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Looking to Buy Football Helmets in 2023. Here Are 15 Key Tips for Finding the Perfect Fit

Know your league’s helmet requirements

Before shopping for a new football helmet, it’s important to know if your league has any specific requirements or regulations regarding helmet types. Many youth and high school programs now require helmets to be certified by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). Varsity and college teams may have additional safety standards in place. Be sure to check with your coach or league administrator so you purchase a helmet that meets all necessary criteria.

Determine your budget

Football helmets can range drastically in price from $50 up to $500 or more. Consider how much you’re able to spend, as more expensive helmets typically incorporate more modern safety features. For example, top-of-the-line helmets have components like air bladders or shock absorbers to cushion impacts. You’ll also want to think about whether you need to buy any additional accessories like chin straps, face masks, or helmet wraps.

Measure your head size

Getting an accurate measurement of your head circumference is crucial for finding a helmet that fits properly. Wrap a soft measuring tape around your head about 1 inch above your eyebrows and ears. Compare the measurement in inches to the sizing charts for the helmet models you’re considering. Sizes can vary between brands, so be sure to consult each manufacturer’s chart. An undersized helmet won’t provide full protection, while one too large can slip and expose the head upon impact.

Consider helmet type (varsity vs. youth)

Varsity helmets are made for high school age players and older. They feature thicker padding and more protective components. Youth helmets are specially sized and constructed for younger players, with focus on making them lightweight. There are also adjustable helmets that include inflatable liners to customize the fit as kids grow. Determine the right category based on the player’s age and size.

Try on helmets in person

If possible, try on helmets in the store so you can get a feel for the fit. It should sit snugly all around without any gaps between the padding and the player’s head. Test out the chin straps and make sure the buckles, clips, or snaps can be easily secured for maximum protection. Moving the head around while wearing the helmet can help determine if it provides a comfortable, non-restrictive fit.

Check helmet safety certifications

Reputable helmet manufacturers will clearly display safety rating labels like NOCSAE on the product. This indicates rigorous testing to ensure the helmet meets impact absorption, penetration, and severity index performance standards. Virginia Tech also independently rates and ranks football helmets on a 5-star scale based on lab testing – check their ratings for insight on the safest helmets.

Pick the right helmet shell material

Helmet shells are commonly made from polycarbonate plastic for durability, carbon fiber for strength and lightness, or ABS plastic for cost-effectiveness. Each material has tradeoffs – polycarbonate is heavy but extremely tough, while carbon fiber is extraordinarily strong yet expensive. For most youth and amateur players, ABS provides a balanced option.

Find the best chin strap fit

Chin straps keep the helmet stable on the head by securing up against the chin and jaw. Look for four-point chinstraps that fully encircle the jawline with comfortable but non-slip padding. Make sure the chin cup fits properly and the straps can be tightened snugly without digging into the skin.

Check out optional helmet accessories

Helmet accessories like visors, outer helmet wraps, and eye shields can enhance comfort, visibility and protection. Make sure any accessories you choose are compatible with your specific helmet model and allowed by your league. Also ensure accessories don’t obstruct vision or breathing when playing.

Make sure the helmet is comfortable

Finding a helmet your child feels comfortable wearing is key for safety. Let them try out different styles with varying padding thicknesses, ventilation holes, and inner lining materials to see what feels best. The helmet should not wobble, slide, or shift out of position when properly fitted and secured.

Select the right facemask style

Facemasks are vital for protecting players’ faces from frontal impacts. Compare open vs. closed facemasks and sizing options for optimal peripheral vision and the right amount of face protection. Make sure the facemask bolts securely to the helmet shell and consists of durable yet flexible face bars. Discuss with your coach which facemask best suits the player’s position and needs.

Go for the proper helmet color/design

Most football helmets feature team color options for youth leagues or schools. Varsity helmets may be more customizable with details like stripe decals or an airbrush paint job. While appearance is secondary to safety, the right design can help your child feel proud and excited to wear their helmet.

Check for a helmet return policy

Buying a helmet sight unseen can be tricky, so look for generous return policies. Many online retailers allow 30+ days to return or exchange helmets if the sizing, fit, or style doesn’t work out. This takes the pressure off needing to find the perfect helmet on the first try.

Read helmet reviews online

Scour helmet ratings and customer reviews on sites like Sports Unlimited or Amazon for insight on sizing, comfort, durability, and overall quality. Focus on recent reviews of the latest helmet models. Keep in mind helmets are often updated frequently with new technologies and materials.

Ask the helmet seller for fitting advice

Don’t be afraid to pick the brain of knowledgeable sporting goods store employees when selecting your helmet. They can provide guidance on measuring head size, trying on samples, and comparing helmet options. Their expertise can prove invaluable for first-time helmet buyers.

Finding the right football helmet is crucial for your protection and enjoyment of the sport. Following these tips will help you make an informed decision and confidently purchase a helmet that fits your needs and budget. Always prioritize safety and consult your coach when equipping yourself for the field.

Determine your budget

Buying a quality football helmet is an investment in safety that can last for years, but it’s still important to set a realistic budget. Helmets can range from around $50 on the low end up to $500 or more for top-of-the-line models. Consider how much protection you want versus what you can reasonably afford. Keep in mind that more expensive helmets typically incorporate extra features and materials to better absorb impacts.

For most youth or high school players, a mid-range helmet between $100-$250 can offer excellent protection. Popular brands like Schutt and Riddell offer entry-level varsity helmets in this range. For younger kids, adjustable helmets with inflatable liners to accommodate growth can start around $50. College and professional players may want to look at premium helmets with carbon fiber shells and high-tech padding that can approach $500.

Don’t just default to the cheapest helmet available – make sure any helmet meets all safety certifications for your league. A proper fit is also key, so make sure to budget for getting the right size. Beyond the helmet itself, factor in another $25-$75 for accessories like chin straps, visors, and protective helmet wraps. These extras boost comfort and protection but can add to the overall cost.

Consider the helmet budget within the context of your overall football equipment needs too. Other necessities like shoulder pads and shoes can add up quickly. Make a list of everything you need to buy and allocate budget accordingly. Don’t cut corners on the helmet simply to have more money for accessories or other gear.

If money is very tight, look for helmet brands like Xenith or Schutt that offer more affordable varsity models. There are also frequently sales or deals through sporting goods stores, especially as new helmet versions are released each year. Buying last year’s model can mean big savings.

Football is inherently dangerous, and head injuries are a major concern. A proper helmet is the single most important investment to reduce concussion risk and prevent traumatic brain injuries. Prioritize safety above all else, and buy the most protective helmet you can reasonably afford. Your health is worth the investment.

Measure your head size

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Measure your head size

One of the most important steps in buying a football helmet is accurately measuring the circumference of your head. The helmet must fit snugly all around your head to provide maximum protection. Taking the time to get an exact measurement will ensure the best fit possible.

Use a soft, flexible tape measure and carefully wrap it around your head about one inch above your eyebrows and ears. Make sure the tape measure stays level from front to back, and that it doesn’t dip down in the back. Record the measurement in inches.

Compare your measurement to the sizing charts provided by the helmet manufacturer. Keep in mind that sizes can vary between brands, so be sure to check each chart. Consult your coach if you fall between sizes – you generally want to size up for the best fit. An undersized helmet leaves your head exposed, while one too large can shift and slide.

For younger players, measuring head size allows you to select the right adjustable helmet with inflatable liners to accommodate growth. Measure frequently as their head grows to ensure the fit remains snug. Most adjustable helmets work for head sizes from 18.5 to 23 inches.

Some additional tips for measuring:

Measure at the end of the day when head is largest
Wear hair in normal style to get accurate measurement
Have someone else take measurement for best accuracy
Take measurement multiple times to ensure consistency
Account for headgear or hair accessories worn under helmet

Taking the time to precisely measure your head size pays dividends in terms of comfort, performance, and most importantly, safety. A helmet that fits correctly stays put and provides critical impact protection. Don’t play guessing games or assume you know your size – measure first for helmets that fits like a glove.

Consider helmet type (varsity vs. youth)

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Consider helmet type (varsity vs. youth)

One key factor in selecting a football helmet is determining whether you need a varsity helmet or a youth helmet based on age and level of play. Varsity helmets are designed for high school age players and older, while youth helmets are specially engineered for younger kids.

Varsity helmets use thicker, heavier-duty padding and components to handle the higher impact collisions of older players. Youth helmets emphasize lightweight construction, smaller sizing, and adjustability to grow with kids as they develop. Some key differences include:

Shell material – varsity helmets may use stronger polycarbonate; youth often use ABS plastic
Padding thickness – varsity has thicker padding for greater impact absorption
Facemask – varsity facemasks protect the entire face; youth are more open
Price – varsity helmets start around $200; youth around $50
Weight – youth helmets weigh 2-3 lbs; varsity weigh 4-6 lbs
Inflatable liners – youth helmets offer adjustable air liners; varsity are fixed sizing

For players in middle school and junior high, either a varsity or youth helmet may be appropriate depending on age, size, skill level, and league rules. Try on samples of each to assess comfort, visibility, and fit.

Varsity helmets offer the most protection for big hits, while properly fitted youth helmets provide excellent safety for lower-impact kids’ leagues. Avoid using a varsity helmet for a child whose neck muscles can’t yet support the weight. Always match the helmet type to the player’s age, size and strength.

Some parents try to save money by passing down an older sibling’s varsity helmet. But used helmets can degrade and should be reconditioned/recertified. Buy a new youth model that meets the latest safety standards for each child.

Choosing the right varsity or youth helmet ensures players have appropriate protection and comfort as they develop. As kids grow, gradually transition them into varsity helmets to match their physical progression and intensity of play.

Try on helmets in person

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Try on helmets in person

When shopping for a new football helmet, try to visit a store in person so you can physically try on different options. Being able to put helmets on your head is invaluable for assessing comfort, fit, visibility and size compared to just looking at them on a website.

Bring your head measurements and any notes on preferred brands to the store with you. A knowledgeable sporting goods salesperson can bring out multiple helmet styles in your size range to sample. As you try each on, assess:

Overall comfort level
Fit around the cheeks, jaw and crown
Chinstrap tightness when fastened snugly
Visibility from facemask
Ease of taking helmet on and off
Weight distribution on head
Sounds/echo when tapping on shell

Move your head around while wearing helmets to check range of motion. An ideal helmet allows free movement without shifting out of position. Bring your shoulder pads to test compatibility.

Don’t hesitate to try the same helmet in multiple sizes, as the fit can vary drastically with even slight sizing differences. It may take trying on 5-10 options to find the just right helmet for your head shape and preferences.

Be willing to spend at least 10-15 minutes testing helmets for an informed decision. Don’t settle for a helmet that feels uncomfortable or too tight/loose assuming it will break-in later. Comfort is critical right away.

Trying helmets in person also allows you to assess details like chin strap padding, facemask strength, shell thickness, and accessory options. And you can immediately exchange any ill-fitting helmets on the spot rather than shipping returns.

Check helmet safety certifications

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Check helmet safety certifications

When shopping for a new football helmet, one of the most important factors is making sure the helmet meets current safety certifications. Look for approval labels from organizations like NOCSAE, the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment.

NOCSAE puts football helmets through rigorous testing to measure impact absorption, penetration resistance, and severity index performance. Helmets must pass thresholds in all areas to receive NOCSAE certification. The organization frequently updates testing protocols as new research emerges on concussions and head injuries.

Many leagues from youth to the NFL require NOCSAE certification for all helmets used in play. Check your rulebook or ask a coach to confirm. Browse the NOCSAE website for lists of currently approved helmets by brand and model.

Other respected certifications include the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI), which uses American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) helmet standards, and the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) recommendations. Multi-certified helmets offer added assurance.

You can also reference Virginia Tech’s Helmet Ratings, which rigorously tests helmets in the university’s lab for impact protection. Their 5-star rating scale and concussion risk assessments provide an independent analysis of the safest helmets.

When you find a helmet model you like, look for prominent certification labels like NOCSAE’s “SEI Certified, Meets NOCSAE Standards” tag. Avoid helmets without clear certification markings. Be wary of used helmets where certification may be expired.

Proper safety certifications ensure your helmet provides the highest level of protection. Make them a priority, and frequently check for updated standards as helmet technology continues advancing.

Pick the right helmet shell material

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Pick the right helmet shell material

Football helmet shells are constructed from different materials that impact the cost, durability, weight and protection of the helmet. Three common options are polycarbonate, ABS plastic, and carbon fiber composite.

Polycarbonate is a very strong plastic that provides excellent impact resistance. It is more rigid than other plastics, offering superior protection at the cost of increased weight. Polycarbonate also won’t crack from low temperature exposure.

ABS plastic shells are more affordable while still providing good durability and protection. ABS is lightweight yet sturdy. It has good impact strength but doesn’t quite match the resilience of polycarbonate. ABS also withstands cold temperatures well.

Carbon fiber composite shells offer an ultra lightweight but very strong option. Layers of carbon fiber material can be molded for optimal strength where needed while reducing weight elsewhere. But the complex manufacturing makes carbon fiber helmets considerably more expensive.

For most youth or high school players, ABS plastic offers a good balance of cost and protection. More elite high school, college and professional players may opt for polycarbonate or carbon fiber to get the highest levels of impact absorption.

The shell material pairs with the interior padding system to manage impacts. So focus first on finding the best fitting helmet with top safety certifications. Then consider shell material for added durability or lightweight needs.

Avoid helmets with shells made of inferior materials even if cheaper. And recognize that expensive helmets aren’t inherently safer than more affordable options with the same certifications.

The shell should fully encase inner padding without cracks, gaps or defects. Ensure any vents or holes needed for cooling don’t compromise structure integrity.

Find the best chin strap fit

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Find the best chin strap fit

A properly fitted chin strap is crucial for keeping the football helmet stable on a player’s head. Take time to assess different chin strap styles and find the ideal length and padding for optimal comfort and protection.

Look for chin straps with a 4-point fastening system that fully encircles the jawline. This distributes anchoring forces evenly for the most secure fit. Make sure the strap includes both chin and cup components to cradle the jaw.

The cup padding should be comfortable but avoid thick, bulky coverings that make it hard to snap the strap securely against the chin and jawbone. Test snapping, unsnapping and adjusting the strap clips or snaps with the helmet on.

With the chinstrap fastened, check that you can comfortably fit two fingers between the cup and your chin. This ensures a snug fit without digging into the skin or restricting breathing.

Give your head a gentle shake inside the helmet – your head should move very little if the chin strap is tight enough. But also make sure you can fully look left, right, up and down without strain.

For younger kids, opt for soft, non-slip strap covers that stay gently in place. Avoid hard plastic clips that can chafe against the chin. Look for kids’ chinstraps with easy snap fasteners for quick securing.

Work with coaches to assess proper chin strap sizing as kids grow. Keep an eye out for fraying or damage requiring replacement. Proper chin strap coverage ensures the helmet stays on if collisions jar it loose.

A chin strap should function like a seat belt – uncomfortably snug to maximize protection. Take time to find padding and a length that keeps the strap secure without irritating the skin. Your helmet only works as intended if the chinstrap keeps it firmly in place.

Check out optional helmet accessories

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Check out optional helmet accessories

Looking to Buy Football Helmets in 2023? Here Are 15 Key Tips for Finding the Perfect Fit:

With the new football season right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about outfitting yourself or your player with a new helmet. Finding the right helmet is crucial for performance and safety on the field. The helmet market has exploded in recent years with many new brands and models to choose from. How do you even begin to decide? Here are 15 essential tips for buying the perfect football helmet in 2023:

1. Understand helmet certification standards

All football helmets sold in the United States must meet certification standards set by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). This helps ensure safety and performance. Look for the NOCSAE logo inside the helmet. Reconditioned helmets must also be NOCSAE recertified. Also check for additional safety certifications like the STAR helmet rating system.

2. Get properly fitted

Helmet fit is crucial for protection. Get professionally fitted at a sporting goods store or by your team’s equipment manager. The helmet should sit snugly all around without movement or gaps. Pressure points can indicate a poor fit. Most helmets come in size ranges for both head circumference and interior padding thickness.

3. Consider head shape

Head shapes vary just like feet. Helmet brands design different interior liners to better accommodate round, intermediate or oval head shapes. Know your head shape and choose a helmet engineered for that shape.

4. Pick the right facemask
Facemasks for youth players have extra bars for visibility and protection. Skill players may opt for more open cages while linemen often choose closed protective masks. Consider position and visibility needs. Masks can be changed on most helmets.

5. Manage accessories
Many accessories like visors, jaw pads and chin straps can enhance helmet performance and comfort. Make sure any additions are regulation compliant and installed properly. Don’t overload as accessories can alter fit.

6. Consider helmet weight

Lighter helmets reduce neck fatigue over a game or season. Youth helmets weigh from 2-3 lbs while most adult helmets are 4-6 lbs. More padding equals more weight. High end helmets use stronger, lighter materials to cut weight.

7. Ventilation is important
Heat and humidity take a toll during games. Newer helmets offer improved ventilation and breathability. Look for ample vent holes and newer technologies to keep you cool under pressure.

8. Analyze shell construction
Polycarbonate alloy plastic shells are extremely durable but less flexible. Composite shells made from blends of plastic, carbon fiber and kevlar offer strength with more flex for greater energy displacement. This can reduce injury risk.

9. Jaw pads enhance protection
Integrated jaw pads cushion big hits to the chin, jaw and neck area. Make sure pads easily snap in and out for cleaning and replacement when worn.

10. Review helmet technologies
Leading helmet makers develop proprietary technologies to improve protection. Look for leading names like VICIS, Riddell and Schutt as well as new tech like force-redirecting layers and columns that flex and absorb force.

11. Research smart options
New sensor technologies are being added to helmets to detect and measure impacts in real time. Although not widely adopted yet, integrated electronics could be common in coming years.

12. Opt for custom graphics
Many companies let you design your own unique helmet graphics and colors. This allows you to show team spirit or personal style on the field.

13. Consider reconditioning

You can save money by having a gently used helmet professionally reconditioned rather than buying new. Reconditioning companies inspect and recertify helmets to like-new quality.

14. Don’t neglect maintenance

Clean regularly inside and out with mild soap and rinse completely. Store out of direct sun and away from chemicals. Inspect often for cracks or damage. Replace helmet if damaged or after major impact.

15. Buy from trusted sources

Only buy new helmets from authorized dealers and reconditioned helmets from certified companies. Avoid used helmets with uncertain histories. Beware of knock-off brands or counterfeits.

Finding the perfect football helmet takes research and planning. Consider key factors like fit, safety certifications, your playing position and comfort. Shop from reputable brands and dealers. With the right helmet selection, you’ll take the field protected and ready for action.

Make sure the helmet is comfortable

Looking to Buy Football Helmets in 2023? Here Are 15 Key Tips for Finding the Perfect Fit:

Football season will be here before you know it, which means it’s time to start searching for the perfect helmet if you’re in the market. With so many options out there though, it can be tricky to find one that checks all the boxes – proper fit, optimal safety features, comfort and more. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with these top tips for selecting football helmets this year:

Size It Up

An ill-fitting helmet is almost as bad as no helmet at all. Take precise measurements of your head’s circumference and compare to sizing charts. Keep in mind that many helmets come in fractional sizes for an exact fit. It should be snug all around without pinching.

Know Your Head Shape

Helmet interiors are engineered for different head shapes – round, oval, intermediate oval. Determine your shape and find a helmet specifically designed for it. An alignment between your head and helmet results in better comfort and protection.

Analyze Materials

Most shells are made of polycarbonate plastic for durability. But some are now incorporating blends of carbon fiber and Kevlar that allow for more flex and greater impact absorption. This can reduce injury risk from heavy blows during play.

Face Protection Preferences

Think about the type of facemask needed for your position and visibility requirements. Youth helmets often feature enclosed masks with more bars. Pros may opt for open cages for better sight lines. Determine vision needs before selecting.

Ventilation Counts

Proper airflow prevents that foggy, sweaty headed feeling. Look for helmet models with ample venting ports and channels specifically designed to keep you cool under the hottest game-time pressures. Breathable comfort leads to better performance.

Cushion for Collision

Integrated jaw pads provide cushioning from bone-jarring hits. Make sure any pad attachments like these can be easily removed for cleaning and replacement over time. The last thing you want is a loose pad sliding around in the midst of play.

Accessorize Essentials

Chin straps, face shields and other addons enhance both protection and functionality. Just take care not to go overboard piling on accessories that compromise fit and certified safety standards for your helmet model.

Keep It Light

Reduced helmet weight lessens strain on the neck and shoulders over the course of a game. Youth helmets typically weigh 2-3 pounds while adult professional models go up to 4-6 pounds or more. More padding equals more weight in most cases.

Check the Safety Credentials

Make sure any helmet you’re considering is NOCSAE certified to meet rigorous standards for impact protection. This certification is required by law. Some helmets also have additional safety designations like the STAR rating system for concussion prevention.

Consider High Tech Options

Newer helmets are being embedded with sensor technologies to measure hits and forces in real time on the field. Although not yet widespread, integrated electronics seem poised to become standard in coming seasons.

customize Your Look

Many brands now offer completely customizable graphics so you can design a helmet that matches your preferences and shows off your team colors in style. This personalizes protection.

Prioritize Comfort

An uncomfortable helmet can be intolerable over the course of a game, distracting your focus. Seek out design features like moisture-wicking, adjustable liners and cushioning that work for your specific needs and head size.

Recondition Don’t Replace

Why discard an older helmet when you can often have it professionally reconditioned and recertified? Reconditioning services inspect and refresh helmets to like-new quality at less cost than buying new.

Shop Smart

Only purchase new helmets from authorized dealers or manufacturers, and reconditioned ones from certified companies. Stay away from used helmets with unknown histories. Also beware of knock-offs or lookalikes.

Finding the perfect football helmet is a complex process, but armed with this advice, you’re sure to find a comfortable, high-performing model that provides confidence and security snap after snap. Let the games begin!

Select the right facemask style

Looking to Buy Football Helmets in 2023? Here Are 15 Key Tips for Finding the Perfect Fit:

It’s football season again, time to start thinking about getting a new helmet for yourself or your player. With so many brands and models on the market these days, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. You want a helmet that offers optimal protection and performance on the field. Here are 15 top tips for selecting the perfect football helmet this year:

Get Professionally Fitted

A helmet that shifts or slides is hazardous. Visit a sporting goods store or team equipment manager to get accurately fitted. The helmet should feel snug all around your head without any gaps or looseness. Pressure points likely mean a poor fit.

Know the Safety Standards

All football helmets must meet certification standards set by NOCSAE to be sold in the US. This ensures proper impact protection. Look for the NOCSAE logo inside. Reconditioned helmets require recertification too. Added safety ratings like STAR are a bonus.

Consider Your Head Shape

Helmet liner systems are engineered for different head shapes like oval, round and intermediate oval. Know your shape and find a helmet specifically contoured for it. The right alignment enhances fit and security.

Ventilation and Breathability

Proper airflow prevents that fogged up feeling. Inspect helmets for ventilation holes, channels and technologies that allow airflow to keep you cool when out on the field under the blazing sun.

Manage the Weight

Lighter helmets reduce neck strain over a long game or season. Youth models weigh around 2-3 lbs. Adult professional helmets range from 4-6 lbs plus. More interior padding adds more weight in most cases.

Analyze Shell Materials

Polycarbonate plastic shells offer rigidity. Composite shells with carbon fiber and Kevlar allow for flex and increased shock absorption upon impact. This can lower injury risks from big collisions.

Attach the Add-Ons

Accessorizing with items like chin straps, face shields and visors can boost comfort and functionality. Just be careful not to overload and alter safety. Only use certified compatible accessories.

Pick Protective Padding

Integrated jaw pads cushion the force of hits to the chin, jaw and neck. Make sure pad attachments are easily removable for cleaning and replacing as needed over time and use.

Consider Wireless Capabilities

Although not yet widely adopted, some companies offer helmets with embedded sensor technologies to measure impact forces in real time during play. This seems poised to become standard soon.

Account for Position and Use

Match the facemask to your needs and playing position. Youth masks have more bars for visibility and protection. Skill players may prefer open cages while linemen opt for closed sturdy masks.

Keep it Cool and Comfortable

An uncomfortable helmet is intolerable during a game. Seek out adjustable, moisture-wicking interior liners and proper ventilation to keep you cool, dry and focused when it matters most.

Research Advanced Technologies

Leading brands integrate exclusive technologies into helmets, like flexible panels and columns engineered to redirect impact forces for enhanced protection during big collisions.

Customize the Look

Many companies now offer fully customizable graphics, colors and logos for that personal flair showing team spirit on the field. Let your style shine through.

Consider Reconditioning

Why buy new when you can often have a gently used helmet reconditioned and recertified by professionals? Reconditioning returns helmets to like-new quality at less cost.

Focus on Proper Maintenance

Keep helmets in top shape by regularly cleaning properly, storing out of sunlight and avoiding chemical exposure. Inspect frequently for any cracks or damage. Replace after any significant impact.

Buy From Reputable Sellers

Only purchase new from authorized dealers or direct from brands. For reconditioned helmets, use certified reconditioning companies. Avoid used helmets with uncertain histories. Beware of knock-offs.

With research and proper diligence, you can find the ideal football helmet for optimal fit, comfort, safety and performance this season. Just utilize this advice during your search.

Go for the proper helmet color/design

Looking to Buy Football Helmets in 2023? Here Are 15 Key Tips for Finding the Perfect Fit:

It’s football season again, time to get equipped with a new helmet for yourself or your player. The helmet choices today can be mind-boggling – so many brands, models, features to consider. You want adequate protection balanced with optimal comfort and performance. Use these tips to select the ideal football helmet this year:

Get Accurately Fitted

A loose or shifting helmet can be hazardous on the field. Visit a sporting goods store or team equipment manager for professional fitting. The helmet should feel snug all around without pressure points or gaps.

Check Safety Credentials

Verify any helmet meets NOCSAE standards mandated for US sale. This ensures proper impact protection. Also look for extra ratings like the STAR system for concussion prevention. Recertify reconditioned helmets.

Consider Design and Graphics

Many brands now offer fully customizable graphics, colors and logos so you can design your own unique helmet. This allows self-expression and team spirit on the field.

Analyze Shell Construction

Polycarbonate plastic shells offer rigidity while composite shells with carbon fiber and kevlar allow for flexibility and increased shock absorption. This can reduce injury risks.

Pick Proper Padding

Integrated jaw pads cushion blows to the chin, jaw and neck areas. Ensure pad attachments are removable for cleaning and replacement when worn down.

Manage Accessories Wisely

Chin straps, visors and other addons can boost comfort and functionality. Just don’t overdo it. Only use compatible certified accessories to avoid altering helmet fit and safety.

Know Your Head Size

Helmets come in different circumferences and padding thicknesses. Measure your head precisely and compare to brand sizing charts for a tailored fit. A snug helmet should not pinch or be loose.

Account for Weight Differences

Lighter helmets reduce neck and shoulder fatigue. Youth models weigh around 2-3 pounds. Professional adult helmets go up to 4-6 lbs plus. More padding equals more weight in most cases.

Look for Leading Brand Names

Trust top athletic brands like Schutt, Riddell and VICIS helmets. They invest greatly in innovative technologies and safety advancements like force-reducing liner materials.

Focus on Ventilation

Proper airflow prevents fog and sweat buildup inside the helmet. Look for ample ventilation holes, channels and breathable liner materials to keep you cool in action.

Determine Your Head Shape

Helmet liner systems are engineered for different head shapes like oval, intermediate oval and round. Know your shape for the best fit and responsiveness.

Consider High Tech Options

New helmets with embedded sensor technologies can measure and transmit impact forces in real time during play. This technology will likely spread further in coming seasons.

Think About Facemask Needs

Skill players may prefer more open visors while linemen gravitate toward closed sturdy masks. Also account for visibility requirements. Youth often get extra bars.

Prioritize Comfort Factors

An uncomfortable helmet ruins game time focus and performance. Seek adjustable, moisture-wicking and properly vented helmets engineered for your head size and shape.

Maintain Properly

Follow guidelines for cleaning, storage away from sunlight and chemicals, and regular inspection for cracks or damage. Replace any helmet after a major impact or collision.

Buy New from Trusted Sources

Only buy brand new helmets from authorized dealers or direct from manufacturers. For reconditioned models, use certified companies. Avoid uncertain histories.

Choosing the perfect football helmet is an important decision. Use this advice to maximize safety, comfort and performance this season.

Check for a helmet return policy

Looking to Buy Football Helmets in 2023? Here Are 15 Key Tips for Finding the Perfect Fit:

Football season is fast approaching, which means it’s time to get serious about finding the right helmet. With so many brands and models on the market, selecting the optimal one takes some research. You want adequate protection along with top-notch comfort and performance. Use this advice for choosing the perfect football helmet this year: