Researchers at Hamilton’s McMaster University partnered with Niko Apparel Systems to solve a problem facing hockey players around the world.
Neck guards have been widely talked about in the sport over the last few years, and the necessity for players to wear them became clear in 2023, when 29-year-old Adam Johnson died during a game in England after having his neck cut by another player’s skate blade.
Since this incident, hockey leagues around the world have mandated neck guards, including the OHL.
While neck guards are effective against skates to the throat, research students at McMaster looked into what kind of protection they offer for other impacts.
Under the guidance of a mechanical engineering professor, students designed a “hockey dummy” to conduct tests.
The study found that while the neck guards meet the standards for protecting against lacerations, they offer little protection against other impacts, like pucks and sticks.
Niko Apparel Systems owner, Joe Camillo, says this neck guard took years to perfect.
“I’m not a big brand, coming out of Hamilton…but I’m proud to be in some of the best sporting goods shops in the world,” he said.
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