The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Lacrosse Helmet

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Lacrosse Helmet

Finding the Right Fit is Crucial for Comfort and Safety

When it comes to selecting the perfect lacrosse helmet, one of the most important considerations is finding one that fits properly. Unlike other pieces of protective gear that can be ordered online without trying on, lacrosse helmets must be carefully evaluated for appropriate size and comfort. The helmet should fit snugly around the head without pinching or creating pressure points. However, there should also be enough room to allow for growth, especially for younger players. About one inch of space between the eyebrow and helmet rim allows eye movement while still protecting the face.

Experts recommend having a player’s head circumference measured before shopping for helmets. Sizing charts from manufacturers give ideal helmet sizes based on these measurements. Trying on several sizes and brands in person provides the best sense of fit and comfort. The helmet should not rock back and forth on the head or slide down over the eyes during movement. Nor should it be painfully tight. Take the time to make minute strap adjustments for the most customized, secure fit. An optimally fitted helmet stays put during intense game action, keeping the head protected without limiting mobility or visibility.

While it may seem easiest to order lacrosse helmets online, the lack of an in-person fitting makes it hard to guarantee you are getting the right size. Whenever possible, visit a sporting goods store with a wide selection of lacrosse gear. Knowledgeable staff can provide guidance to new players and parents to find helmets offering both comfort and safety. With the right fit, players can focus on the game rather than being distracted by an ill-fitting helmet. Investing the time to find the perfect fit leads to the peace of mind that comes with maximal protection.

Advanced Protection Features are Key for Safety

When selecting a new lacrosse helmet, one of the top priorities should be protection. While comfort and fit are crucial, safety features ultimately do the important job of preventing traumatic brain and head injuries. Luckily, helmet technology and innovations have advanced tremendously in recent years. The latest lacrosse helmets on the market integrate cutting-edge materials and designs for decreasing impact forces and providing top-notch protection.

Look for helmets that utilize advanced foams and padding systems. Multi-layer foam liners work to absorb energy from collisions to reduce the force before it reaches the head. Integrated air pockets and chambers provide extra cushioning. Some companies have developed padding infused with special gels for optimal energy dispersion and comfort. Helmets with removable liner and pad systems allow players to customize thickness and fit.

The outer shell is another essential element. Polycarbonate alloy shells offer an ultra-strong, lightweight layer of armor. Carbon fiber shells provide strength with decreased weight for speed. Some helmets incorporate inner shells for added durability and structure. Visors, face masks and chin straps should also be rigid and durable to provide full facial protection.

When shopping for helmets, look for those featuring patented technologies designed and engineered specifically to reduce impacts. For example, some use fluid thin padding that moves omni-directionally upon impact. Others have quick release systems to prevent dangerous rotations. Seek out helmets that have undergone extensive laboratory testing to validate their protective capabilities.

While no helmet can prevent 100% of concussions, advanced engineering provides the optimum chance at injury prevention. Features like customized padding structures, shock absorbing foams, air chambers and cutaway openings work together to protect young athletes. Do not simply go by looks alone – delve into the technology inside to find the lacrosse helmet offering the highest level of protection.

Breathable Helmets Keep Players Cool and Comfortable

When playing lacrosse, keeping cool under pressure is key to performance. However, the protective gear required for safety can cause players to overheat, especially on hot sunny days. This is why breathability is a major factor to consider when selecting lacrosse helmets.

Lacrosse by nature involves constant motion and exertion. Battling opponents up and down the field in full protective equipment and helmets can quickly cause players to sweat profusely. Without proper ventilation, all that trapped heat and perspiration can lead to dehydration, fatigue and decreased performance. It can even pose safety risks like heat-related illness.

Advanced helmet designs incorporate strategic ventilation that allows for ample airflow while maintaining protective integrity. Multiple air vents across the helmet allow heat to dissipate so players stay cool. Vent placement in areas prone to sweating like the temples, rear head and nape of the neck facilitate evaporation. Look for helmets with ventilation slits or holes covered with breathable mesh or padding rather than solid material.

Moisture-wicking anti-microbial liner pads also aid breathability by absorbing sweat. This keeps the interior pad surface dry against the player’s head. Removable/washable pads and liners allow for regular cleaning to prevent odor and bacterial buildup.

The shell material also affects breathability. For example, helmets with an outer carbon fiber shell offer more ventilation than solid polycarbonate. Face masks and shields with adequate perforation prevent a hotbox effect around the front facial region. No matter how protective, a stifling helmet can negatively impact performance.

During helmet try-ons, simulate active play to test ventilation. Shake the head vigorously and run in place while wearing helmets under consideration. The best helmets have aerodynamic designs allowing air to flow through the helmet with movement. Breathability promotes stamina and endurance so players can charge on right through the final whistle.

Trusted Brands Offer Quality and Innovation

When it comes to lacrosse helmets, choosing from established and trusted brands is the best way to ensure you are getting a high-quality, protective product. Top athletic equipment companies like Cascade, Warrior, STX, and Brine have years of experience crafting advanced helmets for the sport.

These leading brands dedicate significant resources towards constant product testing and improvement. For example, Cascade leverages computational simulation and on-field studies to analyze impact dynamics and refine helmet technologies. Warrior utilizes a state-of-the-art Research & Development lab to rigorously test helmets under intense conditions beyond industry standards.

Continuous innovation is another advantage of proven brands. Helmet manufacturers work closely with players, coaches, and experts to identify needs and integrate the latest protective features. STX combines innovative materials with athlete insights to create helmets with superior fit, feel, and performance. Brine draws on player feedback to engineer helmets that meet changing game demands.

Established lacrosse brands also have the benefit of widespread team use and adoption. NCAA and professional lacrosse leagues trust and utilize helmets from leading companies. This high-level competitive play pushes brands to constantly evolve and provides valuable data for improvements.

In addition to protection, major companies focus heavily on helmet comfort and ergonomics. Customizable liners, adjustable widths, strategic padding configurations, and lightweight materials help maximize fit. Enhanced aesthetics with cool colors, prints, and graphic options up the style quotient.

While newer companies may offer competitive pricing, lacrosse helmets are not an area to cut corners. Reputable athletic brands have proven their ability to blend safety, comfort, innovation, performance and style in high-quality lacrosse helmets worth the investment for your protection.

A Variety of Styles Suit Different Positions and Preferences

Lacrosse helmets come in a range of styles to suit the needs of different playing positions. While protection is the ultimate priority, optimizing fit, vision, and weight can enhance performance. Considering playing style and personal preference helps narrow down the helmet options.

For field players constantly moving up and down the field, lightweight helmets maximize speed and mobility without sacrificing safety. Mid-priced composite shells strike a balance of sturdiness and decreased weight. High-end carbon fiber shells are ultra-light yet extremely durable.

For aggressive defensive players, helmets with extended rear/side coverage and sturdier face masks provide extra protection from checks and collisions. Goalies benefit from fuller helmet covers shielding more of the head and throat. Enhanced padding in strategic zones helps absorb intense impact from close-range shots.

Helmets with rounded shell shapes and smooth contours offer a more classic lacrosse look. Edgier geometrics and angular lines convey a modern, high-tech style. Color choices let players coordinate with team uniforms or express individual flair.

Vision is also key. Helmets with widened fields of view increase awareness on the field. Some have removable/changeable visors to switch between clear and tinted eye protection. Integrated face masks with sufficient sightlines and spacing allow for unobstructed vision.

While protection remains the top factor, lacrosse helmets are available in a range of options catering to playing style, position, and personal preferences. Try on different types of helmets to see which provides the best fit and feel based on your needs and playing approach before selecting the optimal model.

Shop Smart to Get Great Helmets at the Best Prices

With lacrosse helmet prices ranging anywhere from $50 to $300, shopping smartly can help you score top-quality gear at the best value. Taking advantage of seasonal sales events, checking pricing across retailers, and considering budget-friendly options ensures you get excellent protection without overspending.

Monitor websites and sales circulars around major holidays and sporting events for promotions on lacrosse equipment. Retailers often discount prices or offer free customization and shipping around Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, and inventory-clearing events. Signing up for brand or store newsletters provides inside access to the best deals.

Compare prices across sporting goods stores, specialty lacrosse shops, and major online retailers. Check company websites in addition to marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Craigslist for new and used helmet deals. Sorting by brand, customer rating, popularity and price makes it easy to spot discounted quality helmets.

While top brands like Cascade and Warrior represent the gold standard, smaller companies like Epoch and STX offer competitive technology and protection at somewhat lower cost points. Clearing out last season’s colors and styles also brings savings on major brands. For significant savings, consider gently used helmets from sites like Play It Again Sports and SidelineSwap.

While regular price Pro7 lacrosse helmets retail over $200, holiday sales and off-season discounts often bring that down to $150 or less. Regular vigilance, price comparisons, and flexibility on color/style facilitate deals on premium helmets to protect players without breaking the bank.

Investing in a lacrosse helmet means prioritizing safety. However, smart and strategic shopping allows you to find high-quality, protective helmets at the best possible value. Taking the time to find discounts and deals helps stretch your budget for needed gear.

Customizing Helmets Adds Personal Style and Flair

Beyond protective functions, lacrosse helmets also make a bold style statement on the field. Adding custom graphics and flair showcases personality and individuality. From team logos and colors to funny sayings and bold patterns, customized helmets up the style factor.

Many helmet manufacturers offer online customizers to effortlessly design your own look. Select base colors, patterns, decals, and accents to create totally unique helmets. Upload photos, enter text, or choose from libraries of graphics and icons to customize. See your design rendered on a virtual helmet before ordering.

Team players can coordinate matching helmets printed with numbers, names, slogans or mascots. Bold color patterns in team hues make players stand out. upload photos to feature fellow teammates right on your helmet for camaraderie and pride.

For a personal touch, have jersey numbers or nicknames printed in favorite colors and fonts. Add colorful representations of hobbies, interests, or objects of significance. Plenty of online vendors also offer pre-designed graphics packs representing school spirit, funny sayings, patriotic motifs, and more.

Swapping out face masks, visors, and chin straps provides another simple way to customize helmets. Chrome, neon and color accents create eye-catching contrast. Visor tints like smoke, amber and rose add flair while enhancing visibility. The right additions make helmets game-ready with personality.

Customizing lacrosse helmets allows self-expression on the field. Coordinating team designs promotes spirit, while personalized graphics and colorways display individuality. Take a plain helmet to the next level with the perfect creative touches.

Only Use Lacrosse Helmets Certified for Safety

With lacrosse involving high-speeds, close contact, and hard rubber balls, safety certifications are essential when selecting helmets. Only purchase and use lacrosse helmets tested and approved to rigorous industry standards for impact protection.

In the United States, the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) sets stringent standards for helmet safety. NOCSAE conducts laboratory testing focusing on factors like impact forces, penetration resistance, and ball speeds. Helmets undergo tests simulating impacts from multiple directions and locations.

Manufacturers seeking NOCSAE certification must submit helmets to independent labs for testing per established protocols. If helmets meet performance metrics for decreasing impact forces and preventing head injuries, NOCSAE provides certification and allows use of their trademarked logo. This validation gives athletes, coaches and parents confidence in the helmet’s protective abilities.

Certified helmets must pass re-testing every few years as standards evolve. NOCSAE also conducts field monitoring and commissions studies by biomechanics experts to update testing parameters. Their scientific approach ensures certified helmets meet the latest understanding of optimal safety.

Some brands highlight their additional testing regimens beyond NOCSAE, like NFL impact simulations and machine-based testing exceeding required forces. While not mandatory, seeking out helmets subjected to rigorous validated testing provides further assurance of their protective qualities.

Look for the NOCSAE logo and certification seal when selecting lacrosse helmets. This marker of achieving stringent, scientifically-developed safety benchmarks indicates reliable protection for athletes. Only use helmets designed, tested, and approved to resist impact and reduce head injuries.

Optimal Vision Enhances Awareness and Reaction Time

In the fast-paced game of lacrosse, seeing everything clearly is critical for success. Helmets designed for optimal vision expand field awareness to enhance reaction time and performance.

A wide peripherical field of vision allows players to spot teammates, opponents, and the ball without major head movements. Shell shapes with rounded corners open up downward and side views. Visors and cages with adequate horizontal sightlines expand visibility for clearing passes and breaking away.

Minimizing front and side profile thickness facilitates a broader field of view with less obstruction. Cutouts above the eyes and around the temples improve upward and peripheral vision. Some helmets integrate eye shields flush with the shell rather than protruding cages for a streamlined profile.

Optimize visibility by selecting face masks with sufficient spacing between horizontal bars. Masks with thinner vertical sightline bars provide less visual interference. Tinted visors reduce glare while helping players track the ball in bright sunlight.

During helmet fitting, assess vision by scanning the field side-to-side and up-and-down without moving the head. Shake the head vigorously – you should still maintain a clear sightline without the helmet rim intruding into your field of view. The right helmet enhances what players see to elevate performance.

While protection remains paramount, optimal lacrosse helmets also enable excellent vision. Unobstructed sightlines in all directions allow players to spot opportunities and threats early. Prioritizing visibility along with safety helps athletes maximize their potential on the field.

New Helmets Offer the Latest in Safety Technology

The lacrosse helmet landscape continues advancing each year through new technologies engineered to optimize fit, feel, and safety. Keeping up with the latest helmet models ensures access to modern innovations in materials, designs, and protective features.

Leading brands invest heavily in research and development to evolve their helmet lines. For example, Cascade’s R helmet line utilizes a theme of “Reoptimized” engineering for decreased weight, customized padding and enhanced visibility. Warrior’s Regulator helmets feature a patented Seven+ liner system with adaptive padding zones for customized cushioning and impact absorption.

New materials like lightweight tri-laminate polycarbonates and durable metallic alloys allow for stronger, yet lighter helmets. Cutting-edge liner foams absorb energy in multiple directions. Suspension technologies minimize rotational acceleration forces for added protection against impacts.

Updated shell shapes improve fit while also enhancing vision and airflow. Redesigned facemasks optimize sightlines and durability. Removable visor and liner options allow for customization and tailored vision/ventilation based on conditions and preferences.

While older helmets still offer protection if properly maintained, newer models integrate the latest advancements. Instead of incremental changes, breakthrough technologies redefine standards for comfort, vision, breathability and safety. Staying current ensures players get the maximum benefits of ongoing helmet innovations.

For young and competitive athletes, access to the most advanced helmet technologies provides an edge. While costlier, new engineering and materials establish new levels of form, function and protection for the sport. Prioritizing the latest helmets sets players up for success.

Used Helmets Can Provide Value at Lower Cost

With new lacrosse helmets ranging from $100 to $300, purchasing used gear represents a more affordable option for players on a budget. Pre-owned helmets in good condition offer substantial savings while still providing proper protection.

Gently used helmets become available as youth players outgrow them or upgrade to newer models. Many are only used for one season and retain structural integrity, intact foam liners, and secure hardware. As long as the shell lacks cracks and the parts function properly, used helmets remain protective.

Inspect pre-owned helmets carefully before purchasing. Make sure the shell, facemask, screws, straps, and padding show no signs of damage or wear compromising safety. Test ventilation, fit adjustment, chin strap release, and visor function. Verify any certification labels are present and legible.

Properly caring for helmets preserves longevity so they may be handed down or resold. Periodic reconditioning from manufacturers replaces worn parts and renew protective capabilities. With care, helmets often outlast player use. Their life cycle can extend to additional years of play.

Used helmet retailers like Play It Again Sports offer cost savings, often pricing gently used helmets around $50-100 based on brand and condition. Private sellers on sites like Craigslist, eBay and SidelineSwap also list discounted quality used gear.

While new helmets provide peace of mind, used helmets in excellent condition offer substantial savings. Careful inspection ensures any pre-owned helmet meets safety standards. With rising equipment costs, used helmets allow more players access to essential protective gear.

Getting the Right Fit is Essential for Safety and Comfort

Finding a lacrosse helmet offering both protection and comfort starts with getting the proper fit. Unlike other gear, fit and sizing cannot be determined just from a listed size. Measuring the head and trying on helmets is crucial for ideal size selection.

Most helmet sizes correlate to head circumference measurements. Have a player’s head measured with a flexible tape just above the eyebrows and around the widest part of the head above the ears. Compare this measurement (in inches or centimeters) to manufacturer sizing charts to identify the best size range to start with.

With the range in mind, have the player try on various helmet sizes and brands. The fit should feel snug without pinching or pressure points. Ideally, the helmet shell should be uniformly 1-1.5 inches from the head to allow room for hair and growth. Assess fit and comfort while stationary and while gently shaking the head.

Adjust the sizing pads, chin strap, and rear band to customize the fit. The chin strap should align just under the chin and the back should cup the head without slipping. There should be no gaps allowing the helmet to rock side-to-side or front-to-back.

Consider testing sizing with any protective headgear the player may wear like goggles and headbands. The helmet must fit comfortably and securely even with additional gear underneath. Taking the time to get the sizing right ensures optimal safety.

Do not rely only on listed sizes when selecting lacrosse helmets. Head dimensions, shape, and preferences vary. On-head testing with size measurement as a starting point determines which helmet offers the ideal fit for protection, performance and comfort.

Padding Modifications Customize Comfort and Fit

One of the key advantages of today’s lacrosse helmets is the ability to customize fit, comfort and safety through removable padding modifications.

Helmet liner systems feature pads of varying thickness that can be repositioned for a personalized fit. Thicker pads in pressure point zones alleviate discomfort, while thinner pads allow for more ventilation airflow. Arrange pads to accommodate any contours or irregularities of the player’s head shape.

Peel-and-stick pad kits allow players to mod interior padding. Adding additional layers of foam absorbs more impact while limiting space for a tighter fit if needed. For excess room in certain spots, peel away factory pad layers until the ideal close fit is achieved.

Switch out pads over time as needed while growing into a helmet. As the head grows, replace thicker comfort pads with thinner, harder versions to take up any new space. This extends the helmet’s useable lifespan rather than needing constant helmet replacements.

Use pad placement to address changing needs like managing new pressure points or improving ventilation as seasons change. Adjustments can resolve fit issues and discomfort that arise as players and helmets age and evolve.

Consult manufacturer guidelines to ensure any pad modifications do not compromise safety. While customizing interior padding systems enables a tailored fit, changes should stay within tested configurations to maintain helmet integrity.

Removable helmet padding empowers players to modify and perfect the fit over time. As heads grow and needs change, pad adjustments allow a personalized experience maximizing comfort and safety inside the helmet.

Proper Chin Straps are Essential for Helmet Security

A lacrosse helmet’s chin strap plays an important yet often overlooked role in keeping the helmet securely in place for protection. Using a quality chinstrap and proper fit ensures the helmet stays where it should.

Chin straps keep the helmet from shifting on the head, especially during falls or contact. Straps fitted too loosely allow dangerous helmet movement which reduces impact protection. A tight but comfortable strap fit keeps the helmet firmly covering the head.

Look for sturdy chin straps made of durable materials like treated nylon or neoprene. Broad straps with ample padding distribute force across the chin to prevent discomfort. The plastic quick-release buckle should snap in place securely while still allowing emergency detachment.

Adjust strap length so it holds the chin firmly cupped inside the helmet. Only one or two finger widths of room should fit between the strap and chin. The helmet rim should sit just above the eyebrows even when shaking the head aggressively.

Test the quick release by detaching and re-attaching the strap with a gloved hand to ensure smooth operation even under game conditions. Replace straps showing signs of wear, frayed stitching or damaged parts compromising function.

For younger players, ensure the strap fits properly even with youth chin and face protection. Check periodically during games that the strap remains comfortably snug as kids run and sweat. A secure chin strap keeps the helmet stable during play and impacts.

A sturdy, snug-fitting chin strap works hand-in-hand with the shell and pads to maximize lacrosse helmet protection. Taking steps to properly fit and use the strap bolsters safety against dangerous helmet shifts and slips when impacts occur.

Proper Helmet Care Maintains Protective Integrity

Lacrosse helmets must withstand high-speed impacts from balls and contact on a regular basis. Proper maintenance and care keeps helmets in optimal condition so they continue providing reliable protection.

Inspect helmet shells and parts before and after each use for any cracks, damage, or loosening that could compromise structure. Periodically clean helmet surfaces and vents with mild soap and water to prevent residue buildup.

Follow manufacturer guidelines on cleaning liner pads. Removable pads can be washed to eliminate oils, sweat, and grime that cause odors and lead to breakdown. Take care to replace pads in the proper orientation after cleaning.

Store helmets in bags or on stands to protect them from dings, dents and inadvertent drops. Avoid leaving helmets loose in bags where they can bang together or be crushed under other gear. Storing helmets in climate-controlled conditions prevents component damage from extreme heat or cold.

Follow recommended replacement schedules for parts like chin straps, visors, and pads. While the main helmet shell holds up for years, components do wear down with use over time. Replacing expendable parts enhances safety.

Consider periodic helmet reconditioning offered by manufacturers to refresh safety. Reconditioning replaces worn parts, repaints chips, and re-certifies the helmet to like-new standards for extended useful life. Protect your investment through proper care.

Regular helmet maintenance fortifies protective abilities against typical lacrosse impacts and use. Ensuring proper handling, cleaning, storage and part replacement helps helmets endure seasons of play while preventing premature breakdown.