What to Look for in a Hockey Helmet

Consider the following details when buying a hockey helmet:

Outer Shell: Outer shells are made of sturdy plastic or composite materials.
Padding: Hockey helmets are lined with protective foam padding designed to cushion the player's head. There are various levels of foam densities, including dual-density foam and multi-density foam. Look for padding that is at least 5/8 inches thick.
One Piece vs. Two Piece: One-piece hockey helmets require fewer adjustments and often come custom fitted. They are typically stiff and rigid and are often the preferred choice of advanced players. Two-piece hockey helmets can provide a more customizable fit and feature an adjustable single- or dual-screw system. Some styles have tool-free adjustment features. Due to more adjustable features, two-piece styles are great for younger players.
Facemasks: There are three types of hockey helmet facemasks: wire cages, face shields and combination masks. Wire cages are made of metal or composite materials and provide protection that doesn't fog up like some face shields. Hockey visors and hockey shields offer either full or half-face coverage for protection and a clear vision of the rink. Many high-impact polycarbonate shields have scratch-resistant coating. Combination masks feature a clear plastic shield for the top of the face and wire for the jaw area.
Hockey Helmet Features: Specialized ventilation ports allow for breathability. Foam ear covers and chin cups provide important protection against impact. An attached four-point chin strap helps ensure a proper fit. Occipital lock cups are located on the back of the head, below the occipital ridge. They prevent the helmet from coming apart upon extreme impact.
Tool-Free Adjustment: This convenient feature allows players to make quick adjustments to their headgear, even mid-game. Without this feature, helmets require screws to be adjusted for customization.

Hockey Helmets