Why we are different
At Hedkayse, we believe in redefining head protection. While our headguards might seem like just a piece of gear, they pack a punch with advanced Enkayse® technology and design.
We innovate, using science and technology to develop world-leading protective materials. We educate, by working with globally-renowned experts in concussion recognition, prevention and recovery. Our core fundamentals are to protect the long term future of Rugby and its players.
Why choose the R5?
We firmly believe that the R5 is the best headguard available. It is the only headguard featuring world-leading Enkayse® technology, providing full head coverage for unparalleled performance. In addition to this, the R5 boasts several practical design features and offers the most customisation options on the market.
Max Lahiff - Bristol Bears
"The brain's our most precious commodity. Hedkayse's commitment to concussion education can help ensure players and this glorious game have a long and healthy future."
Trusted by
Last Chance to Buy!! Youth/Junior Hedkayse Headguard R5
World Rugby approved, new generation of headguards for rugby union
The only Headguard that offers all-round coverage.
Same slimline fit as regular headguards.
Utilises our proprietary Enkayse® technology
Zero reduction in hearing and excellent ventilation
Machine washable - Easy clean antimicrobial fabric
Specifically designed for the youth market - Adult headguards available
The Hedkayse R5 Headguard has been certified to World Rugby Regulation 12
Member of British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF)
THE SCIENCE
Powered by Enkayse®
At the core of everything that Hedkayse does is the material Enkayse®.
Enkayse® is a market leading performance foam used in head and body protection that exceeds safety standards for head protection across temperature extremes.
Something for everyone
Players
Players strive to be the best they can. Those 1% improvements come in the form of training techniques, coaching, nutrition, hydration, recovery and equipment.
Education allows for informed decision making, and improvements. Learning the benefits, and limitations of a headguard can help a player learn what is right for them. An effective headguard may help a player feel more confident and play with improved technique and improved safety.
Whilst we believe rugby should be an evasion game, contact remains a fundamental part of the sport. No headguard can claim to prevent concussion. A headguard is not the solution to head injury concerns, but it can be part of the solution.
Coaches
Firstly, thank you. Grass root coaches are the lifeline of our sport and, quite simply, without you there is no sport.
You are coaches, teachers and motivators. You share your passion, enthusiasm and love of our game, helping to create the future of our sport and the unrivalled sense of community and camaraderie that is unique to rugby.
The overwhelming issue for coaches is, of course, player welfare and prevention of injury. This links closely with the second main issue which is player availability. The fewer injured players, means more players available for selection.
Player development, building skill sets, keeping players engaged and motivated are all essential, yet player welfare is the key issue.
A survey conducted by the British College of Osteopathic Medicine (March-April 2023) asked 131 coaches whether they would recommend a headguard which is shown to mitigate against potential brain injuries. 92% said yes!
No headguard can claim to prevent concussion. A headguard is not the solution to head injury concerns, but it can be part of the solution… and part of the solution to improve player welfare and availability.
Parents
Being a rugby parent is a tough job.
The inevitable ‘mum/dad taxi service’ for training nights, weekends and games; you have to remember all the times, locations and details, you motivate, encourage and console, all whilst trying to stay warm pitch side in the winter!
Perhaps the hardest element though is to watch your loved ones play a physical contact sport and try not to neither worry about injuries nor be swayed by the sensationalist media reports about how ‘dangerous’ rugby is!
Injuries are part of every sport and anything that can be done to mitigate them should be applauded.
A recent survey by the British College of Osteopathic Medicine revealed that 79% of parents are concerned about potential brain injuries to their children and that 36% believed that traditional scrum caps offer some form of protection. (They don’t).
Not all headguards are the same and education is the key to allow an informed decision. No headguard can claim to prevent concussion. A headguard is not the solution to head injury concerns, but it can be part of the solution…and part of the solution to ensure very best experience for young players.
Get your custom colours
When you order for your club or school you can choose your design. Minimum order quantity applies.
International distribution
We have distributors in key rugby playing nations. Please get in touch with them for all of your headguard needs - individual, club or school.
If you don't see your country, not to worry, we ship globally.
The unparalled R5 Rugby Headguard
Learn more about our Innovate | Educate | Protect approach to headguards through our audio and visual presentations.
FAQs
What makes the Hedkayse rugby headguard different from traditional scrum caps?
It’s built with Enkayse®, a smart foam that responds to your body heat, shapes to your head, and handles knocks without losing its structure—even after repeated use.
Is this approved for match play?
Yes, our R5 rugby headguard is World Rugby approved.
Can it handle more than one hit?
For sure. This headguard is designed for repeat performance. It doesn’t flatten or degrade after contact, so it stays game-ready session after session.