An improved design for a helmet to reduce injuries caused by helmet-to-helmet collisions. Certain embodiments include novel quick release features that permit the detachment of a facemask from a helmet in 30 seconds or less so as to attend to an injured player in a rapid fashion. Other aspects relate to impact energy absorbing constructions employing an inner layer, an outer layer spaced apart from the inner padding layer, at least one layer that includes an array of polygonal structures, and at least one layer having a shock-absorbing elastomer, a visco-elastic polymer, an impact dispersing gel, or shape memory material. Still other embodiments include a wireless device with a sensor module coupled to the football helmet generating sensor data in response to an impact to the football helmet.