Hockey Helmets & Head Protection

Hockey Helmets and Head Protection

Explore hockey helmets, visors, mouthguards, and neck guards – all crafted to shield your head from impacts and boost safety during ice hockey.

Ice Hockey Helmets

The helmet ranks as the most critical piece of protective gear in ice hockey. Players face potential head injuries through various means during matches. Collisions, slipping on the ice, and being hit by a puck are common risks in this sport. As a high-impact contact game where such events are frequent and pucks can fly at speeds reaching 160 km/h, donning a helmet is indispensable.

The Proper Fit for an Ice Hockey Helmet

An ice hockey helmet requires a balance between a snug fit and avoiding uncomfortable pressure points. A correctly fitted helmet remains secure during gameplay.

It should rest level on the head, covering the forehead.
It must not move or slide when the head is turned.
The chin strap should be secured under the chin while allowing comfortable mouth opening.

Certification of Ice Hockey Helmets

Ice hockey helmets must adhere to strict standards. The primary certifications include:

HECC: An American certification specific to ice hockey helmets. HECC stands for Hockey Equipment Certification Council, ensuring adequate protection against head injuries, required for all USA Hockey players.
CSA: The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) enforces thorough testing for shock absorption, vision range, durability, and structure. A CSA-certified helmet is accepted for play under Hockey Canada's rules.
CE: Within the EU, while there is no specific helmet certification for hockey, ice hockey helmets must meet the CE marking under the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) directive.

European ice hockey players are recommended to seek helmets with both HECC and CSA certifications.

Hockey Neck Guards

A hockey neck guard defends against skate blades, pucks, and sticks impacting the throat and upper neck. Typically made from cut-resistant materials, these guards feature a soft, padded lining for comfort.

When selecting a hockey neck guard, ensure it adequately covers essential areas without hindering movement or breathing. Certified products meeting recognised standards, like BNQ certification, deliver proven protection.

Hockey Visors

A visor protects the eyes and face from sticks, pucks, and debris. Attached to the helmet and crafted from clear, impact-resistant polycarbonate, a high-quality visor should provide distortion-free viewing with anti-fog or anti-scratch coatings for clarity throughout the game. Players must maintain their visors by cleaning them regularly and checking for dangerous scratches. Properly fitted visors offer safety without compromising visibility.

Comparing Ice Hockey Helmet Visor and "Full Cage"

A Full Cage offers all-encompassing facial protection, safeguarding the face, teeth, and eyes from pucks and sticks. Mandatory in certain leagues, it instils confidence for engaging in physical play with reduced injury fear. Its downsides include being heavier, somewhat obstructing vision, and potentially feeling restrictive for some players.

Visors permit greater visibility, are lighter, and less limiting. While they provide some protection compared to open face, they do not equal the full security of a Full Cage. They may fog, scratch over time, and necessitate careful storage to prevent scratches.

Full-face visors, or "fishbowls," offer a comprehensive solution by covering the face while maintaining clear visibility.

Hockey Mouthguards

A hockey mouthguard, also known as a dental guard, is crucial for preventing dental injuries and mitigating jaw impacts. It should securely fit over the teeth while not causing discomfort or hindering breathing and speaking. Custom-moulded or boil-and-bite types provide an intimate fit, with premium materials ensuring resilience and ease of cleaning.