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[Chalkie]

There seem to be a number of different threads discussing Shoe Goo or Toe Guards but there doesnt seem to be one discussing the pros and cons of each and which was best. 

So - what is the best way to protect the toe of a new bat and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each option?

[WalkingWicket37]

Wood Varnish!
Cheap, easier to apply than shoe goo and not a chore to re-apply every couple of weeks as it takes seconds.

I must buy myself another tin actually 

[TangoWhiskey]

Did I miss the discussion about wood varnish or are you joking Cam?

[WalkingWicket37]

I'm not sure if it's been discussed but I've been doing it for years.

I've tried Shoe Goo but its a pain in the neck to apply, peels off and never looks as neat as I'd like.
Will see if I can find a picture of a varnished toe

[Seniorplayer]

Hammerite damp proof paint have it on all my toes great at repelling water.

[Alvaro]

Knock it in properly

[compstallcc]

i use the fevibond glue that you get with the toe guards. Seems to do the job and have to re apply maybe once a season so not too much bother considering it takes a few seconds

[Manormanic]

So - what is the best way to protect the toe of a new bat and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each option?

1. Apply oil
2. Apply clear anti scuff
3. Apply toe guard
4. Place in bat case on display and never allow near a cricket ball.

[WalkingWicket37]

Varnish being applied



Varnish after a few uses

[WalkingWicket37]

Been to B&Q to get my tin of ronseal outdoor varnish (clear gloss finish).

I'm going to do what it says on the tin for unfinished wood and apply 3 coats.
I've applied the first coat, and will apply a 2nd tomorrow morning, with the final coat tomorrow evening.

That will keep the toe dry, and I can just add another coat as and when I need to (hopefully every game if I bat long enough!)
It's also useful for fillingwort any small cracks of the toe starts feathering, but that's a different conversation!

[Mattsky]

I'm not sure if it's been discussed but I've been doing it for years.

I've tried Shoe Goo but its a pain in the neck to apply, peels off and never looks as neat as I'd like.
Will see if I can find a picture of a varnished toe

Wood varnish is a good shout for keeping out moisture, but doesn't offer much of a physical barrier against damage, mind.

[WalkingWicket37]

Does a toe guard, or shoe goo really provide a real physical barrier against damage?
The toe is a vulnerable area, if it's going to go it will go, a bit or rubber glued to it won't do much to change that in my opinion

[horseman]

Does a toe guard, or shoe goo really provide a real physical barrier against damage?
The toe is a vulnerable area, if it's going to go it will go, a bit or rubber glued to it won't do much to change that in my opinion

Can you send me a link to which you use cam?
 @WalkingWicket37

[Mattsky]

Does a toe guard, or shoe goo really provide a real physical barrier against damage?
The toe is a vulnerable area, if it's going to go it will go, a bit or rubber glued to it won't do much to change that in my opinion

Well, yep, it's all relative. None of the options are going to protect it well from a yorker, for instance.

But in cases such as running your bat along the ground into the crease - a rubber toe or Shoe Goo will better stand up to the punishment than varnish, I would imagine, as taking bumps and scuffs is what both of those products have been designed to do.

[WalkingWicket37]

@horseman

http://www.diy.com/departments/ronseal-gloss-outdoor-varnish-250ml/127566_BQ.prd