FAQ

GENERAL QUESTIONS

• HOW DOES UNEQUAL WORK?

  Our technology reduces risk by lowering acceleration and dispersing force upon impact. Unequal’s patented composite is military grade technology adapted for sports offering protection unlike any other sports gear that uses typical plastic and foam.

• ARE UNEQUAL PRODUCTS BULLET PROOF?

  Unequal sports gear is NOT bullet proof. We have taken military grade impact protection and adapted it for sports in lighter and thinner composites.

• DOES THE GEAR GET HOT?

  This depends on several factors such as the weather, sun exposure, amount of time you play and so forth. If the gear is an added layer it can get warmer. Our products are designed with moisture wicking or air-cooling channels to help keep you cool and dry.

• ARE UNEQUAL PRODUCTS CERTIFIED TO THE NOCSAE STANDARD? WHAT ABOUT ASTM CERTIFIED?

  The Unequal heart pads used in our Hart® chest protectors and shirts have been the subject of a peer-reviewed published study by Tufts Medical Center regarding their effectiveness in helping to prevent commotio cordis in sports, as well as issued an FDA claim. Our lacrosse goalie chest protector, player shoulder pads, and pads used in our Pulse shoulder pad shirt are also SEI certified to the NOCSAE Standard as well. They are simply the most accredited lacrosse pads available. NOCSAE does not have a category for supplemental head padding such as our Gyro, Mojo or Dome helmet/cap liner products. All of our Halo headgear comply with FIFA Law 4 and both the Halo 1 & 2 10mm headbands have passed the rigorous ASTM standard F2439-11.

• SO, AM I ALLOWED TO WEAR ANY UNEQUAL HALO HEADGEAR?

  Yes, there is no rule that precludes you from wearing Unequal Halo.

• WILL MY COACH SAY IT'S OKAY?

  Your coach has no reason to say that you can’t wear it. He should be concerned for your protection and be glad that you can wear something that will give you more confidence with greater protection while not inhibiting play.

• DO YOU OFFER DISCOUNTS FOR LARGER GROUPS AND TEAMS?

  For League officials, team coaches, club directors, dealers or similar wishing to discuss a wider program or group discount please contact us at info@unequal.com.

• WHAT IS UNEQUAL’S WARRANTY POLICY?

  All Unequal products carry a one-year Warranty against defects in material and workmanship under normal use. All products come with a 30-day money back guarantee (see). However, some of our head products may easily last 2 years.

• HOW DOES UNEQUAL AFFECT CONCUSSIONS AND HEADACHES?

  We make no guarantees on reducing, preventing, or eliminating concussions and headaches. Please read our warning and disclaimer at the bottom of our website. Compared to helmets without Unequal protection or wearing no protection at all (as in soccer), use of our supplemental head padding and headgear reduces concussion risk. There are a million ways you can get a concussion. We help reduce the risk.

• HAS UNEQUAL CONDUCTED STUDIES TO PROVE HOW PROTECTIVE THE GEAR IS?

  An expert from Tufts Medical center conducted a peer-reviewed study published in the Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine that explored breakthrough results in March of 2016. We have performed typical industry lab “drop tests” as per various standards protocol with and without Unequal supplemental padding, showing a reduction in acceleration generally which predicts a lower risk of concussions.

• CARE INSTRUCTION

  Wash as needed. For our helmet and hat inserts and Halos, please hand wash cold and air dry or lay flat to dry. However, garment gear can be machine washed on delicate/cold. Do not machine dry, instead lay flat to dry. Pads are sewn in.

SIZING

*Each product has an individual sizing chart. Please see each product’s detail page for sizing information.

HART PRODUCTS

• HOW MUCH OF A DIFFERENCE IS THERE IN UNEQUAL’S CHEST PROTECTION VS. OTHERS?

  This is a difference you can feel. We use multiple layers of proprietary materials that absorb and disperse dangerous impact energy differently and better than virtually all other chest protectors. When you take your first hit or a line drive strikes, you will notice the difference!

• WHAT DOES HART STAND FOR?

  HART stands for High Acceleration Reduction Technology and also is a different way we spell heart. Acceleration occurs when the head moves in the opposite direction or stops moving in a certain direction due to sports impact. Lab tests show we reduce acceleration upon impact. Our products work somewhat like an airbag, which slows the movement of the head and body into the dashboard. Similarly, our supplemental head padding slows the movement of the head. In a landmark study funded by the National Institute of Health, Virginia Tech indicated that helmets that manage energy better and reduce acceleration, predict a lower risk of concussions. Acceleration is a component in determining the Severity Index measurement of a helmet. Reduce acceleration and you reduce the SI.

• WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE HART SHIRT VS. THE HART PAD?

  The HART Shirt is like any popular moisture wicking T-shirt but has our padding built in. On the other hand, the HART Pad is just the padding itself housed in a comfortable, durable Velcro body wrap to target the necessary areas. So, it is really up to you on which one to buy. The shirt is easier to put on and pull off and is all in one. If the shirt is worn under another shirt it can be a bit warmer. Whereas, the Pad is a piece of gear that can be worn over or under any t-shirt or jersey. It can be shared with others going in and out of the game. The Pad covers the appropriate area only and can be a tad cooler.

• IF I AM LEFT HANDED, IS THE HART SHIRT OR HART PAD BETTER THAN ANOTHER?

  From customer feedback, we’ve heard left handed pitchers prefer the Hart Shirt as it does not have a strap over the left shoulder. But each person is different.

• THE HART GEAR LOOKS LOPSIDED. WHY ISN’T IT CENTERED?

  The pads have been strategically placed based on medical input, so that the heart and surrounding area have proper coverage. The heart is located to your left of the sternum and so is our padding.

• HOW HEAVY IS THE HART SHIRT?

  It only weighs between 10 to 12 oz. Considering how protective this technology is with 10mm pads, it is incredibly light.

• CAN I WEAR THIS GEAR UNDER MY NORMAL CHEST PROTECTOR OR JERSEY?

  Yes, you can wear this under anything and we recommend it.

• IS THE HART PAD EASY TO PUT ON?

  Very easy. It is like a sling or harness that you put over your left shoulder. Just follow the tips when you receive your HART Pad.

• WILL YOU BE GETTING A LARGE SIZE IN THE HART LAX GOALIE AND CATCHER CHEST PROTECTORS SOON?

  We anticipate adding a large size for the HART Lax Goalie in 2021.

COMMOTIO CORDIS DETAILS

• WHAT IS IT?

  It’s like a concussion of the heart, but can be fatal a high percentage of the time. When a ball, stick, bat or hand strikes the chest at just the wrong time in the heart’s rhythm it can stop the heart and breathing almost instantly. So a line drive to a pitcher’s chest, a foul tip that hits a catcher’s chest, a lacrosse ball that strikes a goalie’s or field player’s chest, a soccer ball to the chest, even a hand that strikes the chest in karate or MMA -- all these are examples of what can cause commotio cordis.

• WHAT SPORT IS MOST VULNERABLE TO SEEING A COMMOTIO CORDIS INCIDENT?

  Baseball and lacrosse are the two most prevalent sports. But instances also can occur in hockey, soccer, and martial arts.

• WHAT AGE IS AFFECTED MOST BY COMMOTIO CORDIS?

  Generally, between ages of 10 and 18.

• DOES UNEQUAL PREVENT COMMOTIO CORDIS?

  Nothing prevents commotio cordis outright. An “off-label” discovery has been made that shows our HART chest protector technology can be effective in reducing the risk of commotio cordis, and we are seeking FDA approval for that application. An expert from Tufts Medical center conducted a peer-reviewed study published in the Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine that explored breakthrough results that make us unique in the world of chest protection.

INSOLES

• WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO INSOLE MODELS?

  STABILITY INSOLES

  They offer a firmer feel and an orthotic like deep heel cup. These are for feet that suffer a bit more and need stability and support for sure. Great for flat feet or high arches.

  CUSHIONING INSOLES

  These have a more comfort feel yet they do have a nice heel cup and metatarsal support. Great for standing or walking for long periods and high impact sports.

• HOW DO YOU INSTALL THE INSOLES?

  It’s so easy! Simply remove the existing insert in your shoe. Your previous insole either comes right out or is glued in. If glued in, make sure you are fine no longer being able to use that insert.

• CAN I TRIM THE INSOLES?

  Depends on the sizing – in most shoes they will go right in. If you have to trim, trim the front toe area. The easiest way to trim the right amount is to line up the heels of the Unequal insole and your old insert you have removed. Then trace the old insert outline at the toe end. Try not to cut the Unequal heel at all.

• DO UNEQUAL INSOLES GO ON TOP OF THE INSERTS THAT ARE ALREADY IN MY SHOE?

  No. Remove the existing insert first.

• HOW DO I TAKE THE INSERTS IN MY SHOES OUT CURRENTLY? THEY ARE GLUED IN.

  Using your fingers work underneath the edge near the heel and gently pry the insert away from the glued surface. It will come out, some easier than others.

• DO THEY CHANGE THE FIT OF MY SHOE?

  Generally, they won’t. But they could. They are ultra-thin and mimic the thickness of your existing insert, yet are loaded with protective comfort technology.

• HOW HEAVY ARE THE INSOLES?

  Each insole weighs less than 2oz.

• DOES USING THE UNEQUAL INSOLES MAKE A NOTICEABLE DIFFERENCE?

  Significant. Our coated aramid fabric blocks significant shock, unique to our product alone. Between that and tons of Spenco technology built-in, you’ll never buy another brand of insole again.

• WHO MAKES THE INSOLES?

  They are manufactured by Spenco.

• WHY ARE THEY BETTER THAN OTHER INSOLES?

  Both insoles seriously reduce impact shock from 19% to 24% better than the insoles that came with your athletic shoes.

GYRO

• DOES THE GYRO HELP WITH CONCUSSIONS?

  Yes, the Gyro reduces risk of a concussion. Of course no product prevents or eliminates concussion risk. Read our disclaimer at the website for further clarity.

• WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO GYROS?

  Our latest Gyro has an added comfort layer and a slightly softer foam for a more comfortable fit. The classic Gyro is slightly thinner and has a firmer feel and comes in 2 sizes.

• DOES INSTALLING A GYRO VIOLATE MY HELMET’S WARRANTY?

  No. Because our product does not adhere or attach to the inside of the helmet we are not changing the physical makeup of the helmet. We also offer a warranty and liability policy as a secondary option to parents and coaches.

• WHAT IS THE UNEQUAL HELMET LIABILITY POLICY?

  In the event that a football helmet is properly retrofitted with our products, and this causes a manufacturer’s helmet warranty to be declared void by the manufacturer, then Unequal will assume the obligations of the manufacturer’s warranty and will maintain that warranty in full force and effect for the term of said warranty provided: (i) strict compliance with both helmet manufacturers’ warnings and product warnings; (ii) there has been normal use, care and maintenance of the helmet in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, specifications and recommendations.

• IS THE GYRO JUST FOR FOOTBALL?

  We recommend Gyro for football helmets but it works for any full-face helmet such as found for motorcycles, car racing or downhill ski racing. Also, be sure to read and follow our instructions on how the helmet should fit with the Gyro inserted. Sometimes releasing some air from the air bladder or going to a bigger sized helmet may be necessary; it is important the helmet fit as per helmet manufacturer guidelines and your coaching staff.

• HOW DO I INSTALL THE GYRO IN MY HELMET?

  The Gyro just drops in a helmet. We like to say, just Place N Play. The Gyro just drops in a helmet with the black side against the head. The green side faces the helmet padding. The round tab is placed against the forehead area of the helmet. The classic Gyro has the green ‘waffle’ side toward the head.

• DOES THE GYRO ATTACH TO MY HELMET?

  No. You can tape or attach it but we do not recommend it and believe it’s not necessary.

• DOES THE GYRO FALL OUT OF MY HELMET?

  It can fall out but rarely. It conforms to the shape of your head and your helmet like a glove and once you are used to it, you put it on and off like it was nothing and it is always there. If you remove your helmet, just carry it upside down until you want to put it back on. If need be, adjust it a bit before putting on your helmet so the forehead tab is always in place right at the forehead area just within the helmet.

• CAN I TRIM THE GYRO?

  The Gyro is designed to fit all helmets with no need of trimming. However, it can be trimmed if need be. Just use a sharp pair of scissors.

• DOES THE GYRO FIT INTO ANY HELMET?

  The Gyro will work in virtually any football helmet. If your helmet is too tight after you have placed it and gotten used to it, consider letting a bit of air out of the air bladder or you can go to the next helmet size up.

• HOW HEAVY IS THE GYRO?

  The new Gyro is less than 3oz. and the classic Gyro is less than 4 oz.

DOME

• IS THE DOME JUST USED FOR BASEBALL?

  The Dome is designed for soft cotton baseball caps. It also can be used in work environments where there is risk of bumping your head. One size fits all.

• HOW DO I INSTALL THE DOME IN MY BASEBALL CAP?

  It comes with fit tips and easy instructions. Basically you just drop it in or press it into the cap and tuck the edges underneath the rim. If there is some excess, you can use a magic marker to draw a line where you want to trim that excess away with a sharp pair of scissors.

• DOES THE DOME FIT IN EVERY BASEBALL CAP?

  Just about. Sometimes you may have to go up a couple sizes… but the protection is worth it!

• DOES THE DOME ATTACH? DOES IT FALL OUT THEN?

  No, it is designed to stay in once it is placed.

SOLO

• WHAT HELMETS AND SPORTS IS THE SOLO USED FOR?

  Lacrosse, baseball, action and some hockey helmets.

• HOW DO I INSTALL THE SOLO INTO MY HELMET?

  The Solo comes with fit tips and easy to follow installation guidance. Basically it just drops in your helmet with the green waffle like side against the head. The round tab is placed against the forehead area of the helmet. We like to say just Place N Play. If you have to trim any excess just use a sharp pair of scissors, draw with a marker the line you want to follow when you trim it, then remove it and trim it… and you are good to go.

• DOES THE SOLO FIT IN EVERY HELMET?

  The Solo will work in many helmets. Lacrosse, baseball, action and some hockey helmets. If your helmet is too tight after you have placed it, you may want to go to the next helmet size up.

• DOES THE SOLO ATTACH? DOES IT FALL OUT THEN?

  No. It can fall out, but rarely. It conforms to the shape of your head and your helmet like a glove. Once you are used to it, you can put it on and off like it’s nothing. If you remove your helmet, just carry it upside down until you want to put it back on. If need be, adjust it a bit before putting on your helmet so the forehead tab is always in place right at the forehead area just within the helmet.

• CAN I TRIM THE SOLO?

  Sure, as needed. If you have to trim any excess just use a sharp pair of scissors, draw with a marker the line you want to follow when you trim it, then remove it, trim it… and you are good to go.

UNCAP

• IS THE UNCAP JUST USED FOR BASEBALL?

  The Uncap is designed for soft cotton baseball caps for catchers, pitchers, first base coaches, etc.

• HOW DO I INSTALL THE UNCAP INTO MY HAT?

  It just drops into your hat.

• DOES THE UNCAP FIT IN EVERY HAT?

  Virtually any hat.

• DOES THE UNCAP ATTACH? DOES IT FALL OUT THEN?

  No it does not attach. And it rarely falls out.

• DOES THE UNCAP CHANGE THE FIT OF MY HAT?

  It can, we suggest you go up one or two sizes.

• HOW MUCH DOES THE UNCAP WEIGH?

  Less than 6 oz.

HALO

• WHAT DOES 6MM OR 10MM REFER TO?

  This is thickness, not height on the forehead. So the 6mm is thinner than the 10mm.

• WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE 6MM AND 10MM HALOS?

  The 6mm Halo is recommended for athletes who want more protection when they play. The 10mm Halo is recommended for athletes who have experienced concussions or are concussion prone. Both are FIFA Law 4 approved and the same width. The 10mm is thicker than the 6mm and is also certified to ASTM F2439-11.

• HOW IS THE HALO WITH NO VELCRO (HALO 3) DIFFERENT THAN THE HALO 6MM AND HALO 10MM? THE NEW HALO IS JUST LIKE A HEADBAND, JUST SLIPS ON, HAS A SLIGHTLY SOFTER FEEL, MOLDS TO THE CONTOURS OF YOUR HEAD, AND HAS A SLIGHT AMOUNT OF ELASTICITY. IS THERE A RIGHT WAY TO WEAR EACH HALO?

  For proper protection, Halo should be positioned squarely on your forehead, above your eyebrows and below your hairline. Just make sure the writing in the back is right side up and any product with Velcro closure has that in the back. The Halo 2 is worn with the green logo on the left side of the head with Velcro in the back.

• WHAT ABOUT MY PONY TAIL? I HAVE A LOT OF HAIR. WILL IT STILL FIT?

  Work with your hair to adjust the placement of each Halo to accommodate your hair. The key is that it covers the outer circumference of your head starting at the hairline/crown area of your forehead and at a slight angle circling to the rear of your head just above your ears. Our Halos have been designed with sizes that recognize virtually all sized heads.

• DO YOU HAVE MY SCHOOL COLOR IN A HALO?

  We only have the colors seen on our site. If you are interested in customizing your Halo, please write us at info@unequal.com with what you are seeking and someone will get back to you with what is possible.

GARMENTS

• WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE INVINCIBLE SHIRT AND THE COBALT SHIRT?

  INVINCIBLE IS MADE SPECIFICALLY FOR FOOTBALL. COBALT IS DESIGNED FOR LACROSSE, HOCKEY, AND ALSO WORKS FOR FOOTBALL. BOTH MODELS HAVE RIB AND CLAVICLE PROTECTION, BUT ONLY COBALT HAS CHEST AND SPINE PROTECTION AS WELL. COBALT IS SLIGHTLY HEAVIER THAN THE INVINCIBLE SHIRT, BY ABOUT A POUND.

  WHAT DOES INVISIBLE SPECIFICALLY PROTECT?

  Wraparound rib guards fit just below the shoulder pads to keep your mid-torso protected from the big hits. Shoulder/clavicle protection helps reduce risk of shoulder injury.

• WHAT DOES COBALT PROTECT?

  Ribs, chest, shoulders, spine.

• WHAT DOES VIPER PROTECT?

  Hips, thighs, tailbone.

• WHAT DOES THE UNEQUAL PLAYER TOP PROTECT?

  Chest, ribs, shoulder, spine.

• WHAT DOES THE UNEQUAL GOALIE TOP PROTECT?

  Chest, ribs, shoulder.

• WHAT DOES THE NECK GUARD PROTECT?

  The throat and neck area.

• WHAT ARE THE MEASUREMENTS OF THE WRIST GUARD?

  The wrist guard is 5” long and 3” wide.

• WHERE DOES THE ELBOW GUARD COVER?

  The elbow guard features a segmented pad, designed to protect players in batting stance. The guard covers extend just beyond the elbow for increased protection.