Overview
ISO 10256-2:2016 - Protective equipment for use in ice hockey - Part 2: Head protection for skaters specifies performance requirements and test methods for ice hockey helmets worn by skaters (players other than goalkeepers) and certain functionaries (e.g. referees). It is intended to be read in conjunction with ISO 10256‑1 (General requirements). The standard aims to reduce the frequency and severity of head injuries in ice hockey while preserving the form and appeal of the game.
Key topics and technical requirements
ISO 10256-2 covers functional and test-based requirements, including:
- Construction and protected area
- Minimum protected areas, ear apertures and ventilation openings to ensure coverage without impairing comfort.
- Shock absorption
- Impact test procedures (see Annex A and B) and prescribed impact sites to verify energy attenuation performance.
- Penetration resistance
- Tests and apparatus to assess the helmet’s ability to resist object penetration.
- Retention system properties
- Strap design, extensibility, strength and fastening performance to ensure secure fit in use.
- Field of vision
- Methods to measure vision extent in the “as worn” position (informative Annex C).
- Marking and information
- Requirements for permanent markings and user information to support safe selection, fitting and use.
Representative test methods and test protocol elements in the document:
- Sampling and conditioning procedures
- Helmet positioning index (HPI) and headform positioning
- Impact drop tests using a free‑fall guided carrier (Annex A) or a guided monorail (Annex B)
- Penetration apparatus and procedures
- Test report content and required markings
Practical applications and who uses it
ISO 10256-2 is used by:
- Helmet manufacturers for design validation, quality control and product claims.
- Test laboratories and certification bodies to perform standardized impact, penetration and retention tests.
- Sports governing bodies, teams and equipment purchasers for procurement specifications and compliance checks.
- Design engineers and product developers to balance protection, weight, fit and ventilation while meeting standardized performance thresholds.
Practical benefits:
- Facilitates consistent, repeatable helmet testing and certification.
- Helps reduce head injury risk through objective performance metrics.
- Supports informed consumer choice via mandated markings and user information.
Related standards
- ISO 10256-1:2016 - General requirements (normative companion)
- ISO 10256-3, -4, -5, -6 - Other parts covering face protectors, goalkeeper head/face protection, neck laceration protection and lower leg protectors (as referenced within the ISO 10256 series).
Keywords: ISO 10256-2:2016, ice hockey helmet standard, head protection for skaters, helmet testing, shock absorption, penetration resistance, retention system, field of vision, protective equipment for ice hockey.
