What Got You Started?

[rth54]

For those who use a HSM:

What prompted your adoption/transition?

[scrounge]

Mostly much better vision for me, with more even weight distribution and more protection as well

[kylejt]

I got hit on the button of my hat by a ball the came down from one of the those overhead backstops. Yow! Nearly knocked me out.

That said, that's the only time I use mine.

[Astrosdawg07]

Used one when I caught in my playing days, and I just love the vision and protection.

[jkumpire]

1. Students in umpiring class I teach asked me about it, so I tried one.

2. I wanted to cover more of my face and head so i wouldn't get sunburned.

[rth54]

Hadn't thought of the sunburn issue... Thanks

[semper_fi_72]

A mild concussion from a flush foul.

I do switch back to my regular mask in the heat of the summer and level of ball being played.

I do like the vision off the HSM beter.

[rth54]

How does the level of play factor in?

[semper_fi_72]

Level of play factors in by:

A foul from a 12 U game is not going to have the same impact as one from High School or Adult Ball.

[Umpire in Chief]

I got hit on the button of my hat by a ball the came down from one of the those overhead backstops. Yow! Nearly knocked me out.

That said, that's the only time I use mine.

Had that happen to me too. It didn't come close to knocking me out, but it was probably the most severe pain I've had on the field. I'm contemplating switching to a HSM. I really like the All Star ones.