If you’re an NFL fan, you know the importance of a good helmet. Not only do they protect players from injuries, but they also play a crucial role in enhancing performance on the field. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of NFL game helmets and how they protect players.
Types of NFL Game Helmets
There are three main types of NFL game helmets: full-face masks, half-shell helmets, and shell helmets. Each type offers varying levels of protection and comfort.
Full-Face Masks
Full-face masks provide the highest level of protection for NFL players. These masks cover the entire face, including the chinstrap, providing maximum coverage from potential injuries. They are designed to protect against concussions, as well as cuts and scrapes to the face. However, full-face masks can be uncomfortable and limit visibility, which can impact player performance.
Half-
Shell Helmets
Half-shell helmets offer a balance between protection and comfort. These helmets cover only the top half of the head and provide some coverage to the sides of the face. They are designed to protect against concussions and other injuries, but not as thoroughly as full-face masks. Half-shell helmets are also more comfortable than full-face masks, allowing players to see more clearly and move their heads more freely.
Shell Helmets
Shell helmets provide the least amount of protection compared to the other two types. These helmets only cover the top of the head and do not offer any coverage to the sides or face. They are designed for comfort, allowing players to see clearly and move their heads more freely than full-face masks. However, shell helmets offer little protection against injuries, making them less popular among NFL players.
Protection Features
NFL game helmets come equipped with a variety of features that help protect players from injuries. These features include padding, vents, and adjustable chin straps. Padding helps absorb the impact of collisions, while vents allow air to circulate through the helmet, keeping players cool during hot games. Adjustable chin straps ensure that the helmet fits properly and stays in place during intense action on the field.
In addition to these features, some NFL game helmets come with additional safety measures, such as anti-fog technology and built-in communication systems. Anti-fog technology helps prevent fog from building up inside the mask, reducing visibility for players. Built-in communication systems allow players to communicate with coaches and teammates without having to take their helmets off.
Expert Opinions
Dr. Nicholas Buoniconti, a former NFL player and current co-founder of the BUCKI1 Foundation for Brain Research, believes that full-face masks are the best option for protecting players from injuries. "Full-face masks provide complete coverage to the face and head, which reduces the risk of concussions and other injuries," Dr. Buoniconti said.
However, some experts argue that half-shell helmets offer enough protection while still being comfortable for players. Dr. Harry Carson, a former NFL player and current medical consultant for the league, believes that half-shell helmets are a good compromise between protection and comfort. "Half-shell helmets provide adequate coverage to protect against injuries, but they also allow players to see more clearly and move their heads more freely than full-face masks," Dr. Carson said.
