Kitting out a new umpire

[bjmajor]

Hi all.  I am based up Glasgow (originally from Australia) and am looking to get into umpiring this year.  Have been missing my cricket but wasn't really keen on playing so thought I would look to umpire.  I have recently passed my ECB ACO Level 1 umpires certificate.

Can anyone recommend a good jacket/coat that is not too expensive.  

Any recommendations for shoes would also be handy.  Have never really paid attention to what shoes umpires wear with regards to spikes or not.

Any replies will be greatly appreciated.  Thanks in advance. 

[tippex2]

Coat - several are available from the ECB ACO online shop, and Amazon has some at a lower price. Up to you in terms of what you're looking for - might be worth enquiring with either the WDCU or Cricket Scotland as to if they have any stock which you could get.

I've never worn spikes to umpire - a pair of white trainers works fine for me. As an umpire if you're struggling to stand up without spikes, the ground's probably so wet that you shouldn't be playing.

[jaybee]

If you don't want to spend too much you may find the ECB ACO umpires' coats a bit on the pricey side. The old-style coats were thinner and without any rain protection so, coming from Australia you might want something a bit warmer, particularly in Scotland at times!
You could try the old-style coats from www.acumenbooks.co.uk
I had a quick look on the internet and there are quite a few more modern-style jackets available, including a Readers jacket at £20 from 3D Sports and both traditional and modern coats from Morrant - there are plenty of others and you might be spoilt for choice. The advantage of ordering online from one of the chains is that you're entitled to return goods promptly if they don't suit - but watch postage costs.

On footwear I bought some white golf shoes several years ago and they have proved to be really good value. They have nylon cleats which mean that I can wear them in the tea rooms and they provide that extra bit of grip on the field. It's not always damp surfaces that cause a problem as I found out to my cost during my playing days - but that's another story! And you shouldn't be short of golf stores in Scotland.

[bjmajor]

Thanks very much for the replies.

I did look at the ECB ACO jackets. Would be preferable If I can get away with something a bit cheaper.

Tippex2 - Good point about the shoes. Hadn't really thought of that way.

jaybee - I am definitely looking for something with a bit of warmth. I will probably also need a sweater underneath. Been here for 3 years now and still not acclimatised.
Hadn't even thought of the golf shoe department. Great idea. And you are right, there are plenty of golf stores here.

Thanks again guys.