The JOFA 235 51

If the credit of JOFA's popularity was given to one person, it is "The Great One", Wayne Gretzky. He wore a JOFA 235 helmet, an evolution of Jonsson's original VM helmet, throughout his entire career. This helmet did not provide nearly as much protection as the JOFA 366/390 helmets, but it definitely stood out in the same way on the ice; as a symbol of a high-scoring hockey machine.

Here's another look at the JOFA 235, this helmet signed by The Great One himself. Below shows the inside of a JOFA 235 used by Gretzky during his years with the Edmonton Oilers.  The original JOFA 235's had minimal padding, similar to that of the original JOFA VM helmet; it was not until later that JOFA used their trademark dual density, heat molded, foam padding.

Surprisingly enough, Gretzky did not receive any notable head injuries during his career regardless of his flimsy head gear. This helmet has no known HECC or CSA certification, and it is no surprise.  

Gretzky was not the only one to wear this helmet, it was very popular amongst players throughout the 1980's.  His star right wing, Jari Kurri, also sported the JOFA 235; except Kurri wore a visor, possibly influencing Selanne in his style of head gear later on. On the right is a rare photo of young Selanne playing for Team Finland; wearing a JOFA 235 just like his senior, Kurri, although Selanne is instead wearing what seems to be a JOFA 995 visor.

Gretzky and Kurri are possibly the the most dominant scoring force in NHL history.  The scoring records they created during their play with the Edmonton Oilers may never be surpassed.  So here's to the JOFA 235, the helmet that protected some of the greatest hockey minds to ever play the game.