Three Categories of Protective Equipment in Football

Everybody knows that football is a physically intensive sport. It is anticipated that football players are ready to lunge into another player mercilessly while striving for that extra foot. With the physical stress every player has to sustain in every game, it is necessary that he is equipped with appropriate padded gear that is specifically made for this sport. Protective equipment in football is categorized into three, namely: head protection, body protection and leg protection.

Head protective gears are vital to protect the head from concussions and head bumps. There is always a danger of physical injury in this sport that can cause permanent brain damage. Therefore, using helmets and other head accessories are important.

In professional football, official NFL helmets are designed to protect the head of football players. These helmets protect the cranium from impact. It is made out of non-breakable plastic with a foam interior and a face guard in front. The mouth piece which is part of the head gear forms into the mouth when the player bites on it. It protects the player's mouth and teeth. On the other hand, the jaw pads are placed in the lining of the helmet protecting the jaw from sharp hits leading to dislocation. The chin strap is fastened firmly on the side of the helmet to keep it from falling off.

In protecting the body during football, concerns are mostly on intestinal damage and fracture of the ribs and scapula. Essential gears used are shoulder pads, rib pads, neck rolls, elbow pads and shock pads. The shoulder pads are bulky and protect the scapula, ribs and chest. Rib pads are worn under the shoulder pads and are primarily for rib protection. But usually some are made to protect the lower back. The neck roll and rib pads are built into the shoulder pads. Under the shoulder pads is the shock pads. These provide extra cushioning and comfortability for the player.

In football, maneuverability is significant so leg protection is bare. The three important pieces that complete leg protection includes the football cleats, knee pads and the hip pads. Football cleats help players move easily on the field. The screw tips dig into the ground and allows for quick step changes during the game. This is especially helpful when the grass is wet. The knee pads on the other hand protect the knees during tackles and also shields the quadriceps muscles. The hip pads defend the hip and tailbone on impact.

Professional football gear used by football players serves only one purpose which is protection. With the amount of physical strain a football player has to sustain, protective equipment such as official NFL helmets are necessary not only to abide with rules of the sport but also to provide maximum protection for the player. It will protect the player from the dangers of physical injury that the game can inflict.

Everybody knows that football is a physically intensive sport. It is anticipated that football players are ready to lunge into another player mercilessly while striving for that extra foot.

Coach John Rockwell is a huge football fan. He has written many articles related to Official NFL Helmets. Other articles Coach John has written are related to sports equipment and collectibles such as College Team Helmets. Coach John resides in Texas with this wife and three children.