Inside the Equipment Room: History Lesson

Here is a little history lesson to brighten everyone's day. November 1st marked the 53rd birthday of the hockey goalie mask. Yes that means that 54 years ago goalies were playing without facial protection. And I thought goalies were nuts now, I guess they have calmed down a little in the last half century. Now I am sure everyone knows the story of how the first mask entered in to the game but for those that don't I'll tell you.
In a game between the NY Rangers and the Montreal Canadiens, Habs goaltender Jacques Plante was struck in the face while blocking a shot. Plante had to leave the game to get his face stitched back together but would return to play the rest of the game,with a simple shield covering his face. What started out as a plain piece of protective equipment simply made to cover the face and protect against lacerations has now evolved into one of the most elaborate pieces of sporting equipment out there.
Plante's mask was just a piece of white plastic, no design to it, and it just covered the face. Now the mask has evolved into a full helmet, covering every part of the head and protecting against impact as well as cuts and scratches. No longer made from plastic today's masks are at the edge of new technology, fiber-glass is now the primary material used which makes today's mask lighter and stronger than ever before. What truly sets a goaltender apart though is not what his mask is made of though, it's more what artwork adorns the brain bucket.
To goalies their mask is a way to express themselves and project this to the fans. A new mask is a new canvas for goalie and painter to come together and create a masterpiece. But hey, rather than me go on about the artwork that goes on a mask why don't I just show pictures of some masks. Many of the masks below have been painted by my friend Heath at EzAirFx for more of his work please visit his site at www.ezairfx.com