As a lacrosse umpire, your job is not only to make accurate calls but also to stay comfortable and focused, no matter the weather. Whether it’s a hot summer day, a windy fall afternoon, or a cold winter morning, the weather can affect your gear choices.
In this article, we’ll look at how different weather conditions impact your gear and offer tips on what to wear to stay comfortable, safe, and ready for any game.
Hot and Humid Weather: Stay Cool and Protected
Lacrosse is already a fast-paced sport, and hot, humid weather can make it even harder to stay focused and energized. To stay comfortable in the heat, your goal should be to stay cool, dry, and protected from the sun.
Gear Tips for Hot and Humid Conditions:
- Breathable Fabrics: Choose umpire gear made from moisture-wicking materials like polyester or synthetic fabrics. These help keep you dry by pulling sweat away from your body and allowing air to flow, which helps regulate your temperature.
- Sun Protection: Prolonged sun exposure can cause sunburn or dehydration. A wide-brimmed umpire hat provides shade and helps keep your head cool, while many hats come with ventilation to prevent overheating. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to exposed skin before the game.
- Ventilated Gear: Modern chest protectors and shin guards are designed with ventilation systems that help reduce heat buildup. These features keep you cooler and more comfortable during the game by allowing air to flow and preventing moisture from accumulating.
- Hydration: Dehydration can impact your performance, so always have a water bottle or hydration pack on hand. Take breaks to drink, even if you’re not thirsty, and consider using a cooling towel to quickly lower your body temperature.
- Lightweight Equipment: When it’s hot, opt for lighter umpire uniforms and protective gear. Heavy pads or layers can make you overheat, so gear designed for hot weather will keep you more comfortable as you move on the field.
Cold Weather: Warmth Without Sacrificing Mobility
While lacrosse is often associated with warmer months, many games are played in the fall or even early winter. Cold weather can be particularly challenging for umpires because it not only makes you uncomfortable but also can impede your range of motion.
A stiff chest protector or frozen hands can make it difficult to make accurate calls and move quickly.
Gear Tips for Cold Weather:
- Layering: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin, which helps prevent you from getting colder. Choose thermal shirts or long-sleeve undershirts that are insulated but breathable.
- Insulating Outerwear: A lightweight, insulated jacket or vest keeps you warm without restricting movement. Look for snug, flexible outerwear so you can move freely while staying warm.
- Thermal Gloves: Cold hands can distract you during the game, so wear insulated gloves designed for lacrosse umpires. Some gloves even have touchscreen-friendly tips, allowing you to manage devices without taking them off.
- Protecting Extremities: Thermal socks, like merino wool, will keep your feet warm, and heated insoles are a great option for extra warmth. A thermal hat with ear flaps or a headband will also protect your head and ears, especially in windy conditions.
- Stay Mobile: Make sure your chest protector and shin guards fit properly, so they don’t restrict your movement. Your gear should keep you warm but still allow a full range of motion for making calls and moving on the field.
Rainy or Wet Conditions: Stay Dry and Avoid Slips
Rain can complicate any game, but it’s a reality that lacrosse umpires sometimes have to face. Wet conditions mean slippery fields and soggy gear, which can not only be uncomfortable but also pose safety risks.
To stay dry and perform at your best in the rain, you need the right gear to combat the moisture.
Gear Tips for Rainy or Wet Weather:
- Waterproof Outerwear: A waterproof jacket or shell keeps you dry in the rain. Look for one that’s also breathable to avoid overheating. Some jackets have ventilation or moisture-wicking linings to prevent sweat buildup.
- Waterproof Footwear: To keep your feet dry and comfortable, choose waterproof shoes or boots. Make sure they provide good traction to avoid slipping on wet surfaces.
- Moisture-Wicking Gloves: In the rain, gloves can get slippery. Opt for water-resistant gloves with a good grip to hold onto your flag and whistle. Always have an extra pair of gloves in case the first one gets too wet.
- Dry Towels: Carry a towel to dry off your gear during breaks. Wipe down your whistle, flag, and hands to keep them functional. An absorbent cloth can also help prevent moisture from collecting in your chest protector and other gear.
- Slip-Resistant Gear: Make sure your shin guards and chest protector are secure, as wet conditions can cause them to shift. Some shin guards have extra grip or silicone backing to stay in place on slippery surfaces.
Windy Weather: Stability and Comfort
Wind can be an underrated yet significant factor in a lacrosse game. Whether you’re dealing with light gusts or a blustery storm, wind can cause distractions and make it difficult to focus.
In these conditions, your gear needs to be both stable and secure to avoid being blown around.
Gear Tips for Windy Weather:
- Tightly Fitting Gear: Make sure your uniform fits snugly to avoid flapping or shifting. Loose clothing can distract you and make it harder to stay stable when making calls.
- Secure Your Hat: Choose a hat or cap with an adjustable strap to keep it from blowing away. Whether it’s a baseball-style cap or a wide-brimmed hat, the strap will help keep it secure.
- Weighted Flags: In windy conditions, choose flags with weighted bottoms to reduce flapping and maintain a steady signal while staying efficient.
- Wind-Resistant Gear: A lightweight, wind-resistant jacket or vest will block the wind without restricting movement. Look for outerwear that’s both protective and flexible to avoid added bulk.
Gear Up for Any Weather
Investing in high-quality clothing tailored to your specific demands will keep you comfortable and focused regardless of the weather. Upgrade your umpire gear with top-quality goods from Ump Junk to perform at your best in any conditions. Stay cool, warm, dry, and safe. Your finest calls are made when you have the proper equipment.
