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 enhance safety during ice hockey play.

Ice Hockey Helmets

The helmet is the most crucial piece of protective gear in ice hockey. Players are at risk of head injuries in various ways during matches. Collisions with other players, falling on the ice, and hits from a puck are typical dangers in the game. Given that it is a high-impact contact sport, where such incidents frequently happen, and pucks can reach speeds of up to 160 km/h, a helmet is absolutely essential.

Proper Fit of an Ice Hockey Helmet

Ice hockey helmets should provide a snug fit without causing discomfort. A helmet that fits correctly will stay securely in place during play.

It must sit levelled on the head, covering the top of the forehead.
It should not move or slide when the head is turned.
The chin strap must be fastened under the chin but allow comfortable mouth movement.

Ice Hockey Helmet Certifications

Ice hockey helmets are required to adhere to strict standards. The most prevalent certifications include:

HECC: An American certification specific to ice hockey helmets. HECC represents the Hockey Equipment Certification Council and ensures sufficient protection against head injuries, mandatory for all players under USA Hockey's governance.
CSA: The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) enforces stringent testing for shock absorption, vision clarity, durability, and construction. Helmets labelled with CSA approval are authorised for play under Hockey Canada regulations.
CE: While there is no specific hockey helmet certification in the EU, helmets sold there must meet the CE marking requirements under the general Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) directive.

Ice hockey players in the EU should consider HECC and CSA certifications when selecting ice hockey helmets.

Hockey Neck Guards

Hockey neck guards protect the neck and upper throat area from ice skate blades, pucks, and sticks. They are generally made from cut-resistant materials with a comfortable, padded lining.

When selecting a hockey neck guard, ensure it covers critical areas without hindering movement or breathing. Certified products that meet recognised standards, such as BNQ certification, provide validated protection.

Hockey Visors

A hockey visor protects the eyes and face from sticks, pucks, and debris. It is affixed to the helmet and constructed from clear, impact-resistant polycarbonate. A top-quality hockey visor should provide clear vision without distortion and have an anti-fog or anti-scratch coating for optimal visibility throughout the game. Players should clean the visor consistently and inspect for scratches that could compromise vision or weaken the material. Well-fitted visors balance safety and unobstructed sight.

Ice Hockey Helmet Visor vs "Full Cage"

A hockey Full Cage offers extensive facial protection, securing the face, teeth, and eyes from pucks and sticks. It's compulsory in some leagues and allows players to engage confidently in physical play without fear of injury. Nevertheless, it is the heaviest option, can slightly hinder vision, and might feel restrictive for certain players.

A visor provides better visibility and is lighter and less restrictive. While it offers some protection compared to no face guard, it does not provide the full-face security of a Full Cage. Visors can fog or scratch over time and need careful storage to avoid damage.

Full-face visors, known as "fishbowls," combine full coverage and clear visibility.

Hockey Mouthguards

A hockey mouthguard, also referred to as a dental guard, aids in preventing dental injuries and lessens the risk of jaw impact. It should fit snugly over the teeth without causing discomfort or affecting breathing and speech. Custom-moulded or boil-and-bite versions offer a close fit, while high-quality materials ensure durability and ease of cleaning.