Mini-Views
compiled by Brent McLaren
Do you know of a product that deserves a few kind words, or a word of caution?You can express your personal opinion, or add your voice to others.
Submit your review by e-mail to
As always these opinions are the personal opinions of the individual author and remain their intellectual property.
Currently available, in alphabetical order, are mini-reviews of the :
+POS SUL100 Composite Resin Mask: Here are four questions that I have heard people ask about the SUL100:
- Q: "Doesn't the sun affect the structure of the mask and weaken it?"
- A: No. That was a problem when the mask originally came out, but that problem has now been
solved and now neither "hell nor high water" can affect it.
- Q: "Its to expensive!"
- A: That is true, but not when you think about the fact that this is probably the best mask I
have ever used. Despite the fact that this mask is harder to find (it is made by All Star) it is
worth it.
- Q: "Why should I get this mask?"
- A: Basically I have one reason. This is the best dog-gone mask I have ever seen. I am sure
you have heard about the +POS BB2000 "umpire armor" (but that is another review) and how it
"disperses" the shock of a foul tip. Well, the SUL100 does the exact same thing. I can't even
feel a tip.
- Q: "How light is this mask, really?"
- A: Here, lets do a test. Go find two pieces of normal, everyday writing paper. Now pick it
up. Weighs next to nothing right? Well, welcome to the world of the composite-resin mask.
... submitted January 27, 1998 by Arik Goldsmit
Douglas Vest: It being so new there is only so much one can say about it. It definitely beats its predecessor the "West Vest," hands down. The biggest and best improvement is the high impact plastic fasteners located on the sides for easy on and off. It beats having to put those two metal tabs in the center of the vest and then have to wrestle the off after he game. Secondly Douglas has changed the frontal portion to a single plate. This is much better for it allows for greater flexibility and its one less piece you have to worry about breaking. Last and definitely not least is the weight. This has to be the lightest of all the hard shell protectors on the market, it wins the #1 spot in my equipment bag, second to the Carlucci vest which in my opinion is a little on the heavy side.
.... submitted January 24, 1998 by Alex Barinaga
Gerry Davis Sports Plate Shoe: I work in the scissors position and found that most low top shoes did not offer the flexibility or maneuverability that I needed. With the GDS shoe, there is a slight gap between the steel toe protection, and the metatarsal plate, allowing for me to bend my back leg comfortably. Also by the shoe being high top it adds support in the ankle area and prevents one from twisting an ankle when leaving their stance. Also with the high top you get that added protection that a low top shoe does not offer. Granted it will not stop the impact of a baseball, but it will soften the blow considerably (personal experience). Last but not least, they are the lightest of the plate shoes that I have worn, and I have worn the +POS, Iron Age, and Spotbilt. These shoes are the best money can buy, and that is why they are my #1 go to shoe.
.... submitted January 24, 1998 by Alex Barinaga
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