10 Best Football Helmets 2026 in the United States

The Riddell SpeedFlex Youth Helmet is designed with young football players in mind, offering strong protection and comfort features. Its patented side impact protection (PSIP) and flex system help reduce the force from hits, which is important for safety on the field. The helmet uses a durable ABS plastic shell combined with expanded polystyrene inside for shock absorption. Fit is adjustable thanks to the Air Fit Liner System and the Cam-Lock chin strap, making it easier to get a snug, secure feel. Ventilation is designed to provide reasonable airflow to help keep players comfortable. The Quick Release Facemask Attachment allows for fast and easy removal of the face mask, which is useful for both safety and maintenance. The helmet meets standard certifications required for football helmets, ensuring it has passed important safety tests.

The helmet weighs about 5 pounds, which might feel a bit heavy for smaller kids. While it offers good padding and fit adjustments, the ventilation may not be optimal during long, hot games. This helmet provides reliable protection with modern safety features, though parents should consider the weight and ventilation according to the player’s comfort needs.

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 VICIS ZERO2 Varsity Football Helmet is a strong contender in the football helmet market, especially for varsity-level players. One of its standout features is its high safety rating, being named the top-ranked helmet by the NFL and NFLPA and achieving a 5-star rating from Virginia Tech with a very low score, which is indicative of superior impact performance. This helmet is approximately 15% lighter than its predecessor, the ZERO1, which can be a significant advantage for players who need to maintain agility without compromising on protection.

In terms of construction, the helmet features a flexible outer shell designed to absorb impact forces effectively, which should provide enhanced safety by minimizing the energy transferred to the player’s head. The helmet includes a stainless steel facemask that adds durability and reliability during play. The inner padding is made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which is known for its cushioning and comfort.

The helmet is available in a molded gloss white finish and comes in a large size, catering to the varsity age range. It includes a face mask and is primarily aimed at male athletes. However, the helmet’s versatility might be limited due to its size, possibly requiring players to consider other sizing options if large doesn’t fit their needs. Its certification by top associations assures users of its compliance with safety standards, making it a reliable choice for those prioritizing safety. With a best seller rank of #84 in football helmets, it may not be the most popular option, indicating it might be a premium choice over more budget-friendly alternatives.

The helmet’s appeal lies in its blend of lightweight comfort and top-rated safety features, making it ideal for serious players at the varsity level looking for a high-performance helmet.