The only worry with a hockey helmet and cage is that it makes them less situationally aware and possibly more of a risk to others. That is not based on anything other than a gut feeling, so I can't back it up. The cage would certainly help prevent facial abraisons though. So I guess it depends on where and circumstances of the situation.
Helmet for anything with an element of open air, speed and other participants though. Your kid sliding down a hill by themself with no one else around and no trees? Fine, do your thing. Extremely busy hill with a lot of selfish pricks who are out of control? Helmet. Always helmet.
Heard enough stories from EMS friends who won't let their kids slide without helmets. That's enough for me. Is it logically defensible? Grey area. Do I care? Nope!
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