In 1800s football, helmets were optional, but injuries were not. 🏈 The first game of American football is said to have taken place on November 6th, 1869, and it bore little resemblance to the sport showcased at the Super Bowl today. Believe It or Not!, before the advent of polycarbonate helmets equipped with face braces, impact indicator chin straps, and air pads, most players wore a simple leather cap and a nose guard…if anything at all! Let’s take a look at some of the vintage football gear i