New protective headgear 'cuts impact by almost half' - Ruck

New protective headgear ‘cuts impact by almost half’

Dundee University scientists have called for mandatory protective rugby headgear after a study showed it can cut impact levels by almost half.

The research showed that even the least effective device tested could make a “significant difference” in preventing head injuries, such as concussion.

The team said the study made a “compelling case” for protective headgear at all levels of the game.

The findings have been published in The BMJ.

  • All headguards reduced the linear acceleration experienced on impact.

  • The Canterbury Ventilator was the most effective, while the XBlades Elite was the least effective.

  • The headguards used may not prevent all concussive injuries, but there is the potential for them to reduce the incidence.