Complete Hockey Helmet Safety Guide: CCM FTW Review
Your hockey helmet is the most important piece of safety equipment you'll ever buy. With head injuries being a serious concern in ice hockey, choosing the right helmet isn't just about comfort - it's about protecting your brain and your future. In this comprehensive guide, we'll review the CCM FTW helmet combo and explain everything UK players need to know about hockey helmet safety.
Why Hockey Helmet Safety Matters
Ice hockey is a fast, physical sport. Pucks travel at speeds exceeding 100mph, collisions happen regularly, and falls on hard ice are common. A quality ice hockey helmet can mean the difference between walking away from an impact and suffering a serious head injury.
The Reality of Hockey Head Injuries:
- Concussions are one of the most common hockey injuries
- Proper helmet fit reduces concussion risk by up to 50%
- Helmets have a limited lifespan (typically 5 years)
- Certification standards exist for a reason - they save lives
- UK leagues require certified helmets for all players
This is why investing in a quality certified hockey helmet like the CCM FTW is essential, not optional.
Understanding Hockey Helmet Certifications
Before we dive into the CCM FTW helmet specifically, let's understand what those certification stickers mean:
CSA Certification (Canadian Standards Association):
- Rigorous impact testing at multiple points
- Tests for penetration resistance
- Evaluates retention system (chin strap) strength
- Required for most organized hockey in Canada and UK
HECC Certification (Hockey Equipment Certification Council):
- Independent testing organization
- Tests helmets at various impact speeds and angles
- Required for USA Hockey and many international leagues
- Widely recognized as gold standard
CE Certification (European Conformity):
- European safety standard
- Required for sale in UK and EU
- Ensures minimum safety requirements are met
The CCM FTW helmet carries all three certifications, meaning it meets the highest international safety standards.
CCM FTW Helmet: Complete Review
Now let's examine the CCM FTW hockey helmet combo in detail.
What Makes the FTW Special?
The FTW helmet (For The Win) is CCM's answer to the demand for elite protection at a reasonable price point. It's designed for players who want professional-level safety without paying pro-level prices.
Key Safety Features:
1. Multi-Density VTX Foam Liner
The standout safety feature of the CCM FTW is its advanced foam system:
- Multiple foam densities - Different layers absorb different impact energies
- VTX technology - Disperses impact force across larger area
- Better than single-density foam - Protects against both high and low-speed impacts
- Maintains effectiveness longer - Foam recovers better after impacts
This multi-density approach is what you find in elite helmets costing £400+, but the FTW delivers it at £265.
2. Advanced Shell Construction
The outer shell of the FTW helmet uses impact-resistant materials that:
- Distribute impact force before it reaches your head
- Resist penetration from sticks and pucks
- Maintain structural integrity in cold temperatures
- Balance protection with lightweight comfort
3. Tool-Free Adjustment System
Proper fit is crucial for safety. The FTW's adjustment system allows:
- Quick size changes without tools
- Fine-tuning for perfect fit
- Easy adjustments as players grow (great for juniors)
- Ensures helmet stays properly positioned
Comfort Features:
A helmet you don't want to wear won't protect you. The CCM FTW excels in comfort:
- Optimized ventilation - Strategic air channels prevent overheating
- Moisture-wicking liner - Keeps sweat away from your head
- Antimicrobial treatment - Prevents odor buildup
- Lightweight design - You'll forget you're wearing it
- Comfortable padding - Soft against skin without compromising protection
The Complete Combo Package:
The FTW helmet combo includes everything you need:
- FTW helmet shell with all safety features
- Full protective cage - Certified facial protection
- Hardware and clips - Everything needed for assembly
- Adjustment tools - For perfect fit customization
- Instructions - Clear fitting and safety guidelines
This is a complete, ready-to-use package at £265 - excellent value compared to buying components separately.
CCM FTW vs Other Hockey Helmets
How does the FTW helmet compare to other popular options?
vs Bauer Re-Akt 200:
- FTW Advantages: Better value (£265 vs £350+), excellent ventilation, lighter weight
- Re-Akt Advantages: Suspended liner system, slightly better high-impact protection
- Verdict: FTW offers 90% of the performance at 75% of the price
vs CCM Tacks 910:
- FTW Advantages: Better ventilation, more modern design, improved adjustment system
- Tacks Advantages: Slightly more protective foam, different fit profile
- Verdict: Very similar performance, choose based on fit preference
How to Choose the Right Hockey Helmet
Beyond the CCM FTW, here's what to consider when choosing any ice hockey helmet:
1. Certification is Non-Negotiable
Always look for CSA, HECC, or CE certification. Never buy an uncertified helmet, no matter how cheap. Your brain is worth more than saving £50.
2. Fit is Everything
A poorly fitting certified helmet is less safe than a properly fitting one. The helmet should:
- Sit level on your head (not tilted back)
- Front edge 1-2 finger widths above eyebrows
- Touch your head all around with no gaps
- Feel snug but not painful
- Not move when you shake your head vigorously
- Have chin strap forming a "V" under your ears
3. Consider Your Playing Level
- Beginners: Entry-level certified helmet (£80-150)
- Intermediate players: Mid-range like FTW (£200-300)
- Elite/competitive: Top-tier helmets (£300-500)
The CCM FTW sits perfectly in the sweet spot for intermediate to advanced players.
Proper Helmet Fitting Guide
Getting the right fit for your CCM FTW helmet (or any helmet) is crucial:
Step-by-Step Fitting Process:
- Measure your head - Use soft tape around widest part, just above eyebrows
- Choose size based on measurement - Small (51-56cm), Medium (55-59cm), Large (58-63cm)
- Put helmet on - Should feel snug immediately
- Adjust fit system - Use tool-free adjustment for perfect fit
- Check position - Front edge 1-2 fingers above eyebrows
- Secure chin strap - Should form "V" under ears, snug but not choking
- Shake test - Helmet shouldn't move when you shake your head
- Wear for 10 minutes - Check for pressure points or discomfort
UK Hockey Helmet Requirements
If you're playing organized hockey in the UK, here's what you need to know:
- All players must wear certified helmets (CSA, HECC, or CE)
- Junior players (typically under 18) must wear full cage
- Adult players can choose cage, visor, or hybrid (check specific league rules)
- Recreational leagues may have stricter requirements (often full cage for all)
- Gillingham Ice Bowl requires certified helmets for all ice hockey activities
The CCM FTW helmet combo meets all UK requirements with its triple certification and included full cage.
Where to Buy Hockey Helmets in the UK
When buying a hockey helmet, especially for safety equipment, buying from a specialist retailer is crucial:
Why Buy from TheSkateEscape:
- Expert fitting service - We ensure proper fit for maximum safety
- Genuine products only - Never counterfeit or expired stock
- Try before you buy - Visit our Gillingham store for fitting
- Safety certified - All helmets meet UK and international standards
- Knowledgeable staff - We're players who understand safety
- Ongoing support - Questions after purchase? We're here to help
- Free UK delivery over £100 - Fast nationwide shipping
The Verdict: Is the CCM FTW Helmet Worth It?
The CCM FTW helmet combo is an excellent choice for UK ice hockey players. At £265, it delivers elite-level protection with features typically found in much more expensive helmets.
Pros:
- Triple certified (CSA, HECC, CE) for maximum safety
- Multi-density VTX foam provides superior impact protection
- Excellent ventilation keeps you cool
- Tool-free adjustment for perfect fit
- Complete combo package (helmet + cage) ready to use
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
- Outstanding value at £265
- Suitable for intermediate to elite players
Cons:
- Not the absolute lightest helmet available (but close)
- Some players prefer suspended liner systems (personal preference)
- Cage is basic (but fully functional and certified)
Final Recommendation
For UK ice hockey players seeking reliable, certified protection without breaking the bank, the CCM FTW helmet combo is an outstanding choice. It provides professional-level safety features at a price point that makes sense for serious recreational and competitive players.
Whether you're playing at Gillingham Ice Bowl, competing in UK leagues, or just starting your hockey journey, the FTW delivers the protection you need to play with confidence.
Get Your CCM FTW Helmet Today
Ready to protect yourself with elite-level safety equipment? The CCM FTW hockey helmet combo is available now at TheSkateEscape.
Shop CCM FTW Helmet Combo - £265
Visit our Gillingham store for expert fitting and safety advice, or order online for fast UK delivery. Your head is your most important asset - protect it with the best.
Questions about helmet sizing, safety certifications, or which helmet is right for you? Contact our expert team at TheSkateEscape - we're ice hockey players helping ice hockey players stay safe on the ice.
