Ice cold hands

[kellylynn]

My tall, skinny umpire son gets severely cold hands in the windy, 40 degree, Colorado, double header, spring games. I have read reviews of all sorts regarding mechanical and chemical warmers. It seems that nothing really makes much of an impact for cutting the cold for the umpiring type of application (standing around in the freezing cold). What do you all use for keeping hands warm?

[BrianC14]

My tall, skinny umpire son gets severely cold hands in the windy, 40 degree, Colorado, double header, spring games. I have read reviews of all sorts regarding mechanical and chemical warmers. It seems that nothing really makes much of an impact for cutting the cold for the umpiring type of application (standing around in the freezing cold). What do you all use for keeping hands warm?

Does your son ski?

If his hands really get that cold (and we all know that 40 degrees with some wind and a bit of humidity can feel much worse), then you might have him wear his ski gloves - I've worn mine here in CO on the really cold days. (This works best, of course, if you're working the bases, since there's no issue of handling an indicator). If he's working the plate, he'd need something thinner, of course - check at Dick's Sporting Goods or Sports Authority for some ski gloves that are thinner than the usual ones. And please try to make sure they're black - neon yellow just won't cut it. :hi5:

[kellylynn]

Very good suggestions. I now see the value of all the layers. This kid tries to be tough with minimal cold weather gear. I will invest in some good lookin layerables. Maybe some quality umpire wear will encourage him to bundle up a bit more.

TY!

[BrianC14]

Very good suggestions. I now see the value of all the layers. This kid tries to be tough with minimal cold weather gear. I will invest in some good lookin layerables. Maybe some quality umpire wear will encourage him to bundle up a bit more.

TY!

Also check out Sports Authority clearance centers... I got some nice Under Armor Cold Gear there a couple of seasons ago at very good prices... 50% off some stuff!

[okump96]

talking about layers... i can personally attest to gerry davis arctic wear doing its job. they recommend them for days when its 40 or colder, but i wore them on a 35 degree day and sweated my rear off. mine have been retired from baseball after only 1 game. they now are part of my hunting gear.

[Kevin Finnerty]

Very good suggestions. I now see the value of all the layers. This kid tries to be tough with minimal cold weather gear. I will invest in some good lookin layerables. Maybe some quality umpire wear will encourage him to bundle up a bit more.

TY!

UMP 24 is right on the money ... as usual.

I'm not professing to know how to deal with real cold here in sunny Southern California, but in those mid-winter college scrimmages when it plunges into the 40s, his touted method of insulating your core with compression wear is absolutely correct. (I think he's in medical school ... or should be.)

I start with one or two sleeveless compression tees to cover my core. Then I wear a long-sleeve cold gear compression mock (football players wear this one). Even in the high-40s/low-50s, I don't need anything more than a shirt over that at the plate and a windbreaker on the bases. When and if I do wear gloves, I found the UA cold gear golf gloves are great, because of both the dexterity of a golf glove and palm visibility when signaling. They can also be worn under thicker gloves for added protection on the bases: http://www.underarmour.com/shop/us/en/pid1000775?cid=SE|Nextag&campaign=nextag

But as far as comprehensive cold weather management techniques, I defer to my esteemed colleague from the Great White North. :hi5:

[kellylynn]

I hope my mom foots a portion of the bill for new gear this season.

I can't ask her to up front though - something about tuition?

LOL! My boy just turned 16, and keeping him supplied with gear is still mostly mom's responsibility. You may have already passed over that fine line.

This is an amazing community. My questions are always answered so thoughtfully and generously. Yesterday I bought some cold gear leggings, and ordered manzilla gloves. I've got my eye on a Honig's jacket, and a few other items. The boy will have a more comfortable season if I can just get him to wear them.

[BrianC14]

LOL! My boy just turned 16, and keeping him supplied with gear is still mostly mom's responsibility. You may have already passed over that fine line.

This is an amazing community. My questions are always answered so thoughtfully and generously. Yesterday I bought some cold gear leggings, and ordered manzilla gloves. I've got my eye on a Honig's jacket, and a few other items. The boy will have a more comfortable season if I can just get him to wear them.

Kelly:

I just realized that I have a "like new" Cliff Keen jacket like this one.

If you're interested in it, please let me know. I don't wear this jacket anymore, and have worn it only 3 or 4 times over the past 2 years. Send a PM if interested. I bought this on Ebay 2 years ago at about 1/2 the retail cost, so I'll offer it at slightly less than what I paid for it.

[Umpire in Chief]

Also don't forget about hand warmer packs. Slip those in your pockets, gloves, shoes and you'll keep nice and warm.

They sell them at a variety of places including sporting goods stores but I've found some of the best deals on them at places like Lowes or Home Depot.

[Kevin Finnerty]

You can also get them here at a pretty good price (with free shipping):

http://www.amazon.com/Little-Hotties-Hand-Warmer-Pack/dp/B000JJP0UM

[UmpJM]

KellyLynn,

FWIW, I'll ad my $.02.

I endorse the comments others have made regarding layering and maintaining "core" body temperature.

But the absolute BEST solution I have found is the "chemical handwarmer packets" like the ones Kevin Finnerty posted a picture of above. (My wife just picks up a box for me at Sam's Club before the season starts.)

The "heat generation" capability will easily last through a doubleheader. I just keep a couple in my ball bags or pockets, and grab and hold them as needed during the game (especially between innings).

Last year was the first year I used them and I never once felt the need to put on a pair of gloves - despite working a few games where wind chill temps were in the 20s.

Plus, everybody thinks you're NUTS to be working without gloves when it's THAT cold out, which is also kind of fun.

JM

Edited February 10, 2010 by UmpJM

[mazzamouth]

1) Layer the core. When the core temperature drops, the body recruits heat from the extremities to keep the core temp standard. I'm partial to suggesting long sleeve Under Armour cold gear, with an additional 1-2 shirts, as well as your standard umpiring jacket. I'd reccommend Honig's K17 jacket based on personal experience. Make sure at least one of the layers is some sort of a compression turtleneck - it will minimize heat loss.

2) Wear gloves. For his base games, thicker gloves are ok. I wear two pairs when its really cold - just normal Under Armour batting gloves underneath a heavier knit glove available at a department store. For plate games, thick gloves don't work because you need to write and use the indicator, so revert to the more streamlined glove here, or nothing at all. Use two balls bags, and keep those chemical heat bags in them, and tuck your hands in there between pitches or innings if they get cold. I hear the Manzilla gloves from ump-attire.com are excellent; I will be placing an order to try them out in the near future.

3) Use the "elmer fudd hat" or thermal hood.

These are the "elmer fudd hats" http://www.gerrydavis.com/mm5/category/Umpire_Hats/product/B13HT17

The thermal hood is basically a compression fit ski mask (so that you can wear your hat overtop). This is again preventing the loss of heat through the extremities. If you're not a fan of these, at least use a pair of earmuffs.

4) At least one pair of tights and multiple pairs of socks.

When it's cold to the temp you are citing, I wear two pairs of UA Cold Gear tights and 2-3 pairs of socks. Again, extremities.

Hope that is of help to you.

Dude your like a walking Model/ rep for Under Armour... that over priced equipment... you can get the same stuff at walmart and spend about 75% less...LOL I wear a bunch of stuff but no UA, its way to expensive... that is like wearing Oakley sunglasses...LOL

No by no means should you stay away from UA, Im just saying ( and this is my opinion) that there stuff is way, I mean way over priced...

[Kevin Finnerty]

Dude your like a walking Model/ rep for Under Armour... that over priced equipment... you can get the same stuff at walmart and spend about 75% less...LOL I wear a bunch of stuff but no UA, its way to expensive... that is like wearing Oakley sunglasses...LOL

No by no means should you stay away from UA, Im just saying ( and this is my opinion) that there stuff is way, I mean way over priced...

You're usually pretty spot-on with your observations, but you are way off on this one.

If you want cheap, uncomfortable compression wear that loses its beneficial properties after a season, then, by all means, buy that bargain crap you get at that great American institution, Wal-Mart. But if you want therapeutic, durable, beneficial compression wear---especially cold gear---then you have to fork over the coin and buy the real thing. UA is not the only one that puts out premium quality compression wear, but it's certainly on the short list.

Edited February 10, 2010 by Kevin Finnerty

[Kevin Finnerty]

;)

You're a very bright guy. It's always a pleasure to read what you offer.

[semper_fi_72]

Oh and Mazz, one last thing about my picture: those are Oakley sunglasses.

Hey ump_24

Tell me again what the wrist bands are for!!!!!:BD:

[Aging_Arbiter]

Dude your like a walking Model/ rep for Under Armour... that over priced equipment... you can get the same stuff at walmart and spend about 75% less...LOL I wear a bunch of stuff but no UA, its way to expensive... that is like wearing Oakley sunglasses...LOL

No by no means should you stay away from UA, Im just saying ( and this is my opinion) that there stuff is way, I mean way over priced...

We call 'em long johns out here......;)

[BrianC14]

Gee Mazz, what makes you say that? (see picture below)

I've tried other brands - Nike, Mission / Itech (their one piece hockey neckguard / compression undershirt), Reebok, and Under Armour stands out by far as the best.

I don't know about theraputic, but my Under Armour has held up to several years, not seasons, of use in the rink, in the gym, and on the field. Heck, my brother is using my original Under Armour LS shirt that I got 6-7 years ago. One of my cold gear tights is that same age.

The bottom line is that it's comfortable and it lasts. So yes, I do and will continue to turn to Under Armour for my performance undergarment needs.

On a side note, Finn, thanks for the kind words You have to come up here to have one of those with me though. And I am not in medical school - my program is Forensic Science and Criminology - close buddy!

Oh and Mazz, one last thing about my picture: those are Oakley sunglasses.

*&^%ing BRACELETS! What brand are those!?!?

And your pants are too short, too! j/k, you know.

[mazzamouth]

Gee Mazz, what makes you say that? (see picture below)

I've tried other brands - Nike, Mission / Itech (their one piece hockey neckguard / compression undershirt), Reebok, and Under Armour stands out by far as the best.

I don't know about theraputic, but my Under Armour has held up to several years, not seasons, of use in the rink, in the gym, and on the field. Heck, my brother is using my original Under Armour LS shirt that I got 6-7 years ago. One of my cold gear tights is that same age.

The bottom line is that it's comfortable and it lasts. So yes, I do and will continue to turn to Under Armour for my performance undergarment needs.

On a side note, Finn, thanks for the kind words You have to come up here to have one of those with me though. And I am not in medical school - my program is Forensic Science and Criminology - close buddy!

Oh and Mazz, one last thing about my picture: those are Oakley sunglasses.

Hey ump_24

Tell me again what the wrist bands are for!!!!!

Ump-24.. your killing... I got you down....LOL.. i bet you even have UA underwear?...LOL Its cool.... I know i dotn spend a ton of money on some stuff, but I probably shouldnt tell you how much i just spend on golf clubs..LOL

Semper.. here we go with the uniforms again...LOL 1st necklaces, now bracelets...LOL

[mazzamouth]

You're usually pretty spot-on with your observations, but you are way off on this one.

If you want cheap, uncomfortable compression wear that loses its beneficial properties after a season, then, by all means, buy that bargain crap you get at that great American institution, Wal-Mart. But if you want therapeutic, durable, beneficial compression wear---especially cold gear---then you have to fork over the coin and buy the real thing. UA is not the only one that puts out premium quality compression wear, but it's certainly on the short list.

I do have a UA coldweather shirt.. It was given to me.. I will admit it is very warm. i just think there stuff is overpriced...Hell even there shoes are expensive.

[Kevin Finnerty]

I do have a UA coldweather shirt.. It was given to me.. I will admit it is very warm. i just think there stuff is overpriced...Hell even there shoes are expensive.

All I have are their compression shorts and shirts, gloves and the most comfortable and durable jock I've ever owned.

Expensive, yes. (I buy almost all of it at closeout prices.) But even if you pay full price, you get years and years of comfort and performance. You buy that less comfortable, lower quality (drastically lower) crap that you need to replace over and over and in the long run it works like almost everything: you can buy the best now, and enjoy wearing the best from the outset, rather than spending more in the long run and enduring low quality and poor performance.

[Umpire in Chief]

I'm well known for being cheap I agree that sometimes the big name stuff is the best. I have found that of the brands I've tried the Champion (C9) brand they carry at Target is a great mix of price and performance.

Now on the sunglasses are another story. I originally had a nice pair of Bolle` my brother gave me. Well I lost them. Then reverted back to my cheap self and between breaking them and losing them I probably went through another two dozen pairs.

I then got a pair of Oakleys from Ump-Attire and I can definitely tell the difference in the vision. I've had them for nearly a year and (knock on wood) haven't lost them. And if I can keep them for about a year it will save money over just buying all the other pairs. Plus they are extremely shatter resistant and much less image distortion, so I'm sold.

[JamesC]

I too, thought that the Under Armour was too expensive for calling baseball, considering I would need at least a white, black, navy, and red shirt. So, instead of going with Under Armour, I went to WalMart and got some of the cheaper, $7.99 compression shirts and regreated it the entire season. It rubbed my under arms the entire season, and was very uncomfortable. At first, I just thought it was because I wasn't use to the wear of the fabric. After I had given it some though, I wore Under Armour all throughout high school in football and baseball, and never had problems with it.

I recently got a 50% off coupon for Under Armour and bout me 5 new shirts for only $12.50 each. Great deal and much, MUCH more comfortable!

[mazzamouth]

All I have are their compression shorts and shirts, gloves and the most comfortable and durable jock I've ever owned.

Expensive, yes. (I buy almost all of it at closeout prices.) But even if you pay full price, you get years and years of comfort and performance. You buy that less comfortable, lower quality (drastically lower) crap that you need to replace over and over and in the long run it works like almost everything: you can buy the best now, and enjoy wearing the best from the outset, rather than spending more in the long run and enduring low quality and poor performance.

Alright maybe you convinced me to try .... Only if I can get the same coupon JamesC got.. hell that was a deal right there.

[Kevin Finnerty]

Ross, TJ Maxx, Marshall's ... places like that can yield a score now and then, if you're patient. Online, it's like Ump 24 and James said, look for the sales---they're there.

Way to come around, Mazz!

[kellylynn]

Whoa! The Under Armour tights came in the mail today, and they look like they were made for an 8 year old. Is this right? I can't imagine 6"1" son squeezing into these. They'll come up to his knees! I was imagining ankle length. Do you guys size up, or wear em like this?