ML umpire wins $775K in lawsuit

[kylejt]

Originally Posted by Simply The Best

Havent the foggiest what you are alluding to having worn several helmets (AllStar, Riddell, Wilson, Mizuno, etc) and never have had either "shock waves" or ear problems.

A proper fit is necessary FYI.

I'm just talking about the sound that reverberates inside the helmet. Since your ears are inside, the sound from the ball cracking your forehead goes straight into your ears.

Historically, until the Systems 7 s helmets arrived, the forehead padding on buckets have been minimal. We got those big, thick chin pads, but thin foam nearest our brains.

Scroll down to see the video. This shot messed up Ed's hearing.
Kitsap Umpires Camp - Home

[Simply The Best]

Originally Posted by Simply The Best
Havent the foggiest what you are alluding to having worn several helmets (AllStar, Riddell, Wilson, Mizuno, etc) and never have had either "shock waves" or ear problems.

A proper fit is necessary FYI.

Originally Posted by kylejt

I'm just talking about the sound that reverberates inside the helmet. Since your ears are inside, the sound from the ball cracking your forehead goes straight into your ears.

I'm aware of what you are saying.

Historically, until the Systems 7 s helmets arrived, the forehead padding on buckets have been minimal. We got those big, thick chin pads, but thin foam nearest our brains.

If your helmet is properly fitted, your forehead should not rest against the padding. If you cannot adjust your helmet to have a space (at least a finger width), then choose another helmet.

Scroll down to see the video. This shot messed up Ed's hearing.
Kitsap Umpires Camp - Home

I've never had a hit to the helmet that has cracked it squarely down the middle. I have had facebars bent or split.

He was using the newer Wilson helmet which I hate. It was remanufactured to include space under the facemask for the bill of the cap. I don't wear a cap. I thought it was a stupid redesign then and now. Whether that had anything to do with the helmet failing (which it did when it split), I don't know.

My understanding of your point is that there were reports of helmet hits where the helmet was in tact (no failure) but caused damage by concussive rebound and/or sound waves that damaged the ear. All I can report is that I have never experienced that problem, never have had anyone relay that they have that problem and, for that matter, never have had a helmet failure.