Top 5 Football Helmets for Youth: Reviews, Features, & Safety

Imagine your child is ready to run onto the field, pumped up for their first football game. You watch them, heart pounding, hoping they’ll have fun and stay safe. But are you truly confident in their helmet? Did you choose the right one? Did you even know where to start?

Choosing a youth football helmet is a big deal. It’s not just about the look; it’s about protecting your child’s brain. Sadly, injuries happen, and a good helmet is the first line of defense. The market is full of confusing choices. Different brands, sizes, and features can make your head spin! It can be tough to know which helmet offers the best protection and fits your child properly.

In this post, we’ll make things easier. We’ll break down the important things to consider when picking a youth football helmet. You’ll learn about different helmet types, how to get the right fit, and what safety features to look for. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your ability to choose a helmet that keeps your young athlete safe on the field. Let’s get started and gear up for a safe and exciting season!

Our Top 5 Football Helmet For Youth Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Football Helmet For Youth Detailed Reviews

1. Schutt Sports Vengeance A11 Youth Football Helmet with Facemask

Schutt Sports Vengeance A11 Youth Football Helmet with Facemask, Football Gear and Accessories, Black, Large

Rating: 9.1/10

The Schutt Sports Vengeance A11 Youth Football Helmet is a top-of-the-line choice for young football players. This helmet prioritizes safety and comfort. It comes with a facemask and all the necessary gear. The helmet is black and a size large. It is designed to protect young athletes on the field.

What We Like:

  • This helmet earned a 5-star safety rating.
  • The helmet has a strong carbon steel facemask.
  • TPU cushioning is used for great impact absorption.
  • Non-inflatable liners ensure a secure and comfy fit.
  • Inter-link jaw pads stay in place.
  • The helmet shell is built for strength and durability.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The price may be higher than some other youth helmets.
  • The helmet may require some initial adjustments for a perfect fit.

Overall, the Schutt Sports Vengeance A11 Youth Football Helmet is a safe and reliable option for young football players. It is a great investment to help keep young athletes safe on the field.

2. Riddell SpeedFlex Youth Helmet

Riddell SpeedFlex Youth Helmet, White, Large

Rating: 9.3/10

The Riddell SpeedFlex Youth Helmet in white and large is designed to keep young football players safe on the field. This helmet uses special technology to protect players from hard hits. It features side impact protection, which helps lessen the force of hits to the side of the head. The helmet’s flexible design, including the shell and face mask, helps absorb impact. It also has an easy-to-use chin strap and is made of strong plastic.

What We Like:

  • The PSIP (Patented Side Impact Protection) helps protect against side impacts.
  • The Flex system reduces the impact force.
  • The Ratchet-Loc chin strap makes it easy to adjust the helmet.
  • It uses strong, durable plastic.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While this helmet is designed for youth, it might be more expensive than other options.

Overall, the Riddell SpeedFlex Youth Helmet seems like a good choice for young athletes. It offers important safety features to help protect players during games.

3. Schutt Youth F7 LX1 Football Helmet

Schutt Youth F7 LX1 Football Helmet, EGOP NB VC Facemask Attached, Medium, White

Rating: 8.7/10

The Schutt Youth F7 LX1 Football Helmet is built for young players. It comes with a facemask. This helmet is white and a medium size. It is made to keep kids safe on the football field. This helmet has advanced features for protection. It is a top choice for parents looking for quality and safety.

What We Like:

  • This helmet earned a 5-star safety rating. It is from Virginia Tech.
  • The helmet has a carbon steel facemask. This is a popular material.
  • It has TPU cushioning. This helps absorb impacts well.
  • The helmet uses Tektonic Plates. These plates move to reduce rotational forces.
  • The shell has a strong design. It improves the helmet’s durability.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The price may be higher than other helmets.
  • The white color may show dirt easily.

This Schutt helmet offers great protection for young players. The features make it a safe and reliable choice. It is a smart investment for any young football player.

4. Riddell Victor Youth Helmet

Riddell Victor Youth Helmet , White, Large

Rating: 9.2/10

The Riddell Victor Youth Helmet in White, Large is designed for young football players. It is built to keep kids safe on the field. This helmet has many features to protect young athletes. It’s made by Riddell, a trusted name in football equipment. This helmet focuses on comfort and safety during the game.

What We Like:

  • The helmet has a fitted liner system. It provides a good fit.
  • It has Patented Side Impact Protection (PSIP). This helps protect the head from side hits.
  • The liner is removable. It is also moisture-resistant.
  • The liner cover helps keep the helmet clean.
  • It provides comfort and stability.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The price can be a bit high for some families.
  • Some users may find it heavy.

Overall, the Riddell Victor Youth Helmet is a good choice for young football players. It provides important safety features and is a comfortable helmet. It is designed to help protect kids on the field.

5. COOLOMG Soft Football Helmet 7v7 Soft Shell Rugby Flag Football Helmet Padded Headgear Soccer Goalie Goalkeeper Head Protector for Youth Kids

COOLOMG Soft Football Helmet 7v7 Soft Shell Rugby Flag Football Helmet Padded Headgear Soccer Goalie Goalkeeper Head Protector for Youth Kids

Rating: 9.1/10

The COOLOMG Soft Football Helmet is designed to keep kids safe during sports. It’s a soft shell helmet that is made for rugby, flag football, and soccer. This padded headgear protects against impacts. It’s breathable and comfortable to wear. This helmet is a good choice for young athletes.

What We Like:

  • The helmet uses high-quality Lycra and polyester fabrics. This makes it breathable and comfy.
  • It has good processing and is abrasion-resistant. The EVA foam is also dirt resistant.
  • It’s lightweight and soft. Your kids will feel comfortable wearing it.
  • The adjustable chinstrap and laces help it fit well.
  • It’s easy to put on and take off.
  • This helmet works for many sports, like rugby, soccer, and hockey.
  • The foam protects the head from impacts.
  • The 3D ear design protects ears without stopping communication.
  • It has excellent shock absorption and helps with sweat.
  • Ventilation holes keep the head cool.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Sizing is important. Make sure you measure correctly.

Overall, this COOLOMG Soft Football Helmet is a good way to protect your child during sports. It’s comfortable and offers great protection. It is a good choice for parents looking for a safe helmet.

Youth Football Helmet Buying Guide: Keep Them Safe!

Choosing a football helmet for your young athlete is super important. You want to keep them safe while they play. This guide will help you pick the right one.

Key Features to Look For

You need to find a helmet with great features. Here’s what to look for:

  • Proper Fit: This is the MOST important thing. The helmet should fit snugly. It shouldn’t move around when your child shakes their head.
  • Face Mask: Make sure the face mask is strong and attached securely. It protects their face from hits.
  • Padding: Look for thick, comfortable padding inside. It helps absorb impacts.
  • Ventilation: Good ventilation keeps your child cool. It lets air flow through the helmet.
  • Chin Strap: The chin strap needs to be strong and easy to adjust. It holds the helmet in place.
  • Certification: Look for a helmet with the NOCSAE seal. This means it meets safety standards.
Important Materials

Helmets are made from different materials. Knowing these helps you understand why they work.

  • Shell: The outer shell is usually made of strong plastic. It protects the head from impacts. Polycarbonate is a popular choice.
  • Padding: Inside, you’ll find padding. This is often made of foam. It absorbs the force of a hit. Many helmets use multiple layers of padding.
  • Face Mask: Face masks are often made of metal. They protect the face and eyes.
  • Chin Strap: Chin straps are made of durable materials like nylon. They keep the helmet on.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Some things make a helmet better or worse. Here’s how to tell:

  • Quality Padding: More layers of high-quality padding usually mean better protection.
  • Shell Durability: A strong shell is important. It protects against cracks and breaks.
  • Proper Fit: A helmet that fits well is always the best. Ill-fitting helmets don’t protect as well.
  • Ventilation: Good ventilation makes the helmet more comfortable. It can help prevent overheating.
  • Weight: Lighter helmets are often more comfortable. They can also reduce neck strain.
  • Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making safer helmets. Researching brands is a good idea.
User Experience and Use Cases

The user experience is key. Think about how your child will use the helmet.

  • Comfort: The helmet should be comfortable to wear for practices and games.
  • Visibility: The face mask shouldn’t block their vision.
  • Ease of Use: The helmet should be easy to put on, adjust, and take off.
  • Use Cases: Football helmets are designed for playing tackle football. They protect against hard hits and collisions. They are not designed for other sports.
  • Durability: The helmet should last for at least one season. It needs to withstand regular use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about youth football helmets:

Q: How do I measure my child’s head for a helmet?

A: Use a soft measuring tape. Measure around their head, about an inch above the eyebrows. Also measure around the widest part of the head. Compare the measurements to the helmet size chart.

Q: How often should I replace my child’s football helmet?

A: You should replace it every season. Helmets can wear down and lose their ability to protect.

Q: What does the NOCSAE seal mean?

A: The NOCSAE seal means the helmet meets safety standards. It has been tested to reduce the risk of head injuries.

Q: Can I buy a used football helmet?

A: It is not recommended to buy a used helmet. You don’t know its history or if it’s been damaged.

Q: How do I clean a football helmet?

A: Remove the padding. Wipe down the shell and face mask with a mild soap and water solution. Clean the padding according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Q: What if my child’s helmet doesn’t fit right?

A: Return it and get a different size. A poorly fitted helmet is unsafe.

Q: How do I know if the face mask is the right size?

A: The face mask should be the correct size for the helmet and fit properly. It should not obstruct vision or be loose.

Q: What is the best material for helmet padding?

A: Many helmets use a combination of materials. Look for layers of foam designed to absorb impact.

Q: Is there a helmet that prevents concussions?

A: No helmet can completely prevent concussions. Helmets reduce the risk. Proper tackling techniques are also important.

Q: Where can I buy a youth football helmet?

A: You can buy helmets at sporting goods stores and online retailers.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.