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10 Best Football Helmets 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Riddell SpeedFlex Youth Helmet, White, Large

The Riddell SpeedFlex Youth Helmet in Large is a well-regarded football helmet designed for teen players, offering robust protection and comfort. One of its key strengths is the patented side impact protection (PSIP) which helps reduce the forces from side impacts, making it a safer choice for young athletes. The helmet's Flex system, which includes flexibility engineered into the shell, face mask, and attachment system, further enhances its ability to manage impact forces, potentially reducing injury risks.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,285
Fit and Size
Padding and Liner

Most important from
766 reviews

Fit and Size
This helmet is built well for safety and fits perfectly in size.
Padding and Liner
A great upgrade from the standard Riddell helmet, offering much better cushioning and a lighter feel.
#2
9.7 score

VICIS ZERO2 Trench Football Helmet, SC-223-S Facemask Attached, White, Large

The VICIS ZERO2 Trench football helmet, designed specifically for linemen, promises enhanced safety through its innovative features aimed at reducing low-velocity impacts. One of its standout features is the deformable outer shell, which absorbs impact forces effectively, providing a high level of protection. The RFLX 2.0 technology further contributes to impact absorption while maintaining a lighter weight, making it less cumbersome for players. Additionally, the helmet has been recognized for its safety, earning a top ranking from both the NFL and NFLPA, and receiving a Virginia Tech 5-Star rating with an impressive score.

Rating
9.7
Fit and Size

Most important from
14 reviews

Fit and Size
The helmet has exceeded expectations, particularly in terms of safety and fit.
#3
8.8 score

VICIS ZERO2 Youth Football Helmet, Molded Gloss White, Large, SO-212 Facemask

The VICIS ZERO2 Youth Football Helmet in Molded Gloss White, Large, with the SO-212 Facemask, is a top-tier choice for young athletes, ranking first among 31 tested helmets with a Virginia Tech 5-star rating. This helmet is designed specifically for youth players, with a focus on the impact velocities they typically experience. The deformable outer shell effectively absorbs impact forces at the point of contact, enhancing safety.

Rating
8.8
Fit and Size
Padding and Liner
Face Mask

Most important from
15 reviews

Fit and Size
Despite the initial setup requiring some effort, the helmet fits perfectly once adjusted.
Padding and Liner
The helmet includes a chin strap and extra pads, enhancing the comfort and fit for young players.
Face Mask
The only drawback is that only a specific Oakley face shield fits the helmet, limiting compatibility with other shields.

Top 10 Best Football Helmets 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

Riddell SpeedFlex Youth Helmet, White, Large

Fit and Size: Large
Padding and Liner: Expanded Polystyrene
Shell Material: Polycarbonate
Face Mask: Yes
Chin Strap: Ratchet-Loc
Certification: Certified for football use

Chosen by 1285 this week

VICIS ZERO2 Youth Football Helmet, Molded Gloss White, Large, SO-212 Facemask

Fit and Size: Large, Youth
Shell Material: Polycarbonate
Face Mask: SO-212 Facemask, Stainless Steel
Certification: Virginia Tech 5-star rating

VICIS ZERO2 Varsity Football Helmet, Molded Gloss White, Medium, SC-223 Facemask

Fit and Size: Medium
Padding and Liner: Polyester
Shell Material: Deformable outer shell
Face Mask: Stainless steel
Certification: Meets certification standards

Schutt Youth F7 LX1 Football Helmet, EGOP NB VC Facemask Attached, X-Large, Black

Fit and Size: X-Large
Padding and Liner: TPU cushioning system
Shell Material: Polycarbonate
Face Mask: Carbon steel facemask
Chin Strap: Reliable chin strap
Ventilation: Adequate ventilation

VICIS ZERO2 Youth Football Helmet, Molded Gloss Black, Medium, SO-212E Facemask

Fit and Size: Medium
Padding and Liner: Keeps helmet secure and cushioned
Shell Material: Polycarbonate
Face Mask: Stainless steel facemask
Chin Strap: Keeps helmet secure
Certification: Virginia Tech 5-Star rating

VICIS ZERO2 Varsity Football Helmet, Molded Gloss White, Large, SO-212E Facemask

Fit and Size: Large
Padding and Liner: EPS Foam
Shell Material: Flexible Outer Shell
Face Mask: Stainless steel facemask
Certification: Top-ranked by NFL, 5-star rating

Schutt Youth Vengeance A11 Football Helmet, VROPO TRAD Facemask Attached, X-Large, White

Fit and Size: X-Large
Padding and Liner: TPU cushioning, non-inflatable liners
Shell Material: Polycarbonate
Face Mask: Carbon steel facemask
Certification: 5-star safety rating, Virginia Tech
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Buying Guide for the Best Football Helmets

Choosing the right football helmet is crucial for ensuring safety and comfort while playing the game. A good helmet can protect you from head injuries and enhance your performance on the field. When selecting a football helmet, it's important to consider several key specifications to find the best fit for your needs. Here are the main specs to look at and how to navigate them.
Fit and SizeThe fit and size of a football helmet are critical for both safety and comfort. A helmet that is too loose can shift during play, reducing its protective capabilities, while one that is too tight can cause discomfort and headaches. Helmets come in various sizes, typically measured in small, medium, large, and extra-large. To find the right size, measure the circumference of your head just above the eyebrows and refer to the manufacturer's sizing chart. The helmet should fit snugly but not be overly tight, and it should sit about an inch above your eyebrows.
Padding and LinerPadding and liner inside the helmet provide cushioning and impact absorption. This is important for reducing the risk of concussions and other head injuries. Helmets can have different types of padding, such as foam or gel, and some may offer adjustable or inflatable pads for a custom fit. When choosing a helmet, consider the type of padding that feels most comfortable and provides the best protection for you. If you have a history of head injuries, you might want to opt for a helmet with more advanced padding technology.
Shell MaterialThe shell of a football helmet is the hard outer layer that protects against impacts. Common materials include polycarbonate and ABS plastic. Polycarbonate shells are generally more durable and offer better protection, making them suitable for higher levels of play. ABS plastic shells are lighter and may be more comfortable for younger or less experienced players. Consider the level of play and the intensity of the game when choosing the shell material. For high school or college football, a polycarbonate shell is often recommended.
Face MaskThe face mask is the metal cage attached to the front of the helmet that protects your face. It is important for preventing facial injuries and can come in various styles and configurations. The choice of face mask depends on your position and personal preference. For example, linemen might prefer a more robust face mask with additional bars for extra protection, while skill position players might opt for a lighter, more open design to improve visibility. Ensure the face mask is securely attached and compatible with the helmet.
Chin StrapThe chin strap helps to secure the helmet in place and provides additional stability. It is important for keeping the helmet from moving during play. Chin straps can come in different styles, such as standard or high-impact, and may have additional padding for comfort. When choosing a chin strap, make sure it is adjustable and fits snugly under your chin without causing discomfort. A properly fitted chin strap will help keep the helmet in place and enhance overall protection.
VentilationVentilation in a football helmet is important for keeping you cool and comfortable during play. Good ventilation helps to reduce sweating and overheating, which can improve focus and performance. Helmets with more vents or strategically placed vents offer better airflow. When selecting a helmet, consider the climate and conditions in which you will be playing. If you play in a hot and humid environment, a helmet with excellent ventilation will be beneficial.
CertificationCertification ensures that the helmet meets safety standards set by organizations such as the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). This is important for ensuring the helmet provides adequate protection. Always check for certification labels on the helmet to ensure it complies with safety standards. Choosing a certified helmet gives you confidence that it has been tested for impact resistance and overall safety.

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