Gear Sizing Advice (Giving, Not Asking)

[MadMax]

One of my fellow writers on a large Q&A site is a prolific armorer, swords and firearms collector. He replied to a question regarding body armor that is wholly applicable to us as umpires. 

When purchasing soft body armor, would you choose a slightly bigger size than what the dealer recommends if you want a bit more protection at the expense of comfort and concealment?

“I would not recommend that, no. Armor is designed to be worn a specific way. If you are between sizes it may be useful to go with the larger size to accommodate clothing worn under the armor, if any. But if you’re solidly size A, don’t get size B because you think it will cover more. It’ll just bunch up, ride awkwardly, inhibit movement, and be less comfortable.

I mismeasured myself and thought I should wear a medium Interceptor vest, because most of my clothes are medium to accommodate my long arms. It worked okay, but bending over sucked because the bottom of the armor rested on my hips and I didn’t know that was wrong. Properly fitted I’m a small or extra-small (can’t remember just now), and goddamn was that more comfortable.

If you’re worried about coverage, don’t upsize. Get a different style of armor (added emphasis).”

[BT_Blue]

Wonder if he(?) Is a dan of the Shadiversiry youtube channel?

[JimKirk]

19 hours ago, MadMax said:

One of my fellow writers on a large Q&A site is a prolific armorer, swords and firearms collector. He replied to a question regarding body armor that is wholly applicable to us as umpires. 

When purchasing soft body armor, would you choose a slightly bigger size than what the dealer recommends if you want a bit more protection at the expense of comfort and concealment?

“I would not recommend that, no. Armor is designed to be worn a specific way. If you are between sizes it may be useful to go with the larger size to accommodate clothing worn under the armor, if any. But if you’re solidly size A, don’t get size B because you think it will cover more. It’ll just bunch up, ride awkwardly, inhibit movement, and be less comfortable.

If you’re worried about coverage, don’t upsize. Get a different style of armor (added emphasis).”

Good stuff Max! Agree. Things are sized for a reason.

[MadMax]

1 hour ago, JimKirk said:

Things are sized for a reason.

Or alternatively stated: the Wilson Gold [or insert any particular model] ain’t for everybody. 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

... just because some instructor / trainer / evaluator / mentor said so. 

[Biscuit]

This makes me giddy. I read that answer on Quora by the great Murphy Barret a week ago or so. To see the two "forums" I frequent crossing over is real fun. 

And yes, Max's answers on Quora are just as good as his advice here on UE.