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3N2 Reaction Low Plate Shoe Due to the utter failure of my New Balance MU460's, I was cast into a predicament; with a substantial number of games left in the year and the release of the forthcoming New Balance MU460-V3's expected in January of 2017, I had to find something to serve as a plate shoe. So disheartening were the MU460's (more like, what they had become – abject terrible monsters) that I even started combing through eBay looking for Reeboks. Anyone who knows me will attest, I physically cannot wear Reeboks without my back seizing up. It's that dire of a situation. I knew t

The XV is the best of the sub-$100 chest protectors, and can very much wade into the same waters as the more expensive hardshells. It is the 3rd iteration in Schutt's AiR Flex line, using the same carapace pieces as its two predecessors, this time in jet black, with a better fitting layout (the shoulder arches are angled differently to create a larger neck opening, the ailettes are positioned more strategically, etc.). The major change is the padding vest, this time using Schutt's D3O foam, an advanced TPU-EVA foam, as hole-y bricks arranged with tactful thought. If you thought the AiR F

When I first broke into HS Varsity baseball, my wife bought me the Wilson Titanium mask. All black padding, expensive, solid protection - I figured I was set for the next 10 years. Alas, 3 years later I encountered umpire-empire and my gear-whore days commenced. Looking for an affordable (it's in the $70-80 range!), quality, lighter, cool mask, I encountered the All-Star 4000fm. Looked good, felt good, used it for a few weeks working a collegiate summer league, and finally took a solid shot off it. The angular frame did it's job, the stock All-Star pads did their jobs, and I was sold.

Just for reference, I've owned and used the following hardshell protectors: Platinum, Gold, MLU, Douglas, Douglas/Wilson, Cooper (w/ the slats), Champion, Davishield and Riddell (and probably some more I can't recall). I switched to the All Star last year, and IMO it's the best rig going. Perfect? No, but overall the best. First is protection. I don't think there's a better protecting c/p out there. There's no gaps, and no hinging plates. I like that the padding is removable, and washable. I machine wash it on GENTLE and let it air dry. Plus, you can easily buy replacement pa

The initial price of $120 can be enough to make many look elsewhere, but I can assure you that the money will be well spent. Pros: These shin guards are extremely light weight (barely know I'm wearing them) They are also very protective at the same time. I have taken about 20 hits off these shin guards and have never felt any sort of pain whatsoever. The insides are machine washable which makes cleaning them very easy. They use buckles instead of metal clasps, which prevents rust and frankly looks better! They come with a storage bag which I still use after every game.Cons: The straps will ru

These are very comfortable shin gaurds. I forget I have them on! The protection is not major leauge caliber, but I would feel comfortable calling up through highschool with them. They are light and the foot gaurd comes off easily for use with plate shoes!

I always visit Ump-Attire.com first when there is something I want to buy. They have a good selection and good products. The best thing about Ump-Attire.com is the service. If my scale had a higher rating I would give it in service. They also ship very quickly. With standard shipping it only takes a few days to get your goods. The owner, Jim Kirk, is very knowledgeable and responsive. A while back I placed an order and for whatever reason needed to make a return. It was taken care of immediately with no problems. Jim also posts his email address on his website and does respond quickly to quest

I have used a set of these from another umpire. first time i used them they were unnoticable. kudos to diamond for this product. the only con i have is with the way it fits on the knee...and i believe this is due to the fact they are made to wear under pants. I have yet to do this and any movement, sometime feels like they are moving or coming off..takes getting used to as i have worn them for several games now and have no issues. i have also been hit several time and havent felt a thing. these are very lightweight, and protect very well.

Jim and his Staff take care of its customers. First rate organization! Allan

Best hat on the market. Comes in 5 sizes. 1-5. This is great for those that aren't quite sure what size or are between sizes. They flex a little, but it's not "too loose" where it comes off when you remove your mask, like the flex fit hats do. The hats looks great. My combo hat (I use on the plate) has been washed several times. It looks brand new. doesnt fade, shrink or pucker like the wool blend hats do after washing. I use the plastic washing frame, throw it in the dishwasher for a few min. and it's brand new again. Also it only runs about $12.