Many players chose the MacGregor externally padded helmet instead of the standard Riddell suspension helmet because the MacGregor helmets were designed to minimize concussions and internal injury to the skull. The padded helmets were constructed by covering the center ridge of the helmet with a piece of foam padding which was then covered, secured, and protected by a sheet of synthetic leather. It was glued to the helmet and painted to match the Kelly green shell. Michigan State had many players wearing the padded helmets as late as the 1968 season.
Information Credits: Helmet Hut. Spartan Jerseys claims no ownership to this information.
Photography Credits: Masthead image is courtesy of Cambria County Sports Hall of Fame. Image of 1967 – 1972 helmet is courtesy of the Detroit Free Press. Image of the padded helmet is courtesy of Helmet Hut. Spartan Jerseys claims no ownership to these images.