The Bauer Concept 3 Full Protective Hockey Helmet Shield and its accompanying Splash Guard are designed to enhance facial protection and hygiene for hockey players. With a focus on safety, breathability, and ease of use, the system is compatible only with Bauer helmets and includes features like a floating chin cup, anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings, and strategic ventilation. This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide for installing the Concept 3 Full Shield and Splash Guard, based on information provided by official product pages and manufacturer documentation.
Installation Overview
The installation process for the Bauer Concept 3 Full Shield involves attaching the shield to a compatible Bauer helmet using the included mounting hardware. Once the shield is securely in place, the optional Splash Guard can be added via a three-point Velcro system. Both components require careful alignment and proper cleaning before first use. Below is a detailed breakdown of the installation process for each component.
Installing the Bauer Concept 3 Full Shield
The Bauer Concept 3 Full Shield is a polycarbonate facial protector designed to fit junior and youth-sized Bauer helmets. It includes features such as an interior anti-fog coating, an exterior anti-scratch coating, and strategic ventilation to improve breathability. The shield is not compatible with non-Bauer helmets, as per manufacturer specifications.
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
Verify Compatibility: Confirm that the helmet is a Bauer model that supports the Concept 3 Full Shield. The shield is specifically designed for junior and youth-sized helmets.
Prepare the Shield: Ensure that the shield is clean and free of debris. The manufacturer recommends washing the shield before first use to ensure optimal performance and hygiene.
Align the Shield with the Helmet: Position the Concept 3 Full Shield over the face opening of the helmet. The shield should align with the embossments and apertures on the helmet.
Secure the Mounting Hardware: Use the included mounting hardware to attach the shield to the helmet. The shield is designed with a floating chin cup to allow for flexibility and comfort.
Check for Secure Fit: Ensure that the shield is tightly secured and that the chin cup is properly aligned. The shield should not wobble or shift during normal use.
Test for Breathability and Visibility: Once installed, test the shield for proper ventilation and visibility. The strategic vent locations are designed to enhance breathability without compromising protection.
Certification Verification: Confirm that the helmet and shield are CSA, HECC, and CE certified for safety compliance.
Installing the Bauer Concept 3 Splash Guard
The Bauer Concept 3 Splash Guard is an optional accessory that helps block droplets of sweat, coughs, and sneezes. It is designed to attach to the Concept 3 Full Shield via a three-point Velcro system. The splash guard is not a medical-grade mask and does not provide filtration or antimicrobial protection. It is intended as a hygiene aid and should be cleaned and sanitized before each use.
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
Verify Compatibility: Confirm that the Concept 3 Full Shield is already installed and properly secured to the helmet. The Splash Guard is not compatible with other visor or shield types.
Prepare the Splash Guard: The Splash Guard comes in a 2-pack. Before first use, clean the splash guards with warm water and soap, then rinse and allow them to air dry. The manufacturer recommends using a 70% isopropyl alcohol or ethanol solution for sanitization.
Position the Splash Guard: Place the Splash Guard behind the Concept 3 Full Shield so that it aligns with the embossments and apertures on the shield.
Secure with Velcro Straps: Use the three included Velcro straps to secure the Splash Guard in place. The three-point system ensures a firm and stable attachment without obstructing visibility.
Test for Fit and Stability: Once attached, test the Splash Guard to ensure it remains in place during movement and does not interfere with the shield's functionality. The Velcro system is designed to stay secure during gameplay.
Swap as Needed: Since the Splash Guard is a consumable item, it is recommended to swap to a fresh, sanitized unit after each use. This helps maintain hygiene and effectiveness.
Care Instructions: After each use, clean and sanitize the Splash Guard according to the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Store unused splash guards in a clean, dry place.
Safety and Compliance Considerations
The Bauer Concept 3 Full Shield is certified by CSA, HECC, and CE standards, ensuring compliance with safety regulations for hockey equipment. These certifications guarantee that the shield meets the necessary impact absorption and structural integrity requirements. However, the Splash Guard is not a certified safety component and is not intended to replace or supplement medical-grade face masks or other protective measures. It is solely designed for hygiene purposes and does not provide any level of particulate filtration or infection prevention.
The manufacturer explicitly states that the Splash Guard is not intended for medical use and does not make any claims regarding antiviral or antimicrobial protection. Users should follow public health guidelines and continue to use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) as recommended by health authorities.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance and care are essential for ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of both the Concept 3 Full Shield and the Splash Guard. The following care instructions are based on information provided by the manufacturer:
Concept 3 Full Shield
- Cleaning: Clean the shield with warm water and mild soap to remove dirt and debris. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the anti-fog and anti-scratch coatings.
- Drying: After cleaning, rinse the shield with warm water and allow it to air dry. Do not use heat sources such as hair dryers or direct sunlight to speed up the drying process.
- Storage: Store the shield in a clean, dry place when not in use. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for extended periods.
- Replacement: Inspect the shield regularly for signs of wear or damage. Replace the shield if it becomes cracked, scratched, or compromised in any way.
Concept 3 Splash Guard
- Pre-Use Cleaning: Clean the splash guard with warm water and soap before first use. The manufacturer recommends using a 70% isopropyl alcohol or ethanol solution for additional sanitization.
- Post-Use Cleaning: After each use, clean the splash guard with warm water and soap, then rinse and allow it to air dry. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
- Sanitization: Use a 70% isopropyl alcohol or ethanol solution to sanitize the splash guard before and after each use. This helps reduce the risk of contamination.
- Replacement: Since the splash guard is a consumable item, it is recommended to replace it after each use. The 2-pack format allows for easy rotation and continued hygiene.
Conclusion
The Bauer Concept 3 Full Shield and Splash Guard provide a comprehensive solution for facial protection and hygiene in hockey. The installation process is straightforward and designed for ease of use, with clear instructions for attaching the shield and splash guard to compatible Bauer helmets. Both components require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and safety. While the Concept 3 Full Shield is certified for impact protection, the Splash Guard is intended solely as a hygiene aid and does not replace medical-grade protective equipment. Users should follow manufacturer guidelines and public health recommendations to ensure their safety on and off the ice.