can look more professional. I already had a Dalco shirt with the open-hole fabric, if I wanted another one, I would have bought Dalco. I went with Honig's because I thought the shirt would be of much higher quality. Highly disappointed! I most certainly will not buy another shirt from them in the future. From now on, Honig's is strictly poly-wool pants for me!
]]>Umpire Equipment ReviewsJamesChttp://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=20773Champro Pro-Plus Magnesium Alloy Umpire Mask (CM58B)
http://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=20635&goto=newpost
Wed, 21 Apr 2010 05:04:59 GMTI was in the market for a new, and particularly a lighter mask, to step up from my old steel two-bar. I was leaning toward the Wilson Titanium,...I was in the market for a new, and particularly a lighter mask, to step up from my old steel two-bar. I was leaning toward the Wilson Titanium, especially w/ the reputation of their customer service, but the price was just too steep for me. Did some research and narrowed it down to the Diamond IX3 and this mask.
Based on Pete's review from MidWestUmp, I purchased this mask from Epic Sports. At the time, I paid $82...currently listed for $86.39 (if you purchase a qty of 1 - 9) and Ump-Attire has it for $99.
The mask is made of a magnesium alloy (not sure what is used to make the alloy part) and is incredibly light...listed at 15.5 oz, just under a lb! As of now, only comes in black finish, so anyone wanting silver will have to look elsewhere.
As far as reason for the magnesium alloy, I can only venture they picked a material that is nearly as strong as titanium, but lighter and is less expensive, which is probably the main difference in the price.
Coverage is great...well-placed and streamlined ear extensions, a forehead tab at the top and the longer-than-most throat extension allowed me to install a 4" throat protector v. a 6" on my old mask.
Only hit I could think of as far as the construction is that the ends of the individual bars are not rounded off like you see on Wilsons, and while reaching into my bag on a couple of occasions, I've caught my finger on them. But that's extremely minor and more cosmetic than anything. Finish appears to be durable and good quality....have taken a few hits and I can hardly see where the ball hit.
One of the things Pete mentioned in his review were the stock DRI-GEAR pads. They are moisture-wicking...some like, some hate it. I'm the latter as the material isn't near as smooth as leather, and any little bit of stubble will catch on the material and could possibly irritate your face during the course of a game (it did for me). If you want moisture-wicking and don't mind the outer material, then they should be OK. I tried it once and did not like it at all. Another issue w/ the pads is that the packing material inside seems to feel like coarsely shredded styrofoam and the pads actually "crunch" when compressed. I've attached a close-up photo of the pads after I removed them. Attachment 105
Strangely, the Official Call sells the mask for $125 and gives you the option on pads...DRI-GEAR or leather. No other supplier does that.
I purchased a set of Wilson two-tone Wrap-Around pads and swapped them out for the stock pads. Made all the difference in the world. If not for the pads, I would've rated this mask a solid "5" in the comfort department. Again, some people may like the stock pads, but a good set of leather pads are highly recommended....I even tried my old set of Honig's calf-skins on there and they felt great.
After installing the Wilson pads, I noticed a change in visibility as well. The design of the stock pads make it sit slightly further from your face than w/ the leather pads I tried on it. Compare the pictures I've attached of the model wearing it w/ the stock pads v. me w/ the Wilsons. Makes a difference in visibility. Attachment 108 Attachment 107
There are some more photos attached of the mask w/ the Wilson pads, a Wilson sunshield and a Diamond padded throat protector...all purchased from Ump-Attire. Attachment 106
I've worn the mask for all my games this season and even working 4 games behind the plate in one day, I hardly noticed it. Coverage is great and visibility is very good for a mask that is not low-profile, especially w/ the leather pads. The thinner one-bar design helps. I've attached a couple of photos of me wearing it.
As I mentioned, I've taken a few good hits w/ it, both baseball and softball. Granted, the baseballs were less than 70-75 mph and softballs less than 50 mph...all of them fouls straight off the bat, some dead-center on the mask. Got my attention, but I hardly felt it and the mask peeled as it should on the off-center hits.
As far as the ratings, here is my rationale:
Comfort: 4
- Very light weight is a huge plus, especially during several games or a long tournament. No issues w/ the adjustable harness. Stock pads kept it from a "5."
Price: 4
- A bargain compared to the titanium masks. Still, there are other masks out there that are almost as light and slightly cheaper, but you can't beat the weight. If you swap out the pads, factor in addtl price of different pads.
Durability: 4
- May be too soon to tell, but has withstood several impacts and living in my bag in my trunk very well so far.
Protection: 5
- This is based on protection of other masks I've tried and not compared to HSMs. The light weight makes a BIG difference when getting hit. Mask provides great protection where the extensions are concerned, particularly the throat.
Look: 5
- The finish is of good quality and looks to be very durable. As I mentioned above, only hit to the mask itself is the finish of the bar ends. Wish Champro would make a silver finish for those that like it.
Overall: 8
- Different pads would've made it a 10 for me. As is, the stock pads affect both the comfort and visibility. However, you can't beat the frame for weight AND protection.
BOTTOM-LINE:
An incredibly light mask w/ a frame that offers superior protection and a much cheaper alternative to titanium, even w/ different pads. An option on pads would make this top of the line as the leather pads made a significant improvement in both comfort and vision.
]]>Umpire Equipment ReviewsBig Redhttp://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=20635Wilson Shock FX 2.0
http://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=20034&goto=newpost
Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:47:15 GMTGot to try out my brand new titanium Shock FX last night for the first time!
First of all, I have always had a huge noggin, and although it said...Got to try out my brand new titanium Shock FX last night for the first time!
First of all, I have always had a huge noggin, and although it said it would fit my 7 5/8 cap size, I was still concerned that I would like the fit. I found it very comfortable when I put it on, and experienced no 'pinch spots' that always seem to show themselves once you wear something new for a couple hours that wasn't there when you tried it on for 2 minutes. Also, the replaceable pads for around the chin and the forehead are the softest darn material I have ever felt... seriously, I felt it while I had it on and I thought it was some kind of microfiber, and I had to take it off to clarify that it was leather, and not a soft cloth.
The view from this thing is awesome! I enjoy having great peripheral vision that this thing provides! I also decided to add a smoke composite shield to it from Bangerz, and man, it is sweet to sit back there and not have to blink every time a high pitch comes in right at your face to keep the catchers glove dirt from slapping me in the eyes when the ball hits their glove. Not to mention, I think it looks sweet as hell! The game was a night game, and with the smoke shield I had no issues with vision. They also have an 'amber' (yellow) shield that I put on my regular mask, and I am looking forward to trying that out too.
The weight of the Titanium mask is just under 3 lbs, and I had absolutely no neck/shoulder issues at all with this thing, which I am sure is due to the fact that the weight is spread over the head evenly. The amount of ventilation is very surprising, with lots of large vents spread across the helmet. It seems to be pretty cool in there, and I am sure that is also due to the fact that I don't wear a hat with this on, so I get much better evaporation for the huge noggin!
The only issues I had were the facts that it was pretty loud inside (due to the face shield I am sure), and with the shield in place, there was a very small opening left in the mask, and I felt that maybe it would affect my volume. However, I got used to the increased volume (it wasn't uncomfortable, just different), and given my loud mouth, I had no issues with people hearing me. I have heard some concerns about not being able to hear as well with the HSM, but I noticed absolutely no difference, and actually, I might actually hear a little better with it, as the helmet seems to focus sounds better to the ears.
Lastly, I took a foul ball almost dead on to the grill, and I have to say I barely felt a thing! Everyone is asking if I am ok, and seriously, nothing...
Needless to say, I am very satisfied, and will be happy using this thing full time, for a long time. :clap:
]]>Umpire Equipment ReviewsJbovalhttp://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=20034Manzella Powerstretch Gloves
http://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=18193&goto=newpost
Sun, 28 Feb 2010 05:53:20 GMTI have never worn gloves behind the plate before. I then saw the positive feedback here people had given to these gloves and kept them in the back of...I have never worn gloves behind the plate before. I then saw the positive feedback here people had given to these gloves and kept them in the back of my mind to get someday. Then I when preparing to go to camp I saw Atlanta got hit w/ 10" of snow and the extended forecast for the area to have temps in the mid-40's. I then thought is was probably a good time to grab some gloves.
I initially went into town to just grab some at the local big box sporting goods store. I found the Under Armour equivalent and really liked them. Unfortunately, the store somehow had paired 2 right hand gloves. :HS Fortunately my wife noticed this as we were checking out but they didn't have other in my size.
So I went home and fired up the laptop and placed my order at Ump-Attire.
I get down to Atlanta and then it was absolutely beautiful. The gloves didn't get used. Just my luck I rush and get the gloves and then didn't need them.
Well today I got my chance had a HS scrimmage the temps were in the mid 40's with a really strong wind.
These gloves fit really well as the name implies they are made of a stretch material. In the past I've had problems with gloves because I have long thin fingers, but these gloves stretch material made the difference in giving the perfect fit.
I was pleased with the warmth. Not perfect given the windy conditions, the wind did cut through the gloves but anything thicker would have been over kill and clumsy behind the plate. But overall they will provide enough warmth for the cold weather we experience here.
These gloves function well. Which was my biggest concern. I wondered how it would be working my indicator and handling baseballs. I will admit it was awkward for the first couple of innings and initially I didn't throw any balls back to the pitcher myself. I must have looked like a rookie having to look at my indicator as I changed the count because I couldn't feel the wheels click into position through the gloves and I was constantly over rolling the count. After a while I decided to throw one back to the pitcher myself and was amazed how much control I had while throwing. I think with more time I could get the hang of using the indicator with the gloves.
These gloves also look really good and I actually like their look over the gloves I almost bought. They are solid black with the Manzella logo discretely placed on the wristband in a black on black design. As you may know from my other posts I'm not a fan of big logos on my clothes or other items. The Control Dot Grip does the job and fits the look of the glove well. Now unlike the picture above they have the whole palm all fingers and the thumb have the dots. They are very sharp looking and will look good with any uniform.
I think umpires will really enjoy these gloves as long as their expectations are in check. These are classified by Manzella as their "warm" series which is their basic level. They will do well in cooler temps above the freezing level. I don't think they'd cut it in freezing temps for you guys in the north, west or other colder climates. But for moderately cool temps they'll do the job well. Also in windy conditions like I experienced today the wind will cut through.
]]>Umpire Equipment ReviewsUmpire in Chiefhttp://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=18193Gerry Davis Leg Guards
http://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=18079&goto=newpost
Sun, 21 Feb 2010 06:03:39 GMTI decided I wanted something a little slimmer then the current Wilson shin guards that I have. I liked what I saw in the Gerry Davis guards and...I decided I wanted something a little slimmer then the current Wilson shin guards that I have. I liked what I saw in the Gerry Davis guards and wanted to give them a try. I wasn't two sure about the 2 strap method they have chosen but they really felt good during my 3 games with them so far. I like the wrap around sides on them. I also really, really like the velcro attachments at the bottom. There are 3 pieces that will easily be removed if you wear plate shoes. The center one that fits over the top of your foot and one on each side that fit over the sides of your ankle. So far, these seem to be a good investment for me. I took one shot so far and they worked like a champ.
]]>Umpire Equipment ReviewsBamaBluehttp://www.umpire-empire.com/forum/showthread.php?t=18079Diamond Ultimate Umpire Equipment Bag
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Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:05:05 GMTI bought this bag a few months ago. Anybody want to venture a guess as to where I bought it???? I got it from Ump-Attire. When I met with Jim Kirk in...I bought this bag a few months ago. Anybody want to venture a guess as to where I bought it???? I got it from Ump-Attire. When I met with Jim Kirk in Charlotte we briefly discussed equipment bags because I knew I wanted to get one before I went to the International Umpires Camp.
I chose this over the Wilson bags because of what others have said about their zippers, and Jim mentioned the smaller bag is still more than enough to carry everything you need.
For years I had all my uniforms hanging on hangers from the hanger hooks in the back seat and I'm a bit ashamed to admit it but all my equipment was thrown haphazardly into the trunk.
This bag is great it has more than enough room to hold all my equipment, all of my uniforms, and both may base and plate shoes.
I keep my uniforms folded nicely in the top compartment which has to adjustable dividers giving you 3 separate compartments. The opening of the top compartment has a number of pockets. I'm able to keep all of my indicators, my plate brushes, bullet pencils, line up card holders and other misc accoutrements in place; including a sunglasses compartment.
The bottom compartment has more than enough room for my triple knee shin guards, CP, cups, caps, belts, and mask.
This bag, unlike it's bigger brother has a telescoping handle which easily pulls out to be pulled behind. The wheels work well and actually better than some of my luggage and make it easy to maneuver through busy hotel lobbies and such.
The material is heavy duty and gives me the impression this bag is going to pass the test of time.
My criticisms of the bag are minor. First, it is not that breathable so if you put your equipment/shoes away damp they will probably still be damp when you remove them next. The bag does have several grommet holes for breath-ability , but it just isn't enough. Although I don't know what more they could do to improve this and still maintain the integrity of the bag.
My only other criticism is that if you do not have shoes in the shoe compartment of the bag, it will not stand upright on the end with the wheels. This is a minor thing , but I would like to have seen it have some sort of reinforcement to stay upright. But once again this is minor as my bag will primarily stay in my trunk during the season and in my garage in the winter.
Here's the best thing of all. SWMBO likes it too. Initially she made a few snippy comments about me needing an equipment bag, the price and asked why I just couldn't use one of our pieces of luggage. But now she likes it because since we live out in the sticks I drive a gas sipping Toyota Corolla to and from work and games. Remember I live in NC and work and call my games in VA. She has her SUV and I still have my big, old, redneck, gas guzzling (10 MPG Baby!), 4 wheel drive Dodge Ram. She likes the bag when she wants to drive into town in the car she can take my stuff out all at once. And if it makes SWMBO happy everybody is happy.
I definitely recommend this bag.
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