Although helmets did not become standard gear until after World War II, some pioneering players wore primitive head covering as far back as the early 1900s. The earliest versions, called "head harnesses," were made of soft leather and were predominantly designed to cover the ears. Because the flaps on the original head harnesses covered the ear completely, however, they were criticized for hindering communication on the playing field. The first helmets offering full protection of the skull and featuring holes in the earflaps were introduced between 1915 and 1917. Although the flat-top caps were still made of soft leather, they offered some suspension, rather than resting directly on the skull.
http://www.popularmechanics.com/outdoors/sports/football/4281378
I can see why gladiators feel invincible when wearing the helmet because of the texture of the material and the cushion inside. But our modern gladiators should not be risking their lives to entertain the crowd and moreover themselves. Numerous football players careers have been shortened because of the injuries sustained. These atheletes are often times in the best physical condition that a man can possibly be in, but the game is played at such a high speed that the head is vulnerable to hard hits. Millions and millions of dollars have been spent on the development of a helmet that will decrease the risk of concussions.
Just take a moment to review what I am talking about from one of the professionals who knows in this short video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpnsEp75DSQ
The NFL is not igmoring the facts that these helmets are dangerous but they are also being responsive to the severity of life after the NFL. Which I feel is most important.
Interesting article although I am not an NFL fan , I can see the importance of a helmet, but since the sport has evolved so much and players are faster and stronger, caring for safety is no longer priority. Trusting a good equipment I guess players feel free to go to the extreme when they are on the field.
ReplyDeleteI know having a good helmet is important, by experience I had an accident running in a bike, where if it wasn't becasue I was wearing a helmet (against my wish!)I probably would of had a broken skull.
They get a beating to their bodies and head that I am sure does not provide them with a very leisurely retirement. The pain they must endure must be tremendous. I don't care what kind of shape you are in. It has to hurt! I don't think that there will be a creation of a helmet that will stop concussions all together. The impact shakes your brain up. They would have to create a helmet that would reduce the impact intensity, provide comfort, be light weight and breathability while still being able to hear the world around you.
ReplyDeleteNice post but I have a questioin is it possible if they reduced the number of padding and the helmet it would reduce the number of head injures cause some think that the helmet and pads make players feel invicible and thats what contributes to hard hits.
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