Zulutex

I switched to the balloon about three years ago to better protect my arms and torso..(I play piano} Yes, it awkward to handle as designed with the straps...sooooo, I added bungee cords around the straps to form an arm-hold...like an old-style Viking shield...and it works wonderfully...allows control with the one arm leaving the right arm free for calls and pulling off the facemask...Still work the slot and there is no problem seeing the full strike zone.....To each his own, of couse, but in the Vegas heat this is a blessing!!!

Dear Friends...the exterior shield is OUTSTANDING!!! As constructed, it is awkward to handle, etc...sooooo, I modified it with bungee cords to form an arm-sling....this allows for control with the one arm...leaving the right arm free for out, strike and foul calls as well as for dramatic 'safe' calls and removing your facemask...I work the slot with a modified horse stance and have rarely been struck in the three years or so since switching to da balloon.....As for appearance , if your consistent, professional, and reasonably approachable...'dorkiness' does not become an issue....Note that the cords can be problematic at times so I'm working to attach some Viking-style velcro straps to allow for better control...It would also be nice if Honig and others would make an outside shield that's wider and longer......