Abstract: Hand protection systems for use with batting gloves having a back surface which is adapted to fit over the metacarpal portion of the wearer's hand for protecting the hand. The components of the protective system can be releasibly connected to the glove while in place on the wearer's hand. The system involves a cushioning pad which is releasibly connected at its underside to the back surface of the glove so that it is held firmly in place on the glove while at the same time it being readily withdrawn from the glove. A rigid plate member is releasibly secured to the outer side of the cushioning pad so that a sharp blow to the outer surface of the plate member is distributed to a substantial surface area of the pad. The plate member has at least one transversely extending rib eccentrically positioned on the plate member along its longitudinal dimension. A second rib may be spaced from and generally co-extend with the first rib member.

Abstract: A football shoulder pad assembly is provided with an improved helmet support and restrictor to minimize rearward hyperextension and whiplash-type head movement. The support and movement restrictor comprises a compression molded plastic support plate having opposed wing portions which are secured to the back plates of the shoulder pad assembly and an upward extending cantilever portion of the support plate having a side-to-side curvature to form a concave surface for engagement with the lower rear portion of the helmet. The cantilever portion is curved rearwardly away from the player's head and neck to minimize interference with normal movement of his head. The cantilever portion may flex during use to absorb impact-type hyperextension and whiplash forces.