Increasing Use

• Helmets are required equipment for all levels of organized ice hockey, from young children's teams up to the National Hockey League, which began mandating the use of helmets in 1979 (Reference 3).
  
  While helmets are not required for skiing or snowboarding, a 2008-09 National Ski Areas Association national demographic study reported that helmet usage by skiers and snowboarders nationwide increased 12 percent over the previous season (Reference 2).
  
  

Similarities

• Hockey and ski helmets are designed to protect you from impact, with a hard shell that covers the top, sides and back of your head. They contain padding inside that shell and straps that hold the helmet in place.
  
  

Adjustment

• Hockey helmet shells offer a variety of adjustment points, allowing you to change the length and width of the helmet and make sure it fits your head securely.
  
  Ski helmet shells are not adjustable, but you can customize the fit by adding or changing interior padding.
  
  

Ski Helmet Features

• Ski helmets usually include extra insulation for warmth. Most are designed to fit well when worn with ski goggles, often featuring a way to secure your goggle strap to your helmet.
  
  

Hockey Helmet Features

• Hockey helmets come equipped with attachment points to add a face mask or eye shield to the front for extra protection from pucks or sticks. They are designed with ventilation for good air flow to prevent you from overheating.