Is a helmet required in CanSkate, and what standard must it meet?

Yes. Skate Canada's Helmet Use policy says CanSkate and Adult CanSkate participants up to and including Stage 5 must wear a CSA-approved hockey helmet while on the ice.

Clubs and skating schools must enforce the policy at all skating activities, including competitions, carnival days and other special on-ice events during the season. Anyone in a sled must also wear a helmet, and only Skate Canada can grant a written exception.