The Evolution of the Football Helmet

First Helmet to be used

1869

The first use of football headgear dates back to 1869 when George “Rose” Barclay, the Lafayette College halfback, started to use straps and earpieces to protect his ears.

First plastic helmet

1939

It wasn’t until 1939 when the first plastic helmet became available. The Riddell Company of Chicago manufactured the first plastic helmet, believing it was safer than the leather options that were being used on the field. The plastic frame was able to hold its shape when collision occurred and included more padding and cushion for safety. The plastic helmet also included a plastic face mask, protecting the entire head.

First Radio used inside a helmet

1956

In 1956, The Cleveland Browns were the first team to implement the use of a small radio inside of the helmet to communicate effectively between the quarterback and the coach.

Air Bladder Addition

1970

As years went by and science advanced, innovators challenged whether a hard plastic shell on its own was enough to protect football players. In the early 70’s, air pockets were added to the inside of the structure. This addition helped keep player’s heads more secure while simultaneously providing another layer of protection that impact must travel through.

The Full Face Mask

1975

During the 1960s and 70s, manufacturers developed thick foam padding that was installed in the helmets and in 1975, the full face mask appeared.

First Visor

1984

In 1984, the first visors were used to help block out the sunlight and avoid the glare of the sun, in order to play the game more efficiently. With the help of the bikers helmet, it was an easy transition from bike helmet to football helmet with few adjustments.

The Riddell Speed Flex

2014

The stainless steel facemask offers better field vision for the player while the padding materials inside the helmet help to absorb impact energy while retaining position and purpose over extended durations of play.