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 VICIS ZERO2 Trench Elite football helmet is designed specifically for linemen, who often experience frequent, low-speed impacts during games. This helmet stands out for its top safety ratings, including being named the best helmet in NFL and NFLPA lab tests and earning a top 5-star score from Virginia Tech—meaning it offers excellent protection. The shell is made from durable polycarbonate plastic, while the inside uses foam padding to absorb shocks and improve comfort.

It includes a titanium face mask, which is lighter than traditional steel ones, making it easier to wear for long periods without feeling heavy on the head. The attached Oakley clear visor helps protect the eyes without limiting visibility. The helmet has a streamlined design with a secure chin strap, ensuring a snug fit. Sized for adults and available in large, it fits well for bigger players but might not suit smaller users.

While it is pricier compared to some other helmets, it prioritizes safety and comfort for serious players, especially linemen. For players seeking a helmet that reduces repetitive impact risks and provides strong protection, this model is a solid choice. Players who focus on ventilation and airflow during intense game moments might consider other helmets that emphasize those features more.