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Lacrosse Helmets Guide Covers Rival Schutt More

About Rival Lacrosse Helmets

When it comes to lacrosse helmets, Rival is one of the top brands to consider. As a subsidiary of Mascot International, Rival has been crafting innovative and protective lacrosse gear since 2008. Their helmet technology aims to minimize impacts and provide top-tier protection for players at every level.

Rival helmets feature a polycarbonate shell reinforced with ABS plastic to absorb high-energy impacts. This strong shell construction prevents cracks and fractures. Rival also uniquely gradates the thickness of the shell, making it thicker in high-impact zones and thinner in low-impact areas. This optimized shell reduces overall weight while retaining protection.

Within each helmet, Rival adds multi-layer EPP foam padding lined with moisture-wicking anti-microbial fabric. This interior padding system cushions your head upon impact. The fabric liner wicks sweat to keep you cool and comfortable during intense game play. Rival’s interior fit system includes a occipital lockdown system, sizing pads, and a tool-free dial that customizes the fit around your head shape. This ensures a secure and stable feel as you play hard.

Rival helmets undergo extensive laboratory testing to meet key safety standards for lacrosse. Their designs currently hold a NOCSAE certification to indicate effectiveness at reducing impacts. On-field, Rival helmets protect players from the high-speed shots, checks, and collisions that occur during competition. Models in the Rival lacrosse helmet line include options specifically tailored for youth, high school, and college-level athletes. Customizable cosmetic options give teams a consistent look on the field.

The Schutt Helmet Brand Structure

Schutt is one of the most trusted and established brands in the lacrosse helmet industry. Founded in 1918, Schutt has over a century of experience crafting protective sports gear. Their helmet technology focuses on energy management and impact absorption to provide top-tier protection on the field.

The Schutt brand offers lacrosse helmets tailored for every level of play. Their lineup includes helmets designed specifically for youth, high school, college, and professional athletes. Within each category, Schutt offers a tiered structure of models differentiated by included features and technologies.

For example, the Schutt Vengeance line represents their premium lacrosse helmet models geared for varsity and college players. The Vengeance Z10 helmet incorporates the maximum protection features, like a carbon steel facemask and TPU cushioning system. The mid-range Vengeance Pro model offers a similar fit with slightly fewer bells and whistles. On the youth side, the Schutt Youth Helmet line includes the top-end Ultralite model with a titanium facemask and the streamlined Sport model.

Across all Schutt lacrosse helmets, you’ll find common safety technologies like floating helmet shells, interchangeable parts, and high-grade steel facemasks. Interior padding consists of vinyl nitrile foam or thermoplastic urethane systems to absorb impacts. Helmet shells combine ABS plastic, polycarbonate, and other materials to find the right balance of protection and lightweight feel. Schutt lacrosse helmets undergo extensive laboratory testing to meet key lacrosse safety standards.

With over 15 lacrosse helmet models spanning youth to pro levels, Schutt provides solid options for athletes, teams, coaches, and parents seeking helmets engineered for the demands of the sport. Their brand reputation, vast helmet line, and proven protection technologies make Schutt a frontrunner lacrosse helmet brand on the market today.

Customize Your Lacrosse Stick & Pocket

One of the exciting parts of lacrosse is customizing your stick to match your playing style and feel preferences. While you can buy pre-strung sticks, building a custom lacrosse stick from scratch gives you full control over the exact features you want.

Custom lacrosse sticks start with the head and shaft. For the head, you’ll choose the brand, model, stiffness, offset, and colors. Popular brands like Maverik, STX, and Warrior offer a range of head shapes and stiffness levels to suit different positions and ability levels. You can also customize the colors and graphics. Lacrosse shaft options include materials like aluminum, scandium, titanium, and carbon fiber. Length, flex profile, grip pattern, and colors can be tailored to your needs.

Once you have the head and shaft combo, it’s time to string the lacrosse stick pocket. Stringing kits allow you to customize the lace, leather, mesh, and sidewall string to create your ideal pocket and throwing channel. You can choose pre-waxed mesh if you want a more broken-in feel right away. A deep pocket provides better ball control for cradling and stick tricks, while a shallow pocket gives you quicker releases for passing and shooting.

Experienced lacrosse players can learn to string their own sticks to get the exact pocket shape, depth, and feel they want. If stringing seems daunting, many online custom lacrosse stick builders offer pro-level stringing services. They’ll work with you to create your ideal pocket based on the type of player you are and then professionally string your head.

Building a custom lacrosse stick takes time and care, but the payoff is getting a pocket and setup tailored specifically for you. The balance, feel, and performance of a personalized stick can bring out the best in your game. Take the time to consider what you really want in a lacrosse head and pocket for passing, catching, cradling, and shooting before investing in a custom stick.

Lacrosse Helmet Sizing and Fit Tips

Getting a properly fitted lacrosse helmet is crucial for maximizing protection. While brands size their helmets differently, most offer a range of sizes from extra-small to extra-large to accommodate youth to adult players. Here are some tips on sizing and adjusting your lacrosse helmet for an ideal fit.

First, measure your head circumference about one inch above your eyebrows to determine your general size range. Refer to the sizing chart for the brand you choose to identify your estimated helmet size. When trying on helmets, assess the overall coverage and shell size. Make sure it fully protects the forehead, temples, back of the head, and sides without sitting too low on the head.

Beyond overall size, the interior fit system is key for a secure and stable feel. Lacrosse helmets use adjustable occipital pads, inflatable air bladders, foam comfort pads, and other features to customize the fit. Take time to adjust these elements and get the back, sides, and crown locked in place without pinching or pressure points. The helmet should sit firmly on your head without shifting around easily.

Test the fit by shaking your head around and simulating lacrosse movements. If the helmet rocks back and forth or up and down excessively, you may need to tighten the fit system or switch to a smaller size. There should be no gaps between the interior padding and your head. A proper lacrosse helmet fit allows you to turn your head smoothly while keeping the shell stable.

Many lacrosse helmets also allow you to swap out thicker or thinner interior padding pads to fine-tune the fit. As you get more practice in the helmet, make any final tweaks to the pads or fit system to achieve your ideal customized fit. Don’t forget to regularly check the tightness of screws that hold the facemask in place as well. Taking the time to dial in the fit means you get 360-degree protection and unrestricted vision on the field.

Comparing Rival and Schutt Helmet Models

When shopping for a new lacrosse helmet, two of the top brands to consider are Rival and Schutt. Both companies make a wide range of lacrosse helmet models designed for every level of play. Here’s an overview of how Rival and Schutt helmet lines and technologies compare.

For youth lacrosse players, Rival’s Protege helmet line includes the Protege, Protege Plus, and Protege Max models with ascending levels of protection. On the Schutt side, parents can choose from the Youth Helmet series including the Sport, Ultralite Titanium, and Ultralite DX models. Both brands engineer their youth helmets for a lightweight and secure fit on developing heads.

Moving up to the high school level, Rival targets players with their Regulator and Regulator Max helmets featuring scaled-up protection systems. Comparable Schutt models in this tier include the Vengeance Z10 and Vengeance Pro helmets. These feature carbon steel facemasks and injected TPU padding for advanced impact absorption.

At the elite collegiate and pro level, Rival’s top-of-the-line R1 helmet offers pro-grade technologies like elliptical floating shell design and compression molded padding. Schutt’s comparable premium offering is the Schutt F7 LTD DSW helmet providing a locked-in fit and segmented padding system.

Across all tiers, both Rival and Schutt lacrosse helmets utilize materials like polycarbonate, carbon steel, and ABS plastic for the shells and facemasks. On the inside, they incorporate varying foam or vinyl padding materials to absorb impacts. While their technologies differ in the details, both brands aim to provide a precise fit, excellent ventilation, and maximum protection tailored for lacrosse.

For shoppers debating between Rival and Schutt, it often comes down to personal fit preferences, budget, and aesthetics. Both represent trusted lacrosse helmet brands with ample technology investments and testing behind their products. Trying on different models is the best way to determine which helmet ultimately fits your needs and playing style.

Schutt Varsity and Youth Helmet Options

As one of the leading brands in lacrosse protective gear, Schutt offers a deep lineup of helmets tailored for every level of play. Their helmet models are divided into varsity, college, and youth categories based on the needs and budgets of players at each stage.

For elite high school and college athletes, Schutt’s varsity helmet lineup includes the premium Schutt Vengeance Z10, Vengeance Pro, and Vengeance VTD models. These helmets feature Schutt’s high-end technologies like TPU cushioning, interchangeable parts, and floating shell designs optimized for lacrosse. The Vengeance helmets provide pro-level protection for players competing at the highest levels.

In their youth category, Schutt targets younger athletes with helmet models like the Schutt Youth Sport Helmet, Schutt Youth Ultralite Helmet, and Schutt Youth Ultralite DX Helmet. These scale down pro-grade features into more streamlined and affordable designs sized for kids. They utilize dual-density vinyl nitrile padding and flexible facemask systems designed with youth players in mind.

Across all models, Schutt lacrosse helmets incorporate thoughtful safety innovations. Their helmets feature heat-management ventilation to keep players cool and titanium facemasks and carbon steel cages for reinforced protection. On the inside, their Air Maxx TPU cushioning systems absorb high-energy impacts while retaining a comfortable, secure fit.

With over a dozen unique lacrosse helmet models spanning youth to pro segments, Schutt aims to arm athletes at all levels with advanced technologies to meet the rigorous demands of the sport. Athletes and parents can trust Schutt helmets to provide optimized protection tailored for developing kids, competitive high schoolers, and elite college players alike.

Mouthguard Choices for Lacrosse Players

Having a properly fitted mouthguard is an essential piece of protective lacrosse gear. Along with the helmet and pads, a quality mouthguard shields players from injury by absorbing and disseminating impacts.

When choosing a mouthguard for lacrosse, key factors to consider are fit, comfort, protection level, and adaptability. Boil-and-bite mouthguards provide a budget-friendly option that can be molded at home. This allows for some customization of fit. Higher-end custom mouthguards are individually cast from dental impressions for a true custom fit.

Material choice also impacts the fit and feel. Traditional mouthguards use firm acrylic or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) materials. Newer options like Save-A-Tooth Co. incorporate flexible and shock-absorbing gel-based materials for increased impact absorption. Thicker mouthguards generally provide more protection at the expense of speech intelligibility.

Lacrosse players who wear braces should seek mouthguards designed to accommodate orthodontics. Models with wider arch channels and adjustable strap systems work best for this scenario. Ventilation holes or breathing channels can alleviate the gag reflex some athletes experience from mouthguards during intense play.

When it comes to style, lacrosse mouthguards range from basic clear designs to models incorporating team logos and colors. Players typically opt for mouthguards in team colors or neon shades for high visibility on the field. At the end of the day, balancing solid protection with a comfortable fit tailored for your needs is key for lacrosse mouthguard selection.

Rival Lacrosse Helmet Technologies

As a relative newcomer to the lacrosse gear scene, Rival has invested heavily in developing innovative helmet technologies to protect athletes. Here is an overview of some of the key features and engineering inside Rival lacrosse helmets.

Rival lacrosse helmets start with a compression molded polycarbonate shell reinforced with ABS plastic. This optimized shell gradates in thickness, placing more material around high-impact zones. Rival’s shell construction minimizes cracks and fractures upon impact to maintain structural integrity.

Within each helmet, Rival utilizes multi-layer Expanded Polypropylene (EPP) foam padding lined with anti-microbial fabric. This interior padding system absorbs shock and cushions the head on impact. The wicking liner fabric pulls moisture away from the head for cool, dry comfort during intense play.

For a secure fit, Rival helmets incorporate an occipital lockdown system with rear adjustment dial. Users can customize the fit by inflating or deflating the air bladders surrounding the head. The easy turn-dial allows on-the-fly adjustments as needed. Low-profile sizing pads further lock in the fit around the sides and crown.

Rival also uniquely incorporates Outrigger side impact protection into many of their helmet models. These extended side panels enlarge the protective coverage area to protect vulnerable temple regions. Rival continues to pioneer new technologies to minimize impacts and provide top-tier protection on the field.

Advantages of Custom Lacrosse Sticks

While you can certainly buy pre-made lacrosse sticks, one of the coolest parts of the sport is customizing your own pocket and setup. Building a custom lacrosse stick from scratch allows you to tailor every element to your preferences.

With a custom lacrosse stick, you can choose the exact head model, stiffness, colors, and offset you want. For the shaft, you pick the material, flex profile, grip pattern, and more. You can match the colors and graphics throughout for a consistent look.

The real personalization comes when you string the lacrosse head pocket. You can customize the sidewall, runner, and shooting string patterns. The type of mesh and whether you want it pre-waxed also impact pocket feel. You can string your stick for more hold or quicker releases.

Stringing your own stick takes practice, but many online custom stick builders offer pro-level stringing services for the perfect pocket. This allows you to get a lacrosse stick strung just how you want it without doing it yourself.

With a custom lacrosse stick, you know every element is tailored specifically for you from the grip down to the scoop. The balance, feel, and performance reflect your personal style, position, and needs on the field. The time invested in a custom setup pays off when you get increased confidence and consistency.

Schutt Helmet vs Rival Helmet Opinions

When it’s time to buy a new lacrosse helmet, two of the top brands players consider are Schutt and Rival. Schutt has a long-standing reputation for quality lacrosse gear, while Rival is a relative newcomer making waves with innovative technology.

Schutt helmets are trusted by athletes at all levels. Their helmet line incorporates proven features like ABS shells, titanium facemasks, and patented Air Maxx TPU cushioning systems. With over a century of sports equipment expertise, Schutt has lacrosse helmet models dialed in for every position and skill level.

Rival brings fresh energy into the lacrosse space. Their helmet technology focuses on optimizing fit, maximizing coverage area, and managing impacts. Unique features like Outrigger side impact panels and shell thickness gradation showcase Rival’s technical innovations.

When it comes to fit and feel, Schutt helmets cater to athletes who prioritize locked-in stability and a customized fit experience. Rival helmets offer a bit more adjustability through their occipital dial system. Visually, both brands offer a range of bold designs and color combinations to showcase team pride.

Overall, lacrosse athletes can’t go wrong investing in protection from either of these leading brands. While Schutt has proven pedigree, Rival brings innovation to the table. Considering your budget, fit priorities, and aesthetic tastes can help determine which helmet brand feels right for you.

Top Lacrosse Helmet Brands Ranked

With player safety top of mind, choosing the right lacrosse helmet is a big decision. Top helmet brands like Cascade, Warrior, STX, and Brine compete to offer the latest designs and technologies.

Established titans like Cascade and Brine leverage decades of expertise crafting helmets tough enough for elite play. Cascade’s R helmet exemplifies thoughtful engineering like the Seven+ liner system and Vision Cage for extra protection. Brine recently raised the bar with the King IV helmet featuring a unique FloatR liner for premium lightweight comfort.

Warrior brings innovation to the table with unique offerings like the Burn Nine.Point helmet with a removable soft shell covering a Polymer Zero Shock inner shell. Newer entries like the STX Stallion aim to disrupt with advanced materials like Armourgel and Adaptive Padding Systems.

Lesser known brands like Nike, Maverik, and Shock Doctor offer competitive options as well. While ranking the “best” lacrosse helmet brand is subjective, key factors are brand reputation, safety certifications, innovation, fit and feel, and visual appeal. Ultimately, players should try on helmets to determine which model provides the right fit and protection for their game.

Order a Custom Strung Lacrosse Stick

Piecing together a custom lacrosse stick takes time, but the payoff is getting a pocket tailored specifically to your game. While stringing your own stick is rewarding, not everyone has the skills or patience for lacing intricate sidewall and runner systems.

The good news is you can order a custom lacrosse stick from online retailers and have it professionally strung to your specifications. You simply choose the exact head, shaft, mesh, and colors you want. Then provide details on the pocket style, depth, and feel you need.

Reputable custom lacrosse stick retailers have experienced stringers on staff. They’ll consult with you on pocket dimensions and stringing details. Whether you want more hold or quicker releases, more whip or a stiffer feel, the pro stringers can lace your head accordingly.

Ordering a pre-strung custom lacrosse stick saves you from the challenging stringing process while still getting a personalized setup. It also ensures consistent stringing quality and eliminates guesswork. Many retailers offer a range of mesh types, shooting string options, and stringing templates to choose from too.

Investing in a professionally strung custom lacrosse stick means you can hit the field game-ready with a pocket designed around your individual style and strengths. Break it in to your exact preferences over time for an extension of your arm out there.

Mouthguard Brands for Lacrosse

Wearing a protective mouthguard is a must for lacrosse players at all levels. When selecting a lacrosse mouthguard, key brands to look for include Shock Doctor, SISU, Fight Dentist, and ShockZone.

Shock Doctor is one of the most recognized names in mouthguards. They offer a full range of options from budget-friendly boil-and-bite models to custom dental cast guards. Their innovative technologies like gel-fit liners and multi-layer construction provide high-level protection.

SISU mouthguards stand out for their ultra-thin and flexible design. By using adaptive fit material instead of rigid plastic, SISU guards mold to your teeth for a barely-there feel. This provides protection without restricting speech or breathing.

Fight Dentist excels at custom dental mouthguards made from impressions. They incorporate vented channels and advanced lamination techniques for optimal durability, protection, and airflow. ShockZone focuses on gel-based guards providing superb fit and shock absorption.

Additional top mouthguard brands include Nike, Under Armour, Battle Sports Science, and Mueller. Key factors to compare are material, thickness, fit system, ventilation, and price. Prioritize certified protection and comfort with your personal needs before choosing a lacrosse mouthguard brand and model.

Latest Lacrosse Helmet Safety Ratings

With lacrosse athletes facing high-speed impacts from sticks, balls, and contact, keeping helmets up-to-date is a key safety priority. Organizations like NOCSAE regularly test and certify lacrosse helmets to evolve with the latest protections.

NOCSAE standards involve passing a series of impact tests on the field and in the lab. Helmets must demonstrate the ability to minimize impact forces and prevent injuries from collisions. Current NOCSAE standards require reducing forces below 1,200 SI and 2,000 SI on moderate and severe impacts.

To achieve certification, brands invest extensively in helmet technologies like liner materials and padding systems. For example, Xenith helmets incorporate shock-absorbing XRD foam into their X2E and Epic 2.0 helmets. Cascade features compressible Seven+ padding layers in the R model.

Virginia Tech also conducts independent helmet testing and issues STAR safety ratings. Their lab evaluates factors like impact absorption, concussion risk, and more. Models like the Warrior Regulator and Cascade S receive high marks for offering advanced protection.

Keeping up with the latest lacrosse helmet safety grades and technologies gives athletes and parents peace of mind. While no helmet can prevent 100% of concussions, upgrading to helmets with the newest safety systems helps minimize risks in this fast-paced sport.