Helmets selected to be tested are mounted on an instrumented head model and tested before and after reconditioning in accordance with the NOCSAE Standard and NAERA By-Laws. The testing includes various impact energies, standard and random locations under controlled environmental conditions. Acceleration measurements are taken to determine if the helmet meets an established Severity Index (SI) requirement. SI is a scientifically accepted measurement of human injury tolerance. Some required impacts are equivalent to running in excess of 12 MPH into a flat surface, which stops a player’s head suddenly. Some players run faster than this but seldom if ever experience an impact as violent as the NOCSAE test.

Who tests football helmets for compliance with NOCSAE Test Standards?

Manufacturers test their own helmets as they are produced. Licensed reconditioners/ recerifiers test used helmets themselves, using NOCSAE recertification protocol to the performance levels applicable when the helmet was produced.

Are all football helmets recertified NOCSAE drop tested?

No. A statistically relevant sample are tested. One of the benefits of using a NAERA member to recertify helmets is the emphasis on quality control.