Proper mask fit

[kstrunk]

Gotta new mask, Wilson Dyna-lite. I've been playing with the harness, trying to get it just right, but I'm not sure what 'just right' should be. The way I have it feels good, but it seems a bit too much to get on and off, indicating in may be too tight. I watch other guys take their mask off like it's nothing, they practically lift straight up, and not out at all? 

 

Advice? 

[gnhbua93]

Get the Davey strap. 

[the_umpire]

You really just need to find a fit that works for you. It's all preference. Up until this season, I wore my mask pretty tight, however in the offseason I was told that a looser harness can help prevent more severe head injuries due to foul balls hitting off of your mask (Just like the Davey's strap idea). I personally don't think that different harnesses have a different effect on anything, but then again, some people out there swear by things like the Davey's Strap. Also, in regards to taking your mask off, a newer harness will always give you trouble to begin with because it is stiffer, but if you work it, you should be able to remove your mask the same whether it's tight or loose. Like I said, it all comes down to personal preference, because at the end of the day, it's you that has to wear the mask every time you work the stick. 

[Tksjewelry]

I wore mine too tight all last year because I didn't know any better. It caused me a few painful hits. I was told on here how to wear it but I really didn't understand until I was shown by one of my local association guys. When I'm wearing it and I bend over, mine hangs just a bit off my face.

[Majordave]

Loosen it until it sits on your hat bill and when in your stance hangs a finger width or so off of your chin.  If you look down it should slide off.  You want it to spin off of your head when a baseball hits it.  Takes some getting used to but it won't interfere with your hat when you take it off and you shouldn't get any headaches.  

 

I have taken some shots to the mask that were real doozies and felt almost nothing.  (of course those who know me well will say "no SH*#!" he doesn't feel anything from the neck up.)

[umptwo]

I find the new Wilson (MLB) harness elastic strap to be very stiff (you have to pull pretty hard to stretch it just a little bit). Even with wearing what I think is on the loose side, it seemed to be a chore to stretch it enough to get it on (at least compared to what I was used to), which may be what your saying. So, maybe try a different stretchier harness (I got a honigs which I was happier with).

[Mr Ump]

See now I like the firm fit. Took a few hits that way but nothing hurt. I guess I am trusting the TW pads. I think it is all personal preference. Also got the advice from a MLB ump to wear it tight and have followed suit.

[umpstu]

I have never wore my mask so loose it hangs off my face and have yet to see any other umpire I work with wear it that way.  My mask always spins off.   

[Magic]

Yeah I dont wear mine that loose either. But I have a hard head so nothing really hurts too bad.

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