uniforms

[jwkde]

Hope to be on the field this fall for my first season.  Going through training classes and mechanics now.  Looking into the uniform requirements now.  What are the best options on shoes?  Dress code requires all black.  Is a turf type shoe the best?  With all the changes in the golf shoes (Ecco style), I wonder if these would provide enough traction on  wet field.

I hesitate to buy shoes online since my foot size seems to vary by manufacturer and I normally take a wide with. 

Is a place like Dicks Sporting goods a good option?

Thanks

[HLinNC]

Dicks will not have all black. 

You have two choices, buy off the shelf and color in with permanent markers & liquid polish or buy from one of the official supply merchandisers.  Most have reasonable return policies if the shoes you purchase don't fit.
Eastbay's web site allows you to dial down style, size, width, and color.  Zappo's has officiating style shoes also.

I've seen one official wear a pair of golf shoes and he is retired now.

Turf shoes, of which baseball trainers/coaching shoes compare, will work fine on turf and well groomed grass fields.  If your area has "cow pastures", you will want a pair of molded football cleats at a minimum.

Do not skimp on footwear.  If your feet hurt or get messed up, your officiating and enjoyment will suffer.  Years of battling plantar fasciitis, shin splits, and old ankle injuries have me constantly on the look out for the best shoe.

[James]

I wear baseball shoes that players wear.

We also have the good luck that the shoes only have to be predominantly black, not all black - makes it a lot easier to find something.

[bama_stripes]

Do not skimp on footwear.  If your feet hurt or get messed up, your officiating and enjoyment will suffer.  Years of battling plantar fasciitis, shin splits, and old ankle injuries have me constantly on the look out for the best shoe.

+100

[TampaSteve]

To get all-black nowadays is becoming harder & harder. 
As a result, many HS States & Assns have allowed for black shoes w/ white stripes/swosh, etc.
Those that have not allowed for black & white shoes may not be enlightened yet to this fact.

[Jackhammer]

Shoes are a very individual thing, but I'd check out the NEw balance 995's. Good all purpose shoe for turf and grass and they're comfy for me

[ljudge]

In dealing with Honigs for the past 16 years I find they are very reasonable about returning items that don't fit.  I would highly recommend you CALL them and let them know ahead of time and simply order over the phone.  I did this before and they were very accommodating as I purchased a hat that was just a tad too big.  Had no problems taking it back but I spoke with them first.  The owner was a top-notch referee so he "gets it" and is a very understanding person in my dealings with him.

[jwkde]

Thanks for all the answers guys

[InsideTheStripes]

Do not skimp on footwear.  If your feet hurt or get messed up, your officiating and enjoyment will suffer.  Years of battling plantar fasciitis, shin splits, and old ankle injuries have me constantly on the look out for the best shoe.

I lost both big toenails after my first season as a result of bad, poorly fitting shoes.

Do not skimp on footwear. 

[Cowman52]

Red wing has solid black shoes, in an athletic type, steel toed for the umpire, and they wear like iron and stay comfortable and look good.  Price is bearable.