C Flap Helmet Information
Jan 1, 2020 Update:
While no new specific information has come out regarding this, the C-Flap is becoming more and more popular. You can see the info below, but the basics are as follows: As long as the manufacturer approves the c-flap that is used on that helment, or the helmet was not modified in any way, it should be able to be used. Many helmets come with the c-flap and this is the best case scenario. Others that can be added have screws that go into the helmet. As long as they go into the pre-drilled holes in the helmet and it's not modifying the helmet in any way and it's securely attached, this is okay.
If you have any questions, please reach out to us and we can try to answer any questions, or ask your helmet manufacturer.
Little League has made a statement regarding the helmet extensions that have become popular in the name of safety in MLB and little league youth. While they are not directly illegal or against policy, they must be approved with the use of the helmet in order to be legal and used. The c-flap must not violate the testing of safety standards and protocol of the helmet certification.
Here's the statement from Little League organization:
5/17/18:
Dear Little League Parents and Volunteers,
The safety of all our participants is our utmost concern, and, like the vast majority of youth organizations, Little League requires our batters to wear helmets that meet National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) specifications and bear the NOCSAE stamp.
As the popularity of helmet attachments (c-flap, etc.) increase throughout baseball and softball, Little League® International has begun to receive inquiries from our families, players, and volunteers as to whether or not they're permitted in Little League play.
Altering a helmet in anyway (drilling holes, removing padding, etc.) may cause a manufacturer to void the NOCSAE certification of that helmet, making it illegal to use in Little League play. If you have altered your helmet or intend to, please contact the helmet manufacturer to determine if altering the helmet will void the NOCSAE certification.
Little League International has issued a letter to all youth batting helmet manufacturers for clarification on whether or not adding to their helmets voids their NOCSAE certification. We will post all manufacturer responses at LittleLeague.org/
As always, we thank you for your support, and hope that you continue to have a great Little League season.
Sincerely,
Patrick Wilson
Senior Vice President, Little League Baseball and Softball