Skateboarding and ice skating are both thrilling and adrenaline-pumping activities, but they require very different skill sets and safety gear. While it may be tempting to use a hockey helmet for skateboarding, this can actually be quite dangerous. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between hockey helmets and skateboarding helmets, and why it’s important to use the right protective gear for each sport.
Understanding the Differences Between Hockey and Skateboarding Helmets
Hockey Helmets:
- Designed to protect the head from impacts while playing hockey, a fast-paced, full-contact sport on ice
- Offer protection mainly to the top and sides of the head
- May not provide as much coverage or protection for the back of the head, which is more vulnerable in skateboarding falls
Skateboarding Helmets:
- Engineered specifically for skateboarding, which involves different types of falls and impacts
- Provide more comprehensive coverage, protecting the entire head including the back
- Often have a slightly larger size and shape to accommodate the wider range of motion and varied falls in skateboarding
The key difference is that hockey helmets are built to withstand the types of impacts common in hockey, such as collisions with other players or the boards. Skateboarding, on the other hand, involves more unpredictable falls where the skater’s head may hit the ground at various angles. Skateboarding helmets are designed to protect against these diverse impacts.
The Dangers of Using a Hockey Helmet for Skateboarding
Using a hockey helmet for skateboarding can be extremely risky for several reasons:
- Reduced Coverage: As mentioned, hockey helmets often leave the back of the head more exposed. In a skateboarding fall, this leaves a skater vulnerable to serious head injuries.
- Improper Fit: Skateboarding helmets are shaped differently to accommodate the skater’s range of motion and the way they fall. A hockey helmet may not fit snugly or properly on a skater’s head, reducing its effectiveness.
- Weaker Impact Protection: Hockey helmets are built to withstand different types of impacts than what skateboarders typically experience. The foam and other protective materials may not be as effective for skateboarding falls.
- Increased Risk of Neck Injury: The design of hockey helmets, with their larger size and weight, can put additional strain on the neck in a fall. This increases the chance of neck injuries, which can be very serious.
The Importance of Proper Safety Gear
Skateboarding can be an incredibly fun and rewarding activity, but it also carries inherent risks. Protecting your head is crucial, as even a seemingly minor fall can result in a traumatic brain injury (TBI) if the proper safety gear is not used.
Investing in a high-quality skateboarding helmet that is CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) or ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) certified is essential. These helmets are designed to provide the best possible protection for skateboarders.
In addition to a proper skateboarding helmet, it’s also important to wear other protective gear such as:
- Elbow pads
- Knee pads
- Wrist guards
This additional gear can help prevent injuries to other parts of the body and further minimize the risk of serious harm.
Proper Helmet Fit and Maintenance
Ensuring your skateboarding helmet fits correctly is critical for its effectiveness. The helmet should sit level on your head and not move around. It should also be snug enough that you can’t pull it off easily, but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable.
When trying on a helmet, make sure to adjust the straps and pads to get the best fit. The helmet should rest about an inch above your eyebrows and there should be no gaps between your head and the helmet.
It’s also important to properly maintain your skateboarding helmet. Inspect it regularly for any cracks, dents, or other damage. If the helmet has been involved in a significant impact, it’s best to replace it, even if there is no visible damage. The internal protective foam may have been compromised, reducing its effectiveness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it may be tempting to use a hockey helmet for skateboarding, it is simply not safe to do so. Hockey helmets are not designed to protect skateboarders from the types of impacts and falls they experience. Investing in a proper skateboarding helmet, as well as other protective gear, is crucial for keeping yourself safe on the board.
Remember, your safety should always be the top priority. Take the time to choose the right helmet and gear, and make sure it fits properly. With the proper precautions, you can enjoy the thrill of skateboarding while minimizing the risks of serious injury.
FAQs
1. Can I use a hockey helmet for skateboarding?
No, it is not safe to use a hockey helmet for skateboarding. Hockey helmets are designed to protect the head in a different type of sport with different impacts. Skateboarding helmets are specifically engineered to provide the best protection for the types of falls and impacts that occur in skateboarding.
2. What are the main differences between hockey and skateboarding helmets?
The key differences are:
- Hockey helmets offer more protection to the top and sides of the head, while skateboarding helmets provide more comprehensive coverage, including the back of the head.
- Skateboarding helmets are shaped to accommodate the skater’s range of motion and the way they fall, whereas hockey helmets are not.
- The protective materials in skateboarding helmets are designed to better withstand the types of impacts common in skateboarding.
3. What are the dangers of using a hockey helmet for skateboarding?
The main dangers include:
- Reduced head coverage, leaving the back of the head vulnerable
- Improper fit, as the helmet may not sit correctly on the skater’s head
- Weaker impact protection, as the helmet is not designed for skateboarding falls
- Increased risk of neck injury due to the larger size and weight of the hockey helmet
4. Why is it important to wear a proper skateboarding helmet?
Wearing a proper skateboarding helmet is crucial for protecting your head and preventing serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even seemingly minor falls can be dangerous without the right protective gear.
5. How can I ensure my skateboarding helmet fits properly?
To ensure a proper fit, the helmet should:
- Sit level on your head and not move around
- Be snug enough that you can’t easily pull it off, but not too tight
- Rest about an inch above your eyebrows with no gaps between your head and the helmet
- Have the straps and pads adjusted for a secure and comfortable fit