UPDATED - Riddell Response to Address Aftermarket Accessories and NOCSAE Certification

Football helmets and face masks worn by professional, collegiate, high school and most youth football players are required to meet National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) performance standards. NOCSAE certification is conducted by Safety Equipment Institute (SEI), an ISO 17065 conformity assessment organization. The certification process involves rigorous internal product testing, independent laboratory testing and a sound quality assurance program. Each helmet and face mask model is certified by SEI to meet NOCSAE performance standards. The certification is void if the helmet or face mask is modified in any way.

Per NOCSAE, “The addition of an item to a helmet previously certified without that item creates a new, untested model.” For more information, visit nocsae.org.

Riddell recommends against the use of any third party aftermarket accessories that alter the fit, form or function of the helmet or face mask as such modifications void the NOCSAE certification and render the helmet or face mask illegal for most organized play.

Consult with your risk management department, as the use of any aftermarket accessories could expose you to liability.