Quote Originally Posted by Sparrow
Quote Originally Posted by Matroskin Kot
...I'm not sure I would call a helmet 'headwear'.
Why would you not call a helmet "headwear"? You are wearing it on your head, don't you?
I think either is acceptable. My personal preference would be "headgear" or "protective headgear", but you will definitely see and hear "protective headwear" as well.

To me, "gear" just seems more businesslike and functional, but that is just my opinion.