Made To Order
The Carlucci Model Chest Protector
A Review by Brent McLaren
I can buy a sweater off the shelf but there is nothing that fits as well or feels as good as the sweaters my mother makes for me. For a select few that same feeling also applies to chest protectors. After many years of umpiring I have several of the top rated professional protectors but the arrival of a handcrafted "Carlucci Model" is a cause for celebration.
The man they call "Mr. Ump", Cece Carlucci, a long time AAA umpire, has refined the equipment used to protect the umpire to an art, in fact, the ordering process is more like purchasing a tailor-made suit than a chest protector. You won't find flashy decals or company logos placed so others can see them. You won't find catalogues or other mass marketing devices. You will find an honest attention to quality, fit and the utmost in protection.
The Protector
My Carlucci protector, pictured here held by
my son, displays a craftsmanship that must be held and worn to be appreciated: the
triple-thickness neck pad, the sponge and canvas layers that build into the resilient ribs and
heart pad, the quality of the covering material (by itself costing as much per yard as some
complete commercial protectors), the 2" wide strapping, the fit around the arm, the neck and
shoulder . . . perfect. For my protector I selected the additional polyethylene plates
that
have become an important part of the modern baseball umpire's protector. Together it forms a
very light weight protector that affords the maximum in comfort and protection.If you decide to order a chest protector from Cece Carlucci, you should be aware of two things: they are expensive, expect to start between $220 and $250 (US), and the process of purchasing a protector is not "one quick phone-call." In my case the chest protector developed over several fascinating calls in which Cece guided me through a process that allowed me to define my options clearly and also quizzed me on the rules several times!
Placing The Order
Cece will be interested in your likes and dislikes from your current protector. He will want to know what improvements you specifically want built into your chest protector, for example: I added about two inches to the base width, broadened the shoulder section and lengthened the arm padding by about 1 inch from my regular protector. Your final choice is the color you want it made in. Despite being tempted by burgundy, I selected a black material with dark blue plates.Since I had been working at the upper age levels in baseball and had owned and worked with two of the most current "armored" protectors, I was aware of what I would need in protection. If this is your first step into the world of professional equipment then talk to Cece and plan on spending many hours doing your homework before making your final decisions.
When the day comes to place the order, you will need to have a seamstress tape measure, your old protector and the assistance of someone to take the many measurements. I recommend a speaker phone so you can both follow Cece's detailed questions and directions.
The Box Arrives
Several weeks later, when the box arrives, you will have the experience of putting on a chest protector that fits without even adjusting a strap, hand signed by "Mr. Ump." The protector took a few games to mold to my form, and mold it did! In fact, in the first few innings, I will honestly admit, it was mildly uncomfortable, but gradually it started its transformation, It is important to note that this is not "breaking-down" like other protectors I have owned. The protector took on, and retains, the curves of my body shape. This is one protector that you do not fold into a gym bag at the end of the day. I maintain it in its full form in a small suit-bag case. My Carlucci protector maintains its shape and comfort game after game.Cece has long recommended a product called "Tannery" for maintaining his equipment. A sample bottle was enclosed with the protector. It is an excellent cleaner, removes sweat and salt stains, deodorizes and maintains the shine and softness of the material. I have used the product for years on all of my previous equipment. Though difficult to find, it is available in most hardware stores. Find it, buy it and use it.
If my mom had made this, she would be proud of the fit and the way it looked on me. There was always that moment of pride when she stood back and looked at her creations. You know Cece feels exactly the same.
And Later in the Season
I have now worn this protector through the heat of many games. The protector has maintained its molded form and there is no sign of any breakdown of the materials to be found. It has proven to be quite breathable, and due to its lightness, a significant improvement on any model I had previously owned. I remain more then satisfied with the fit at the neck and collarbone, which to me is the most critical area a protector must fit in. After numerous wearings there seems to be no compromise in the fit in this important area.The Carlucci protector has seen diamonds in 100 degree heat and 100% humidity. It has take complete shots off the shoulders, arm padding, and chest without damage to the protector or me. The straps remain extremely comfortable and since they are already fastened at my size, do not slip during a game or require adjustment after each game.
Umpires who have examined the protector are as impressed with it first time as I remain with it several months into the season. There is literally no sign of wear. This protector is a testament to Cece's quality craftsmanship.
- a perfectly fitting five plus plate rating! (5/5)
Cece Carlucci can be contacted by phone at: (909) 674-2935 or by mail at: 20848 Cashew Street, Wildomar, California, 92595.
Cece manufactures a complete line of protective equipment for the umpire, including everything from knee pads, throat protectors and a unique round ball bag to custom clothing and equipment bags for transporting your equipment.
.... original on April 27, 1999
.... revisited on July 27, 1999
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