Gear Up For the Season With Clearance Helmet Deals
As lacrosse and hockey seasons approach, now is the time to start thinking about getting properly equipped. One of the most important pieces of protective gear is a high-quality helmet that fits properly and meets safety standards. The good news is you don’t have to break the bank to find an excellent helmet for your needs. Taking advantage of clearance sales and other savings opportunities can help you score a great deal.
Buy Last Year’s Models
One easy way to save is to look for previous year’s models that retailers are looking to move off the shelves. The difference between a 2022 and 2023 helmet may just be minor cosmetic updates or new paint designs. Opting for last season’s helmet can mean big discounts, even though the safety features and overall construction are likely the same.
Holiday Sales Are Your Friend
Major holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, and Black Friday often bring deep discounts on sporting goods. Retailers are looking to clear out inventory before new models arrive in the late winter and early spring. Keep an eye out for lacrosse and hockey helmet sales during these promotional periods.
Used Equipment Offers Bang for Your Buck
Gently used helmets can provide substantial savings, especially for growing young athletes who will need to replace equipment frequently. When buying used, carefully inspect for cracks or damage and replace any worn parts before use. Make sure the helmet bears the NOCSAE certification logo to ensure it meets safety standards.
Focus on Proper Fit, Not Looks
When trying on helmets, get your player to shake their head vigorously while wearing it. The helmet should be snug but not overly tight or restrictive.prioritize fit and safety features over flashy colors or graphics when evaluating options. An inexpensive but properly fitted helmet is far better than an expensive one that doesn’t fit right.
By shopping strategically, comparing options, and taking advantage of seasonal sales events, you can outfit your athlete with a high-quality, affordable lacrosse or hockey helmet this season.
Consider Buying Last Year’s Helmet Models
When looking for lacrosse or hockey helmet deals, one smart strategy is to look at last year’s models. Retailers often discount previous years’ gear significantly when new versions come out. The differences between a 2022 and 2023 helmet are typically minor aesthetic tweaks or new colorways. Opting for last season’s helmet can net you big savings, even though the protective capabilities are essentially equal.
Before buying a previous model on clearance, carefully inspect the helmet for any flaws or defects. Check that all the padding is still intact and the shell has no cracks. Minor scratches are normal wear and tear, but major cracks or gaps in padding can impact safety performance. Try the helmet on to ensure a snug and comfortable fit too. As long as a previous year’s lid checks out, it can be a phenomenal value buy.
It’s also worth noting that many players prefer wearing “classic” helmet designs that have been around for years. New paint jobs give these old favorites a fresh look each season. Consider browsing shops for iconic helmets like the Cascade CPX, Warrior Krown 360, or Bauer 5100. The core design has proven effective over time.
Depending on your budget, buying last year’s helmet models can translate to big savings. You may be able to buy a higher-end helmet for an affordable price this route. Do your research and shop smart for maximum value.
Look For Sales Around Major Holidays
Mark your calendar for major holidays like Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday. Retailers often offer deep discounts on sporting goods like lacrosse and hockey helmets during these seasonal sales events.
For example, you may see markdowns up to 50% off or more on last year’s helmet models around Memorial Day weekend in May. Retailers want to clear out old stock to make room for new inventory arriving later in summer.
Labor Day sales in early September are another opportunity to save. With youth sports seasons getting started, stores promote deals to appeal to parents outfitting their kids. You can take advantage of these late summer savings too.
And of course, Black Friday sales the day after Thanksgiving offer some of the biggest discounts of the year. Both local sporting goods shops and online retailers usually participate with major helmet promotions.
By timing your helmet purchase around these holidays, you can often multiply your savings. Stack a discounted older model with a site-wide promo code, and you may just score an incredible deal. Planning ahead and hunting for sales events can really pay off.
Search For Coupon Codes Online
Beyond holiday sales, another great way to save on lacrosse and hockey helmets is to look for online coupon codes and promos. Retailers offer these special discounts to encourage customers to shop on their sites.
Before purchasing a helmet, search for the store name plus “coupon codes” to see what savings are available. You can often find percentages off or free shipping deals to make your order even more affordable.
Also check sites like RetailMeNot that aggregate active coupon codes across retailers. Take a minute to browse and you can sometimes stack storewide or category discounts on top of clearance helmet prices.
Occasionally, brands like Cascade and Bauer will offer promo codes if you join their email list too. Sign up to get notified of future deals and sales.
With a little hunting, online coupon codes can bring the price down by an extra 10-20% or more. Don’t forget to search before you buy to maximize your savings on new helmet gear this season.
Buy Used Helmets To Save Big
Purchasing a quality used helmet can be a great way to score major savings. With proper inspection and care, pre-owned helmets offer excellent protection at a fraction of the cost of new.
When buying used, carefully examine the helmet for any cracks or flaws in the outer shell. Also look for worn or loose straps and make sure the foam padding is in good shape. Replacement parts like pads and chin straps are inexpensive if replacements are needed.
Consider buying used if you play in competitive lacrosse or hockey leagues that require frequent re-certification of helmets. Kids will also need updated helmets as they grow. Going used can mean big savings in these scenarios.
Used sporting goods stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces like SidelineSwap and Play It Again Sports offer great deals on pre-owned helmets. Be patient and you can often find lightly used models from top brands for under $50.
As long as you thoroughly inspect a used helmet and replace any worn parts, you can feel confident you are getting a safe helmet at a fraction of the price of buying new.
Focus on Fit Over Looks When Buying
When shopping for lacrosse or hockey helmets, proper fit should be the top priority over flashy colors, graphics, or other cosmetic features. Take time to carefully try on helmets and assess the fit.
With the helmet securely fastened, have your player shake their head vigorously. The helmet should feel snug without limiting range of motion or visibility. There should be no gaps where the helmet lifts up off the head.
Work with a knowledgeable salesperson and take fit seriously. An inexpensive but well-fitted helmet provides better protection than a top end model that sits crookedly on the head.
Many helmets feature adjustable interior padding to customize fit. Try different thicknesses until the fit feels right. Most helmets also have multiple outer shell sizes to accommodate different head sizes and shapes.
While aesthetics are nice, remember that comfort and security are paramount. Don’t compromise on proper fit in order to get a certain style or look. Take the time to try on different options and choose the helmet that fits your player’s head best.
Make Sure Helmet Is NOCSAE Certified
When shopping for lacrosse or hockey helmets, an important qualification to look for is NOCSAE certification. NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) is an independent standards body that rigorously tests helmets to ensure they meet safety criteria.
The NOCSAE sticker on a helmet indicates it has passed impact tests and meets thresholds for protecting against concussions. All helmets sanctioned for play by lacrosse and hockey leagues must be NOCSAE certified.
Counterfeit or knock-off helmets may look similar to major brands but lack proper certification. Avoid these, as there are no guarantees about their protective abilities. Only buy helmets with the genuine NOCSAE logo to ensure safety and compliance.
You can verify a particular model’s certification status on the NOCSAE website. They maintain a searchable database of all currently approved helmets and pads for various sports.
Making sure your helmet bears the NOCSAE seal gives confidence that it has passed rigorous safety testing. Don’t cut corners by buying uncertified helmets that could put your athlete at risk.
Try On In Store For Proper Sizing
To ensure you get an ideal lacrosse or hockey helmet fit, it’s best to try on options in person at a store. Proper sizing and fit can’t be determined just by reading size charts online.
When trying helmets, get your player to shake their head around to assess comfort and stability. The helmet should feel snug without limiting mobility. Make sure there are no gaps where the helmet lifts off the head.
Don’t be afraid to test out different brands and models. Helmet shapes and interior padding vary between manufacturers. Trying several makes it easier to find the just right fit.
Work with an experienced salesperson who can watch the fitting and make sizing recommendations. They may suggest going up or down a size, or trying a different brand altogether to get an optimal fit.
With helmets being such a vital piece of protective equipment, take the time to try them on in-store. Don’t just order a helmet online and hope it fits properly. Visit a store and test different options until you find the right fit for your player’s head size and shape.
Inspect For Cracks Before Buying Used
When considering a used lacrosse or hockey helmet, carefully inspecting for any cracks or damage is crucial. Even small cracks can compromise the protective abilities of the helmet.
Examine the outer shell for any cracks, gouges or dents. Pay close attention to high impact areas around the temples, chin and back of the head. Also look for cracks along the rim where facemasks attach.
Minor scratches and scuffs are normal, but any sign of deep cracks or gaps means the helmet should be avoided. The foam padding also degrades over time, so check that it’s all intact.
Take the helmet into bright lighting and run your fingers slowly over the entire surface, feeling for any imperfections. If you spot concerning cracks, it’s best to keep looking for a safer used helmet.
Carefully checking over pre-owned helmets helps avoid those that have suffered damage and degradation. Take time to thoroughly inspect and avoid any helmets with cracks or flaws.
Consider Reconditioned Helmets For Savings
Beyond just used gear, some retailers also offer reconditioned lacrosse and hockey helmets. These are pre-owned helmets that have been inspected, cleaned, and refurbished to like-new quality.
Reconditioned helmets will pass the same safety checks as new helmets, but are sold at a discount. Retailers stand behind them with warranties too.
Look for reconditioned equipment at major sporting goods stores like Play It Again Sports or SidelineSwap. Manufacturer direct sales like Cascade’s Super Store also sell recertified helmets with deep discounts.
Consider the reconditioned route if you want the safety of a warranty and don’t mind pre-owned gear. Reconditioned helmets offer an alternative way to save over 50% versus new helmets.
Just be sure to try on any reconditioned helmet and inspect carefully to ensure proper fit and no cracks or flaws.
Check Return Policies Before Purchase
Before pulling the trigger on a lacrosse or hockey helmet purchase, be sure to understand the retailer’s return policy. Whether shopping online or in-store, you want the option to exchange or return if the helmet doesn’t fit right or work for your needs.
Many retailers allow returns within 30 days as long as the helmet is in new condition. Others charge restocking fees for returns or exchanges. Read the fine print so there are no surprises.
Buying directly from helmet manufacturers like Warrior or Bauer means you can deal with them for returns versus the retailer. This can sometimes be an easier process.
Don’t cut off the tags or use the helmet until you’re fully confident in the fit and performance. Carefully trying it on at home allows time to exchange it if needed.
Having a clear understanding of the return policy gives peace of mind that you can send back or swap a helmet that isn’t quite right. Always confirm before purchasing.
Read Online Reviews Before Buying
Reading lacrosse and hockey helmet reviews online before purchasing is wise. Independent user reviews on sites like Amazon or the helmet brands’ own websites provide helpful feedback.
Look for reviews that speak to comfort, fit, visibility and other functional aspects over just appearances. Sort reviews by most recent for the latest opinions.
Keep an eye out for any consistent complaints about certain helmet models fitting too small, not enough padding, or other fit issues. This could influence your decision.
Video reviews on YouTube are also useful to actually see the helmet aesthetics and features. Watching someone try it on also gives a better idea of fit.
User-submitted photos provide helpful visuals too. Look for shots of players wearing the helmet from different angles.
While some flair for drama is expected in reviews, look for consistent patterns in multiple reviews to identify any serious deficiencies.
Consider Buying As A Team For Discounts
One way lacrosse and hockey teams can take advantage of savings on helmets is to coordinate bulk purchasing through their club or organization. Buying multiple helmets together unlocks better pricing.
Coaches can work with sporting goods retailers ahead of each season to negotiate discounts for team orders. Most stores will offer 10-20% or more off for large purchases.
Brands like Bauer and Cascade also have team sales programs that allow customization and bulk order pricing. Buying as a team makes hitting order minimums for the best pricing easier.
Players can save significantly versus buying helmets one at a time at full retail. Adding team jerseys, equipment bags and other accessories sweetens the bulk order deals too.
Talk to your team’s leadership about organizing a coordinated equipment purchase. Work together to enjoy big savings on the essential gear every player needs.
Act Fast As Inventory Is Limited
When you find a great deal on lacrosse or hockey helmets, it’s smart to act quickly before supplies run out. Retailers only stock so much inventory, especially for last year’s models on clearance.
Popular sizes and colors are the first to sell out. Don’t hesitate if you spot a discounted helmet you love. Take advantage of the savings before it’s gone.
Clearance sections in sporting goods stores won’t last forever. They need to free up room for new arrivals.
Likewise, popular limited-edition graphics or exclusive colors can sell out fast. Special releases like Bauer’s Star Wars helmets disappear in a blink.
With sizing constraints too, stores can run out of specific fits. If the helmet fits your athlete’s head, grab it while you can.
In the quest for helmet deals, procrastination can mean missing out. Be ready to add-to-cart or buy in-store when you find the right model at the right price.
Find Great Deals on Lacrosse and Hockey Helmets This Season
With some smart shopping strategies, you can find excellent deals on quality lacrosse and hockey helmets this season. Taking advantage of sales events, buying last year’s models, considering pre-owned equipment, and using coupons can help you get the right helmet for your needs at an affordable price.
Proper fit and safety certifications should be your top priorities when choosing a helmet for your player. Prioritize getting the right helmet over flashy aesthetics. With a bit of patience and research, you can outfit your athlete with an excellent helmet without breaking the bank.
By timing purchases around major holidays, buying previous models on clearance, or considering quality used helmets, the savings can really add up. Work with your local sporting goods shops to find the best deals. Do your homework and shop smart for the biggest bang for your buck.
With strategic shopping, you can rest easy knowing your player is protected without emptying your wallet. Use these tips to enjoy excellent savings on lacrosse and hockey helmets this season.