This rugby head guard was made in 2003 and shows the innovative design and construction used in the production of protective sports gear and reflect an increasing understanding of the biomechanics of the body when playing sport.

The wearing of protective equipment to prevent injury when playing and practising sport is increasing. The use of protective equipment is mandatory in many sports such as cricket and baseball and voluntary in sports such as rugby. Protective equipment ranges from headguards, eyewear and mouthguards to shin padding, gloves and genital protectors.

This headguard uses the extensive use of moulded channels to provide optimum fit, comfort and stability whilst playing rugby union.

The design of these products has gradually progressed and manufacturers are continuously looking for ways to improve protective equipment and make them more flexible, protective and lighter.

This headguard was displayed in the 'Sport: more than heroes and legends' exhibition (September 2003 - July 2004) as part of a suite of protective sports equipment.

Written by Erika Dicker
Assistant Curator, 2007.

The headguard was made by Madison Sport Pty Ltd in China in 2003. Madison Sport Pty Ltd is an Australian company that specialises in protective sporting equipment. They are based in Queensland.

This headguard was displayed in the 'Sport: more than heroes and legends' exhibition (September 2003 - July 2004) as part of a suite of protective sports equipment.

Rugby union headguard, with packaging, nylon / foam / cord, made by Madison Sport Pty Ltd, China, 2003

This is a black padded headguard with white trim, black cord and a velcro strap. The Text 'Madison' is printed across the forehead. It is a size large.

The headguard is made of nylon lycra over compression molded EVA foam. Extensive use of molded channels provides optimum fit, comfort and stability to this style of headguard.

There is also packaging for this object which consists of a clear plastic bag with a printed cardboard insert label. The front of the label features photographs of three rugby players wearing the headguard, product and sizing information. On the other side of the label features a photograph of a rugby player wearing the headguard and product information.

Made: Madison Sport Pty Ltd; China; 2003

See description.

2007/178/3

2003

250 mm

170 mm

200 mm