So You’re The Ump Now? The Essential Gear Every Dad Needs For Officiating Baseball
It happens fast - one weekend you’re cheering from the bleachers, the next you’re standing behind the plate wearing more padding than a middle linebacker. Congratulations, Dad—you’re the ump now!
Whether you’re volunteering at your kid’s Little League, middle school games, or stepping up to high school baseball, one thing’s for sure: you’ll need the right gear. So in this article we’ll give you the rundown on the essential baseball umpiring gear every dad-turned-ump needs—plus what changes as you move up the levels.
The Basics (Every Ump Needs These)
No matter the level, here’s your standard toolkit:
Mask: Protects your face from wild pitches and foul tips. Traditional or hockey-style—it’s about comfort and visibility.
Chest Protector: Your shield against those not-so-friendly fastballs. Get one that fits snug and doesn’t weigh you down.
Shin Guards: Foul balls don’t discriminate—your legs need protection too.
Indicator (Clicker): Keeps track of balls, strikes, and outs. Because your brain will be busy enough with everything else.
Plate Brush: Clear off home plate like a pro. (Bonus points for dramatic flair.)
Uniform: Typically navy or black shirt, grey pants, and black belt—though check your league’s rules.
Shoes: Sturdy black shoes. Plate umps need reinforced toe caps; base umps can go lighter.
Little League / Youth Baseball
At this level, kids are still figuring out which direction to run. Your main job? Keep the game fun, safe, and moving.
Basic Mask & Chest Protector: Lightweight options are fine—no need for MLB-grade gear.
Indicator & Brush: Keeps you looking official.
Comfortable Shoes: You’ll do more standing and jogging than sprinting.
Optional: A hat to match the league’s colors. You’ll blend in and earn some extra style points.
Middle School Baseball
Now the pitches have some zip, and foul tips start flying. Time to upgrade.
Better Mask: Go for lightweight steel or titanium with good padding. Hockey-style masks are popular for extra coverage.
Solid Chest Protector: More coverage around shoulders and ribs.
Shin Guards: With kids throwing harder, these move from “optional” to “essential.”
Indicator & Game Card: Keep track of pitch counts and outs—it matters more now.
High School Baseball
By now, the game is fast, the crowds are louder, and yes, those curveballs can sting. Your gear has to be up to the challenge.
Professional-Grade Mask & Chest Protector: Lighter, more protective, and built to last. Worth the investment.
Heavy-Duty Shin Guards: Full coverage with extra padding.
Plate Shoes: Reinforced toes are a must if you’re working behind the plate. No regular sneakers allowed here.
Uniform Jacket: Many high school associations expect umps to have a jacket for cooler games.
Gear Bag: With all this equipment, you’ll need a bag with compartments to keep it organized.
Optional: A lineup card holder or small notebook for jotting down subs and pitching changes.
Dad-to-Dad Advice
Don’t Skimp on Protection: That cheap chest protector may save money, but it won’t save you from a 75-mph foul tip.
Plate vs. Base Gear: Plate umps need more protection (mask, chest, shin guards); base umps can travel lighter.
Pack Spares: An extra indicator, brush, or even socks can rescue you mid-doubleheader.
Know the Rules: Gear keeps you safe, but rule knowledge keeps the game flowing—and parents off your back.
Have Fun: Yes, it’s work, but it’s also the best seat in the house to watch your kids play the game they love.
Final Call
Officiating baseball isn’t for the faint of heart—you’ll sweat, you’ll get dusty, and you will catch the occasional foul ball. But with the right gear, you can step behind the plate (or out on the bases) with confidence.