Major League Baseball umpires, often unnoticed for their fashion, are quietly setting trends with their pants. The 76 full-time MLB umpires, ranging in experience from veterans like Jordan Baker to newcomers, face unique wardrobe challenges. "To please all 76 bodies is impossible," says Cory Blaser, an umpire since 2010. "But I think we're in a good spot with our pants."
Supplier and Design Details
Purchase Officials Supplies, based in Akron, Ohio, outfits MLB umpires. "We serve as the clearinghouse for sporting officials' attire," says Aaron Frame, Executive VP of Sales at Purchase. The company distributes umpire gear, including the distinctive pants, to all MLB umpires and those on the call-up list.
Fashion Meets Function
Under the umpire union's collective bargaining agreement, umpires receive two pairs of pants for plate duty and two for base duty each season. The pants, available in a charcoal color with flat or pleated fronts, accommodate protective gear, often resulting in a baggy style. "Baggy is back," notes Blaser, acknowledging the pants' alignment with 2026 menswear trends.
Previously, umpires wore a polyester-wool blend, but the introduction of a 90/10 polyester-spandex blend has improved comfort and durability. "That spandex gives it a little room," Frame explains, crucial for umpires like Blaser who perform 12,000 squats a year.
Uniform Committee and Modernization
Blaser, a member of the Uniform Committee since 2017, credits Eric Cooper for modernizing umpire attire. "It's come a long way, especially with the pants," Blaser says. The pants are now lightweight and athletic-looking, available even in tapered fits.
Jackets and Seasonal Considerations
Umpire jackets have also evolved. Blaser describes options like the "short-sleeve slick" for mild weather, a "rain slicker" for wet conditions, and "heavies" for cold months. These are part of the traveling wardrobe, shipped between stadiums for each game.
Blaser sees room for further improvement, particularly in jacket design. "I want a more athletic, modern look," he says, reminiscing about the style of older jackets with piping. Meanwhile, umpires like Jim Wolf—praised for their fit and presence on camera—highlight the importance of modern, tailored uniforms.
For those interested in dressing like MLB umpires, Purchase Officials Supplies offers retail options. "The secret is these are off-the-rack pants," Frame reveals.
Source: https://www.gq.com/story/mlb-umpires-pants
