Many hockey helmets ineffective against concussions: study
Posted March 30, 2015 6:57 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – A new study out of Virginia Tech has revealed that many hockey helmets aren’t up to the task when it comes to protecting against brain injuries.
The research team at the school put together a five-star rating system that evaluated helmets commonly used in all levels of the game.
The study’s co-director, Stefan Duma, says the current crop protects well against skull fracture, but many fail when it comes to brain trauma.
“What we are looking at is the next level, which is concussion,” he said. “The mild brain injury — that’s really become the focus of sports now and that’s where we are seeing the opportunity for improvement in the helmets.”
Thirty-two helmets were tested, but only one scored three stars. Six earned two stars, 16 got one, and nine had zero.
The study also found that cost often wasn’t a factor. Some helmets prices at less than $100 outperformed models that cost three times more.
To see the full ranking, click here
