Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/90963
Cascade M11 PRO HELMET The Messier Project's new M11 Pro helmet blends advanced protection and elite performance M ark Messier is a perfectionist when it comes to hockey equipment. So the Hall of Famer has been closely involved — providing insight at every step — in the development of The Messier Project' helmets. s But more than Messier's input mattered as he worked with Cascade Sports to create the new M11 Pro, the "next evolution" of The Messier Project's groundbreaking M11 helmet. The entire design team listened to players from across North America to craft a helmet with a cutting-edge blend of advanced protection, extreme comfort and NHL- caliber performance. Like the M11, the M11 Pro is built around patented Seven Technology, an impact attenuation liner system that's designed to more effectively manage energy transfer from direct impact. The M11 Pro blends that advanced protection with a new streamlined design, aggressive styling and improved features to create a new level of elite performance, fit and comfort. "We received a lot of feedback from the players," Messier said. "At the elite level, players felt really positive about the protection and comfort of the M11, but wanted a more streamlined design and look. "We know from experience that we can't ignore elite players' demands for the right design — the 'mirror test' for hockey helmets," he added. "We've responded to that with the M11 Pro, a model that offers advanced protection and pro-level performance. The M11 and the M11 Pro give players two great options for advanced head protection." The M11 has been embraced by players and teams from grassroots to pro. Some NHLers, including Los Angeles Kings defenseman Willie Mitchell, switched to the M11 after suffering concussions. Now players and teams are moving into the M11 Pro, including Harvard University, top Minnesota high school programs and clubs in the North American Hockey League. Messier was adamant on achieving an optimal fit with the M11 and M11 Pro to make the helmets extensions of the player and unnoticeable during games. The enhanced ProFit 2 system in the M11 Pro is a high-precision,15-point, no-tool micro-adjustment system with a Harvard University was the first NCAA team to switch to the M11 PRO. new ultra-compact, tapered design that fits into the low-rise silhouette of the helmet. "Comfort plays a role in protection," Messier said. "By eliminating pressure points, players are more likely to achieve a snug fit that keeps the helmet in place during play and on impact. The ProFit system is positioned low below the natural curve of the head with a mechanism that adjusts the entire helmet shell to provide a true, 360-degree custom fit." Like the M11, the M11 Pro can be custom ordered in one of 255 color combinations to help build team identities. Both helmets are made at a facility in Liverpool, N.Y. and orders can be turned around in as little as 48 hours. Cascade Sports was acquired by Bauer Performance Sports in June 2012. But The Messier Project's technology and Messier's personal commitment will continue under the banner of the industry-leading Bauer hockey brand, Messier confirmed. "I am very optimistic about our ability to accelerate progress in improving player protection, and deliver the most innovative head protection in the game of hockey," Messier said. For more information on the M11 Pro visit themessierproject.com or The Messier Project on Facebook. USAHOCKEYMAGAZINE.COM DIGITAL EDITION HELMET BUYER'S GUIDE 3