An important safety feature in professional ice hockey is the presence of protective gear such as helmets, face shields, and padded clothing. Players wear these items to minimize the risk of injury from high-speed collisions, falling, or being struck by a puck. The helmets, equipped with full face masks or visors, help protect the head and face from serious injuries. Additionally, players commonly use shoulder pads, elbow pads, and shin guards to further safeguard themselves during intense physical play on the ice.