Helmets are one of the most expensive pieces of lacrosse equipment…and arguably the most essential. We definitely understand: they aren’t cheap. But your lacrosse helmet protects the most vulnerable part of your body, so how could it not be a good investment? Do you know what makes a good lacrosse helmet? Do you know the different parts of this equipment? If not, don’t worry. We’re going to be explaining exactly those things so you can find the right helmet for your particular needs.
Is your helmet game-ready?
All lacrosse helmets have to meet certain standards for game-ready play. The NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) requires that all helmets are made in a way that prevents them from being damaged too easily. All lacrosse helmets are stress tested in certain environments that mimic that of a lacrosse field. When you get your helmet in the mail or pick it up in a store, you can be sure that you’re getting a safe product.
The Anatomy of a Lacrosse Helmet
A lacrosse helmet is made out of different parts that make up an entire whole. These are:
- The Shell – All lacrosse helmets are made out of a super-strong shell. Shells come in all sorts of colors and materials. These are made of plastic (mostly) and are non-adjustable. If your helmet has a crack in it, you’ll need to replace the entire helmet. Don’t take the chance of playing with cracked safety gear.
- Face Mask – Your face mask is made out of non-bendable metal bars and must form a consistent smooth curvature. Think of it this way… if you cut the helmet in half down the center vertically or horizontally, it should be the same on both sides. In addition to elite protection, face masks can come in all sorts of colors, not just the traditional silver or black.
- Padding – Without padding, the helmet would just rattle around on your head! No one wants that…at all. Padding is made of super-dense foam that absorbs sweat and moisture during play.
- Chin Pad/Strap – The Chin Pad protects your chin from impacts and also helps to keep your helmet on your head.
How does your helmet fit?
Your helmet should fit securely on your head. It should be tight and secure…but not too tight. For a great fit, you’ll need a measure of your head.
- Get a tape measure and measure the circumference around your head in a level line, roughly 1” above your eyebrows. If someone is able to do it for you, all the better.
- Hold the spot on the measuring tape where it stops and record what the measurement is. Check the helmet sizing chart to find out your size.
Manufacturers: Who makes the best lacrosse helmet?
Ah…the old age question: “who makes the best helmet?” Cascade makes some pretty good helmets. STX also produces some pretty fine headgear. Like most things when it comes to lacrosse, it depends on two things: need and preference.
If you’re looking for a good youth helmet, you may want to go with the STX Stallion 100. If you’re looking for a helmet that you can easily customize, you’ll want to go with one of the Cascade R or CPX-R helmets. Speaking of customization…
Customization
What’s a lacrosse helmet without a little flair? You can easily trick out a lacrosse equipment to your liking. Choose what color face mask, shell, and visor you want. Cascade will do the rest. This is perfect for teams that want a uniform helmet color.
