Protective equipment can enhance enjoyment while reducing that risk. Facial and head protection is important, whether on the playing field or cruising the neighborhood bike path. These rules have been implemented in response to concerns about student-athlete welfare. Participants in other activities can wear helmets or similar devices as long as they are not considered dangerous to other players. Several certification organizations provide standards on helmet protection.
Helmets do protect the head from direct impact.
Helmets and associated standards are primarily designed to minimize direct impact force to the head and protect against subdural hematoma, or internal bleeding. Helmets are not designed to protect against neck or cerebral spine injuries or concussions. Helmets do not protect against spinal injuries. Most of these catastrophic injuries result from initiating contact with the head. The resulting force to the neck or spine may cause serious injury.