Ten years later: Ice hockey helmet impact mechanics change with age

Abstract

This longitudinal 10-year study investigated the effects of inventory aging on ice hockey helmets’ impact attenuation characteristics. Three unused helmet models with different foam padding materials (vinyl nitrile, multi-density vinyl nitrile, and expanded polypropylene) were impact tested at six sites around a surrogate headform on years 2, 6, and 10 (Y2, Y6, and Y10) after the date of manufacture. In general, peak acceleration (g) Y10 measures were greater than those reported in Y2 and Y6, although well below standard impact criteria levels. Visual inspection of helmets post-impact showed no conspicuous damage to liner or shell, although in several instances the binding glue had disintegrated allowing liners to shift or fall away from the shell. In summary, contemporary ice hockey helmets retain most of their robust impact attenuation characteristics 10 years in storage after manufacture date; however, adhesive tearing of padding from the shell needs to be addressed. Regular inspection of the helmet integrity by players, coaches, and trainers is paramount. Further testing of used helmets in a similar prospective manner is carried out to ensure safe helmet function.