Description
THE CURRENT ENVIRONMENT
Football helmets with inflatable air liners make up 90% of the market. Air bladder helmets are unique because they can adjust to fit each player’s head shape and size–allowing for a proper fit. Right now, supervisors rely on the player’s to tell them when they need more air. The problem with that? The helmets are not inflated often enough, putting players at risk when they take the field. When it is time to reinflate a helmet, equipment managers/coaches/trainers use a held ball pump. The supervisor and player work together to agree when there is enough air that ensures a comfortable and safe fit. This process leaves a lot of room for human error as helmets are inflated differently almost every time. In addition, there is no way to tell if the helmet’s air bladders are functioning properly (leaking air, etc.). Players are safest when their helmets fit properly. It’s time that we put a system in place to oversee this safety measure.
