Consignment: Questions and Answers

What to Look for in Used Equipment

We all know the story.  The economy is down, gas prices are up and jobs are scarce.  However, kids still grow, games must be played and your health should be a top priority.  This is where "nearly new" or gently used equipment can be a tremendous way to save money and still keep up with your kids growth spurts, play the games and stay fit.  Almega Sports has you covered with new and used sports equipment, fitness equipment, cleats and nearly new golf. 

We often get many questions regarding used equipment.  Here are the most common questions and answers.

• Question:  What do I look for when choosing a used treadmill?
• Answer:  Most importantly, look at the overall condition of the machine.  Then take a good look at the running belt.  When looking at the belt be cautious of excessive freys or uneven ware.  Lastly, plug it in and give it a field test.  Ask questions.
• Question:  What are the benefits of an elliptical machine?
• Answer:  Ellipticals can be far less invasive on joints than traditional treadmills or stair climbers.  When choosing elliptical be sure to do your homework.  Nordic Track, Bowflex, and Proform are the 3 most popular home based systems.  When buying a used elliptical, take an overview of the overall condition.  If it is a piston or shock based machine, make sure they are not worn out.  If the resistance is controlled by electronics, then plug it in and test it out. Duration is the key here.  Spend at least 10 minutes trying out the machine.   Again, ask questions.
• Question:  What is a recumbant bike?
• Answer:  A recumbant bike takes the benefit of an exercise bike combined with the stability of a chair.  Great for those with lower back or balance issues.  After all it is about cardio.  When purchasing a used recumbant bike, the first thing is get on the bike and make sure you fit properly.  Adjust the seat and make sure you are fitting into the machine comfortably, then pedal.  Like treadmills most recumbant bikes operate with a belt.  Set the tention at the maximum to make sure there is still plently of resistance.  Monitor the electronics and listen for any ususual sounds. 



• Question:  Is buying used sports equipment safe and worth it?
• Answer:  Yes, if you do your homework.  Example, some athletic equipment have expiration dates.  Football helmets can have cracks and bats can be modified in an illegal manner.  The key to buying used sports equipment is dealing with reputable consignment dealers and do a close inspection of the equipment.  Always test the equipment when possible and ask many questions. 

The bottom line is used sports and used fitness equipment can save you money.  However, it is up to the consumer to take the time to do the research on what to purchase. 

Still have quesions?  Almega Sports has you covered.  Come on in and check our our inventory of used sports equipment from used baseball gloves to treadmills.  We have a wide selection that changes constantly.  Don't forget.  If you have equipment that is getting in the way, bring it in and let someone else have a turn.  We accept consignment on most fitness, sports and golf products.

How To Series: Cleats

Cleats:  The Right Fit for MVP

Lets face it.  Kids grow fast!  They begin the season in one size cleat and end the season a size and a half larger.  How does that happen?  We are ending our "How To" series with how to properly size a cleat. Although we cannot help you predict growth spurts we can give you some guidance on how cleats should fit to protect your MVP.

First and most importantly the cleat must fit properly to prevent injury. 
- The ankle, arch and the sides of the foot are crucial areas to pay attention to when choosing a cleat.  The cleat should give plenty of support but no restrict the players movement.

- Choose cleats that are snug but not uncomfortable.  Some cleats are made of leather and leather will stretch out after multiple wears.  Choose a cleat that is snug to you in the beginning and wear them a few times before a game.  The key is to choose cleats that are not tight around the ankle or across the top of the foot.

Does the material matter when choosing cleats?
- Yes.  Synthetic material cleats are fine for beginners because they are easy to clean but for more seasoned players, chose cleats that are made of full grain leather.  Leather cleats breath well, offer superior strength, and durability.

What are cleat studs?
- Cleat studs are the pointed objects on the bottom of the shoe.  Usually you will not be faced with what length stud you need for your season.  However, choose shorter studs for hard surfaces, such as the infield and longer studs for soft surfaces, such as the outfield. 

Don't let choosing cleats break the bank.  It is easy to get caught up in the most popular brands and colors.  The most important fact to remember when choosing cleats is that the fit must be right.  Avoid a season ending injury or worse by choosing cleats that fit and protect.

Almega Sports has you covered when it comes to cleats and sports equipment.  We carries the name brands you want at the prices you deserve.  We even carry gently used sports equipment.  If you can not find what you are searching for in our retail store we will order it for you and have it within days.  Stop by and let the Almega Sports team help you prepare your player for the field.

How To Series: Glove Sizing

How To Fit a Glove

As parents of a baseball player, we know that it can be overwhelming when you walk into a sports store and have to choose and invest in the gear your player will need for the season.  Almega Sports has you covered when it comes to the most frequently asked questions we are asked in our retail store with "how to choose the correct size glove."

Walking into a sports store and looking at a glove wall can be very intimidating.  You may have a young or new player and you need the basics to get them started.  You have to start somewhere.  We have a few tips that will help you take the frustration out of gearing up your player for the field.

First of all there is much information on the Internet about what size to choose for each position.  In our research this is widely misleading.  Here are some of our tips:

1. Take your player to the store and try gloves on. 
2. Know what position the player will play.
3. Have a price range in mind. 
4. What hand?  Determine what hand you need the glove on.  If your player throws with their right hand then the glove goes on the left hand and vise-versa.
5. Fit.  Start trying gloves on. 
• The hand should be fully inserted into the glove with the palm of the hand slightly showing.
• The glove should NOT cover the players wrist. ***See example below
• Have your player move around in the glove.  Toss a ball.  The glove should fit comfortably without slipping or restricting the natural movement of the wrist.
• The player should be able to slightly squeeze a brand new glove (break in process may be necessary).  Note:  game ready glove are available.
6. Tip:  Outfield players require a longer glove to catch balls that are hit deep into the field.  Infielders require shorter gloves for quick motion and quick plays.

(Properly fit baseball glove.  Palm is slightly showing.)

The bottom line is that it will take some time to find the proper glove.  Taking your player with you and having fun trying gloves on and tossing baseball will take out the frustration and intimidation of choosing on your own.  Have fun with it and involve your player and then hit the field.

Almega Sports has you covered when it comes to baseball gloves and sports equipment.  We have the regions largest selection of baseball gloves, catchers gear, bags and bats.  We even carry gently used sports equipment.  If you can not find what you are searching for in our retail store we will order it for you and have it within days.

How To Series: Gloves

How To Break in a New Glove



Almega Sports is answering the most frequently asked questions in our retail store.  We are continuing our "How To" blog series with glove care.

Just like a good bat, a good glove is an investment.  As with any investment you need to properly care for your glove. Short cuts should never be an option.  Here are a few Do's and Dont's for glove care.

     Do:                    

• Oil your glove with proper glove oil such as saddle soap or a manufacturer produced glove oil
• Repeat the oil process a few time per year
• Clean your glove with a damp cloth when needed (playing in mud)
• Properly store your glove
• Maintain your glove with necessary repairs
• Break in your glove by forming a pocket *see video

     Don't

• Steam, microwave or put your glove in the dryer
• Use shaving cream, vaseline, or any other cream or non recommended oil on your glove
• Soak your glove in water
• Run your glove over with the car

Below is a great video on how to properly break in your glove.  These are the methods Almega Sports recommends to get your investment in its best playing condition.

By taking some time and using proper techniques and methods your glove can last you for more than just a few seasons.  It could last you 10-15 years.  Perhaps even be handed down to the next generation. 

Almega Sports has you covered when it comes to sporting goods and equipment.  We have the regions largest selection of baseball gloves, catchers gear, bags and bats.  We even carry gently used sports equipment.  If you can not find what you are searching for in our retail store we will order it for you and have it within days.