Do hockey helmets really expire?

This time limit is related only to the length of certification (originally 5 years but changed recently to 6.5 years) granted by HECC for a given helmet, and is not an indication of the life- span of a hockey helmet. HECC certified hockey helmets are mandated for players playing under the jurisdiction of USA Hockey.

How do you tell if a hockey helmet is expired?

The Hockey Equipment Certification Council (HECC) provides labels signifying HECC Certification to manufacturers of approved helmets and other equipment. The expiration date of the label is 6.5 years after the date of manufacture. Also on the outside rear of helmets are CSA labels with the year of manufacture on them.

How long does hockey helmets last?

The HECC usually certifies helmets for six to seven years from their manufacture date. After this date, leagues requiring certified helmets will not allow your helmet to be used. In Canada, the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approves helmets, but it does not give them expiration dates.

Can you play with an expired hockey helmet?

The rule indicates that an invalid helmet date should render the player ineligible for the game (Rule 304 states: (Note) HECC certification includes an expiration date on the sticker and a helmet that has an expiration date that has expired is no longer considered certified.

Do Bauer helmets expire?

It is recommended that you only purchase hockey helmets in Canada to ensure you have a CSA sticker on it. In Canada helmets do not expire.

Can you get a hockey helmet recertified?

HECC certification for player helmets has been changed and is now 6-1/2 years. The helmet should be replaced with another HECC certified helmet after the expiration date on the HECC sticker has passed.

How do you tell if a hockey helmet is expired Canada?

It is recommended that you only purchase hockey helmets in Canada to ensure you have a CSA sticker on it. In Canada helmets do not expire. The HECC sticker that may also be present on the helmet has an expiry date that, once passed, will make the helmet illegal for use in the United States but NOT in Canada.

How do they test hockey helmets?

The team performed almost 2,000 tests, both on an ice rink and in a lab, testing each helmet twice in four directions at low, medium and high speeds. The tests were designed to match what a player would experience while hitting the boards or ice, or colliding with another player.

How old can a hockey helmet be?

Hockey helmets should be replaced no later than 10 years from the date of manufacture. Many helmets will need to be replaced sooner, depending upon wear and tear.

How much does it cost to get a helmet reconditioned?

Reconditioning typically costs $30 to $40 per helmet, a savings of $150 to $350 when compared to the cost of a new helmet. Saving money is just one of the many benefits of proper reconditioning.

When does a hockey helmet expire in Canada?

Do you need a CSA sticker for a hockey helmet in Canada?

How long is HECC certification for hockey helmet?

Rest assured, the HECC label shows that the helmet and eye and face protectors you purchase are certified for use—for 6 ½ years.

What to do if your helmet is past its expiration date?

If your helmet is beyond its expiration date, you should replace it to guarantee the well-being of your brain. Over time, helmets can be damaged. This can include cracks, imperfections, deterioration of the plastic, and rust. The helmet’s interior padding can also deteriorate and harden, which can alter the intended safe fit of the helmet.