Abstract: Disclosed herein is a protective device for the head which is particularly adapted for use in learning the art of self-defense and for training in the martial arts. The device is comprised of an inner transparent shell and a pair of flexible sheets of transparent material secured and disposed about the inner shell forming a transparent inflatable shock absorbing air chamber about the inner shell. When used in the martial arts, a plurality of pressure activated switches are provided in the inner shell at locations corresponding to vital target areas. When one of the switches is struck by a blow of sufficient force and at a given angle, the switch is closed and a light source carried by the shell is illuminated.