10 Best Football Helmets 2026 in the United States

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 F7 2.0 Collegiate Football Helmet is designed with a strong emphasis on safety and impact protection, making it a good choice for adult football players who prioritize head protection. It earned a high safety rating from Virginia Tech, indicating top-tier impact absorption thanks to its RFLX-S impact layer and Tektonic plates that distribute forces effectively. The helmet's shell is made from durable polycarbonate, ensuring solid outer protection, while the interior uses expanded polystyrene for shock absorption.

The medium size and face mask attached (made of carbon steel, a popular and reliable material) offer a standard fit and protection level suitable for many players. The helmet’s padding and liners support comfort, and the chin strap along with the fast-access inflation point allow for easy adjustments, helping players get a snug fit quickly. Although the helmet weighs just under 5 pounds, which is average, some may find it a bit heavy compared to lighter models.

This helmet meets necessary certifications, ensuring it's safe for competitive play. It suits serious adult football players looking for strong safety features and reliable materials, though those seeking ultra-lightweight or highly ventilated helmets might want to consider alternatives.

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.