Virginia Tech University recently released the results of a new rating system for adult football helmets that is designed to reduce the risk of concussions on the field (http://www.vtnews.vt.edu/articles/2011/05/051011-engineering-helmetratings.html). This biomechanical impact data study on football helmets is the first of its kind to give an unbiased (although controversial) rating of football helmets. The Riddell Revolution Speed was the only helmet to a receive the highest 5 STAR rating. However, some people question the accuracy of the study and its findings.
The study involved 120 impacts per helmet at various locations on the helmet, varying speeds, and with varying force. The study only focused on helmet vs. ground impacts. This is where the first issue with the study arises. Numerous studies have proven that an overwhelming majority of concussions come from helmet to helmet impacts. The study also failed to include “rotational forces” in its study, a known factor in concussions. The NFL conducted a study in 2010 ( http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d81943916/article/league-players-union-release-details-of-helmet-safety-study) that included rotational forces and found the Schutt DNA Pro+ as the highest performing helmet (only given 4 stars in the Virginia Tech Study).
One thing that can be agreed upon? The Riddell VSR-4 helmet, which oddly enough is the helmet worn by more players in the NFL than any other helmet, should be taken out of the game, off the field, and off the shelves (http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/10/sports/football/10helmets.html?_r=1&nl=health&emc=healthupdateema8)
In response to the study, Riddell created a Trade-In Program that gives $50 to any customer for exchanging an adult VSR-4 for any adult Revolution family helmet (Speed, Revo, Revo IQ, 360).
Schutt decided to create its own version of this trade-in-program. Any customer bringing in a Riddell VSR-4 will be offered a $30 credit towards the purchase of a new Schutt Varsity AiR XP. However, in reality its worth more than $30. When you upgrade from a Riddell VSR-4 to a Riddell Revolution style helmet, you can’t use any of your old accessories. When you trade in for the AirXP, you can use all your faceguards, loop straps, visors and nearly any other accesory. You will save as much as $100 per helmet by trading in your VSR-4 for the AiR XP, instead of the upgrade offered by Riddell.
We here at Athletic Supply can handle your trade-ins for the new Schutt Air XP and will be more than happy to go over all the helmet safety standards with you so you feel safe and comfortable in your new helmet!
Athletic Supply 