The 7 Best Lacrosse Helmets of 2023 What You Need for Ultimate Head ProtectionThe 7 Best Lacrosse Helmets of 2023 What You Need for Ultimate Head Protection
Choosing the Right Fit Ensures Your Lacrosse Helmet Offers Maximum Protection
Having a properly fitted lacrosse helmet is arguably the most important factor when it comes to head protection on the field. An ill-fitting helmet that is loose or moves around on your head will not properly cushion impacts, leaving you vulnerable to concussions or other head injuries from checks, errant stick swings, and hard shots.
When trying on lacrosse helmets, the helmet should sit just above your eyebrows with no gaps between the foam padding and your head. The chin strap should fit snugly under your chin to prevent the helmet from sliding. Move your head around – if the helmet easily shifts or slips, it is too loose. A helmet that is painfully tight, however, can cause discomfort and headaches during play. The ideal fit should be snug but not constricting.
Many helmets feature adjustable padding or inflatable air bladders that allow you to customize the fit. Take the time to carefully adjust until you achieve a secure, stable feel that still allows free head movement. The helmet should move with your head, not independently. Don’t rely on thickening foam padding alone to make a helmet fit; a loose helmet provides less impact absorption.
For growing youth and high school players, take head measurements regularly and size up helmets accordingly. Avoid passed-down helmets, as older models likely won’t provide modern safety. Take the time to get properly fitted at lacrosse equipment retailers. The right fit could mean the difference between a worrisome collision and harmless deflection when taking a check. Protect yourself by investing in a tailored, stability-enhancing lacrosse helmet fit.
Look for Lacrosse Helmets with NOCSAE Safety Certification
When shopping for a new lacrosse helmet, one of the most important factors to look for is proper safety certification from NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment). NOCSAE is an independent standards body that rigorously tests helmets and other athletic gear to ensure they meet high performance and safety benchmarks.
All helmets used in sanctioned lacrosse leagues, from youth to college, must pass NOCSAE tests and feature a visible NOCSAE logo sticker. NOCSAE subjects helmets to impact tests, using machines to smash helmeted test heads at up to 60 mph. Sensors measure the force transmitted to the head in the collision. For a helmet to earn NOCSAE certification, it must keep this force below set thresholds that help prevent concussions and serious head trauma.
The organization also mandates that helmets pass additional requirements involving how well they handle multiple impacts, as lacrosse helmets often take repeated hits in competition. Helmets must maintain their protective abilities over time, with padding that does not bottom out or degrade. Tests assess impacts from multiple angles and with differing velocities, simulating the wide range of contact players experience on the field.
Beyond passing basic NOCSAE standards, many brands design helmets to surpass minimum requirements, incorporating extra features to further limit the forces. For example, advanced foam padding in helmets like the Cascade S and Schutt Vengeance absorb high-energy rotational impacts, going above and beyond typical linear impact testing. This added protection can give parents and players peace of mind.
While NOCSAE certification does not guarantee safety or prevent all head injuries, it provides assurance that your helmet meets scientifically-developed standards. Choosing a model with the NOCSAE seal means you can take the field knowing top engineers have thoroughly tested your helmet’s abilities to minimize concussion risks.
Well-Ventilated Lacrosse Helmets Keep Players Cool During Games
One key but often overlooked element of lacrosse helmet design is ventilation. The best lacrosse helmets feature optimized air flow systems to keep players cool and comfortable even during the most intense warm-weather games.
Proper ventilation prevents the dangerous scenario of overheating. Trapped heat and sweat inside an air-restrictive helmet can lead to dehydration, nausea, and hyperventilation. In extreme cases, it can even cause heat stroke. Preventing heat buildup ensures players perform at their best and avoid any temperature-related health risks.
Ventilation openings strategically placed throughout the helmet allow air to freely circulate. Intake vents in the front and back let fresh air enter. Exhaust vents at the top and rear circulate out hot stagnant air. This constant airflow keeps the head and pads dry.
Advanced lacrosse helmets carefully engineer the vent size, shape, and placement to optimize cooling channels. Cascade’s Seven Technology system, for example, utilizes 7 vents positioned to maximize air intake and heat expulsion. Vents align with major blood vessels in the head for cooling where it matters most.
Some brands offer additional cooling accessories, like Cascade’s Fan Pro attachment that clips onto vent openings to power active cooling. While not necessary for most players, these can provide extra airflow for sweltering outdoor tournaments or athletes that run hot.
Along with ventilation, moisture-wicking anti-microbial liner padding also aids cooling by absorbing sweat. Breathable pad materials avoid the discomfort of a sweat-soaked interior.
While helmets with excessive vents could potentially sacrifice some protection, leading brands strike the optimal balance. Well-ventilated helmets allow lacrosse athletes to beat the heat and avoid stifling headgear that could ruin performance on hot days.
Lighter Lacrosse Helmets Improve Comfort and Mobility
Many modern lacrosse helmets come equipped with adjustable padding or inflatable air bladders, allowing players to customize the fit to their unique head shape. Take the time to carefully adjust these features until you achieve a secure, stable feel that still permits free head movement. Remember, the helmet should move with your head, not independently.
The Dangers of Ill-Fitting Helmets
An ill-fitting helmet that’s loose or moves around on your head fails to properly cushion impacts, leaving you vulnerable to injury. It’s crucial to avoid relying solely on thickening foam padding to make a helmet fit, as a loose helmet provides less impact absorption overall.
For youth and high school players experiencing growth spurts, regular head measurements are essential. Size up helmets accordingly to ensure continued protection. It’s also advisable to avoid using handed-down helmets, as older models may not incorporate the latest safety features and materials.
NOCSAE Certification: The Gold Standard in Lacrosse Helmet Safety
When evaluating lacrosse helmets, one critical factor stands out above the rest: NOCSAE certification. But what exactly is NOCSAE, and why is their seal of approval so crucial for your safety on the field?
NOCSAE, or the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment, is an independent organization that rigorously tests helmets and other athletic gear to ensure they meet stringent performance and safety benchmarks. All helmets used in sanctioned lacrosse leagues, from youth to college levels, must pass NOCSAE tests and display a visible NOCSAE logo sticker.
The NOCSAE Testing Process
NOCSAE subjects helmets to a series of demanding impact tests. Using sophisticated machinery, they simulate collisions by smashing helmeted test heads at speeds of up to 60 mph. Sensors measure the force transmitted to the head during these impacts. For a helmet to earn NOCSAE certification, it must keep this force below set thresholds that help prevent concussions and serious head trauma.
But the testing doesn’t stop there. NOCSAE also mandates that helmets pass additional requirements involving how well they handle multiple impacts. This is crucial in lacrosse, where helmets often endure repeated hits during a single game or practice session. Certified helmets must maintain their protective abilities over time, with padding that does not bottom out or degrade with use.
Beyond Minimum Standards
While NOCSAE certification provides a baseline for safety, many brands design helmets that surpass these minimum requirements. For example, advanced foam padding in helmets like the Cascade S and Schutt Vengeance is engineered to absorb high-energy rotational impacts, going above and beyond typical linear impact testing. This added protection can provide extra peace of mind for players and parents alike.
The Cool Factor: Why Ventilation Matters in Lacrosse Helmets
When discussing lacrosse helmet features, ventilation often takes a backseat to impact protection. However, a well-ventilated helmet plays a crucial role in player safety and performance. But why is proper airflow so important in a lacrosse helmet?
Effective ventilation prevents the dangerous scenario of overheating during intense play. Trapped heat and sweat inside an air-restrictive helmet can lead to a host of problems, including dehydration, nausea, and hyperventilation. In extreme cases, poor ventilation can even contribute to heat stroke. By ensuring proper air circulation, well-ventilated helmets help players maintain optimal performance while avoiding temperature-related health risks.
Anatomy of a Well-Ventilated Lacrosse Helmet
The best lacrosse helmets feature optimized airflow systems with strategically placed ventilation openings throughout the helmet’s structure. Intake vents in the front and back allow fresh air to enter, while exhaust vents at the top and rear facilitate the circulation of hot, stagnant air out of the helmet. This constant airflow keeps the head and internal padding dry, reducing discomfort and the risk of skin irritation.
Advanced lacrosse helmet designs go beyond simply adding more holes. They carefully engineer the size, shape, and placement of vents to create efficient cooling channels. For example, Cascade’s Seven Technology system utilizes seven precisely positioned vents to maximize air intake and circulation, ensuring players stay cool even in the most intense game situations.
Impact Absorption Technology: The Science Behind Lacrosse Helmet Protection
At the heart of every high-quality lacrosse helmet lies its impact absorption technology. This crucial feature determines how effectively a helmet can protect your head from the forces generated by collisions, checks, and falls during play. But how exactly do these technologies work to keep your head safe?
Modern lacrosse helmets employ a variety of sophisticated materials and design techniques to absorb and dissipate impact energy. One common approach is the use of multi-layered foam systems. These typically consist of a harder outer layer to spread the initial force of impact over a wider area, combined with softer inner layers that compress to absorb energy.
Advanced Impact Absorption Systems
Some of the most advanced lacrosse helmets on the market incorporate cutting-edge impact absorption technologies. For instance:
- Cascade’s SuperMono S Shell: This system uses a single-piece shell design that flexes slightly upon impact, working in concert with the interior padding to absorb and disperse energy more effectively than traditional two-piece shells.
- Warrior’s Viconic Technology: This innovative system utilizes specially designed impact plates that convert linear forces into rotational energy, reducing the risk of concussions.
- STX’s D30 Foam: This unique material remains soft and flexible during normal play but instantly hardens upon impact, providing superior protection when it’s needed most.
These advanced systems go beyond simple padding, actively working to redirect and minimize the forces that reach your head during collisions.
Visibility and Field of Vision: Balancing Protection and Performance
While protection is paramount, a lacrosse helmet must also allow players to maintain clear visibility and a wide field of vision. After all, you can’t play your best if you can’t see the action unfolding around you. How do modern lacrosse helmets balance these competing needs?
The best lacrosse helmets feature carefully designed face masks and eye openings that provide maximum protection without unnecessarily restricting vision. Many incorporate lightweight, high-strength materials like titanium or reinforced polymers in their face masks, allowing for thinner bars that obstruct less of the player’s view.
Innovative Visibility Features
Some helmet manufacturers have developed innovative solutions to enhance visibility:
- Optical Cutouts: Strategically placed cutouts in the lower part of the face mask improve downward visibility, allowing players to better track ground balls.
- Adjustable Visors: Some helmets feature removable or adjustable visors that can be customized based on playing conditions and personal preference.
- Anti-Fog Treatments: To combat visor fogging in cold or humid conditions, many helmets now include anti-fog coatings or ventilation systems specifically designed to keep visors clear.
These features ensure that players can maintain situational awareness and react quickly to the fast-paced action of a lacrosse game, all while benefiting from robust head protection.
Maintenance and Lifespan: Ensuring Long-Term Helmet Performance
Even the most advanced lacrosse helmet can’t provide optimal protection if it’s not properly maintained or replaced when necessary. But how often should you replace your helmet, and what maintenance steps can you take to ensure it continues to perform at its best?
Most manufacturers and safety experts recommend replacing lacrosse helmets every 3-5 years, even if they haven’t sustained any major impacts. This is because the materials used in helmets can degrade over time due to factors like UV exposure, sweat, and general wear and tear. However, if your helmet experiences a significant impact or shows signs of damage, it should be replaced immediately, regardless of its age.
Proper Helmet Maintenance
To keep your lacrosse helmet in top condition between replacements, follow these maintenance tips:
- Clean regularly: Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and mild soap. For the interior, use anti-bacterial wipes or sprays designed for sports equipment.
- Inspect for damage: Regularly check for cracks, dents, or separation of components. Pay special attention to the chin strap and its attachment points.
- Store properly: Keep your helmet in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use.
- Avoid modifications: Don’t drill holes, remove padding, or make any other alterations that could compromise the helmet’s integrity.
- Replace worn parts: Many helmets allow for replacement of individual components like chin straps or visors. Use only manufacturer-approved parts for these replacements.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your lacrosse helmet continues to provide optimal protection throughout its lifespan.
The Future of Lacrosse Helmet Technology: Innovations on the Horizon
As our understanding of head injuries and impact mechanics continues to evolve, so too does the technology used in lacrosse helmets. What cutting-edge innovations can we expect to see in the coming years?
One area of active research is in smart helmet technology. These advanced systems incorporate sensors that can detect and measure impacts in real-time, providing valuable data to coaches, trainers, and medical staff. Some prototypes even include alert systems that can notify sideline personnel when a player experiences a potentially dangerous hit.
Emerging Materials and Design Concepts
Beyond smart technology, researchers and manufacturers are exploring new materials and design concepts to enhance helmet performance:
- Auxetic Materials: These unique substances actually become thicker when stretched, potentially offering superior impact absorption compared to traditional foams.
- 3D-Printed Customization: Advances in 3D printing technology may soon allow for fully customized helmets, perfectly tailored to each player’s head shape for optimal fit and protection.
- Hybrid Shell Designs: Some prototypes combine rigid and flexible elements in the helmet shell, allowing for better energy dissipation during impacts.
- Improved Ventilation Systems: Future helmets may incorporate active cooling systems or advanced moisture-wicking materials to keep players even more comfortable during play.
As these technologies mature, we can expect to see lacrosse helmets that offer even higher levels of protection, comfort, and performance on the field.
Choosing the Right Fit Ensures Your Lacrosse Helmet Offers Maximum Protection
Having a properly fitted lacrosse helmet is arguably the most important factor when it comes to head protection on the field. An ill-fitting helmet that is loose or moves around on your head will not properly cushion impacts, leaving you vulnerable to concussions or other head injuries from checks, errant stick swings, and hard shots.
When trying on lacrosse helmets, the helmet should sit just above your eyebrows with no gaps between the foam padding and your head. The chin strap should fit snugly under your chin to prevent the helmet from sliding. Move your head around – if the helmet easily shifts or slips, it is too loose. A helmet that is painfully tight, however, can cause discomfort and headaches during play. The ideal fit should be snug but not constricting.
Many helmets feature adjustable padding or inflatable air bladders that allow you to customize the fit. Take the time to carefully adjust until you achieve a secure, stable feel that still allows free head movement. The helmet should move with your head, not independently. Don’t rely on thickening foam padding alone to make a helmet fit; a loose helmet provides less impact absorption.
For growing youth and high school players, take head measurements regularly and size up helmets accordingly. Avoid passed-down helmets, as older models likely won’t provide modern safety. Take the time to get properly fitted at lacrosse equipment retailers. The right fit could mean the difference between a worrisome collision and harmless deflection when taking a check. Protect yourself by investing in a tailored, stability-enhancing lacrosse helmet fit.
Look for Lacrosse Helmets with NOCSAE Safety Certification
When shopping for a new lacrosse helmet, one of the most important factors to look for is proper safety certification from NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment). NOCSAE is an independent standards body that rigorously tests helmets and other athletic gear to ensure they meet high performance and safety benchmarks.
All helmets used in sanctioned lacrosse leagues, from youth to college, must pass NOCSAE tests and feature a visible NOCSAE logo sticker. NOCSAE subjects helmets to impact tests, using machines to smash helmeted test heads at up to 60 mph. Sensors measure the force transmitted to the head in the collision. For a helmet to earn NOCSAE certification, it must keep this force below set thresholds that help prevent concussions and serious head trauma.
The organization also mandates that helmets pass additional requirements involving how well they handle multiple impacts, as lacrosse helmets often take repeated hits in competition. Helmets must maintain their protective abilities over time, with padding that does not bottom out or degrade. Tests assess impacts from multiple angles and with differing velocities, simulating the wide range of contact players experience on the field.
Beyond passing basic NOCSAE standards, many brands design helmets to surpass minimum requirements, incorporating extra features to further limit the forces. For example, advanced foam padding in helmets like the Cascade S and Schutt Vengeance absorb high-energy rotational impacts, going above and beyond typical linear impact testing. This added protection can give parents and players peace of mind.
While NOCSAE certification does not guarantee safety or prevent all head injuries, it provides assurance that your helmet meets scientifically-developed standards. Choosing a model with the NOCSAE seal means you can take the field knowing top engineers have thoroughly tested your helmet’s abilities to minimize concussion risks.
Well-Ventilated Lacrosse Helmets Keep Players Cool During Games
One key but often overlooked element of lacrosse helmet design is ventilation. The best lacrosse helmets feature optimized air flow systems to keep players cool and comfortable even during the most intense warm-weather games.
Proper ventilation prevents the dangerous scenario of overheating. Trapped heat and sweat inside an air-restrictive helmet can lead to dehydration, nausea, and hyperventilation. In extreme cases, it can even cause heat stroke. Preventing heat buildup ensures players perform at their best and avoid any temperature-related health risks.
Ventilation openings strategically placed throughout the helmet allow air to freely circulate. Intake vents in the front and back let fresh air enter. Exhaust vents at the top and rear circulate out hot stagnant air. This constant airflow keeps the head and pads dry.
Advanced lacrosse helmets carefully engineer the vent size, shape, and placement to optimize cooling channels. Cascade’s Seven Technology system, for example, utilizes 7 vents positioned to maximize air intake and heat expulsion. Vents align with major blood vessels in the head for cooling where it matters most.
Some brands offer additional cooling accessories, like Cascade’s Fan Pro attachment that clips onto vent openings to power active cooling. While not necessary for most players, these can provide extra airflow for sweltering outdoor tournaments or athletes that run hot.
Along with ventilation, moisture-wicking anti-microbial liner padding also aids cooling by absorbing sweat. Breathable pad materials avoid the discomfort of a sweat-soaked interior.
While helmets with excessive vents could potentially sacrifice some protection, leading brands strike the optimal balance. Well-ventilated helmets allow lacrosse athletes to beat the heat and avoid stifling headgear that could ruin performance on hot days.
Lighter Lacrosse Helmets Improve Comfort and Mobility
The weight of a lacrosse helmet directly impacts performance and stamina on the field. Excessively heavy helmets lead to neck strain and decreased mobility for players over the course of a game. The latest helmets utilize advanced lightweight materials to minimize fatigue.
Traditional lacrosse helmet shells used bulky metals and硬 plastics to provide rigidity and impact resistance. But newer engineered polymers like ABS and polycarbonate plastics offer comparable strength at a fraction of the weight. This reduces strain on the neck, shoulders, and back from the helmet’s mass.
Lighter materials also translate to larger vents and openings in the shell, improving breathability. Extra thick padding required for heavy helmets is eliminated, enhancing fit and comfort while maintaining safety certifications.
Leading brands like Cascade design optimized shell geometries with just the right amount of material precisely placed to disperse impacts. This strategic use of lightweight materials cuts every possible ounce without sacrificing protection.
Titanium facemask and hardware options shed even more mass. Carbon fiber and composite replacements for metal chin straps also contribute to trimming unwanted lbs.
The cumulative impact of thoughtful weight reductions results in noticeably lighter helmets. For example, the Cascade S lacrosse helmet weighs just 2 lbs, over 20% lighter than previous generations. This improved comfort encourages kids to keep helmets on instead of removing them.
Lightweight lacrosse helmets allow for speed and quick changes of direction needed on the field. Neck muscles stay fresh longer into games without compromised safety. Considering helmet weight ensures you get ideal protection without performance-zapping bulk.
Facemasks Protect Against Checks and Wild Shots in Lacrosse
An essential component of the lacrosse helmet is the facemask, which protects players from potential facial and dental injuries during play. While early helmets had no face protection, current designs incorporate sturdy metal wire cages to shield against checks, errant stick swings, and high-velocity shots.
Facemasks use thick chrome-molybdenum or titanium alloy wiring bars arranged in a cage or truss structure anchored to the helmet shell. The criss-crossing wires provide multiple points of structural integrity to resist and deflect impacts from all angles.
Full-circumference wraparound cages with chin cups provide the most facial coverage. They protect the entire face from the forehead down to the chin and jawline. Partial cages like those on field hockey masks leave the lower part of the face exposed and are not permitted in boys’ lacrosse.
However, women’s lacrosse rules allow for half-cage visor-style masks that offer wide visibility. Newer polycarbonate visors combine open facial visibility with protection from frontal checks and shots. For youth players, full-wrap cages are recommended for maximum safety.
Facemasks attach to anchors on the helmet shell using resilient polymer clips or tension screws that flex on impact. This prevents shattered facial bones by absorbing energy. FMJ clip systems provide enhanced flex for even better shock dissipation.
Openings in the cage wiring allow good peripheral and up-down vision that does not obstruct play. Players can freely vocalize calls and stick out their tongues without impediment, which is required by rule. But the cage remains dense enough to stop errant balls traveling up to 100 mph.
Lacrosse facemasks provide an essential layer of protection that allows players to confidently get physical on ground balls and throw checks without as much risk of facial injury. Players should ensure the cage is securely mounted and provides optimal visibility and breathability.
Secure Chin Straps Keep Lacrosse Helmets in Place During Play
Lacrosse helmets rely on sturdy chin straps to keep them firmly in place on players’ heads during intense game action. Properly buckled chin straps prevent accidental helmet loss that could lead to head and facial injuries on the field.
Chin straps typically consist of nylon or acrylic straps that thread through brackets on both sides of the helmet. The straps connect centrally under the chin using a snap, buckle, or quick-release mechanism that fastens securely but is easy to unlatch.
The chin strap should fit snugly without pinching. With the helmet and strap properly fitted, you should be able to freely open your mouth and articulate words clearly. But the helmet should not dislodge if you rapidly jerk your head around.
Straps are usually adjustable via sliding clips or Velcro connections on the side straps. This helps achieve a customized tightness. However, the strap needs to be tight enough that the helmet cannot rotate or slide on the head.
Jaw pads on the interior of the chin strap enhance comfort underneath. They prevent the strap from irritating the skin after hours of play. Padding also reduces force transmitted through the chin during big collisions.
Advanced strap designs like the Occi-Dual chin strap feature dual independent straps to provide backup protection. If one strap fails or disconnects on impact, the second strap maintains helmet security.
Some lacrosse helmets utilize alternative anchor systems like a sling headband suspended from the shell instead of chin straps. But tradition chin straps remain the most common and proven method. Players should regularly inspect their chin strap condition and ensure the fit remains snug throughout games for maximum safety.
Trying On Lacrosse Helmets Ensures Proper Size and Fit
Finding the perfect lacrosse helmet fit requires taking the time to try on multiple size options. An ideal helmet rests securely on the head without painful pressure points. Players should test out various brands and sizes at lacrosse retailers to find the one that feels just right.
When trying on helmets, the shell should completely enclose the head, resting just above the eyebrows. Padding inside should make contact around the whole circumference without gaps or slipping. The helmet should move with your head motions rather than sliding independently.
However, it should not squeeze tight anywhere or dig into the forehead. Pressure from an overly tight helmet can cause discomfort and headaches. If parts of the padding don’t touch or the helmet shifts easily, it is likely too large.
Helmets feature adjustable interior padding systems that allow you to customize the fit. Try on the helmet with these pads expanded, then slowly tighten and compress the pads until you achieve a snug all-around fit that stabilizes the helmet without excessive tightness.
Also pay attention to the chin strap. When fastened, you should be able to comfortably fit two fingers between the strap and your chin. It should not dig in or pinch. But the strap needs to prevent the helmet from rotating off if you rapidly shake your head around.
For younger players, consider room to grow. Avoid a helmet that fits perfectly but will soon become too tight over a growth spurt. Allow a little room for the head to expand as kids develop.
Take time to test out all the critical helmet brands like Cascade, Warrior, Brine, and STX. Each brand uses slightly different shapes and padding that may better conform to your particular head size and shape. Don’t rush the process of trying on lacrosse helmets.
Adjustable Lacrosse Helmets Ensure Proper Fit Over Time
As lacrosse players grow and develop, particularly in youth leagues, their helmet fit needs likely change. Helmets with adjustable interior padding allow easy resizing as heads expand and face shapes mature.
Rather than traditional foam padding, many modern lacrosse helmets utilize inflatable air bladders surrounded by fabric lining. Users can manually add or release air to these bladders using pumps and valves to fine tune the fit. More air expands the padding outward, while releasing air lets it contract.
Brands like Cascade design the bladder padding into multiple zones – front, temples, back, etc. This allows compartmentalized adjustments to target specific pressure points for a customized fit. If the temple area feels tight, for example, release air just in that zone while keeping the rest of the fit intact.
Other helmets feature alternative adjustable padding technologies. For instance, the Warrior Regulator padding system utilizes removable pad inserts of varying thicknesses. Stacked or swapped pad layers allow easy resizing as needed.
Being able to re-fit helmets through adjustable padding extends their usable life. The same helmet can adapt as kids grow instead of needing frequent expensive replacements. Proper fit is maintained even through periods of rapid growth.
Helmets should be snug when first fitted. But players should reevaluate the fit every few weeks and tweak and adjust until the helmet stabilizes without shifting or pressure. This ensures ideal protection through changing developmental stages.
While hand-me-down helmets are not recommended, adjustable padding makes it possible to safely reuse a helmet for younger siblings. Just make sure to completely readjust the fit for the new user and recertify it meets safety standards.
High-Quality Lacrosse Helmet Materials Withstand Repeated Impacts
Lacrosse helmets must withstand significant repeated impacts from checks, errant swings, and 100+ mph shots during routine play. Using durable, high-performance materials ensures helmets maintain protective integrity over their lifespan.
The outer shell bears the brunt of collision forces. Advanced polymers like ABS plastic offer an optimal balance of strength, durability, and low weight. ABS disperses impact energy more effectively than traditional plastics or fiberglass.
Inner foam liners further attenuate impacts to cushion the head. Multi-stage foams with varying densities fine-tune energy absorption. High-rebound foam nearest the head maximizes bounce-back to reduce impact delta-v.
D3O and other non-Newtonian foams change properties on impact, momentarily hardening to resist force. As hits accumulate, advanced foams retain elasticity and impact mitigation abilities longer before permanent deformation.
Facemasks and chin straps also withstand constant checks. Chrome alloy and titanium wires resist bending and fracture from sticks and balls. Robust plastics and metal alloys in strap fittings, screws, and clips maintain structural reliability after routine stresses.
During manufacturing, brands like Cascade and Warrior put helmets through “drop tests” smashing them from different angles and at game-level velocities. Only models that maintain integrity through abuse earn approval.
While no helmet eliminates concussion risks, using top-tier materials proven to withstand aggressive, repeated impacts provides confidence in continued performance. Ensuring your helmet features the latest high-end construction gives peace of mind shift after shift.
Bold, Recognizable Lacrosse Helmet Designs Build Player Confidence
Beyond just safety, the visual appearance and design of lacrosse helmets strongly impacts player confidence and attitude on the field. Bold colors and aggressive silhouettes build intimidating looks that put opponents on notice.
Brands like Cascade creatively render futuristic profiles with angular lines, jutting vents, spoilers, and edgy decals. Distinct rear fins and integrated facemask flowing lines convey motion and intensity even at rest.
Matte finishes eliminate distracting glare under stadium lights. Flat dark colors like black, navy, blood red, gunmetal green exude toughness. High contrast decals incorporating animals, warriors, or tribal symbols further amplify the intimidation factor.
Highly visible neon accent colors like blaze orange allow teammates to quickly identify each other on the run. Customizable color combinations let players represent their team spirit or showcase unique style.
Lacrosse helmets should energize players psychologically before they even take the field. Bold graphics give an aura of intensity that puts thoughts of fear or tentativeness aside. Feeling like a gladiator is the first step toward confident, relentless play.
Even for female players, aggressive stylings project strength rather than delicacy. Fierce graphics convey female lacrosse athletes are uncompromising competitors who bring the same intensity as the guys.
Beyond the shell, hydrographic film processes allow full custom paint submersion graphics that completely transform plain helmet exteriors. Players can adopt any color scheme or complex visuals to match uniforms or personalities.
A well-designed lacrosse helmet acts like war paint, instantly putting players in the right headspace. Unleash your inner warrior spirit with bold, standout visuals that intimidate adversaries.
Choosing Lacrosse Helmet Colors to Stand Out on the Field
Lacrosse helmet colors make a strong visual statement that builds team coherence and allows players to express their individuality. Most helmets offer a spectrum of color options for the shell, facemask, and decals to customize looks.
School color schemes in team helmets build pride and easy identification. For example, University of Maryland lacrosse is instantly recognizable from their bold red and yellow helmets. Unique colors make your squad’s helmets easier to pick out in the chaos of play.
Alternating helmet colors within a team adds stylistic variety while maintaining uniformity. For example, attackers might wear black shells while defenders don white. This lets players showcase their personalities within a coordinated system.
Most leading helmet brands like Cascade offer the ability to mix and match components during ordering. Pick shell colors like matte black or Navy blue as the base, then accent with brighter metallic facemasks and decals. Lime green chin straps make your lids really stand out.
Consider choosing colors that match other uniform gear like gloves or shoes for a pulled-together look. Helmet decals can coordinate with printed jersey graphics for extra visual coherence.
Don’t overlook using color to honor role models. Wearing purple and gold pays tribute to lacrosse legend Paul Rabil’s signature colors. Channel your inner Jim Brown with classic Clevelend Brown’s orange and brown.
Lacrosse helmets serve as bold billboards to display your dedication. Coordinated school colors show team spirit. Custom combinations reflect your unique style. Select hues that energize your attitude and demand opponents’ attention on the field.
