Cascade S Lacrosse Helmets
Product Description:
The Cascade S lacrosse helmet represents a leap forward in design and technology for Cascade. This helmet is designed for attackers and midfielders who prioritize a balance of protection and comfort. The biggest upgrade is the wide-open visibility. The S sits slightly higher and allows a much better up-and-down field of vision. The Tri-Liner system combined with the Supermono™ S shell creates the ideal protection package. The S is also super lightweight and breathable, thanks to ventilation ports where cool air flows in and out the rear XFLO exhaust. Building on Cascade's legacy of customization, the S allows for a 360° contoured fit that can be micro-adjusted on the fly.
Perfect helmet for:
advanced players in high school, college, or professional leagues, who prioritize top-of-the-line protection, comfort, and vision on the field.
Key features include:
- GEN4 EPP manages variable force impacts specific to the front of the helmet and face mask.
- NV3 foam unites the shell and liner providing protection to the crown of the head.
- Seven Technology compresses on impact to laterally displace energy and resets within seconds. It is placed in key impact zones on the side and rear to manage repeated impacts.
- A one-piece shell and visor design that creates a rigid system to manage frontal impacts.
- A reinforced S-Series jaw that has a dual-material chin piece.
- VisionBar's PowerPress technology enhances sight lines and face mask rigidity.
- Expanded ventilation ports that increase breathability by 2x, allowing cool air to flow through and exit out the rear Xflo exhaust.
- Three customizable jaw pads provide a 360-degree contoured fit that can be micro-adjusted on the fly for ultimate comfort.
While the Cascade S is a top contender, both the Warrior Burn and STX Rival offer strong competition. The Warrior Burn prioritizes traditional impact absorption with a focus on key zones, while the STX Rival boasts a budget-friendly price tag and a comfortable, adjustable fit achieved through its Sure-Fit Air System. On the field, all three helmets prioritize safety with certifications from NOCSAE and SEI. Ultimately, choosing between them depends on your budget and whether you prioritize a customizable fit or superior ventilation, a strength of the Cascade S.
Progression:
The Cascade S helmet wasn't the first chapter in Cascade's line. It succeeded the Cascade R, marking a significant leap in design and functionality. Here's a breakdown of the progression:
Pre-R Era: Cascade's journey began with the original Cascade helmet, a major upgrade from traditional leather buckets. It offered a sleek design and more protection for the face. Models like C2 and CLH2 followed, refining the shape and introducing the now-familiar visor design.
CPX-R: This helmet introduced the "tail fin" design element still seen in Cascade helmets today. It also boasted a new liner system and a downward-sloping face mask for better visibility and aesthetics.
Cascade R: This helmet was built upon the CPX-R's foundation with several key upgrades, including a seven-technology liner system that effectively disperses impact energy throughout the helmet, a more customizable fit system, and a sleek and streamlined look that became a signature of Cascade helmets.
Cascade S: Surpassing the R, the Cascade S reigns supreme as one of Cascade's top-of-the-line offerings. It builds upon the R's success with further advancements including:
- An even more refined version of the Seven Technology liner system and introduces SmartShock technology, which strategically manages impact across different areas of the helmet.
- The S takes customization to a new level with an improved fit system that allows for personalized adjustments for optimal comfort and protection.
- A redesigned shell with enhanced ventilation channels for maximum breathability during intense play.
What people are saying (edited for clarity and brevity)
PROS:
- The Cascade S is the most comfortable helmet I've ever worn. The Tri-Liner system really conforms to my head, and the sizing dial lets me get a nice, snug fit without any pressure points.
- My son plays attack and just switched to the Cascade S this season. It's a night and day difference from his old helmet. He says it feels much lighter, which helps him with dodging and moving around quickly. The padding feels really secure too.
- I've been using the Cascade S for two seasons now, and I can't say enough good things about it. The protection is top-notch. I've taken some pretty good shots to the head over the years, and I've never felt anything. The helmet does a great job of absorbing the impact.
CONS:
- The biggest downside to the Cascade S is the price. It's definitely one of the more expensive helmets on the market. However, I do believe you get what you pay for.
- Sizing can be a bit tricky with the Cascade S. I had to order two different sizes to find the right fit.
- It's a bit on the higher end in terms of price, and some younger players might not need all the bells and whistles that this helmet offers.
The Cascade S is a good helmet for any level. My kid—he's eight—loves his S. One thing to note is that all youth Cascades helmets are slightly smaller than the adults. The one-piece shell and visor create a pretty rigid helmet to manage impacts. They also moved the center of gravity to the middle of the crown, keeping its weight balanced and aligned.
Overall feel: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Visibility: ⭐⭐⭐
Protection: ⭐⭐⭐
