While preference can account for why many hockey players wear and use the gear they do, if you’re wearing the CCM FitLite 500 hockey helmet, chances are you have a thing for wearing “the best.” The FitLite 500 boasts CCM’s most protective helmet interior yet, made with a bevy of performance and protection features that will invoke the youth player excitement in even the most grizzled elite players.

• High-density PE two-piece shell for superior protection
• Tool-less adjustment system for a personalized fit, front to back
• Multi-density VN foam liner for 25% increased thickness and better impact energy absorption
• I.Q.Shion open-cell, memory foam-type material for dry comfort
• D3O Smart Foam for class-leading temple and occipital protection
• For use with FM500 cage for maximum visibility and facial protection

While the FitLite 500 shell looks similar to the rest of the helmets in the FitLite line, the FL500 shell has been designed specifically for this helmet. The high-density PE shell comes in a two-piece design that’s adjustable with dual tool-less side adjustments. These side adjustments provide a personalized fit from front to back. The helmet also includes front and rear vents to keep your hockey hair dry.

The helmet interior is the most protective of any helmet CCM has marketed. It features a multi-density VN foam liner—but this VN is about 25% thicker than the VN you’re used to. The helmet can now absorb a lot more direct impact energy. Consequently, the FL500 is a heavier helmet. But consider why: it has more material to protect you better.

The FL500 features CCM’s I.Q.Shion liner, an open-cell, memory foam-type material that’s comfortable and soft, helping to wick away moisture for dry comfort. The FitLite FL500 also features CCM’s D3O Smart Foam at both temples and at the back of the head, where many direct impacts occur. The D3O is one of the most protective materials CCM offers in any of their protective gear. D3O Smart Foam is rate sensitive, meaning it’s pliable and soft to the touch but grows stiff as impact intensity increases.

While this helmet doesn’t come as a combo, it works with the FM500 cage, with thin, straight alloy bars designed for maximum visibility. The chin cup is a dual-density floating model that’s both comfortable and dry thanks to moisture-directing channels.

CCM has another winner in the FitLite FL500 hockey helmet. In this day and age of head injury awareness across all sports, CCM is stepping up with products designed to perform better than ever while not busting the consumer’s budget. With an emphasis on safety and protection while continuing to look super cool, the FL500 is a great example of what the forward thinking designers at CCM can do.