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Health & Fitness

Fad or Future? Protective Masks and Caps in Sports

The MLB, NFL, NBA and NHL have all updated their concussion protocols in recent years. As a result, Protective Masks and Caps have been an increasing topic of conversation in the worlds of baseball and softball.

Whether you’re an infielder looking to purchase a RIP-IT mask for the infield, or a MLB pitcher donning the new IsoBLOX® Protective Cap; players, parents, coaches and enthusiasts are searching for the latest and greatest way to keep the team safe. Masks and caps have padding inside the side and front and are uniquely fitted to each player. The purpose, of course, is to diffuse energy upon impact in the event that an individual should get hit by a line drive or wild throw. As with anything, there are proponents and opponents, but if we reflect on the padding and helmets players used to wear, if any at all, we can see that this is likely not a fad, rather a progression toward the future of player safety in these respective sports.

On Saturday, June 21st, Alex Torres of the San Diego Padres made history by being the first MLB player to wear a Protective Cap while pitching. Torres commented that the cap didn’t interfere with his pitching motion, so while some players will initially object to more protective gear, or suggest that it is bulky and unfashionable, it’s a safe bet that more pitchers will start wearing these in games soon.

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What do you think of Protective Masks and Caps, are they a fad in the sporting industry, or are they the future? Share your thoughts with us! 

In the meantime, baseball fans can sit back, relax and enjoy the game now that the season is in full swing.

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