NFL adopts soft-shell helmet covers for concussion prevention
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In an effort to reduce concussions, the NFL has introduced soft-shell helmet coverings, known as Guardian Caps, during practices. These padded layers aim to absorb impact and reduce head injuries. While early studies suggest that the caps can lower the force of hits to the head, experts caution that they are not concussion proof. Research continues to assess their effectiveness in real-game scenarios, but for now, these helmet covers offer an additional layer of protection in the ongoing battle against concussions.
Source
Sinnott AM, Chandler MC, Van Dyke C, Mincberg DL, Pinapaka H, Lauck BJ, Mihalik JP. Efficacy of Guardian Cap Soft-Shell Padding on Head Impact Kinematics in American Football: Pilot Findings. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023 Oct 28;20(21):6991. doi: 10.3390/ijerph20216991. PMID: 37947549; PMCID: PMC10650906.
Additional Reading
https://www.cnn.com/2024/08/30/health/football-head-injury-guardian-cap-research/index.html
https://www.cbc.ca/sports/football/concussion-experts-encourage-guardian-caps-1.7233481