Gentlemen,
I've been lurking here for months, reading posts and admiring the knowledge of, camaraderie in, and passion for this avocation of ours. I finally have a post of my own to make.
I have been working my way up in the college ranks, and it looks like I will be getting some D-I work this coming spring. As a result, I've been thinking about upgrading my equipment, specifically my mask and CP. Even the D-II and -III stuff I am have been working probably warrants an upgrade.
The mask is first, as the one I have been using is a few years old, and not as heavy-duty as I think is warranted at the D-I level. The CP is good, but I will likely upgrade to a West Vest next year. So, I have narrowed the masks down to these, and would like input from the group on what would be the best choice.
Diamond Pewter Grey iX3 Aluminum Umpire Mask with Quik-Dry
Diamond Silver Big League Aluminum Umpire Mask with Leather
Wilson Silver Dyna-Lite Aluminum Umpire Mask with Memory Foam
I came to these choices because I don't want a hockey-style mask, and I don't want to drop 2 bills on a Wilson titanium. I get the feeling the Wilson is the best, but was wondering if the Diamond ix3 and Diamond Big League are equivalent (or close) for $30-$50 less. There is also this:
Wilson Silver Dyna-Lite Aluminum Umpire Mask with Black and Grey
which seems to be the same mask, with different pads, but this is another $30 above the memory foam padded Wilson.
LOL -- And as I type that last sentence, I can hear "Why take a chance with your head and face for $30-$50?" So maybe I have my answer.
But if anyone can speak to these masks, I'd love the feedback.
Cheers, all!
