When the helmet was introduced to the NHL in 1979, it took quite some time for players to buy into the concept. Some of them, such as former Edmonton Oilers forward Craig McTavish, refused to give in at all. Today, it is mandatory to wear one, and they have experienced quite an evolution throughout the years.
We’ve taken a look at a handful of the best sticks and skates ever made, and we’ve even taken a look at some of the more bizarre helmets in NHL history. It’s time now to take a look at some of the best and most popular helmets ever made.
The Jofa 366 viser-ett
(Jeff Gross/Getty Images)
This one is the most classic of the bunch.
Popularized by the great Teemu Selanne, the Jofa 366 Viser-ett is more distinct from any other helmet on the market. It’s certainly not the nicest looking helmet, but it definitely looks like one of the comfier ones available. A guy like Teemu can pull off the look pretty well, but beware if you’re a beer league player and decide to put a white cage on a white one of these because you might end up looking like an ice cream cone.
JOFA 235 51
Bennett Studios/Getty Images
Before Selanne, Wayne Gretzky helped put Jofa on the map. The 235 51 didn't exactly provide the same kind of protection more modern helmets offer, but it was a huge part of Gretzky's image throughout the 80's and 90's. His teammate, Finnish Hall of Famer Jari Kurri, also wore the bucket, but chose to wear a visor rather than leave his face exposed. The 235 51 will forever be one of the most recognizable helmets in history.
The Itech 1505
(Midwest Skate)
This one also looks great with a bubble cage. It’s always great to see the legendary recreational player who still sees no issue with rocking this artifact today.
The Bauer 5000
(2PlayHockey)
The Bauer 5000 has a simple design and was very popular among players in the NHL. It’s basic style really worked.
Bauer 8500
(Great Skate Japan)
Eric Staal used this one for much of his career, so it may look familiar. The coolest feature about this one is that players could adjust the tightness of the helmet with velcro straps on the back.
CCM HT2
(Planet Sports)
This helmet was awesome. Bulky, but awesome. It was especially great for players looking to rock no visor. Similar to the Jofa and Itech, it’s always great seeing a player rock one of these puppies in a recreational game.
Reebok 5K
(Pro Hockey Life)
The Reebok helmets were goliaths on the market. Sidney Crosby was one of the first NHLers to adapt to the new, boxy, awesome look. The helmet also offered players solid protection, and an ability to easily adjust the tightness on the back. Other players such as Chris Pronger also used this bucket.
The Messier Winn-Well
You just don't see helmet like this anymore. If you see someone rocking one of these in beer league, then give your opponent some props. What a beauty.
(H/T Big Blue Interactive)
Nike Quest Helmet
(Getty Images)
Do you remember when Mario Lemieux rocked this during the 2002 Olympic Winter Games? This might be the oddest looking helmet to ever hit the market, and will certainly help you stand out on the ice. However, it may not necessarily be for the best reason...
That’s a wrap! We know we missed some helmets that you may have owned in the past, so let us know @BarDown which ones should have been on the list!
