Heading off concussions with high-tech helmets

Concussions may do more damage than has long been thought. A recent study of former NFL players found that players who had sustained three or more concussions had a much greater likelihood of suffering depression years later than those who had no concussions. Researchers say brain damage, impaired neurotransmitter function, dizziness and headaches can be contributing factors. With the increasing knowledge of this and other concussion-related health risks comes the need for more protective headgear -- such as the DNA helmet.

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DNA Helmet: After seven years of research and development, Schutt Sports has developed a football helmet that uses polymer padding to help prevent injuries from falls and blows to the head. The material, Skydex, is used in Army paratrooper helmets and Navy SEAL boat decks and is lighter and thinner than conventional foam pads. The padding can be made more or less dense according to need. “In the front, where you’re taking the heavier blows,” says David Jones, the Illinois-based company’s director of marketing, “there’s a firmer pad.” Its nonporous surface also resists bacteria.

Price: Ranges from $140 for youth helmets to $160 for adult models. For a list of dealers, go to www.schuttsports.com.

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-- Jeannine Stein