7 Best Football Helmet: Buying Guide 2023

Are you a fan of the NFL? Do you love watching football games on Sundays (or Thursdays, or Mondays)? If so, you know that one of the most important pieces of equipment for any player is their helmet.

In a Hurry? Check Out Our Top Recommendations
Riddell Victor Youth Helmet
Schutt Sports F7 LX1 Youth Football Helmet
NCAA Speed Mini Helmet

But which is the best football helmet? And which one is right for you? Read on to find out!​

There are a lot of different football helmets on the market these days, and it can be tough to figure out which one is right for you.

In this post, we’ll take a look at seven of the best football helmets available in 2023.

We’ll discuss each helmet’s features and provide our thoughts on which ones are worth buying.

So whether you’re looking for a new helmet for yourself or your child, this post is for you!

Best Football Helmet: Top 3 choices Compared

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Best Football Helmet for Concussion Protection

Riddell NFL New England Patriots Full Size Replica Football Helmet

The Riddell NFL New England Patriots Helmet is a great option for those who are looking for a safe and reliable helmet.

This helmet is made of high-impact polycarbonate and features a steel faceguard.

It also has padding on the inside to help protect your head from impact. With an adjustable strap, this helmet will stay in place even during the most intense games.

Designed with safety and comfort in mind, this helmet is officially licensed by the NFL and comes in one size.

It’s also reasonably priced, making it a great option for those on a budget.

Pros

• Made of high-impact polycarbonate
• Steel faceguard for added protection
• Padding on the inside for extra comfort
• Adjustable strap to keep the helmet in place

Cons

• It may be too small for some users

Schutt Sports F7 LX1 Youth Football Helmet

The Schutt F7 LX1 is a high-quality option that’s been designed to offer great protection and comfort.

It features an advanced TPU cushioning system and a shock-absorbing liner that work together to reduce impact and protect your head.

The helmet also has a large, clear front that provides excellent visibility, and it comes in a variety of colors to match your team’s uniform.

With comfort in mind, the chinstrap is made from soft, comfortable fabric, and the helmet is ventilated to keep you cool.

The Schutt LX1 is a great choice for players who are looking for a high-quality, protective option.

Pros

• TPU cushioning system reduces the impact
• Shock-absorbing inflatable liner protects your head
• Available in various colors
• Chinstrap is made from soft, comfortable fabric
• The helmet is ventilated to keep you cool
• Lightweight

Cons

• No face mask included

Best Football Helmet for Wide Receivers

Schutt F7 VTD Collegiate Football Helmet

If you are a wide receiver, then you know that speed is key. The F7 VTD helmet from Schutt is designed specifically for receivers, and its sleek design means that it won’t slow you down.

This helmet also features Schutt’s exclusive VN-webbing technology, which provides superior impact protection.

This helmet is designed to be lightweight and comfortable, while still providing the protection you need. The Schutt F7 also features a quick-release chin strap, making it easy to take on and off.

It is available in a variety of colors, so you can easily find the perfect fit for your game.

Pros

• Designed specifically for receivers
• Lightweight and comfortable
• Features quick-release chin strap
• Available in a variety of colors

Cons

• More expensive than other brands on the market

Best Football Helmet for Running Back

Schutt Football-Helmets Vengeance A9 Youth Football Helmet

The Schutz A9 Helmet is a great choice for running backs. It features a durable cushioning shell and a comfortable, adjustable chin strap.

The helmet also has an airliner system that helps to protect your head from impact.

With extra absorption features to help on impact and collisions, safety is front and center with this sleek helmet.

Designed for youth players, it weighs 2.6 pounds and comes in youth sizes-small, medium, and large. 

Pros

• Durable ABS shell
• Comfortable, adjustable chin strap
• Airliner system for added protection
• Sleek, streamlined design, made of a lightweight carbon composite material

Cons

• A little heavier than other helmets on the market

Best Football Helmet for Safety

Schutt Sports Varsity AiR XP Pro VTD II Football Helmet

The Schutt Sports Varsity AiR XP Pro VTD II Football Helmet is one of the safest helmets on the market.

It features a durable, ABS plastic shell and an inflatable liner that conforms to your head for a custom fit.

The helmet also has a large front that provides excellent protection, and it comes in a variety of colors to match your team’s uniform.

Comfortable and lightweight, the Schutt Varsity AiR XP Pro is a great choice for players who are looking for a safe, protective option.

Pros

• Durable ABS plastic shell
• Inflatable liner for a custom fit
• Large front for added protection
• Available in various colors
• Lightweight and comfortable

Cons

• A faceguard is not included

Best Adult Football Helmet

Schutt F7 VTD Adult Football Helmet with Facemask

The Schutt F7 VTD Adult Football Helmet with Facemask is a great choice for adult players. It features a facemask that is made of high-quality material and provides excellent protection.

The helmet also has a sleek design ensuring its ever-growing popularity.

With a comfortable adjustable chin strap and an absorption inner liner that protects against all kinds of impacts, the Schutt F7 VTD helmet is perfect for those who want both style and function. It also has a quick-release feature that allows you to take it off quickly and easily.

The helmet comes in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your team’s colors.

Pros

• Sleek design
• Adjustable chin strap
• Inflatable inner liner for increased safety
• Available in various colors

Cons

• Might be too small for some head sizes

NCAA Speed Mini Helmet – Best for Value 

The NCAA Speed helmet is a great option for those who are looking for a high-quality helmet at a reasonable price.

It features a tough ABS plastic shell, a comfort foam padding system, and a chin strap that is adjustable for a custom fit.

This helmet also meets NOCSAE standards, making it a safe choice for football players of all ages.

Additionally, the helmet has an inflatable liner that can be adjusted to provide a custom fit.

This feature is especially helpful for those who have a difficult time finding a comfortable fit with other helmets.

Pros

• Comfort foam helps disperse impact energy
• Inflatable liner for a custom fit
• Comfortable to wear
• Good value for the price
• Keeps head cool and dry

Cons

• The helmet doesn’t include a facemask

Best College Football Helmet

Schutt Sports Recruit Hybrid Youth Football Helmet

The Schutt Sports Recruit Hybrid Youth Football Helmet is designed to protect young football players ages 9 to 12 years old.

This football helmet features a hybrid shell construction with an energy-dispersing liner that absorbs impact and protects the head from injury.

The Recruit Hybrid also has a moisture-wicking liner that keeps the head cool and dry during play.

Additionally, this helmet features an adjustable jaw pad system that provides a custom fit for each player.

Pros

• Hybrid shell construction protects the head from impact
• Energy-dispersing liner absorbs shock and protects the head
• The moisture-wicking liner keeps the head cool and dry during play
• The adjustable jaw pad system provides a custom fit

Cons

• Size restrictions mean it may be too small for some players

Best Youth Football Helmet

Riddell Victor Youth Helmet

The Riddell youth football helmet is a sleek and stylish helmet that is perfect for young players. It features a large, comfortable fit with an adjustable backplate to ensure a snug and secure fit.

The helmet also has an extended jaw line for added protection and comes in a variety of colors to match your team’s colors.

With TPU cushioning, the Riddell youth football helmet is sure to provide your young player with the protection they need on the field.

Pros

• Sleek and stylish design
• Large, comfortable fit
• Adjustable backplate
• Extended jaw line for added protection
• TPU cushioning for added protection

Cons

• Available in just one size

Schutt NCAA Mini Authentic XP Football Helmet

If you’re looking for a youth football helmet that is both safe and stylish, the Schutt NCAA is a great option.

It features an advanced impact absorption system that reduces the risk of concussion and other serious injuries.

With a quick and easy twist release system, the Schutt Vengeance A3 youth football helmet is easy to put on and take off.

With a sleek design with a glossy finish, it comes in a variety of colors and sizes to fit most youth players.

The Schutt A3 youth football helmet is available in sizes small, medium, and large.

Pros

• An advanced impact absorption system reduces the risk of concussion and other serious injuries
• Sleek design with a glossy finish
• Available in sizes small, medium, and large
• Lightweight

Cons

• No facemask included

Football Helmet: Buying Guide

There is no question that football is a dangerous sport. Every year, players suffer concussions and other serious injuries while playing the game. That’s why it’s so important for players to wear the right kind of football helmet.

But with so many different kinds of football helmets on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best football helmet for your needs.

Parts of Football Helmet

1. Face Mask

The face mask is the most important part of the football helmet. It’s the part of the helmet that protects your face from injuries. There are different kinds of face masks, so you’ll need to choose one that’s right for you.

2. Chinstrap

The chinstrap is another important part of the football helmet. It’s what keeps the helmet securely on your head. Make sure the chinstrap is adjustable so you can get a snug, comfortable fit.

3. Faceguard

The faceguard is a clear plastic piece that attaches to the face mask. It’s designed to protect your eyes from flying debris and other dangers on the field.

4. Shell

The shell is the outer part of the football helmet. It’s usually made from a hard plastic material. The shell should be tough enough to withstand impacts without breaking.

5. Padding

The padding inside the football helmet is there for comfort and protection. Make sure the padding is thick enough to cushion your head in the event of a collision.

6. Ventilation

Ventilation is important in a football helmet because it helps keep your head cool. Look for a helmet with plenty of vents or holes to allow air to circulate.

7. Visor

A visor is a clear plastic piece that attaches to the front of the helmet. It’s designed to protect your eyes from the sun and other bright lights.

Right Size and Fit

It’s important to choose a football helmet that’s the right size and fit for you. Otherwise, it won’t offer the protection you need.

To find the right size, measure your head with a tape measure. Start at the center of your forehead and wrap the tape around your head just above your ears. Make sure the tape is level all the way around.

Once you have your measurement, consult a size chart to find the right size helmet for you.

As for fit, the football helmet should be snug but not too tight. It should sit level on your head, and the face mask should line up with your eyes. The chinstrap should be tight enough that you can’t pull the helmet off your head with it.

If your helmet is too loose, it won’t offer the protection you need. If it’s too tight, it will be uncomfortable to wear.

Choose the Facemask

The facemask is an important part of the football helmet, so it’s important to choose one that’s right for you.

There are three main types of facemasks:

1. Single-Bar Facemask

A single-bar facemask is the simplest and most common type of facemask. It’s made from a single piece of metal or plastic that runs across the front of the helmet.

2. Two-Bar Facemask

A two-bar facemask is similar to a single-bar facemask, but it has two bars instead of one. The two bars provide more support and protection than a single-bar facemask.

3. Three-Bar Facemask

A three-bar facemask is the strongest and most protective type of facemask. It has three bars that run across the front of the helmet. The three bars provide added support and protection, making them ideal for players who are at a higher risk for injuries.

Youth vs Adult

There are two main types of football helmets: youth and adult. Youth helmets are designed for players under the age of 18. They’re smaller in size and weight, and they have different facemasks to accommodate the needs of young players.

Adult helmets are designed for players over the age of 18. They’re larger in size and weight, and they have different facemasks to accommodate the needs of adult players.

When choosing a football helmet, it’s important to choose one that’s designed for your age group. Youth helmets won’t offer the same level of protection as adult helmets, and vice versa.

Related Article: Are you looking for additional football gear? Then you should read our in-depth review of the best football gloves on the market too!

Other Features

When shopping for a football helmet, there are a few features you’ll want to keep in mind.

1. Safety Rating

The most important thing to look for in a football helmet is a safety rating. The two main safety ratings are the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).

A football helmet with a NOCSAE stamp of approval has been tested and shown to reduce the risk of concussions. The ASTM rating is similar but also takes into account other factors such as face protection and impact absorption.

2. Weight

The weight of the football helmet is also important. A heavier helmet will offer more protection in the event of a collision. But a lighter helmet will be more comfortable to wear, so it’s a trade-off.

3. Cost

Of course, the cost is also a factor to consider. Football helmets can range in price from around $50 to $500. The more expensive helmets tend to be made with higher-quality materials and offer more features.

4. Warranty

Finally, make sure the football helmet you choose comes with a warranty. This will protect you in case the helmet is defective or doesn’t meet your expectations.

Football Helmet FAQ

Who Makes the Safest Football Helmet?

There is no definitive answer to this question as different manufacturers approach safety in different ways. Some manufacturers focus on creating helmets that are able to withstand more impact, while others focus on designing helmets that will help reduce the risk of concussion.

What Helmet Do Most NFL Players Wear?

The most popular football helmet among NFL players is the Riddell Speedflex. This helmet is known for its comfort and its ability to reduce the risk of concussion. It also has a sleek design that many players prefer.

What Is the Best Football Helmet?

The best football helmet is the one that best meets your individual needs. If you are looking for a helmet that is comfortable and can help reduce the risk of concussion, the Riddell Speedflex is a good option. If you are looking for a helmet that offers more protection from impact, the Schutz F7 is a good choice.

What Helmet Does Tom Brady Use?

Tom Brady uses a Riddell Speedflex helmet. This helmet is known for its comfort and ability to reduce the amount of force that is transferred to the head in the event of a collision. It is also equipped with a facemask that is designed to protect the face from impact.

Conclusion

When choosing the best football helmet in 2023, it’s important to consider the safety ratings, the weight, the cost, and the warranty. You’ll also want to choose a helmet that’s designed for your age group.

And make sure the helmet you choose fits well and is comfortable to wear.

The Riddell Speedflex and the Schutt F7 are two of the best football helmets on the market. They both offer great protection and are comfortable to wear.

Luckily, what you have is a choice. However, this can make choosing difficult.

Hopefully, our buying guide has helped you narrow down your choices and find the best football helmet for your needs.