Choose the Right Used Youth Lacrosse Helmet for Your Players Safety

Choose the Right Used Youth Lacrosse Helmet for Your Players Safety

Inspect the Shell Thoroughly for Any Cracks Before Buying a Used Helmet

When evaluating a used youth lacrosse helmet for purchase, one of the most critical components to examine closely is the helmet shell. Made from polycarbonate or ABS plastic, the shell bears the brunt of impacts and protects the head from injury. Unfortunately, these materials can develop cracks over time, compromising the structural integrity of the helmet.

Before deciding on a used helmet, carefully inspect the entire shell, looking for any cracks, fissures or stressed areas. Pay particular attention to high impact regions like the temples, crown and rear of the helmet. Even hairline cracks can expand over time and with repeated impacts, providing less protection right when it’s needed most. Tapping on the shell and listening for changes in sound can help reveal hidden flaws not visible to the naked eye.

If you spot any cracks, large or small, steer clear of that helmet and keep looking. Remember, youth lacrosse can involve heavy physical contact from sticks, balls and other players. A cracked helmet shell risks shattered plastic piercing the head on impact. The safety of your young athlete depends on the integrity of the shell.

While cosmetic scuffs and scratches are normal with use, any cracks or structural damage are an automatic disqualification. Don’t take chances just to save a little money. A helmet with a compromised shell simply cannot provide the level of protection your child deserves. Keep inspecting used helmets until you find one free from cracks that still delivers reliable impact absorption run after run down the field.

Verify the Facemask Attachment is Secure Before Purchasing a Used Youth Lacrosse Helmet

The facemask on a youth lacrosse helmet plays a critical role in protecting a player’s face, mouth, nose and eyes from high-speed ball and stick impacts. However, to effectively absorb and deflect blows, the facemask must be firmly secured to the helmet shell.

When examining a used helmet for purchase, carefully inspect the facemask attachment points. Give the mask a firm tug in different directions to test for any looseness or play. Shake the helmet to see if the mask rattles or wobbles at all. Examine the screw mounts for signs of stripping or wear.

If the facemask shows any looseness or movement, steer clear of purchasing that helmet. Even minor slack can allow the mask to twist on impact, exposing the face to injury. A loose mask also dissipates less energy, transferring more force through to the head.

Additionally, check for any missing screw mounts or broken clips that may have once held the mask in place. Areas where hardware is missing indicate previous damage and weakened structural integrity that could fail on the next impact.

When purchasing a used helmet, you want the facemask to be completely immobile when grasped and shaken. All mounting hardware should be present and undamaged. The mask should feel like an integral extension of the helmet shell, not a separate add-on piece. Take the time to carefully inspect the attachment points and test the mobility. Your young athlete’s safety depends on the structural stability of the facemask under impact.

If a used helmet shows any indication of facemask looseness, instability or defective mounting hardware, move on and keep searching. Only purchase a helmet where the mask feels completely secured as one solid piece with the shell. Taking shortcuts here risks facial injuries that could have lifelong consequences.

Replace Any Missing or Damaged Chin Straps on Used Youth Lacrosse Helmets Before Use

The chin strap on a youth lacrosse helmet plays a vital role in keeping the helmet securely fastened to the player’s head during intense game action. Without a properly functioning chin strap, even the best helmet will shift and slide, exposing the head to injury.

When assessing a used helmet for purchase, carefully inspect the condition of the chin strap. Check for any fraying, tearing or cuts in the strapping. Examine the metal hardware connecting the strap to the shell. Look for signs of rust or corrosion. Test the adjustability and function of the strap.

If the chin strap is torn, broken or missing altogether, do not purchase that helmet. A defective or absent strap allows the helmet to pop off the head when hitting the ground or on contact. This negates the protection of the helmet and leaves the head vulnerable.

Additionally, corroded or rusted hardware can cause the strap to unexpectedly detach from the shell, also allowing the helmet to dislodge. Chin strap hardware is subjected to moisture from rain, snow, and sweat. Rust and corrosion compromises the durability of this mounting system over time.

Before your child uses any used helmet, replace damaged or missing chin strap components. Quality replacement straps and hardware are readily available at most sporting goods stores. Investing in a new strap greatly reduces the risk of the helmet inadvertently detaching. The small cost is well worth it.

Take the time when assessing used helmets to carefully inspect the condition of the chin strap and attachments to the shell. Tug firmly on the strap to verify it is securely fastened. Only purchase a helmet with a fully functional chin strap or plan on replacing it before use. An imperfect strap can render even the best helmet ineffective in protecting your young athlete’s head.

Replace Deteriorated Foam Padding in Used Youth Lacrosse Helmets for Maximum Protection

The interior foam padding of a youth lacrosse helmet provides vital shock absorption and cushioning on impact. However, with repeated use and exposure to sweat and moisture, this padding can deteriorate, compact, and lose protective capacity.

When evaluating a used helmet for purchase, closely examine the condition of all interior padding. Look for signs of compaction, flaking, or deformation. Check for moisture damage, discoloration, and material breakdown. Press into the foam with your fingers to test resilience and spring back.

If the padding is visibly deteriorated or feels compacted and lifeless, do not purchase the helmet. Hardened or compacted foam has reduced shock absorbing capacity. Disintegrating liner foam can break down into fragments that reduce comfort and present safety risks.

Before any used helmet is worn, replace all padding that shows signs of breakdown. Quality replacement padding tailored for specific helmet models is widely available online. Take the time to carefully remove all of the degraded foam and install fresh new liner material.

Taking this step significantly improves the protectiveness and lifespan of a used helmet. While the shell may still be sound, worn padding severely reduces its ability to mitigate impacts. Investing in new foam restores the helmet’s shock absorbing function and comfort.

Be thorough when inspecting the interior padding of any used lacrosse helmet before purchase. Press, poke and flex the foam to reveal any hidden deterioration. Only move forward if the padding appears fresh and structurally intact. Replace any liner showing the slightest signs of wear. Protecting your young athlete starts with the integrity of the interior foam.

Favor Newer Helmet Models and Technologies for Enhanced Protection

Lacrosse helmets have evolved dramatically over the years as manufacturers incorporate new innovations, materials, and designs. When considering an older used helmet, understand that it may lack more modern protective capabilities.

Evaluate the age and condition of any used helmet with a critical eye. While the shell may not show cracks, older models were certified to outdated safety standards, tested with less rigorous impacts, and designed without newer protective features.

Newer helmet models utilize advanced padding materials to better manage multi-dimensional impacts from today’s faster shots. They incorporate inner liners and suspension systems to reduce concussive forces. Ventilation, weight reduction, and strap designs have all improved.

While an older helmet may appear in good shape, its protections will likely be surpassed by newer designs and technologies. Research the original certification date and test protocols and compare them to today’s more stringent standards. Review available models and options before settling on a used helmet.

When purchasing for a young athlete, favor helmets that leverage more recent innovations in their construction and materials. While newer helmets cost more, they incorporate generations of accumulated knowledge that enhances protectiveness. Even if not damaged, an older helmet simply cannot offer the same level of performance.

Every year new helmets enter the market raising the bar on safety. Used helmets have their place, but ensure any older models selected still utilize relevant modern technologies and design elements. Your young player’s wellbeing over their entire lacrosse career depends on making the most protective choice possible right from the start.

Prioritize Comfort and Breathability When Selecting Youth Lacrosse Helmets

Finding the right helmet for a young lacrosse player goes beyond just protection. The helmet must also provide exceptional comfort and breathability to encourage regular wear.

When assessing used youth helmets, carefully consider the interior padding, liner materials, and venting system. Press into the foam padding to gauge comfort and support. Examine vent layout and airflow channels.

Helmets with inadequate padding quickly become uncomfortable as foam compacts from use. Insufficient ventilation causes heat and moisture buildup for young athletes exerting themselves on hot days.

Select a used helmet with padding that remains thick and supportive even with prior use. Favor more modern designs and materials offering moisture wicking and antimicrobial properties. Look for ample ventilation ports and channels to promote air circulation.

Even if highly protective, a helmet that is uncomfortable or hot for a young player risks them removing it during games or practices when it’s needed most. Take cues from the athlete on which helmets feel best optimized for breathability and comfort.

With used helmets, you may need to replace old porous padding and upgrade vent hardware to refresh comfort and airflow. Invest in new parts to make the helmet feel great for years of continued use.

While protection is paramount, a helmet that isn’t a joy to wear poses risks of its own. Prioritizing upfront comfort for young athletes sets a foundation for lifelong safe helmet habits. They deserve gear optimized for their needs both in protection and wearability as they build skills and passion for the sport.

Opt for Adjustable Sizing When Purchasing Used Youth Lacrosse Helmets

Finding a used lacrosse helmet that fits properly today is only part of the equation. You also need to consider future sizing as young athletes grow.

When assessing used helmets for purchase, favor models with adjustable sizing systems. Look for helmets with removable padding and expandable inner liners to extend the safe use range.

Helmets sized only by interchangeable foam pads have limited expandability before exposing gaps. Helmets lacking padding adjustments at all quickly become unsafe as heads grow.

Prioritize used helmets with internal ratcheting systems for incremental size adjustments over time. These allow the shell circumference to expand without compromising fit and protection.

Before purchase, confirm the helmet can safely expand to accommodate future growth. If sized at the upper end already, it may quickly become too small without the ability to adjust further.

With adjustable sizing, used helmets can adapt as young athletes develop physically. This extends the functional lifespan significantly, saving the need for frequent costly replacements.

Consider long term sizing versatility along with immediate fit and protection when selecting used youth helmets. Models that adapt as your young player grows reward your investment with years of safe use. An adjustable helmet purchased today can see them all the way through their lacrosse career.

Look for High-End Brands Like Cascade When Buying Used Youth Lacrosse Helmets

In the market for used youth lacrosse helmets, you’ll encounter many brands at varying price points. While tempting to save money, higher-end helmet brands generally provide better protection.

Well-known manufacturers like Cascade and Warrior engineer serious protective capabilities into their helmet technologies and designs. They utilize cutting-edge materials and innovations not always filtered down to value brands.

While more expensive when new, higher-end helmets retain more protective integrity over time versus lower cost models. Their materials withstand use and abuse better across multiple seasons.

With used helmets, favor recognized top tier brands you trust. Though a decade old, a used Cascade still offers better robustness than a low-cost brand’s current model. The brand’s reputation gives added confidence in the durability.

Less expensive helmets certainly provide protection for recreational use. However, the rigors of youth travel and high school lacrosse demand the very best protective capabilities. Used helmets from leading brands satisfy safety while easing initial cost.

When assessing condition, construction, fit and features, include the brand pedigree as a factor as well. For the same condition and age, a used market-leading helmet will frequently outclass cheaper counterparts. Buy used with brand quality in mind.

Compare Helmet Materials When Selecting a Used Youth Lacrosse Helmet

Used youth lacrosse helmets utilize different materials for their protective shells, including various plastics. Evaluating the properties and durability of these materials can inform decisions.

Most lacrosse helmets have an exterior shell made from polycarbonate or ABS plastic. Polycarbonate offers outstanding impact resistance but can become brittle over time. ABS withstands flexing better but is less rigid.

Review the specs of any used helmet you are considering and compare shell materials. Tap the shell listening for any odd resonances that could indicate hidden cracking or damage.

Favor polycarbonate for the very best impact defenses, but inspect closely for cracks which compromise integrity. Or choose ABS for increased flexural strength and resistance to brittleness.

Also inspect the chin strap plastic. Nylon straps with plastic buckles last longer than vinyl or plastic straps which can crack. Metal side clips outlast plastic ones.

Don’t overlook facemasks either. Chrome or high-grade alloys resist corrosion better than stainless steel. Carbon steel facemasks won’t bend but are prone to rusting.

Considering the shell, strap, and facemask materials provides insights on durability and lifespan. Balance properties and know that higher grades translate to better longevity when buying used.

Assess Ventilation Systems in Used Youth Lacrosse Helmets

The ventilation system is an important but often overlooked component when selecting a used youth lacrosse helmet. Proper airflow keeps players cool and comfortable.

Carefully inspect the vents and channels built into any used helmet under consideration. Check vent openings for any blockages or obstructions limiting airflow.

Examine vent layouts and channel designs. Helmets with more ports and contoured channels circulate air better for a cooler experience. Complex internal channeling also reduces echoes and noise.

Test ventilation function by blowing into vents and observing airflow. Obstructed or limited venting leads to stuffiness, so repair or replace blocked components.

Newer helmet designs optimize ventilation for heat and humidity management with supplemental fan accessories. Favor more modern used helmets where possible for better breathability.

Proper airflow keeps young athletes energized and focused rather than drained or overheated. Assess ventilation alongside other features when selecting the best used helmet. Well-vented models encourage regular wear.

Don’t overlook the ventilation properties of a used helmet. Carefully inspect ports, channels and overall airflow function. Repair any issues to provide proper cooling power for the seasons ahead. Your young player’s comfort depends on optimized airflow.

Factor Appearance and Style When Selecting Used Youth Lacrosse Helmets

While protection takes priority, the appearance and style of a youth lacrosse helmet influences the enthusiasm kids have for wearing it.

Allow young athletes to try on different used helmet models and provide feedback on looks. Have them assess comfort and breathability as well.

Kids drawn to flashier designs tend to wear helmets more consistently than boring or embarrassing looking ones. Let personal style preferences guide decisions between models meeting safety requirements.

Many brands offer colorful decal kits for customization. Seek out used helmets with modification potential either through decals or paint to make them unique.

Avoid outdated or beat-up designs that set kids apart for the wrong reasons. While proper protection is paramount, don’t underestimate the importance of appearance for consistent wear.

With used helmets, you can remove old decals to modernize dated looks. Add new decals, colors or designs reflecting your young athlete’s personal style and team spirit.

Empower kids to select the helmet they “just love” within sound safety parameters. Letting them customize the look incentivizes regular wear and care for seasons of protection to come.

Balance Cost, Safety, Fit and Features When Selecting Used Youth Lacrosse Helmets

Purchasing a quality used youth lacrosse helmet involves balancing several key factors while staying within budget.

Set a spending limit then compare options on safety certifications, shell integrity, fit, sizing adjustability, face mask and strap quality, padding condition, ventilation, comfort, breathability and brand reputation.

Higher cost used helmets from leading brands generally provide better protective capabilities but aren’t always necessary. Well-maintained budget models can also satisfy safety needs.

Avoid false economies by purchasing used helmets requiring significant replacement parts. Factor in any improvement costs on top of the purchase price.

Prioritize fit, ventilation and comfort considerations your young athlete identifies during try-ons. Their preferences help select a helmet they’ll wear consistently.

With some inspection and minor upgrades, quality used helmets providing essential protections can be found at reasonable price points.

Carefully balance all factors for the optimal intersection of safety, function and affordability. While protection is paramount, also consider the helmet’s actual usage and lifespan for your young player. With mindful selection, used helmets can deliver seasons of high-performing protection on a budget.

Evaluate the Protective Capabilities of Different Used Lacrosse Helmet Models

Used youth lacrosse helmets vary widely in their protective capabilities depending on factors like age, brand, and materials. Evaluating protection levels takes research.

Compare any used helmet under consideration to current safety standards like NOCSAE or HECC. View certification labels inside to confirm compliance for permitted usage.

Research brand, model year, and technology features against newer offerings and designs. While functional, older used helmets often lack contemporary protections.

Factor use history into assessments. Helmets with one owner will likely be in better shape than rentals or team spares subjected to extreme use.

Inspect and tap shells listening for odd resonances indicating cracks. Test facemasks and straps for any looseness compromising integrity.

Focus evaluations on the helmet’s ability to prevent concussions and traumatic brain injuries from hard frontal collisions and forces transmitted laterally or by rotation.

Prioritize used helmets constructed from top materials like polycarbonate and designed for multidirectional protection. These absorb impacts better across more angles of attack.

With research and diligent inspection, buyers can objectively gauge the protective merits of any used lacrosse helmet compared to alternatives. Making safety the #1 criterion filters options effectively.

Assess Durability and Lifespan When Buying Used Youth Lacrosse Helmets

Used youth lacrosse helmets may still offer years of life or be nearing the end of usefulness. Carefully gauge remaining durability before purchase.

Consider age, past use cycles, material grade, and observable wear and tear. Helmets 10 years or older likely provide diminishing protection versus newer designs.

Inspect shell, facemask, strap, and liner materials for signs of breakdown like cracks, corrosion, fraying or compaction.

Calculate use cycles based on past owner’sEstimated yearly usage. Helmets reaching the manufacturer’s recommended retirement age need replacing regardless of condition.

Factor in ability to replace parts cost effectively. Broken shells require new helmets but liners, masks and straps can extend usefulness affordably.

Review use history and care. Helmets babied by one owner hold up better than team spares abused by many players.

Consider your young athlete’s projected years of future play. Used helmets near retirement may require another soon, wasting money.

With diligent inspection and an understanding of durability factors, buyers can reasonably estimate the remaining viable lifespan of any used helmet under consideration.

Regularly Re-Inspect Used Youth Lacrosse Helmets for Continued Safety

Purchasing a quality used youth lacrosse helmet is just the start. Ongoing inspections ensure continued protective integrity.

Before each season, re-examine the helmet shell, facemask, strap, and liner. Look for any changes signaling decreased safety since last use.

Inspect the shell again for cracks by tapping and listening for odd resonances. Any cracks require immediate replacement.

Confirm the facemask remains securely anchored with no looseness. Replace damaged or missing hardware immediately.

Check strap nylon for fraying and buckles for damage. Replace any defective components before use.

Look for liner foam deterioration and refresh as needed. Press in on pads to confirm resilience and shock absorption.

Check sizing and make any adjustments needed to maintain secure fit as young athletes grow between seasons.

Write the date inside after inspections to track useful lifespan based on manufacturer guidelines.

Well-cared-for used helmets provide reliable protection for many years when properly re-inspected and serviced regularly. Make ongoing safety assessments a vital habit with used gear.