The JOFA 290

Before the JOFA 390 was the JOFA 290.  This design made it's debut sometime during the mid-1980's, being worn mostly by European players during international play.

The JOFA 290 is nearly identical to the JOFA 390. However, the front piece of the helmet differs, and was later re-designed to become what is the JOFA 390.  The ear pieces differ slightly as well; as the JOFA 290 has a much skinnier cross bar.

These pictures show the JOFA 290 (red) next to a JOFA 390.  Notice the difference in the ear pieces.  

Not to be mistaken for the JOFA 298 (which I have previously), the 290's ear pieces are thinner than the 298, the plastic is not as hard, and the forehead padding is reduced to allow better airflow.

Here is the JOFA 290 outfitted with a JOFA 480L cage; just as it sits on my shelf. Both the helmet and cage are new.

Make sure to check out my previous blog if you want to learn more about the players who wore the JOFA 290.

The JOFA 298 Goalie

The JOFA 298 Goalie helmet, worn by Tommy Soderstrom, was specifically made for goalies.  The plastic is much harder than it's near identical player counterpart, the JOFA 290, to increase durability.

A JOFA 278 cage, is attached, replicating Tommy Soderstrom's setup; complete with JOFA dangler placed high on the cage.

Piecing this helmet together was the result of buying two JOFA Goalie 298 helmets online.  The other helmet was yellowed, and missing foam inside, but had the 278 cage.  I took the cage that originally came with this helmet, removed the dangler, and swapped them.

The helmet is extremely comfortable, however, I was told it can get very warm when in use; the vents were later re-designed, which became the JOFA 390.