Inspect Quality and Safety of Used Lacrosse Helmets Before Buying
When looking to purchase a used lacrosse helmet, one of the most important steps is thoroughly examining the quality and safety of the specific helmet before making a purchase. Gently inspect the exterior shell for any cracks, chips or scuffs that could compromise protection. Pay special attention to high impact areas around the temples, chin, and back of the head. Even minor cracks in the shell can spread over time and greatly reduce shock absorption.
Run your hand along the inside pads looking for worn out or compressed areas. The foam padding plays a crucial role in absorbing impact, so indentations mean less protection. Also check that the liner and jaw pads are not dried out or deteriorating. If the pads are removable, take them out and examine the plastic shell underneath for cracks as well.
It’s also critical to verify the helmet model and age, as significant advancements in helmet technology and regulations occur over 5-10 years. Older models may lack the latest safety innovations, so avoid picking up dated helmets more than 3-5 years old if possible. Focus your search on newer styles from reputable brands like Cascade, Warrior, STX, and Maverik that meet current NOCSAE standards.
Lastly, carefully adjust the fit system and ensure the helmet sits snugly and evenly on your head before purchasing. An improper helmet fit neutralizes many safety advantages, so take the time to get the sizing right. With a quality certified refurbished helmet that fits well and passes your thorough inspection, you can safely save money while still getting premium protection on the field.
Verify Certification and Reputation When Buying Refurbished Lacrosse Helmets
Purchasing a refurbished lacrosse helmet can be a great way to save money, but only if you ensure it comes from a reputable source and has proper safety certification. With helmets, buying refurbished units from unauthorized sellers is extremely risky and not recommended. However, certified refurbished options sold by the helmet manufacturers themselves or authorized dealers can offer quality helmets at discounted prices.
When browsing refurbished lacrosse helmets online, verify that the listing states the helmet is “manufacturer certified refurbished.” This means the original manufacturer inspected, tested, and recertified the specific helmet to like-new standards. For example, Cascade lacrosse offers certified refurbished helmets through their website which undergo stringent 15-point inspection and recertification. Buying these helmets gives you peace of mind knowing it meets the latest safety requirements.
Additionally, only buy refurbished lacrosse helmets from authorized sellers like direct manufacturers, reputable online retailers, or major sporting goods stores. Avoid marketplaces that allow sales from random third-party sellers. The helmet certification and condition can’t be verified. Authorized sellers stake their reputation on providing authentic, recertified helmets that have been thoroughly inspected.
As an extra precaution, look up the exact certification specs like date and location testing details often listed on interior sticker. You can call the manufacturer to verify the authenticity of the certification as an added layer of protection. Taking these steps helps assure the reconditioned helmet you purchase delivers the highest level of safety and performance demanded for the sport.
Replace Facemask to Upgrade Protection and Style of Lacrosse Helmet
One of the easiest and most effective ways to upgrade an older lacrosse helmet is to replace the facemask. Swapping out the facemask allows you to get the latest protective features and also customize the look. Facemasks come in a variety of styles and designs to match your preferences.
For protection, look for a facemask made with thicker titanium or steel alloy bars spaced close together to deflect hard shots. More bars and less space in between means better protection. Curved and angled bars also help shots glance off. Make sure any new facemask meets NOCSAE standards for safety.
In addition to protection, the facemask greatly impacts style and vision. Aggressively angled cages with edgy points and curves look intimidating and give clear downfield vision. More rounded masks allow better peripheral vision for dodging defenders. Consider trying a unique color like black, red or green instead of basic chrome for a custom look.
Ensure the new facemask readily attaches to your helmet design. Most cages use similar screw placements so you can easily swap between brands. If not,面mask adapters are available. Bring your helmet to the store when shopping to test the fit. With a properly fitted new facemask, you can reinvent the look of your helmet and get modern performance.
Some additional tips when upgrading the facemask – go for thicker chrome or matte finished steel rather than coated metals that can scratch. Doubled chin straps help secure the mask firmly to the helmet. And if your helmet has a visor, make sure the mask allows enough space for the visor to slide freely.
Ensure Proper Helmet Fit for Optimal Lacrosse Performance
Finding a lacrosse helmet that fits correctly is critical for maximizing protection and on-field performance. Unlike other sports gear, you can’t simply pick a helmet based on a size chart. Proper lacrosse helmet fit needs to be evaluated and adjusted for your unique head size and shape.
Start by trying on various helmet models from different brands. Due to variations in interior padding and shell dimensions, one brand or model may fit you better than others. Position the front forehead pad against your head’s front contour, then tighten or loosen the fit system in the rear to stabilize the helmet.
With the chinstrap securely fastened, check that the helmet sits level on your head and doesn’t rock side-to-side. Slide the helmet gently from front to back – a properly fitted helmet should not move more than about 1/2 inch. Too much movement indicates the helmet is too large.
Next, evaluate the comfort level of pressure points around your crown, temples and back of head. You want a snug fit without any pinching. Having someone else watch and feel for even helmet contact as you slowly shake your head can help identify fit gaps.
Finally, test your field of vision by looking side-to-side and up-and-down without turning your head. If you notice the helmet rim blocking your peripheral view, you may need thicker interior pads to better lock the helmet in place.
Taking the time to dial in proper helmet fit gives you the protection and responsive feel needed to check, cut and drive to the goal without even noticing your helmet. A helmet that moves or shifts on your head negatively impacts performance and safety.
Inspect Used Lacrosse Helmets for Cracks That Compromise Safety
When examining a used lacrosse helmet for purchase, carefully inspecting for any cracks or damage in the outer shell is one of the most critical steps. Even small cracks that may seem harmless can greatly compromise the helmet’s ability to absorb and dissipate impact forces.
Start by visually scanning the entire outer surface for any cracks or chipped areas. Hold the helmet up and turn it around under bright light to check all sides and angles. Pay close attention around the bottom rim, ear openings, temples, and back of the helmet which endure the most abuse. Feel for any cracking by running your fingers over the shell.
Small hairline cracks may be hard to detect at first glance but can spread over time. Focus on any grayish or dull colored areas that could signal micro-fracturing under the surface. Even cracks less than an 1/8th inch can indicate the structural integrity is failing.
The polycarbonate alloy shell is designed to flex and reverberate upon impact to diffuse energy. Cracks prevent the helmet from uniformly spreading forces which can lead to penetration. No amount of interior foam padding can make up for a compromised outer casing.
Any cracks, especially multiple in the same area, mean the helmet should be avoided. Only consider a used helmet free from any cracks, chips or major dents. While surface scuffs are normal, the outer shell must remain intact to provide lifesaving protection. Don’t take unnecessary risks just to save a little money.
Buy Certified Refurbished Lacrosse Helmets From Reputable Sellers
Purchasing a certified refurbished lacrosse helmet can be a great way to get significant savings while still ensuring safety and performance. The key is buying from reputable sellers that thoroughly inspect and recertify the helmets to like-new standards.
Leading lacrosse helmet manufacturers like Cascade and Warrior offer certified refurbished models on their websites. These go through intense factory inspection and replacement of any worn parts. All safety tests are re-conducted to verify the helmet meets the latest NOCSAE standards, same as a new model. Buying the manufacturer certified versions gives you peace of mind.
Major online retailers like Amazon, Play It Again Sports and SidelineSwap also sell certified refurbished lacrosse helmets that must pass stringent requirements. These undergo multi-point inspections assessing for any flaws and recertification of safety. High-resolution photos provide visibility into condition.
No matter where you purchase a refurbished helmet, check for an official “manufacturer certified” tag to ensure thorough reconditioning was completed. Avoid random third-party resellers that can’t validate the helmet’s history or safety testing. With a legitimately certified helmet, you can take advantage of discounted pricing while enjoying the latest protection innovations.
One final tip – register your certified refurbished helmet with the manufacturer to activate any warranty coverage. Although costing less upfront, certified refurbished helmets often come with partial warranties in case any manufacturing defects arise down the road.
Upgrade Lacrosse Helmet Protection with New Inner Liners
One of the easiest ways to upgrade an older lacrosse helmet is replacing the interior padding and liners. The foam inner lining is critical for comfort and absorbing force from impacts. As the foam breaks down over time, protection is reduced.
Start by removing the existing foam padding and evaluating its condition. Look for areas that appear crushed or flattened from use. Check if the pads retain their original thickness and rapidly bounce back when compressed. Any pads that are compressed, crumbling or slow to rebound should be replaced.
Installing fresh liner pads restores the helmet’s ability to cushion blows. Look for replacement liners precision cut to match your helmet make and model for a perfect fit. The liner should be thick, firm foam or gel that resists packing down. Integrated anti-microbial fabrics prevent odor buildup.
Work methodically around the helmet shell replacing one section of liner at a time. Use the adhesive backing to attach the pads firmly in place. Ensure full contact without any gaps where the foam lifts away from the outer shell. Take care not to overtighten the retention system and crush the new padding.
Consider upgrading to liner pads with enhanced moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you cool and dry. Optional pad kits are available to give a customized fit dialed to your head size and shape. Take time fitting the new pads for a comfortable yet secure fit inside the helmet. With fresh high-performance inner liners, you’ll feel the increased protection and shock absorption.
Enhance Visibility and Glare Protection by Upgrading Lacrosse Helmet Visor
Adding or replacing a visor on your lacrosse helmet is an easy upgrade that can significantly improve vision and performance on the field. Visors enhance visibility in bright sunlight and provide protection from glare and elements.
Most lacrosse helmet frames come visor-ready with pre-drilled visor screw holes. This allows you to easily swap out the visor for one with better optical properties and tint shades. Look for anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings to maintain clarity during intense games.
Tint shade impacts visibility for different light conditions. Clear visors allow maximum visibility but no glare reduction. Light smoke tints cut glare on sunny days while maintaining good contrast. Darker smoke visors further block brightness but reduce overall visibility.
Consider swapping between tint shades based on field position or time of day. Attacker visors favor lighter tints for better sightlines downfield. Defenders may opt for darker visors to see high shots against bright skies. Switching from dark to light visors when the sun goes down maintains clarity.
Make sure to get the correct visor shape for your helmet model. Curved wraparound designs provide expanded peripheral vision and protection. Ensure the visor has full clearance when sliding up and down the helmet. With fresh visors and the right tint for your needs, you can sharpen vision for attacking the goal.
Upgrade Lacrosse Helmet Chin Straps for Enhanced Safety
An essential but often overlooked lacrosse helmet upgrade is replacing the chin strap system. While less exciting than a new face mask or visor, upgrading the chinstrap significantly improves safety and comfort.
Inspect the condition of your current chin strap for any fraying, stretching or damage. Pull firmly on the straps to check for tears or weakness. Frayed straps indicate the synthetic material is breaking down and approaching end of life.
Also examine the metal hardware like buckles and side clips for signs of wear or looseness. Straps threaded too far through worn buckle slots reduce stability. Replace any deficient parts immediately before further failure occurs.
When installing the new chinstrap, ensure a snug fit with two fingers able to slide between the strap and your chin. Too loose and the helmet can twist or come off during hits. Overtightening can prove uncomfortable over long games.
Upgraded lacrosse helmet chin straps feature thicker padding for increased comfort and dual straps across both sides of the jaw for maximum security. This prevents the helmet from shifting on your head during checks and contact. High-end straps may incorporate non-slip textures to stay fixed against sweat and moisture.
Take time adjusting the replacement straps for just the right tension based on your fit preferences. A simple chinstrap upgrade pays big dividends for safely securing your helmet through intense gameplay and big hits.
Enhance Protection by Upgrading Lacrosse Helmet Facemask
One of the most impactful upgrades you can make to an older lacrosse helmet is swapping out the facemask. Replacing the facemask allows you to get the latest protective features and customize style.
Newer facemasks incorporate thicker, strategically angled bars to provide better protection from checks and shots. More bars spaced closer together leave less open space for contact. Curved bar designs also help deflect shots rather than direct impact.
Ensure any new facemask meets current NOCSAE standards for approved lacrosse helmets. Major brands like Cascade and Warrior engineer masks to maximize vision while minimizing face exposure.
Upgrade options include titanium or high-grade alloy steel facemasks for the hardest helmet protection. Matte finishes eliminate glare while chrome bars deliver an aggressive, stylish look. You can also choose unique colors like black or red to match team colors.
Carefully inspect where the new facemask attaches to the helmet shell and that it aligns cleanly with screw holes. Most masks utilize standardized spacing. Test different brands and styles in person or order several to compare before attaching.
Installing a new facemask bolsters protection while allowing you to reinvent the look of your helmet. Combine with other upgrades like visors and decals for a custom lacrosse helmet tuned for peak performance and style.
Restore and Refresh Lacrosse Helmets with Replacement Parts
Instead of buying a brand new lacrosse helmet, you can restore an older helmet to like-new performance with replacement parts. Swapping out worn components renews protection at a fraction of the cost.
Start by inspecting which parts of your current helmet need replacing. Look for cracked shells, crushed foam, deteriorated straps, or loose screws that compromise safety and function. Target the specific sections needing repair.
Quality replacement parts are available for nearly all helmet makes and models. Trusted brands like Cascade and Warrior offer OEM factory parts to bring helmets back to original specifications.
Replace damaged shells with the exact color and sizing match. Foam liner kits come precut for a perfect fit inside your helmet model. Face masks, visors, and straps all install quickly with basic tools. Ensure full compatibility before purchasing.
Take time to properly install new components per provided instructions. Visually inspect parts for any defects before attaching. Getting precision replacement parts restored your helmet to game-ready performance and extended useful life at a fraction of full replacement cost.
Factor in the cost savings when weighing replacement parts versus new helmet purchase. With proper installation, factory authorized parts bring old helmets up to current protective standards for continued safe use.
Customize Lacrosse Helmets with Team Decals
Adding decals is an easy way to customize the look of your lacrosse helmet and show team spirit. Helmet decals come in a wide range of colors, patterns and designs to match your style.
Look for quality vinyl decals designed specifically for application on lacrosse helmets. Vinyl materials hold up to impacts and wear better than paper stickers. Ensure any decals have a clear laminate protective top coating.
Consider team logo decals in your school colors for an intimidating look. Add uniform numbers or initials for quick identification on the field. Strengthen the team image by coordinating design schemes.
For a unique style, choose graphic decals featuring flames, lightning, mazes or other eye-catching images. Contrast colored decals against shell base colors for high visibility. Apply matching decals on the rear for a consistent look.
Stick to smooth, exterior surfaces when positioning decals to ensure good adhesion. Avoid applying decals over vent holes or areas that flex. Carefully press out any bubbles underneath during application.
Regularly clean helmet decals with mild soap and water to increase durability. Replace any decals showing excessive wear. Swapping designs and colors every season prevents a dated look. Dress up dull lacrosse helmets with fresh decals to enhance visibility and style.
Capture Game Action by Adding a Helmet Camera Mount
Attaching a camera mount onto your lacrosse helmet allows you to easily record video of games and practices from a first-person perspective. Helmet camera mounts securely hold small action cameras for immersive point-of-view footage.
Look for camera mounts designed specifically for lacrosse helmet application, usually with adjustable rubberized claws that conform to the rounded shell shape. Avoid adhesives that can damage helmet coatings when removed.
Position the mount either along the center ridge or off to the side above ear level to minimize visibility obstruction. Point the camera lens horizontally to capture a wide field of view. Angle slightly downward to record more of the field and other players.
Ensure the mount has a quick release design so the camera can detach immediately following play. Miniature rugged cameras like the GoPro Hero 5 or Insta360 One X provide crisp video without adding much weight on the helmet.
Be sure to test the camera mount with your helmet first before active play. Check that the camera sits securely within the mount without shaking. Ensure helmet and camera operate normally and that peripheral vision is not impacted.
Share highlights of intense games and goals from the player perspective. Coaches can review footage to analyze positioning and mechanics. Helmet camera mounts enable lacrosse players to relive epic performances through exciting video.
Protect Lacrosse Helmets in Storage with Dedicated Bags
Using a high-quality helmet bag is essential for safely transporting and storing your lacrosse helmet. Helmet bags protect against damage while keeping gear organized.
Look for bags constructed from thick, durable fabrics with ample interior padding to cushion helmets. Water-resistant materials prevent mold and mildew buildup in wet environments. Ventilated designs allow airflow to reduce stench.
Bags built specifically for lacrosse helmets feature wider openings and shapes that accommodate oversized helmets. Interior straps keep helmets anchored and prevent shaking during travel.
Side compartments hold essential accessories like gloves, elbow pads and goggles in one bag. Backpack-style bags allow easy hands-free carrying to the field or gym.
Always place helmets inside bags during storage rather than sitting directly on shelves or the floor. The padding protects against dents, chips and scratches from other gear stacked on top.
Dedicated helmet bags should be mandatory for all lacrosse players. Keeping helmets protected extends product life by preventing damage during transport and storage. Organized bags also simplify grabbing gear and heading to practice.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection Preserves Lacrosse Helmet Safety
To maintain optimal protection and extend useful life, lacrosse helmets require regular inspection, cleaning and occasional replacement of worn parts. Proper maintenance keeps helmets performing safely.
Frequently examine the outer shell for any cracks or damage, and look for signs of liner compression. Confirm all hardware is tight and that the facemask can pivot freely without binding.
Clean the helmet periodically inside and out with mild detergent and non-abrasive pads. This prevents buildup of dirt, grime and salt from perspiration that can erode shell coatings and padding.
Replace the facemask if bent or deformed from checks. Swap chinstraps at the first sign of fraying or stretching. Upgrade interior liners whenever the foam compresses or loses shock damping.
Consider periodic replacement of older helmets, especially after 5-7 years of play. Advancements in technologies may render older helmets obsolete. Remain informed on the latest safety standards.
Before each use, re-verify proper fit and test functionality by securing the chinstrap and checking comfort and stability during head movements. Take time to perform routine maintenance so your lacrosse helmet maintains peak protective performance every season.