Cascade Lacrosse Helmets A Buyers GuideCascade Lacrosse Helmets A Buyers Guide
Sizing Cascade Lacrosse Helmets for a Snug Yet Comfortable Fit
When it comes to finding the right lacrosse helmet, getting the sizing just right is crucial. An ill-fitting helmet can be uncomfortable, slip around, and most importantly, fail to properly protect your head. Cascade lacrosse helmets are designed with adjustable features to help dial in the perfect customized fit, but knowing your size and head dimensions beforehand ensures you select the closest option.
The key dimensions for sizing a Cascade lacrosse helmet are your head circumference and the front-to-back length of your head. Cascade provides a printable fitting tool on their website to help you accurately measure these dimensions in inches or centimeters. You’ll wrap a soft measuring tape around your head about 1-inch above your eyebrows and around the largest circumference of your head to get the circumference measurement. For front-to-back length, measure from the center of your forehead to the bony outcrop on back of your head.
Once you have your head’s circumference and length measurements, you can use Cascade’s online sizing chart to identify your helmet size. Cascade helmets come in small, medium, large, and extra large sizes that correspond to different head measurement ranges. If your dimensions fall between sizes, it’s generally better to size up to ensure comfort and accommodate for hair and pads inside the helmet. The CS and R models also have an adjustable occipital lock in the back to custom tune the fit.
Beyond measuring for the best Cascade helmet size, it’s also important to assess the overall fit once you try it on. The helmet should sit squarely on your head with even pressure all around. There should be no gaps between the pads and your head for maximum stability and protection. Straps should fit snug under your chin but not dig in. Overall the helmet should feel secure but not pinch or create pressure points. Don’t rely on breaking in the helmet over time – it should fit great right away. Taking the time to get the sizing right ensures safety and comfort every time you take the field.
Customizing Cascade Lacrosse Helmets with Padding Systems
While Cascade lacrosse helmets come with default foam padding, one of the great benefits of their designs is the ability to customize and upgrade the liners and pads. The interior padding serves the crucial roles of wicking sweat, cushioning impacts, and dialing in a secure fit. As players become more experienced, they often seek ways to tweak and adjust the internal padding to match their preferences.
All Cascade helmet models are designed to work with the brand’s variety of pad kits for a customized fit and feel. For example, the Cascade Pro7 helmet pad kit utilizes seven layered foam pads of varying densities to disperse impact. Thicker and denser pads can be placed around the temples, while low-density foam fits comfortably on the forehead. The pad thicknesses can also help fine tune the overall helmet fit as needed.
Cascade’s Tri-liner pad set is another popular option constructed from antimicrobial moisture-wicking material. This liner helps keep the head cool and dry during intense games and practices. For even more targeted comfort, Cascade offers a kit with removable forehead, chin, and cheek pads that can be swapped out as desired. Players can mix and match pad components between kits to build their perfect padding system.
Those looking for maximum protection can choose Cascade’s HardLock padding, which incorporates plates of solid material into key impact zones around the temples and side of the head. College and professional players often opt for this sturdier padding for its top-tier cushioning ability. No matter your budget or requirements, Cascade offers padding to take your helmet comfort to the next level.
Getting properly fitted by an experienced lacrosse equipment retailer can help identify any padding adjustments that could optimize the fit and feel of your Cascade helmet. As you gain more experience wearing and playing in your helmet, swapping pads around allows you to customize it over time. Experimenting with various pad setups lets you tailor Cascade helmets for responsive protection and unmatched comfort on the field.
Youth vs. Adult Cascade Lacrosse Helmets
Cascade designs lacrosse helmets specifically engineered for youth and high school players versus helmets built for collegiate and professional levels. While the helmets share much of the same DNA in terms of innovations and technology, there are key differences that make each line ideal for their target players.
The main Cascade youth helmet option is the CS Youth model offered in smaller sizes down to extra small. These helmets utilize the same shell shape and Tri-liner padding as the adult CS lacrosse helmets. However, the youth models weigh slightly less for better comfort and feature softer padding more suitable for younger players. The face masks also incorporate wider spacing between bars to meet enhanced safety standards for youth levels.
Cascade youth helmets include integrated soft chin straps rather than hard plastic buckles. This helps eliminate pinch points and discomfort, especially when turning the head. For an even more secure and adjustable fit, the CS Youth incorporates a lower molded jaw extension and extended length occipital lock to snuggly fit smaller heads.
For elite high school players looking for a step up in protection, the R youth model offers many of the premium features found in the adult R helmet. This includes things like the advanced SevenTechnology liner system and an overall sleeker, low-profile shell design. The R youth combines professional-level technologies in a package designed for still-developing bodies.
In comparison, Cascade’s adult helmets prioritize maximizing ventilation, minimizing weight, and enhanced protection for the high-speed collisions typical of college and pro leagues. Features like quick-release mask adjusters, removable visors, and advanced custom padding systems aim to meet the needs of experienced players.
Cascade conducts extensive research and product testing focused separately on both youth and adult heads and bodies. This allows them to engineer each helmet line specifically for the impacts, fit, and features best suited to a player’s age and skill level. Trying on both the youth and adult models can help identify the right Cascade lacrosse helmet for your protection needs and stage of development.
Visor and Facemask Options for Cascade Helmets
The facemask and visor paired with your Cascade lacrosse helmet significantly influence visibility, ventilation, and protection. Luckily, Cascade offers a range of compatible visors and masks to match different preferences and needs.
For facemasks, the R-series helmets come standard with Cascade’s high-end R-Vision mask constructed from durable yet flexible titanium. Players can upgrade to options like the R-Vision Chrome facemask featuring a mirror chrome finish for an edgier, personalized look. The Stallion mask maximizes vision with thin vertical bars spaced farther apart. Cascade’s SEVEN facemask uses engineered compression to redirect impacts for an added layer of protection.
The CS-series helmets usually include Cascade’s S-Vision facemask using thicker stainless steel for a more traditional look and feel. For youth models, Cascade equips their helmets with specialized facemasks meeting expanded vision requirements, like their Vision Pro mask. Across all models, the included facemask can be easily swapped for any of Cascade’s 30+ face protection options.
In terms of visors, the R helmet includes a quick-release visor anchor system to securely attach aftermarket visors. The incorporated QuickClick tabs provide easy on-off swapping of clear, tinted, or mirrored polycarbonate visors. Visors help reduce glare and provide protection from elements like rain or dust. However, some players remove them for better upward visibility and faster venting when desired.
CS helmets do not come standard with an integrated visor anchor, though Cascade offers a universal jaw-strap kit to allow visor attachment. Players can experiment with adding a visor to see if they prefer the protected feel it provides during play. However, the visor takes a bit more effort to remove and change on the CS compared to the R’s quick-release tabs.
With all their innovative facemask technologies and visor options, Cascade delivers solutions for players wanting expanded vision or increased protection. The ability to customize these components makes it easy to perfectly configure your helmet for ideal lacrosse performance.
Finding the Best Prices on Cascade Lacrosse Helmets
With their innovative features and reputation for protection, Cascade lacrosse helmets carry premium pricing ranging from about $150 up to $300. However, some savvy shopping can help find these helmets at lower price points. Here are some tips for getting the best deals on Cascade’s lacrosse gear.
Shopping out of season is one of the simplest ways to save on Cascade helmets. Retailers will discount remaining inventory in the late fall and winter months when lacrosse is out of season. You can find solid markdowns on previous years’ models during the offseason as retailers make room for newer product lines.
Taking advantage of sales holidays like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Labor Day, and Memorial Day is another go-to strategy. During major sales events, sports equipment and lacrosse specialty shops often include Cascade helmets as part of sitewide promotions and doorbuster deals. Signing up for retailer email lists can help you learn about upcoming sales.
Cascade also partners directly with teams and sports organizations to offer bulk pricing discounts on large orders of matching helmets. If you play for a school or club, check if the program can purchase Cascade gear at a lower cost. You may also save on custom graphics and logos by ordering as a team.
Online lacrosse forums and resale sites like SidelineSwap can turn up lightly-used Cascade helmets offered at steep discounts. Many players upgrade helmets frequently and resell models in great condition. Just be sure to carefully inspect a used helmet for any damage before purchasing.
With Cascade consistently releasing updated helmet models each year, closeout pricing on the previous generation can yield excellent savings. Shop around between online and local retailers to find the best closeout deals.
While Cascade commands premium pricing, being flexible on models and colors and watching for sales opportunities allows you to land their top-tier helmets for less. With some smart shopping, you can gain Cascade’s protection and quality at a more affordable cost.
Popular Color and Graphic Options for Custom Cascade Helmets
Beyond protection and fit, the style and design of your lacrosse helmet makes a statement on the field. Cascade offers a wide range of color options and custom graphic prints to match your personality and preferences.
For base colors, matte finishes have become increasingly popular for their sleek, modern look. Cascade’s ColorShift helmets deliver a flashy chromatic effect by shifting colors based on viewing angle. Their R helmets look sharp in basic black or white trims. Bold primary shades like crimson, navy, royal blue, and neon orange provide eye-catching styles.
Cascade’s custom graphic prints take helmet personalization to another level. Many players love showing team pride by integrating school logos, mascots, and symbols. Photorealistic prints of fierce animals or nature scenes give an intimidating look. Splatter paint graphics and abstract shapes offer an edgy, artistic vibe. Others go for a clean, minimalist look by sticking to basic colors and patterns.
To design a fully custom helmet, Cascade provides online builders that let you pick colors, upload graphics, and visualize the finished product before ordering. Players can also work with their equipment managers or retailers to design unique color and graphic combos. Many lacrosse shops offer in-house customization services for bringing your vision to life.
When ordering as a team, matching helmets etched with player numbers or names build unity. Coordinating complementary colors and prints across the squad makes a bold visual impact. For youth teams, Cascade even offers helmet wraps portraying exciting themes like sharks, dinosaurs, or unicorns.
The options for personalizing Cascade helmets are practically endless. Adding your own creative flair lets you stand out while paying tribute to your team. Just be sure any graphics or add-ons don’t interfere with safety components or obstruct vision and ventilation. With the right custom design, your Cascade lacrosse lid will be a true extension of your identity.
Cascade’s Smart Mask System for Improved Facemask Protection
Face and eye protection are understandably top priorities for lacrosse players when choosing protective gear. That’s why Cascade developed their Smart Mask system to take facemask technology to the next level.
Standard lacrosse facemasks use thick, rigid metal bars that can obstruct vision and allow direct ball or stick impacts through the openings. Cascade’s Smart Mask models instead utilize advanced gasket and tension technologies to improve vision while reducing impact energy transmitted to the face.
The gaskets act like flexible joints, providing controlled flex and movement as the mask contacts a ball or crosse. By absorbing and diffusing impact forces, the gaskets reduce injury risk from direct frontal hits. Smart Masks also incorporate wide-set vertical bars boosted by tension cables for a lighter yet stronger structure with expanded sightlines.
Cascade’s SEVEN mask amps up protection another notch through its integrated Suspension and Compression Systems. Suspension cables connect the top crossbar to the sidebars, so the mask moves as a coordinated unit to displace impacts. Strategic compression pads located throughout the mask help disperse energy from hits while limiting rebound.
During development, Cascade put prototypes through extensive on-field testing and evaluations to refine Smart Mask technologies. The integrated systems enhance vision by up to 30% compared to conventional masks while reducing impact force up to 30% as well. These dual benefits make Smart Masks popular choices for players prioritizing safety and visibility.
WhileSmart Mask options carry a higher price tag than traditional faceguards, many athletes consider the investment worthwhile. Maximizing protection and clarity ultimately gives players increased confidence to perform their best. For those seeking the pinnacle of facemask innovation, Cascade’s Smart Mask delivers a true game-changing advantage.
The Evolution of Cascade Lacrosse Helmets Over the Years
As one of the leading lacrosse helmet manufacturers, Cascade has continuously pushed the envelope when it comes to designing protective and high-performance gear. Tracing the evolution of their helmets over the past 20+ years reveals some fascinating innovations that advanced the game.
In the 1990s and early 2000s, lacrosse helmets focused heavily on durability while lacking in ventilation and lightweight materials. Cascade’s early helmets like the Pro7 used thick, dense foam padding and bulky plastic shells. Facemasks tended to have thick horizontal and vertical bars restricting vision and airflow.
By the mid-2000s, Cascade began emphasizing improved goggle and facemask integration for enhanced vision on their helmets like the Pro7 Aero. New manufacturing techniques allowed them to experiment with more intricate shell shapes and ventilation ports. Lighter shell materials helped shed excess weight while maintaining strength.
Recent years saw huge leaps forward in liner and padding technologies as Cascade developed multi-layer foam systems and moisture-wicking antimicrobial liners. The R and S helmet models introduced sleek, low-profile designs with integrated visor anchors and advanced adjustable features.
Cascade’s latest helmets represent the pinnacle of protecting players while optimizing vision, ventilation, comfort, and style. Technologies like SevenTech and Tri-liner padding set new standards for cushioning and comfort. Smart Mask designs open up sightlines while deflecting impacts. QuickClick visor swapping and adjustable occipital locks allow easy customization for the ideal fit.
Lacrosse continues evolving faster than ever, and Cascade works closely with players to push helmet innovation forward. As materials, manufacturing capabilities, and research continue improving, Cascade’s next generation of helmets is sure to bring even more revolutionary advances benefiting athletes.
Cascade Helmet Safety Ratings and Certifications
When selecting protective lacrosse gear, one of the top concerns is ensuring the equipment meets stringent safety standards. Cascade helmets are rigorously tested and certified to provide athletes with peace of mind on the field.
All Cascade lacrosse helmets are certified based on performance testing conducted by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). This nonprofit sets scientifically-based standards to measure helmet impacts under real-game conditions. Cascade engineers their helmets from the ground up to exceed all NOCSAE requirements.
Beyond NOCSAE standards, Cascade helmets also meet certification benchmarks set by key sport governing bodies. Their helmets are SEI certified by the Safety Equipment Institute, meaning they passed independent lab testing for impact protection. US Lacrosse, the NCAA, the NFHS, and other lacrosse associations endorse Cascade lids for meeting their guidelines.
Within their own facilities, Cascade thoroughly analyzes helmets using data-driven impact testing and evaluation. Their on-site lab can replicate the most intense game collisions to confirm helmets protect across the full spectrum of potential impacts. The R helmet model was tested to over 100,000 impacts during development.
Additionally, Cascade partners with research institutions like the University of Ottawa and the Cleveland Clinic to advance helmet safety through biomechanics studies. These efforts expand the knowledge of how helmets can mitigate concussive forces and sub-concussive head trauma.
Through rigorous internal testing and third-party safety certifications, Cascade ensures athletes get superior protection that extends well beyond minimum standards. Their commitment to continuous research provides added confidence in the unparalleled performance of Cascade lacrosse helmets.
Cascade’s Helmet Warranty and Replacement Policies
Along with safety ratings, Cascade’s warranty and policies for replacing damaged helmets also provide peace of mind for athletes and parents. Cascade stands behind their helmets with straightforward programs for repairs or replacements as needed.
All new Cascade helmets come with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty covering defects in materials and construction. If any issues arise during the first year, Cascade will repair or replace the helmet at no additional cost. The warranty does not apply to normal wear-and-tear or accidental damage however.
For helmets needing repairs or replacement due to impact damage, Cascade offers their Peace of Mind program. Under this policy, athletes can purchase replacement helmets from Cascade at a 50% discount off MSRP within the first 2 years of ownership. The discounted price helps offset the cost of replacing damaged helmets after hard impacts.
Cascade also endorses a “when in doubt, sit them out” approach for any significant helmet impact. Even if not visibly damaged, the liner padding likely compressed to absorb the collision. Sitting out future games until getting a replacement ensures continued maximum protection.
Lastly, Cascade offers a helmet trade-in discount of 20% off toward a new helmet purchase. Athletes can trade in old helmets up to 10 years old to get credit for a newer model with updated safety advancements.
With thorough warranties, discounted replacements, and trade-in incentives, Cascade provides athletes with financial peace of mind along with safety assurances. Their helmet policies make it feasible to always equip your head with the newest lacrosse safety innovations.
Cascade Helmets Worn by Top College and Pro Lacrosse Teams
One sign of a lacrosse gear brand’s quality and reputation is its adoption by elite college programs and professional leagues. Top NCAA and MLL teams trust Cascade helmets to protect their athletes game after game.
In the NCAA, perennial powers like Syracuse, North Carolina, Duke, Denver, Cornell, and Princeton all outfit their squads in Cascade lids. These helmets endure the grueling, hard-hitting action of top-tier college games. Across women’s lacrosse, leading programs including Boston College, Northwestern, Maryland, Syracuse, and Florida entrust Cascade for protection.
In Major League Lacrosse, Cascade helmets equip players on franchises like the Chrome, Atlas, Whipsnakes, and Waterdogs. Premier players rely on their lacrosse helmets to stand up to blistering shots and relentless checks. The Chrome even incorporated Cascade’s name into their identity as a testament to their partnership.
Cascade also outfits US National Teams competing on the world stage. Their helmets gave Team USA critical protection en route to claiming gold at the 2022 Federation of International Lacrosse Men’s World Championship. National team players need the best lacrosse gear for facing elite global competition.
With so many highly-regarded college and professional organizations choosing Cascade, it signals strong confidence in the brand’s engineering, safety, and performance. When you follow the example of the NCAA’s and MLL’s best teams, you can be assured you’re getting a superb lacrosse helmet.
Experiences and Reviews of Cascade Helmets from Players
Reading direct reviews from athletes provides invaluable perspectives on how Cascade lacrosse helmets perform during actual gameplay. Overall, user feedback indicates high satisfaction with fit, protection, and quality across their helmet models.
A common theme in Cascade helmet reviews is praise for their lightweight feel and breathable comfort. Ventilation ports like the air channels integrated into the CS shell receive rave reviews for keeping players’ heads cool. The moisture-wicking liner pads also draw compliments for drying sweat and preventing overheating.
Players compliment how Cascade helmets sit comfortably snug on the head without looseness or pressure points. Reviewers say the adjustable fit systems make dialing in the ideal fit quick and simple. Padding kits allow customizing the interior padding to match individual comfort preferences as well.
From a protection standpoint, buyers consistently report Cascade helmets providing outstanding impact absorption and stability even after huge hits. The advanced padding technologies minimize ringing of the head after hard contact. Goalies especially value Cascade’s cushioning when facing point blank shots.
Negative feedback on Cascade lids is relatively minimal. Some note the high-end models can be on the expensive side. Others say graphics and decals can wear off quicker than expected. But overall, Cascade earns rave reviews for delivering exceptional protection, ventilation, customization, and style in their lacrosse helmet designs.
Cascade’s Smart Mask System for Improved Facemask Protection
Face and eye protection are understandably top priorities for lacrosse players when choosing protective gear. That’s why Cascade developed their Smart Mask system to take facemask technology to the next level.
Standard lacrosse facemasks use thick, rigid metal bars that can obstruct vision and allow direct ball or stick impacts through the openings. Cascade’s Smart Mask models instead utilize advanced gasket and tension technologies to improve vision while reducing impact energy transmitted to the face.
The gaskets act like flexible joints, providing controlled flex and movement as the mask contacts a ball or crosse. By absorbing and diffusing impact forces, the gaskets reduce injury risk from direct frontal hits. Smart Masks also incorporate wide-set vertical bars boosted by tension cables for a lighter yet stronger structure with expanded sightlines.
Cascade’s SEVEN mask amps up protection another notch through its integrated Suspension and Compression Systems. Suspension cables connect the top crossbar to the sidebars, so the mask moves as a coordinated unit to displace impacts. Strategic compression pads located throughout the mask help disperse energy from hits while limiting rebound.
During development, Cascade put prototypes through extensive on-field testing and evaluations to refine Smart Mask technologies. The integrated systems enhance vision by up to 30% compared to conventional masks while reducing impact force up to 30% as well. These dual benefits make Smart Masks popular choices for players prioritizing safety and visibility.
While Smart Mask options carry a higher price tag than traditional faceguards, many athletes consider the investment worthwhile. Maximizing protection and clarity ultimately gives players increased confidence to perform their best. For those seeking the pinnacle of facemask innovation, Cascade’s Smart Mask delivers a true game-changing advantage.
Cascade Helmets Worn by Top College and Pro Lacrosse Teams
One sign of a lacrosse gear brand’s quality and reputation is its adoption by elite college programs and professional leagues. Top NCAA and MLL teams trust Cascade helmets to protect their athletes game after game.
In the NCAA, perennial powers like Syracuse, North Carolina, Duke, Denver, Cornell, and Princeton all outfit their squads in Cascade lids. These helmets endure the grueling, hard-hitting action of top-tier college games. Across women’s lacrosse, leading programs including Boston College, Northwestern, Maryland, Syracuse, and Florida entrust Cascade for protection.
In Major League Lacrosse, Cascade helmets equip players on franchises like the Chrome, Atlas, Whipsnakes, and Waterdogs. Premier players rely on their lacrosse helmets to stand up to blistering shots and relentless checks. The Chrome even incorporated Cascade’s name into their identity as a testament to their partnership.
Cascade also outfits US National Teams competing on the world stage. Their helmets gave Team USA critical protection en route to claiming gold at the 2022 Federation of International Lacrosse Men’s World Championship. National team players need the best lacrosse gear for facing elite global competition.
With so many highly-regarded college and professional organizations choosing Cascade, it signals strong confidence in the brand’s engineering, safety, and performance. When you follow the example of the NCAA’s and MLL’s best teams, you can be assured you’re getting a superb lacrosse helmet.
Experiences and Reviews of Cascade Helmets from Players
Reading direct reviews from athletes provides invaluable perspectives on how Cascade lacrosse helmets perform during actual gameplay. Overall, user feedback indicates high satisfaction with fit, protection, and quality across their helmet models.
A common theme in Cascade helmet reviews is praise for their lightweight feel and breathable comfort. Ventilation ports like the air channels integrated into the CS shell receive rave reviews for keeping players’ heads cool. The moisture-wicking liner pads also draw compliments for drying sweat and preventing overheating.
Players compliment how Cascade helmets sit comfortably snug on the head without looseness or pressure points. Reviewers say the adjustable fit systems make dialing in the ideal fit quick and simple. Padding kits allow customizing the interior padding to match individual comfort preferences as well.
From a protection standpoint, buyers consistently report Cascade helmets providing outstanding impact absorption and stability even after huge hits. The advanced padding technologies minimize ringing of the head after hard contact. Goalies especially value Cascade’s cushioning when facing point blank shots.
Negative feedback on Cascade lids is relatively minimal. Some note the high-end models can be on the expensive side. Others say graphics and decals can wear off quicker than expected. But overall, Cascade earns rave reviews for delivering exceptional protection, ventilation, customization, and style in their lacrosse helmet designs.
