10 Best Football Helmets 2026 in the United States

The Riddell SpeedFlex Adult Football Helmet with Facemask is a robust choice for serious football players looking for advanced protection and comfort. One of its standout features is the Flex System, designed to absorb and reduce impact forces by integrating flexibility into the shell, facemask, and clips. This technology is complemented by the Patented Side Impact Protection (PISP), which adds a layer of defense against side impacts, highlighting the helmet's focus on comprehensive safety.

In terms of comfort and fit, the helmet is equipped with Composite Energy Management system. The strategically placed padding ensures that the interior remains secure during intense games and practices, which is an essential aspect for maintaining focus and performance on the field. The inclusion of a facemask and a white hard cup chin strap, both unattached, allows players to customize their setup to suit their individual needs, adding a level of personalization.

The helmet's shell is made from polycarbonate, a material known for its durability and ability to withstand significant force, adding to the helmet's safety credentials. However, the large size and weight of 4.3 pounds may not suit all players, potentially posing an issue for those preferring a lighter helmet. Certified for adult use, this helmet appeals to unisex-adult users seeking reliable protection in competitive sports and is ideal for those prioritizing top-level safety features and customizable options.

The Schutt Youth F7 LX1 Football Helmet is designed for young players and comes in a medium size, which should fit most big kids comfortably. It features a durable polycarbonate shell with Flexural Resistance technology to enhance strength and durability, especially around the back and sides. The helmet uses advanced TPU cushioning and special 3-Dimensional Movement Tektonic Plates to absorb impacts better and protect against rotational forces, which are crucial for preventing head injuries. This helmet earned a top 5-star safety rating from Virginia Tech, showing it offers solid protection.

It includes a carbon steel facemask, a common and trusted material for face protection, and comes with a chin strap to help keep it securely in place. The helmet’s design suggests reasonable airflow. It is well-padded and comfortable for young players, although it weighs around 4.5 pounds, which is a bit on the heavier side for youth helmets.

This helmet is a great choice for parents looking for high safety standards and reliable protection for their child starting or continuing in football. However, if lightweight comfort or extra ventilation is a priority, there may be lighter options on the market.

The Schutt Youth Vengeance A11 Football Helmet is a solid choice for young athletes needing a reliable and safe headgear option. One of its standout features is its 5-star safety rating from Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings, indicating high levels of protection. The helmet includes a carbon steel facemask, a popular and durable choice, offering robust protection for face impacts. The TPU cushioning is another highlight, designed to handle impacts effectively across different temperature ranges, which is a significant advantage for various playing conditions.

Fit and comfort are well addressed with non-inflatable liners that ensure a snug fit. The inter-link jaw pads enhance stability, preventing pads from shifting during play. The helmet's shell is made from polycarbonate, known for its strength and durability, further enhanced by flexural resistance engineering for improved impact absorption.

The helmet's certification and materials align with safety standards, which is crucial for any football helmet. Given its quality features and high safety ratings, this helmet is particularly suitable for older youth players who require a durable and protective option for competitive play. The included facemask and absence of inflatable components reduce maintenance worries, making it a convenient choice for busy parents and players.