The “Crush Test” and “Cold Test” used by our competitors may look impressive in advertisements but they are misleading and do not support their claims of superior helmet protection. In fact, neither test measures – nor replicates – the realistic, real world conditions a player encounters on the ice.
To determine the effectiveness of a helmet, real world testing is critical, which is why at Cascade Sports, we test in the lab the way you play the game.



  • Tests are only relevant if they relate to “on ice” conditions

  • The Drop Test is relevant because it replicates velocity of impacts in the game; the “Crush Test” is static.

  • The “Crush Test” demonstrates the effect of 220 lbs. of static pressure exerted in a vice grip form on a helmet (with no head form). This is not a realistic situation players encounter in a game. Players are moving and impacts are dynamic.

  • The “Cold Test”, which is conducted at -25º C, is a one-time test required by the CSA to ensure the durability of a helmet (e.g., that the helmet does not crack at cold temperatures). It is not an accurate test to measure impact absorption.

  • Hockey games are not played at -25ºC



  • At Cascade Sports, we use the Drop Test because it is dynamic, and replicates the approximate velocity of on-ice impact. Required for helmet certification, the Drop Test is a recognized standard established by CSA and HECC, the equipment governing bodies of our sport.

  • Cascade Sports studies the results of each Drop Test in order to understand the amount of energy transferred on each impact, at each location. Hockey is a multiple impact sport, therefore it is our goal to reduce energy transfer on the initial and each successive impact.

  • Testing at Cascade Sports focuses on ambient and elevated temperatures because even when you play in cold temperatures, heat still expires through the head increasing the temperature of the helmet.

  • Cascade Sports’ testing demonstrates that the M11 helmet absorbs more energy from high impact, linear forces to provide MAXIMUM PROTECTION.

  • To demonstrate the effect of the M11 helmet on the risk of concussion, Cascade Sports is currently gathering data from teams that wore the M11 – another phase of real world testing from the innovators at Cascade Sports.



  • The M11 was designed with a flexible shell to improve impact absorption, similar to the way the crumple zone of an automobile is designed to absorb energy from the impact during an accident through controlled deformation.

  • On impact, the revolutionary Seven Technology liner system within the M11 compresses to laterally displace energy and within seconds, it completely resets to ready for the next impact.

  • Cascade Sports’ testing shows that the Seven Technology liner system within the M11 typically performs better than traditional EPP foam (the liner material within a standard hockey helmet) on successive impacts.

  • The ProFit system draws the helmet in and around the head to eliminate pressure points (for comfort) and provide a snug fit to help keep the helmet on to ensure protection