Helmet reconditioning: How to do it right
By Steve Alic Tue, 11/27/2012 - 6:05pm
Attaining maximum performance in anything requires reaching full potential.
This applies to football - for the athlete, the coach ... and the athlete's equipment.
Putting football fundamentals into practice and wearing season-ready equipment bolster player safety.
Helmet reconditioning is especially important to protect players and to attain a helmet's maximum life span.
USA Football recommends that helmets be reconditioned and recertified annually by a reconditioner licensed by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). In addition, ensure that your helmet reconditioner is a member in good standing with the National Athletic Equipment Reconditioners Association (NAERA).
"A NOCSAE-licensed equipment recertifier and reconditioner acts as your consultant when it comes to the performance of your football protective equipment," Riddell Vice President of Research and Development Thad Ide said. "Wear and tear on your helmets, shoulder pads and other equipment is part of the game, which is why Riddell recommends annual reconditioning.
"Your reconditioner has the experience and expertise to evaluate the state of your equipment and help your program issue the best possible gear to your players."
Helmet reconditioning should not only include cleaning, sanitizing, inspection and replacement of broken or overworn parts but recertification to NOCSAE's helmet performance standard as well. Rejected or retired helmets should be destroyed or made unusable.
"Riddell has been reconditioning football equipment at our state-of-the-art facilities for over 40 years," Ide said. "Careful inspection, cleaning, sanitizing and repair are all part of a good reconditioning program. Helmets are subjected to rigorous testing to make sure that they meet strict performance and protective requirements before they leave our facility."
Follow the helmet manufacturers' guidelines for helmet care and storage. Most manufacturers recommend storing equipment in a temperature-controlled environment to avoid adverse effects of extreme heat or cold.
Riddell is the official protective equipment partner of USA Football and Team USA. Click here to learn more about Riddell’s reconditioning and recertifying program and to receive a free quote.
