Overview
ISO 10256-4:2016 specifies performance requirements for head and face protection for ice hockey goalkeepers. It is part of the ISO 10256 series and is intended to be read with ISO 10256‑1, ISO 10256‑2 and ISO 10256‑3. The standard aims to reduce head and facial injury risk for goalkeepers by defining material, assembly and performance criteria - while preserving the look and playability of the game.
Key Topics and Technical Requirements
- Scope and protector types: Defines three protector types (D1, D2, D3) with different penetration-resistance profiles. Type D2 is for goalkeepers aged 10 years or younger; Type D3 has additional puck-penetration requirements and is recommended for adults (18+).
- Design and materials: Requirements for padding, load-bearing areas, welded wire termination, and minimum overlaps (e.g., wire cages must overlap helmet edges by at least 6 mm).
- Clearances: Minimum and maximum distances between headform and face protector (specified minimum contact clearance and a maximum horizontal distance of 60 mm in the median plane).
- Protected areas (coverage): Defined head and face coverage zones to ensure critical regions are protected during tests.
- Penetration resistance: Blade and puck penetration tests - Types D1/D2 require no blade contact with the headform over protected areas; Type D3 adds puck penetration limits for the face.
- Shock absorption and puck impact resistance: Impact attenuation, contact tests and toughness tests to assess energy absorption and resistance to puck impacts.
- Retention, optical quality and field of vision: Tests for retention systems, visual clarity and unobstructed field of view.
- Testing and marking: Specifies conditioning, sample preparation, test methods (coverage, penetration, shock, puck impact), reporting and permanent marking / user information.
Applications
- Product design and development of goalkeeper masks and helmet/face‑guard combinations.
- Type testing and conformity assessment by test laboratories to demonstrate compliance with goalkeeper head protection standards.
- Procurement specifications for leagues, clubs, and safety officers specifying certified protective equipment.
- Certification and regulatory use by standards bodies and consumer safety organizations.
Who Uses This Standard
- Sporting goods manufacturers and designers
- Independent test laboratories and certification bodies
- Hockey organizations, clubs and equipment purchasers
- Safety officers, coaches and facility managers
Related Standards
Keywords: ISO 10256-4, ice hockey goalkeeper protection, head and face protector, puck impact resistance, penetration resistance, shock absorption, protective equipment standards.
Open preview (PDF)Protective equipment for use in ice hockey — Part 4: Head and face protection for goalkeepers
