Football helmets recalled due to head injury risk

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is recalling nearly 6,000 football helmets because the helmets can crack, posing a head injury risk.

This recall involves the Xenith Epic Varsity, X2 Varsity, X2E Varsity and Youth football helmets with a gloss or metallic-painted polycarbonate shell sold or factory-reconditioned between May 1, 2015 and March 18, 2016.

The CPSC recommends football players immediately stop using the recalled helmets. Players, coaches and parents should contact Xenith to receive a free new replacement helmet.

The helmets were sold through team dealers and direct school sales, and at BSN, Buddy's All Stars, Carey's Sporting Goods, End Zone Sports and Sports, Inc. and other stores nationwide and online at Eastbay.com, Footlocker.com, SafetyFirstSports.com, SportsUnlimitedInc.com and Xenith.com from May 2015 through March 2016 for between $140 and $400.

Xenith received 29 reports of cracking helmets, but no injuries were reported, the CPSC says.

The CPSC notes the helmets were sold in multiple sizes depending on the model, and in varying colors and custom-paint designs. They have a facemask and a chin cup, available in different styles and varying colors, and may have an optional eye shield.

The serial number is printed on a white sticker inside the top of the helmet. A complete list of the serial numbers included in this recall is available at www.xenith.com/recall.