CHOOSE YOUTH FOOTBALL HELMETS WISELY!
Choose youth football helmets wisely. It goes without saying that picking out a helmet is a fairly vital part of anyone’s football experience. But using the wrong helmet could not only decrease a player’s protection, but put him/her in even more danger. Adhere to the following steps when picking out a guard for your child’s noggin.
Types and Brands
Make sure you distinguish the difference between youth helmets and adult helmets. If nothing else, you can always do this by observing the material from which the helmet is made. Youth helmets are generally made out of cheaper plastic, while adult helmets are made out of a harder, yet more flexible material known as Lexan Polycarbonate. Make sure you are buying from a reputable brand. Yes, this may cost you a few more bucks, but when protecting your child, you can never be too careful.
Size Matters
Make sure that the helmet fits your child. A helmet that is too tight can be very painful to wear for long periods of time. A helmet that is too loose can be downright dangerous. If your child’s head can move around in the helmet, there is a chance that certain kinds of contact can cause concussion, and a helmet that is even looser than that might fly off your child’s head during play.
The helmet fits correctly if its front rim is one inch above your child’s eyebrows. Use a caliper or a measuring tape to do the measurement, or ask an employee at the sporting goods store to give you a hand.
Chin Up
Now that you have the cranial area established, make sure the chin strap is fitted firmly into place, but not so tight that it’s cutting off circulation.
Air in There?
Some helmets come with an air system, which is a form of insular padding that returns to its original state of condition more quickly than straps or foams. Additionally, helmets with air systems are more durable and able to withstand repeated blows than those with other padding—not to mention their added comfort. If the helmet comes with an air system, adjust the helmet to fit the player’s head.
Weed out the Wiggles
Try moving the helmet. If it stays firmly in place, and comfortably fits the player, you’ve found the one.
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Tags: Football helmets, Helmet
