Pole vaulters now have access to new equipment that may reduce the risk of serious injury in their event. The first helmet designed exclusively for pole vault, the KDMax, was released in October 2004.

The KDMax weighs just over one pound and looks similar to a skateboarding helmet, but it incorporates several features specifically for vaulters. A stabilization system of padded straps prevents shifting on the head during running and vaulting, and a scalloped shell design prevents interference with the planting arm during takeoff. The shell is composed of carbon fiber, a material stronger than plastic, to protect the wearer from impact with the landing box and pit area, and the interior lining is dent and compression resistant.

However, the question remains: Can a helmet prevent injuries in pole vault? "Until a helmet has been tested and scientifically proven to prevent injuries, we really don't know," says Bob Fraley, Chair of Men's Pole Vault Development for USA Track & Field. "On our 20-member USATF Pole Vault Development Staff, there are probably five who would say it's a good thing, five who would say definitely not, and 10 who are undecided."

Nonetheless, six state high school associations already require some type of helmet for pole vaulters, and 30 states indicated on the 2004 NFHS track and field survey that they would support mandatory helmet use if a national standard was in place. At the college level, it's unlikely that this new product will renew the discussion over mandating helmets, according to Bob Podkaminer, Secretary of the NCAA Track and Field Rules Committee, but helmets will continue to be an option for vaulters.

The KDMax was developed by the engineering firm Eventys in collaboration with Penn State University and pole vault safety activist Edward Dare, whose son Kevin suffered a fatal head injury while pole vaulting at the Big Ten indoor track and field championships in 2002.

The KDMax can be purchased on the Web at: www.polevaulthelmet.com.