Lacrosse helmet
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A lacrosse helmet is a helmet worn primarily in men's lacrosse, but also worn optionally by women's lacrosse players in Australia. Modern helmets consist of a hard plastic, non-adjustable shell with thick padding on the inside, a face mask made of metal bars, and a chinstrap used to secure the helmet to the head. Some players also attach a sun visor shielding the eyes, though these visors are not legal in most leagues (unless they are clear).[1]
Helmets are required at all levels of organized men's lacrosse,[2] but required only for goalies in women's lacrosse.[3]
The main difference between helmets is weight, field of vision, and fit. It is important that the lacrosse helmet fit snugly to limit injury. Most helmets in the game today offer ways of adjusting the helmet size so that fit can be customized. Lacrosse helmets are riddled with air vents to increase air flow and decrease its weight. All helmets come with an adjustable chin strap for added protection.[4]
Early lacrosse players did not wear helmets. When lacrosse was played at the 1908 Summer Olympics, neither of the competing teams wore helmets.[5] At the 1928, 1932 and 1948 Olympics where lacrosse was a demonstration sport, only the United States wore helmets while the opposing teams did not.[6][7][8] The 1928 Olympics was the first documented use of lacrosse helmets.
