NFL Face Mask Design Rules
The NFL face mask was implemented to protect players' faces and heads in a very physical sport. There are certain design rules that mask manufacturers must follow.
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History
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The first instances of football headgear date all the way back to 1896, but helmets were not made mandatory in the NFL until the 1940s. Polymer helmets were not introduced until the 1950s, and it was also around this time that face masks were first used.
Significance
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Face masks allow for protection of players' faces, including chins, mouths, noses and eyes.
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Construction
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The face mask consists of anywhere from two to four bars going across the face. Most positional players have more than two bars across the face, but many kickers use only the bare minimum.
One Bar Rule Change
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Up until the 2004 season, players were allowed to have only one bar going across their faces. Generally, every position except kickers wore helmets with more than one.
Future Face Masks
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With revolutionary new designs and improved technology, further research is being done to prevent the threat of serious injury. One of the new designs is called the Schutt ION 4D. This helmet has a small gap between the face mask and the body of the helmet so that shock can be absorbed in the new design's "energy wedges."
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