What are the key components of a box lacrosse helmet. How does the Canadian face mask controversy impact helmet design. What safety standards must be considered when making a box lacrosse helmet. How can you customize a box lacrosse helmet for optimal performance and protection.
The Evolution of Box Lacrosse Helmet Regulations
The world of Canadian lacrosse has been undergoing significant changes in recent years, particularly concerning equipment regulations. One of the most contentious issues has been the evolution of face mask and headgear requirements. To understand the current state of box lacrosse helmets, it’s essential to examine the historical context and the factors driving these changes.
In the past, lacrosse equipment regulations in Canada were relatively lax. For instance, in 1996, senior lacrosse players weren’t required to wear face masks at all. Those who did often used homemade contraptions or modified versions of existing hockey equipment. However, as the sport grew and safety concerns increased, the need for standardized equipment became apparent.
The Shift Towards Standardization
By 2007, all box lacrosse equipment sold in Canada needed to be insured, prompting insurance companies to seek standardized testing for headgear. Initially, the Canadian Lacrosse Association (CLA) relied on the USA’s National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) standards for field lacrosse, as Canada lacked its own lacrosse-specific standards.
This reliance on field lacrosse standards created a unique challenge. Face masks tested on field lacrosse helmets (which are one-piece designs) would pass NOCSAE standards, but the same masks mounted on hockey-style helmets (commonly used in box lacrosse) would not be covered by insurance in case of injury.
The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and New Regulations
Recognizing the need for box lacrosse-specific standards, the CLA began working with the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) around 2005 to develop new regulations. The CSA, which already had established hockey equipment standards, used these as a starting point for lacrosse gear.
Key Features of the New Standards
- Easily removable masks for emergency situations
- Hinged or flip-up mask designs
- Improved protection against lacrosse-specific impacts
The primary goal of these new standards was to ensure that in the event of a serious injury, medical personnel could easily remove a player’s mask without moving their head or neck, crucial for potential head or spinal injuries.
The Controversy Surrounding Hockey-Style Masks in Box Lacrosse
The implementation of hockey-style masks in box lacrosse has been met with significant resistance from players and fans alike. Many argue that these new masks are ill-suited for the unique demands of box lacrosse, leading to a range of issues.
Common Complaints About Hockey-Style Masks
- Reduced visibility compared to traditional lacrosse masks
- Increased maintenance requirements
- Potential for new types of injuries due to design differences
Critics argue that the CSA’s close collaboration with hockey standards may have overlooked crucial differences between the two sports. While hockey is primarily played with players looking downward at the ice, lacrosse involves more head-level play, with arms, elbows, and shoulders frequently in the head region.
Designing a Box Lacrosse Helmet: Key Considerations
When designing or modifying a box lacrosse helmet, several factors must be taken into account to ensure both compliance with regulations and optimal player protection.
Safety First: Meeting CSA Standards
Any box lacrosse helmet design must prioritize meeting the current CSA standards. This includes:
- A hinged or flip-up mask design for easy removal
- Materials that can withstand lacrosse-specific impacts
- Proper fit and adjustability to ensure stability during play
Balancing Protection and Performance
While safety is paramount, a well-designed box lacrosse helmet should also consider player performance. This involves:
- Maximizing visibility without compromising protection
- Ensuring proper ventilation to prevent overheating
- Minimizing weight to reduce player fatigue
Custom Modifications: Enhancing Your Box Lacrosse Helmet
For players looking to personalize their helmets while maintaining safety standards, several modifications can be considered:
Visibility Enhancements
Improving sight lines is a top priority for many players. Some potential modifications include:
- Adjusting the angle of the face mask
- Customizing the cage pattern to optimize visibility
- Exploring anti-fog treatments for the visor (if applicable)
Comfort Upgrades
Enhancing comfort can lead to better performance on the field. Consider:
- Adding or upgrading padding for improved fit
- Installing a moisture-wicking liner
- Customizing chin straps for a more secure feel
Is it possible to make these modifications without voiding safety certifications? In most cases, minor adjustments can be made without compromising the helmet’s integrity. However, it’s crucial to consult with equipment experts or manufacturers before making any significant changes to ensure continued compliance with safety standards.
The Future of Box Lacrosse Helmet Design
As the debate over face mask regulations continues, the future of box lacrosse helmet design remains uncertain. However, several trends and potential developments are worth noting:
Advancements in Materials Science
Emerging materials technologies could lead to helmets that offer superior protection while maintaining or even improving visibility and comfort. Some possibilities include:
- Ultra-lightweight, high-strength composites
- Smart materials that adapt to impact forces
- Improved ventilation systems for better temperature regulation
Integration of Technology
The incorporation of advanced technology into helmet design could revolutionize player safety and performance monitoring. Potential innovations include:
- Impact sensors to detect and record potentially dangerous hits
- Heads-up display systems for real-time game information
- Integrated communication systems for team coordination
How might these technological advancements impact the sport of box lacrosse? While improved safety measures are always welcome, care must be taken to ensure that new technologies don’t fundamentally alter the nature of the game or create unfair advantages.
Navigating the Regulatory Landscape
For players, coaches, and equipment manufacturers, staying informed about current and upcoming regulations is crucial. Here are some key points to consider:
Keeping Up with Changing Standards
Regulations surrounding box lacrosse equipment are likely to continue evolving. To stay compliant:
- Regularly check updates from the CLA and CSA
- Attend industry conferences and workshops
- Join lacrosse equipment forums and discussion groups
Advocating for Player Safety and Performance
Players and coaches can play an active role in shaping future regulations by:
- Providing feedback to equipment manufacturers and regulatory bodies
- Participating in equipment testing and trials
- Sharing experiences and concerns with league officials
How can the lacrosse community balance the need for increased safety with the desire to maintain the sport’s traditional elements? Open dialogue between players, coaches, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies is essential to finding solutions that address all stakeholders’ concerns.
DIY Box Lacrosse Helmet Modifications: Pros and Cons
While professional-grade box lacrosse helmets must adhere to strict safety standards, some players may consider DIY modifications to their existing equipment. It’s important to weigh the potential benefits against the risks before undertaking any helmet alterations.
Potential Benefits of DIY Modifications
- Cost savings compared to purchasing new, certified equipment
- Ability to customize fit and features to personal preferences
- Opportunity to experiment with innovative design concepts
Risks and Drawbacks
- Potential voiding of manufacturer warranties and insurance coverage
- Risk of compromising the helmet’s structural integrity
- Possible non-compliance with league regulations
Can DIY modifications ever be a safe alternative to professionally manufactured helmets? While minor adjustments for fit and comfort may be acceptable, any significant structural changes should be approached with extreme caution. When in doubt, consult with equipment experts or consider investing in certified gear.
The Role of Education in Box Lacrosse Safety
As equipment regulations continue to evolve, education plays a crucial role in ensuring player safety and compliance. Players, coaches, and parents must be well-informed about the latest safety standards and best practices for helmet use and maintenance.
Key Areas of Focus for Lacrosse Safety Education
- Proper helmet fitting and adjustment techniques
- Recognizing signs of helmet wear and damage
- Understanding the limitations of protective equipment
- Promoting a culture of safety within the sport
Implementing Educational Initiatives
Lacrosse organizations can take several steps to improve safety education:
- Developing comprehensive training programs for coaches and officials
- Creating easily accessible online resources for players and parents
- Incorporating safety education into youth lacrosse programs
- Partnering with equipment manufacturers for demonstrations and workshops
How can the lacrosse community ensure that safety education keeps pace with evolving equipment standards? Continuous collaboration between regulatory bodies, manufacturers, and lacrosse organizations is essential to developing and disseminating up-to-date safety information.
The Economic Impact of Changing Helmet Regulations
The ongoing evolution of box lacrosse helmet regulations has significant implications for the sport’s economy, affecting manufacturers, retailers, and consumers alike.
Challenges for Equipment Manufacturers
- Increased research and development costs to meet new standards
- Potential need for retooling production lines
- Navigating complex certification processes
Impact on Consumers
- Potentially higher equipment costs due to new technologies and certifications
- Need to replace non-compliant gear more frequently
- Possible reduction in equipment choices as manufacturers adapt
How might these economic factors influence the growth and accessibility of box lacrosse? Balancing safety improvements with affordability will be crucial to ensuring the sport remains accessible to players at all levels.
International Perspectives on Box Lacrosse Helmet Design
While the Canadian face mask controversy has been a significant focus, it’s important to consider how box lacrosse helmet design is approached in other countries where the sport is played.
Comparing International Standards
Different countries may have varying approaches to helmet regulation:
- United States: Potentially influenced by field lacrosse standards
- European nations: May adopt hybrid approaches based on multiple sports
- Emerging lacrosse markets: Could look to established nations for guidance
Opportunities for Global Collaboration
International cooperation could lead to improvements in helmet design and safety standards:
- Sharing research and testing data across borders
- Developing universal safety benchmarks
- Collaborating on innovative design solutions
How might international perspectives influence the future of box lacrosse helmet design? Cross-cultural exchange of ideas and technologies could lead to more comprehensive and effective safety standards that benefit players worldwide.
The Psychological Aspect of Helmet Design in Box Lacrosse
Beyond physical protection, the design of box lacrosse helmets can have significant psychological impacts on players, potentially affecting their performance and enjoyment of the sport.
Confidence and Comfort
A well-designed helmet can boost a player’s confidence and comfort on the field:
- Feeling of security leading to more aggressive play
- Reduced anxiety about potential injuries
- Improved focus due to comfortable fit and clear visibility
Identity and Team Cohesion
Helmets can play a role in team identity and player individuality:
- Customized designs fostering team spirit
- Personal modifications expressing individual style
- Iconic helmet designs becoming part of team tradition
How does the psychological impact of helmet design influence player performance and satisfaction? Understanding these factors could lead to designs that not only protect players physically but also enhance their mental game and overall experience.
Sustainability in Box Lacrosse Helmet Manufacturing
As environmental concerns become increasingly important across all industries, the box lacrosse equipment sector must also consider sustainability in helmet design and production.
Eco-Friendly Materials and Production Methods
Manufacturers can explore various approaches to reduce environmental impact:
- Use of recycled or biodegradable materials in non-critical components
- Implementing energy-efficient production processes
- Developing modular designs for easier repair and component replacement
End-of-Life Considerations
Addressing the disposal and recycling of helmets is crucial:
- Creating take-back programs for proper recycling
- Designing helmets with easy-to-separate components
- Exploring upcycling possibilities for retired helmets
How can the box lacrosse community balance the need for high-performance, safe helmets with environmental responsibility? Innovations in materials science and manufacturing techniques may hold the key to creating sustainable yet effective protective gear.
Canadian Face Mask Controversy has Two Sides – O’Neill Lacrosse
The whole Canadian Lacrosse world has been working through the evolution of the regulations of our sport the past couple of years. New rules for goaltending equipment and net sizes hit us up a few years back. These days, face masks or head gear have become the centerpiece of an ongoing dilemma of what the rank and file has been asked to endure. I need to make something clear. I design and manufacturer lacrosse equipment and have been doing so for 25 years. I designed the face mask that revolutionized box lacrosse face masks back in 1999-2000 that is still worn today by NLL pros. I have been through the standards clearance process 3 times and most recently the CSA standard certification. I have some relevant experience to share.
I recently designed another face mask for box lacrosse that meets the new Canadian Standards Association protocol. Let me tell you that this process was not easy to endure and it drained most of my patience.
Of course, my CSA designation passed about June 1, 2013, just in time for the end of last years lacrosse season. In the process of patience and test after test with the CSA, I Iearned a lot about what is going on here in Canada with new head regulations and the CLA changing the requirements for face masks in Canada.
So I will take a stab at explaining the state of the union and the why of our new facemask rules. Pictures have been circulating for over a year now of gory face injuries due in part to having to wear hockey style face masks that rest on your chin and have straps that snap behind the ears to hold it in place.
In the past, most lacrosse people over the ages of 11 opted for the football style of lacrosse face mask that was bolted down at each temple and above the eyes for 4 screws to attach mask to helmet. Then a football chin cup was used in either a 4-point or 2-point arrangement to ensure that if a blow was taken on the mask the chin cup would absorb the force an keep everything away from the face.
There are two arguments here. The CLA side of it and the users complaints about the switch to hockey style masks. I will try my best to capture what both sides are after.
The CLA side is misunderstood and this is where this piece can help people digest what they have implemented. In the past, the CLA or Lacrosse in Canada, hid behind a USA standard for field lacrosse NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) because in Canada the CSA did not have any lacrosse standards.
Some strange perspective to consider: You didnt have to wear a facemask at all in Senior lacrosse in 1996 and the ones who did made up homemade items or they doctored the old Cooper HM 40 mask to suit their personal needs. Regulations for equipment came slowly in Canada but by 2007, all equipment sold for box lacrosse in Canada needed to be insured and the insurance companies were looking for a standard to be met on Canadian head gear.
To meet a NOCSAE specification in 2000, I had my facemask tested on a field lacrosse helmet at the direction of NOCSAE.
They told me Dont send it on a hockey helmet, it wont pass.” So the reality is even when the masks of the last 10 years met a NOCSAE standard, it was only if they were mounted to a field lacrosse helmet that is one piece helmet, and not a hockey helmet.
If an injury occurred, the insurance would not cover the old face mask attached to a hockey helmet. Therefore, the CLA needed a proper standard to get its insurance policy in Canada and set out to work with the CSA to develop that standard starting around 2005.
CSA has a hockey standard and that is where it started. It is plain and simple: If in the case of injury, a player is laying on the ground or ice, they must have a mask that can be removed easily without moving the head of the injured person in case of head or spinal injury. The hinged, or flip up mask, is the standard for hockey and is now the standard for lacrosse.
The users of these new hockey style masks arent happy. As these masks have found their way to fruition in the past two seasons of Canadian box lacrosse, we have seen all sorts of pushback due to injuries and having to change to masks with lesser sight lines and more maintenance.
There have been some oversights in the development of CSA testing for lacrosse, I feel. I think the boys at CSA worked so closely with hockey standards to come up with lacrosse standards, they didn’t stop to consider the plane of play for lacrosse in comparison to hockey which is played on the ground looking down. Lacrosse is played at head level with arms, elbows and shoulders all in use in the head region on any given play. The head needs to be protected more like football than hockey where arms are down at least 50% of the time.
The danger comes from any design (including my newest) resting on the chin aka hockey style. Impact on the face mask from ball, stick, shoulder or elbow has nowhere to go but into the jawline. This is where the issue lies with the legions of people who are furious because of the facial lacerations and injuries received from wearing the new CSA certified masks.
The people at CSA have set the standard and I dont think they are going to change.
Health Canada put its stamp of approval on these changes last year and once it gets involved, it is basically law. An industry insider told me last summer that once Health Canada have approved a CSA standard there is no going back. When the Senior A loop overturned the decision in mid-season last summer he said to me that it was a miracle and that it wont last. He was right. Here we are again and how can this issue be resolved if at?
The CLA now has a standard for lacrosse insurance and that insurance will take care of injuries, so in essence the CLA has successfully been able to do what it needed to do. In the past, if there were an injury — even one injury — where there could have been a case of the CLA being sued, it would have no insurance coverage that would hold up in a court of law I suspect. That means the CLA is on the hook for any type of settlement. A catastrophic injury could actually bankrupt the CLA! We all need to understand this is the bottom line or we wouldn’t have this issue on hand now.
The CSA could try to develop a better standard for box lacrosse but the last standard was very slow in the making and a new standard could take years as it did in the past.
Box lacrosse players say they would gladly sign a waiver but Im sure they wouldn’t be worth the paper they were written on. Short of every player going to a lawyer and paying large dollars to have a binding document made up on their behalf that gave away their right to sue in case of injury, I think the waiver idea is not fathomable. The CLA surely wouldn’t want or pay for maintenance of the paperwork unless it covered a whole division of lacrosse.
So is it safe to assume we are stuck here in this place? I know I have been working on another design to soothe everyones needs in adult lax but these things take time. Given the current CSA standard, Im not sure it would pass their new requirements anyways. It costs a good chunk of change to try.
I am not on either side of the fence here because I have a mask that can be sold for either or.
The original Marty mask design has stood the test of time and continues to be imitated by Under Armour for NLL use.
My newest design is late to the CSA / CLA approved party but I feel it is a much safer mask than the other offerings in the marketplace. The new design doesnt round into the face above the nose or into the jawline like the others. It also has a stiffer foam chin cup that sits on two bars about an inch apart so your chin doesnt rest on a single bar that can easily give a pressure cut. The flat area around the eyes disperses blows evenly and not into the forehead or chin areas where we have seen the gory injuries in the last year. Safety was a large concern in the design process.
So to wrap up this article I hope this brings clarification of the why to all of you. There are lots of misconceptions out there. Times are changing and lacrosse has had to keep up with the times. Insurance coverage is a way of life and the irony is our faces are less protected but our coverage from injury is in good shape.
Hopefully improvements to the standards are coming in the future.
Can You Wear A Hockey Helmet For Box Lacrosse?
Can you wear a hockey helmet for box lacrosse?
The helmets that are used in box lacrosse are completely different than field lacrosse. They use Hockey helmets with a box lacrosse facemask. Different from a field helmet, like a Cascade R or Warrior Regulator, these helmets are shaped smaller around the head so they are a little lighter.
In regards to, why do box lacrosse players wear hockey helmets? They’re designed to keep your head from splitting like a melon when you fall down on the ice. Lacrosse helmets have evolved with slightly more overall protection than a hockey helmet and are designed for lacrosse. When given the choice I do prefer to wear the box bucket.
Also know, is a helmet used in lacrosse? Lacrosse Helmet Sizing Guide & Chart | LacrosseMonkey The lacrosse helmet is the most important piece of equipment in the game.
It is the one area of equipment you do not want to overlook because you need to protect the player’s head in the safest way possible.
Beside the above, are lacrosse helmets safe? Lacrosse Helmet Safety While there is no concussion-proof helmet, a lacrosse helmet can help protect your athlete from a serious brain or head injury.
Subsequently, which lacrosse helmet is the best?
- Cascade S – The Safest Lacrosse Helmet and Best Lacrosse Helmet For Concussions.
- STX Rival – Best Fitting Lacrosse Helmet.
- Warrior Burn – Most Innovative Lacrosse Helmet.
- Cascade CPX-R – Best Budget / Value Lacrosse Helmet.
Because box lacrosse is played indoors, it has a flexible season schedule. … The most general difference between the two games is the rougher and more physical play of box lacrosse. The game is more contact based and allows stick play not allowed in field lacrosse.
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Why do box lacrosse goalies wear so much padding?
Lacrosse goalie gloves have an extra layer of padding on the outside of the glove to deflect damaging shots. This extra padding is on both gloves and serves to also protect the inner wrist of the stick-hand, which is often exposed in the crouch position when wearing hockey gloves as a lacrosse goalie.
Are hockey and lacrosse helmets the same?
Lacrosse helmets are similar to hockey helmets, but have a much stiffer cage (facemask) area to protect against ball strikes and have some additional padding in the back of the head. Helmets are available from a number manufacturers.
What is a lacrosse helmet called?
A “protective hat” might be a more appropriate name than a lacrosse helmet.
Why do lacrosse helmets have visors?
Do you know the coolest accessory you can add to your lax helmet? It’s a lacrosse visor. A lacrosse visor keeps you safe from finger poking and any particles in the air that could obstruct your vision.
Traditionally you find tinted visors in football helmets, and they look pretty darn rad.
Why can’t girls wear helmets in lacrosse?
The rules of women’s lacrosse Helmets are considered optional since women’s lacrosse is considered a semi-contact sport. Men’s lacrosse, meanwhile, is considered a full-contact sport, so helmets are required. While the sticks men and women’s lacrosse play with are different, the balls are the same.
Is Cascade S or R better?
Do lacrosse helmets expire?
Helmets 10 years of age or older cannot be re-certified or reconditioned. Replace the helmet if it is no longer certified. Do not pass it on.
Is Cascade making a new helmet?
The Cascade S helmet is the first new helmet offering from Cascade in six years, and it replaces the R as the best lacrosse helmet in the game. The R will undoubtedly retain a lot of users, as the Cascade it has been incredibly popular with lacrosse players.
