Brooks Robinson Batting Helmet

[xplainer]

Since I was a kid, I've wondered about the short bill batting helmet, as pictured on his 1975 card. I remember pulling it in 75 as a 12 year old. Back then, there was only one game on a week and never got to see it in action. But, anyone know the story on that style batting helmet?


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[perezfan]

I believe Brooks said he liked it better because it didn’t impede his vision as much as the longer-billed helmets. He saw the pitches better with this goofy helmet. It always annoyed me, but perhaps that’s because of what he did to the Reds in the ‘70 World Series.

[EddieP]

Brooks had a regular bill until the ear flap was made mandatory. He felt with the ear flap, the bill made following pitch difficult.

[JustinD]

I always wondered if they actually made that model or if it was a one-off cut down from the equipment manager. Anyone know if you could really order that?

[Exhibitman]

There are other players with similar. Look at the 1954 Bowman Campaneiia and 1969 Walt Williams for examples.

[ksfarmboy]

Brooks cut them down himself. I track different photos of Brooks and his small bill helmet. So far I’ve got 6 different helmets. There may be more but that’s what I’m up to.