Okay, so today’s little project was all about getting my umpire uniform sorted. I’ve been umpiring for a while now, and let me tell you, looking the part is half the battle. It’s not just about looking sharp, though that’s a big part of it. It’s about feeling confident and ready to make those calls.
First things first, I started with the shirts. You gotta have a few of these, depending on the weather and the league you’re working with. I picked up a couple of short-sleeved ones, one in navy blue and another in light blue. Made sure they were the right size – not too tight, not too loose. And a long-sleeved navy one for those cooler evenings. They had a bunch of styles, but I went for the classic look.
Next up, pants. Now, there are two types: plate pants and base pants. Plate pants are wider in the leg to fit those shin guards comfortably. Base pants are a bit more fitted since you don’t need the extra room. I grabbed a pair of each, in that standard charcoal grey color. Gotta say, trying them on, they felt pretty good. Durable, but not too stiff.
- Shoes were next on my list. These are super important. You’re on your feet for hours, so comfort is key. I invested in both plate shoes and base shoes. The plate shoes have this composite toe thing for extra protection. Found a solid pair that felt like I could walk a marathon in them. Base shoes are lighter, more like regular athletic shoes, but still with good support.
- Then there’s the protective gear. Now, I’m not messing around with this stuff. A good mask is essential. I went for an aluminum frame, they are lighter than the steel, and not a titanium cost. It fits snugly, and I made sure I could see clearly through the bars. Felt like a knight, ready for battle.
- Chest protector – had to get one that fit just right. I went for one with a hard plastic outer shell, it is important to protect myself. Tried on a few, and picked the one that felt secure without being too bulky.
- And finally, shin guards. These are a must for working the plate. Again, it was all about finding the right fit. They need to cover from your ankle to just above your knee, and they shouldn’t shift around when you move.
Once I got all the pieces, I tried everything on together. It felt good, like a real uniform. I even practiced my stance in the mirror, making sure everything looked right and felt comfortable. I can do this all day and night. I feel more confident and official, and that’s going to show on the field. This umpire uniform thing is quite a journey, but trust me, it is all worth it.
