For the 2012-13 season, there will be no changes to The Messier Project or its product line.  Both the M11 and M11 PRO helmets will be available, at retail and via custom and team orders, and manufactured at our plant in Liverpool, N.Y. 

Bauer acquired The Messier Project and Cascade Sports largely BECAUSE of our technologies, know-how and outstanding design and production facility, located just outside Syracuse.

Seven Technology and all the safety, comfort, performance, color/customizing features you've come to expect from The Messier Project and Cascade Sports will be carried forward by Bauer. We expect exciting announcements in mid-2013, but our existing models will only be improved, not eliminated.

The M11 PRO is the latest evolution of The Messier Project’s M11.  It offers all the protection and technology of the M11  — most notably Cascade Sports’ patented Seven Technology — in a new, streamlined model with improved ventilation and an even more comfortable fit.  The result is advanced protection and pro-level performance.

Like the M11, the M11 PRO features Cascade Sports’ Seven Technology, a revolutionary impact attenuation liner system designed to more effectively manage energy transfer from direct impact. On impact, Seven Technology pods compress laterally to displace energy and then completely reset within seconds.   Hockey is a multiple impact sport, and Seven Technology is proven to have total material reset and performs better than expanded polypropylene (EPP) foam on successive impacts*.  EPP is the key protective foam used in most hockey helmets.

*Cascade Sports’ testing shows that the Seven Technology (liner system within the M11 and M11 PRO) typically performs 26% better than traditional EPP foam (the liner material within a standard hockey helmet) after the first impact, 107% better than EPP after the second impact and 140% better than EPP after the third impact. 

In addition to its advanced protection, the new M11 PRO is built for maximum performance and extreme comfort. The M11 has been known for comfort. Many players say the M11 PRO is even more comfortable.

Players will look and feel great in the M11 PRO. The streamlined shell features a lower profile, sleek side lines, aggressive styling, and improved liner ventilation.  

We know all about the helmet “mirror test” — and everything behind it  —  but we’ve always said that looks should never be the basis of selecting a helmet.  The M11 PRO looks great and offers advanced protection and technology. It’s a powerful combination.

The M11 PRO also features an enhanced Pro Fit system, now called the Pro Fit 2.  First introduced in Cascade Sports’ top-selling line of lacrosse helmets and updated for the M11, the Pro Fit is a 15-point, no tool micro-adjustment system for a truly customized fit on the fly. The new, high precision Pro Fit 2 system in the M11 PRO features an ultra-compact, tapered design for an enhanced 360° fit that eliminate pressure points for increased comfort.

Team Programs:  The Messier Project has the best team and customization program in the helmet category. We offer 256 color combinations, based on 15 different shell and 17 different vent color options. Custom M11s and M11 PROs can be built and shipped in 48 hours.

The M11 PRO is available in a small, medium and large sizes.  An extra-small size will be added. We also offer a Combo version that includes a Cascade certified steel wire face protector that’s neutral gray for better visibility.

The M11 is proven to absorb more energy from high impact linear forces than other premium helmets to provide maximum protection and features Cascade Sports' revolutionary Seven Technology, a cutting-edge liner system utilizing a ground-breaking impact attenuation system to more effectively manage energy tranfer from direct impact.

Cascade Sports' revolutionary Seven Technology is a cutting-edge liner system utilizing a ground-breaking impact attenuation system to more effectively manage energy transfer from direct impact.  On impact, Seven Technology compresses to laterally displace energy and within seconds, it completely resets to ready for the next impact.  The total reset capability of the Seven Technology liner within the M11 helmet is proven to perform better than EPP (the foam liner in standard hockey helmets) on successive impacts.

Cascade Sports' testing shows that Seven Technology (the liner system within the M11) typically performs 26% better than traditional EPP foam (the liner material within a standard hockey helmet) after the first impact, 107% better than EPP after the second impact and 140% better than EPP after the third impact. 

At this time, there is insufficient evidence to conclude that ANY helmet – even the M11 helmet – will prevent concussions.  Nevertheless, Cascade Sports’ testing demonstrates that the M11 helmet provides maximum protection from high impact linear forces that are frequently involved in concussive injuries.  To demonstrate the positive effect of the M11 helmet on the risk of concussion, Cascade Sports is currently gathering data from the more than 150 teams that wore the M11 in the 2009-2010 season. 

In addition to the importance of helmet design, there are many other steps that players can take to help reduce their risk of head injuries – beginning with ensuring the proper fit and condition of the helmet.  The helmet should fit snug, down on the head (see ProFit section for more information on the M11’s 360° fit) with helmet strap firmly secured.  For helmets with cages, the chin cup should fit snug to the chin with strap securely fastened.

Players should also regularly inspect the helmet shell, lining, hardware and adjustments to ensure everything is in good working condition.  All helmets should be CSA and HECC certified with a valid expiration date.

The Messier Project is a collaboration between Cascade Sports, the leaders in head protection, and hockey icon Mark Messier.  A player advocate and lifelong leader in the game of hockey, Messier took an active role in the design and development of the M11 and is leading the charge to make head protection a top priority in the sport and to promote safe play.

One of the missions of The Messier Project is to work with coaches, players, parents and the game’s stakeholders, across all levels, to encourage safe play.  While better equipment and new technology, such as that within the M11, do help better protect players, it is only one part of the solution.  Mark and The Messier Project are working with the game’s greatest influencers to find a solution to the concussion epidemic in hockey. 

A player advocate and lifelong leader in the game of hockey, Messier took an active role in the design and development of the M11, bringing his on-ice experience and a unique player's perspective to the designers at Cascade Sports in helping develop the M11, and is leading the charge to make head protection a top priority in the sport and to promote safe play.

The mission of The Messier Project is very personal to Messier, who in his 25 NHL seasons saw firsthand the devastating effects of head injury and concussion on his teammates and friends as their careers were cut short.  Now as a youth hockey coach and mentor, Messier has made it his personal mission to ensure that all kids are protected when playing the game he loves.

The mission of The Messier Project is to address the issue of head injuries and concussion, which have become an epidemic in hockey, through public awareness, product development, and equipment education.

The Messier Project aims to enlist the hockey community in an important quest to change priorities in the sport – from the professional level to youth hockey.

Mark Messier is leading The Messier Project in its efforts to engage the hockey community and its work to change priorities in the sport.  He believes that all stakeholders – players, coaches, General Managers, trainers, equipment mangers and parents – need to come together, evaluate the current environment and all the changes that have led to the current environment (from rule changes to player attitudes and equipment evolution) to find a multi-faceted solution to the issue of concussion in hockey.

First developed by Cascade Sports for use in lacrosse helmets, Messier recognized the relevance of the ProFit System in hockey and encouraged the design team to incorporate it into the M11.

The innovative ProFit in the M11 is a dynamic contour system that creates a 360° degree fit.  Positioned just below the occipital lobe, the ProFit draws the helmet in and around the head to eliminate pressure points and ensure a snug fit to help keep the helmet on.  A 15-point micro-adjustment system that requires no tools, the ProFit allows players to easily fine-tune the fit for a truly customized fit.

The M11 is available at retail in size Xtra Small, Small, Medium and Large.  A general size guide follows:

Xtra Small (hat size 6 1/8-6 3/8, head circumference 19.7-20.9” or 50-53 cm)

Small (hat size 6.5-7, head circumference 20.4-22” or 52-56cm)

Medium (hat size 6 7/8-7 3/8, head circumference 22.6-23.2” or 55-59cm)

Large (hat size 7 1/4-7 7/8, head circumference 22.5-24.8” or 58-63cm)

The best way to ensure the right fit for any helmet is to try it on, so please use the sizing information as a guideline only.

The helmet should fit snug, down on the head with helmet strap firmly secured.  For helmets with cages, the chin cup should fit snug to the chin with strap securely fastened.  Thanks to the ProFit System, the M11 offers a truly customizable fit for every player. Here are a few guidelines:

-- For tighter fit, grip and squeeze tabs on each end of the ProFit.  Stop when fit is snug.  -- To loosen, push grey release button.

-- Adjust chin strap until snug under chin.

-- Your helmet must be snug on your head and stay in position.  Squeeze to tighten.

Note: Hockey is a dangerous, collision sport.  You accept there are risks when you play of serious bodily injury, paralysis and death.  This helmet cannot prevent neck, spinal or brain injuries and injuries caused by rotational forces.  This helmet minimizes the risk associated with moderate impacts.  Learn the rules.  Play clean.  Do not lower your head – for any reason.  Discard the helmet if the shell is cracked or dented.  If the helmet takes a severe hit, discard it.  For maximum performance of the helmet, it must fit snugly, be free of cracks and remain secured in position when adjusted for proper fit.  HECC certification is valid five years from the date of manufacture.

Cascade Sports’ face protector is compatible with Cascade hockey helmets (the M11 and CHX).  Before mounting the face protector to a compatible certified helmet, review the helmet instructions and make sure the helmet fits correctly.  

Cascade Sports’ face protector is intended for use by persons older than 10 years of age, other than goaltenders.

Here are some fit guidelines:

-- Put the helmet on your head and place the face protector such that the chin cup rests

   snugly on your chin.  The top bar should be approximately 5-8mm below or above the

   two front mounting holes.

-- Mount the top two clips to the top of the face protector

-- Use the screws to attach the face protector to the helmet; do not over-tighten the

   screws.

-- Place the helmet and face protector on your head.

-- Adjust the plastic buckles on the side straps of the face protector such that the chin

   cup is sits snugly on your chin.

-- J-clips are optional, therefore not all helmets make allowances for them.

-- Align the holes of the J-clips with the holes of the helmet such that the top of the J-clip

   hooks over the top bar of the face protector.  The chin cup of the face protector must  

   rest snugly against your chink even with the J-clips on.

 -- Attach the J-clips to the helmet with the screws and fasteners provided.

Note: Ice hockey is a dangerous sport and participation implies the acceptance of some risk of injury.  Use of a face protector certified under the ASTM, CSA and EN ice hockey standards will not prevent all injuries.  This face protector offers no protection against neck, spinal, head or brain injuries.  When used in accordance with these instrucitions, the use of this face protector certified under these standards may reduce the frequency and severity of injuries to the face and eyes.  Do not block a shot or stick with the face protector.  If the face protector becomes dented or damaged in any way, replace it.  It may not have its full protective capacity if damaged.  Use only on helmets certified under ASTM, CSA and / or CE ice hockey standards.

Here are a few guidelines for proper care of your M11 helmet:

-- Do not alter the helmet (no paint, adhesives, cleaners, do not drill holes).

-- Inspect shell liner before each use.

-- Wash with soap and water only.

-- Discard five years after purchase.

Here are a few guidelines for proper care of your Cascade Sports Face Protector / Cage:

-- Before use, make sure the face protector has no broken welds, that the attachment  

   screws are tightened and the chin cup is in place.

-- The face protector must be continuously inspected for deterioration or breakdown.  If

    the face protector has broken welds, bent wires, cracks, or has sustained a

    substantial impact, the face protector should be replaced. 

-- After any impact, inspect the face protector for damage which may reduce the

    protective capacity. 

-- Do not store the face protector in direct sunlight or heat. 

-- Do not use any decals, paints, glues or other chemicals on the face protector. 

-- To clean the face protector, use a mild solution of soap and water only.

You can find the M11 at most premier hockey retailers.  To find the dealer nearest you, please visit our Dealer Locator at www.themessierproject.com/dealer-locator.html   (or click on “Dealer Locator” at top right-hand corner of the homepage; for Canadian dealers, please select “advanced search”).  You can also call Cascade Sports Customer Service at (800) 537-1702 for more information. 

U.S. M11 Suggested Retail Price- $119.99 and$139.99 for the combo (helmet + cage). 

Canadian M11 Suggested Retail Price- 139.99 and $159.99 for the combo (helmet + cage).

You can purchase an M11 combo with the helmet and cage, or you can purchase the helmet and / or cage individually.  Individual cages for the M11 are available from Cascade Sports in size Small, Medium and Large. 

U.S. Suggested Retail Price is $32.99. Canadian Suggested Retail Price is $37.99.  The M11 is also compatible with most visors and cages available on the market today. 

While you can choose the color of the vents on your custom-made M11 helmet at no additional cost, you cannot change them out as the vents are sonically welded into the helmet shell to secure their position. 

Each M11 is custom made in North America, with production at the Cascade Sports factory in Liverpool, NY.  Cascade Sports is a company driven by innovative product development, highly efficient production and world-class customer service.  The M11 is both HECC and CSA certified.

We believe that it is up to all of us who love the sport of hockey to come together on the issue of concussion. Our mission, and one that is very personal to Mark Messier, is to create awareness and educate players, coaches, parents and teams on: changing priorities when it comes to head protection, safe play (how to take and receive a proper check, self protection) and respect for the opponent, etc. 

As we work to continue the conversation across all channels of the sport, there are many ways that you can assist, from helping to create awareness within your own association or league to sharing your own experience with the M11 amongst your teammates, coaches, friends, family, etc.  If it is of interest, we can share with you more information on the M11 Team Program, as well as information on our presentation capabilities, if you might like The Messier Project to visit your team, League or organization.  We also encourage you to seek out additional information on the organizations that are working to specifically address proper concussion diagnosis and return-to-play protocol, and often in need of volunteers.

USA Hockey has a special web section with concussion information and downloadable resources, at:

http://www.usahockey.com//Template_Usahockey.aspx?NAV=AU_07_02&ID=28956

Hockey Canada also has a concussion awareness program and seminar as part of its safety program, with information and resources at: http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/60967/la_id/1.htm

In regards to specific medical questions, we recommend that you reach out to a medical professional and / or a concussion expert. 

Our goal is to help as many players as possible by creating awareness for the issue of concussion, engaging the hockey community in an effort to change priorities, and offering innovative head protection.  Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate all the sponsorship requests we receive, and therefore work with organizations to assist players in need.   In the meantime, contact your favorite hockey retailer to inquire about M11 team pricing.

We only sell through hockey retailers so please check with your local M11 dealer or email The Messier Project at contact@themessierproject.com and a representative will be in touch to help find you a local retailer. 

To find your local M11dealer, visit the Dealer Locator on our website at www.themessierproject.com/dealer-locator.html (or click on “Dealer Locator” at top right-hand corner of the homepage).

We are constantly updating The Evolved list as new teams and associations return their team forms and officially join The Messier Project.  If by chance you do not see your team listed on our website, please let us know via email and we will be happy to add you.

Just send us an email at contact@themessierproject.com with your team name, league and level (i.e. bantam, AAA, etc.) and we’ll be sure to update the site. 

Cascade Sports does not sell direct.  Instead, we team up with local retailers to provide the best possible service to our customers.  Please check our Dealer Locator at www.themessierproject.com/dealer-locator.html   (click on “Dealer Locator” at top right-hand corner of the homepage) to find the dealer nearest you. 

In line with our commitment to customer service excellence, Cascade Sports offers an unconditional One Year guarantee on all products.  If you return your helmet within one year of the date you purchased it, for any reason, at Cascade’s discretion we will replace your helmet or repair the effected parts for free.  For more information, Cascade Sports Customer Service can be reached at (800) 537-1702.