Finding the best umpire chest protector can help keep you safe from foul tips and wild pitches while umping baseball and softball games.
An umpire’s chest protector is the second most important piece of equipment, just behind the face mask.
Keeping vital bodily organs, including your heart protected is necessary if you are a behind-the-plate ump. The best ump chest protector will also provide protection to your shoulders, biceps and ribs.
To find the right size chest protector measure from the bottom of the neck down. You will want the chest protector to sit just below the rib cage.
Baseball Tools Top-Ranked Umpire Chest Protectors:
Highlights
- 3 sizes – 13-inch, 14.5-inch, 16-inch
- Ultra-lightweight soft shell padding
- Moisture-wicking Dri-Gear mesh to stay dry and comfortable in hot weather
Reasons to Buy
✅ Ultra-Lightweight
✅ Very good protection – Can hardly feel foul tips
✅ For high school level and below
Reasons Not to Buy
❌ Some users noted to purchase the abdomen extension
Sample buyer review: “I bought this for my first year calling behind the plate for little league up to high school. Im 6 ft 250 lbs so I got a large and fit me perfect once adjusted. Every game I called I was behind the plate bc I love it and very confident in my gear! I never felt pain whatsoever, from foul balls off the chest to a 90+ MPH fastball straight to the chest and never had the slightest bit of pain. It’s very light in weight compared to some of the guys I call with, but also very durable. Anyways as far as the chest protector I dont have a single complaint. Its comfy, light, and durable and will last me a long time. The only thing I could see problem with long term would be the buckles breaking bc there plastic. All around an awesome protector I love it.” Read more reviews from Amazon.com
Highlights
- 3 sizes – 13-inch, 15-inch, 17-inch
- Soft shell padding with an outer plastic shield
- Extra wide side coverage and raided shoulder caps
Reasons to Buy
✅ Users state they don’t feel foul tips to the torso
✅ Made for higher-levels; 60-90 MPH balls
✅ Great protection
Reasons Not to Buy
❌ Some users noted that it feels restrictive
❌ May want to purchase arm extensions to protect biceps
Sample buyer review: “I recieved this protector at the start of the season this year and so far I am very impressed. This was an upgrade for me – wanted something a little more stout after doing a couple of Junior Little League games with a “starter” protector last year – not much protection when the catcher is having a bad game. So far this season I have done a couple of Junior games and took a few shots – didn’t really feel much of an impact. Also took a couple of foul balls off the shoulder plates this past weekend in an 11-12 year old game and didn’t feel a thing. It is a very comfortable chest plate and I would recommmend it to anyone looking for a chest plate to work Little League games in.” Read more reviews from Amazon.com
Highlights
- Hard shell with elite protection for balls 90+ MPH
- For college-level baseball or above
- Removable armor and washable lining
Reasons to Buy
✅ Elite protection against foul tips and wild pitches
✅ Withstands balls 90+ MPH
✅ Perfect fit and easy adjustment
Reasons Not to Buy
❌ At 10 3/4-inches, users have stated it provides no stomach coverage
Sample buyer review: “As a veteran Umpire, i have used many chest protectors. This chest protector is of the highest quality, and i look forward to the level of safety and protection it provides. I umpire college baseball in the North Central region of the US. The weather can be unpredictable and can be below 30 degrees in the spring, and up to 100 degrees in the winter. This piece of equipment has the features that improve Umpire safety and well-being while on the field.” Read more reviews from Amazon.com
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