Overview
ISO 10256-4:2024 - Protective equipment for use in ice hockey - Part 4: Head and face protectors for goalkeepers specifies performance requirements and test methods for goalkeeper-specific head and face protection. This second edition updates and clarifies requirements from the 2016 version and is focused exclusively on equipment intended for ice hockey goalkeepers (goalkeeper helmet and face protector combinations).
Key topics and technical requirements
The standard covers design, safety and test topics including:
- Types and scope: Two designated types of goalkeeper head and face protectors are defined and treated separately in test procedures.
- Ergonomics: Requirements and test methods for fit and comfort to ensure protective equipment can be worn correctly by goalkeepers.
- Innocuousness (materials & design): Rules to limit harmful materials and unsafe design features that could injure the wearer.
- Markings and user information: Mandatory labeling, size and care instructions to support correct use and maintenance.
- Protected areas (coverage): Defined protected zones for both head and face portions to ensure adequate coverage for goalkeeper-specific hazards.
- Penetration tests: Procedures for blade/disk penetration resistance including different test types (e.g., Type D1, D2) applied over protected areas.
- Puck impact resistance: Contact and toughness tests that simulate puck impacts to validate protective performance.
- Field of vision: Requirements and test methods to ensure sightlines are adequate for goalkeeper performance and safety.
- Shock-absorbing capacity: Tests to measure energy attenuation properties of head protectors.
- Retention system: Strength and extensibility tests for straps and fastening systems to confirm the protector remains secured during play.
- Test methods and reporting: Conditioning, sample selection, tolerances, sequencing of tests (protocol/table references), and required test report content.
Applications and who uses the standard
ISO 10256-4:2024 is intended for:
- Manufacturers and designers of goalkeeper helmets and face protectors to guide compliant product development.
- Testing laboratories and certification bodies performing penetration, impact, vision and retention tests.
- Sports governing bodies, equipment procurement teams and safety officers establishing minimum performance requirements for approved goalkeeper protective equipment.
- Retailers and team equipment managers who require documented compliance for selection and user guidance.
Keywords: ISO 10256-4:2024, ice hockey goalkeeper helmet standard, goalkeeper head protector, face protector for goalkeepers, puck impact resistance test, penetration test, field of vision, retention system strength, ISO 10256 series.
Related standards
- ISO 10256-1:2024 - General requirements for ice hockey protective equipment
- ISO 10256-2:2024 - Head protectors for skaters
- ISO 10256-3:2024 - Face and eye protectors for skaters
- CSA Z262.6-14 - Specifications for facially featured headforms
For implementation details, test thresholds and full procedures consult the complete ISO 10256-4:2024 document.
Open preview (PDF)Protective equipment for use in ice hockey — Part 4: Head and face protectors for goalkeepers
