10 Best Youth Football Helmets to Safely Score a Touchdown in 2024
Stacey Joseph
Let’s play some football! Youths love to participate in the game of football just as much as adults and professional players do, so they have their own equipment size to fit them the best. These youth helmets are the size before adult helmets are worn by kids, as they have all the comfort and protection for their heads and face but in a smaller form.
Some of these have facemasks while others do not. A few have a couple of choices of facemask depending on the field position of the player. All selections have been deemed the best of what is currently being offered by makers online by dedicated buyers. We have categorized youth football helmets for you by the important criteria of comfort, protection, fit, and durability. These aspects are vital in deciding which helmet is the most appropriate for your child. Get ready to play ball!
In a Hurry? The test winner after 36 hrs of research
Comes with a face guard
Over two million on-field impact data points
The retention system of Rachet-Loc
Attachment for the face mask is four-point quick release
Includes a flexliner for helmet stability and comfort
10 Best Youth Helmets Reviewed
1. SpeedFlex
Comes with a face guard
Over two million on-field impact data points
The retention system of Rachet-Loc
Attachment for the face mask is four-point quick release
Includes a flexliner for helmet stability and comfort
Side straps can be difficult to manage
Sizing was off for a few people
Made with a design of innovations and components that are fully integrated for the most excellent protection and best athletic performance, the Speedlfex Youth Helmet is offered in sizes of small, medium, large, and extra-large.
Read moreWith more than two million on-field impact data points, this terrific football helmet has the fabulous features of overliner, quick release, a liner that is air fit, PSIP, and HS4 face mask. The flex system consists of the helmet shell having engineered flexibility with the attachment system of the face mask with the hinged clips and the face mask itself reducing the transfer of impact force. The attachment for the face mask is the four-point quick release of all points that with a simple button press disengages for immediate release.
Protection
Made for direct impacts with the several protective aspects, this incredible helmet has what it takes to guard the head during the forceful game of football for youths. Each quality does its part to safeguard the player.
Comfort
Included is a flex liner on the interior to give helmet stability and comfort and to conform to different head shapes well and a face guard. This not only cushions the head but gives great support too.
Durability
Plenty of innovation and technology went into the construction of this fabulous youth football helmet, as you can tell by the many features it has. It offers superior longevity and usefulness for years to come.
Fit
It has the retention system of Rachet-Loc that features a chin strap which is quick to adjust, easy, and incredibly secure. It will give the user a simple way to fit the helmet quickly and securely.
2. Xenith X2E+ with Mask
Has a plastic lightweight ABS shell
Features X2E+ Shock Absorber Technology
Has a Fitband and six vents
Includes an XRS-21 model of face mask
Made for intermediate and youth players
Size was a concern for some people
Was not the most comfortable said a couple of buyers
This medium helmet of white and scarlet coloration with a plastic lightweight ABS shell is the Xenith Youth X2E+ Helmet that includes a face mask and six vents for aeration.
Read moreFeaturing X2E+ Shock Absorber Technology that gives the best linear impact response and an XRS-21 model of face mask, this incredible helmet is made for intermediate and youth players. It includes a Fitband which is a band of silicone that provides a custom fit as it conforms to the head’s size and shape. There are comfort pads of Dual Density, a chin cup that is hybrid, and jaw guards that are 3XD. The system of shock suspension permits the shell and helmet to independently move. This terrific football helmet gives an instant customized fit when the chinstraps are tightened and does not need a pump to get the right fit.
Protection
With the best impact response, comfort pads, and shock suspension, kids will be well protected when wearing this piece of marvelous gear. It is custom fit to give a wonderful playing experience.
Comfort
The best helmets are the ones that absorb the most shock upon impact with objects and other players. This one has the great technology incorporated to make it be lightweight and comfortable for the user.
Durability
With an ABS shell and strong face mask, players can expect this helmet to last for many games and practice sessions. It is well made and sturdy for impacts with its amazing shock suspension system.
Fit
The size and shape of the player’s head will be fitted with the Fitband and the comfort pads on the inside of the helmet. These two qualities are important for comfort level and protection during play.
3. Schutt Vengeance A3
A mix of double and single layers of TPU
Has Inter-Link one-inch black jaw pads
Redesigned for low profile and a lighter weight
Comfort liners are non-inflatable on the inside
High performance with a fantastic price point
Does not come with the face guard
Not much new technology incorporated for a revised model
Green and black in color, the Schutt Youth Vengeance A3 Helmet for football is a redesigned model that is sleeker with a low profile and a lighter weight than the initial Vengeance Shell Helmet.
Read moreThe construction is a mix of double and single layers of TPU with comfort liners that are non-inflatable on the inside. It has Inter-Link one-inch black jaw pads that remain in place because they are mechanically attached but does not include the face mask that it seen in the online photo. A Youth Vengeance Facemask is the required one for the best quality and fit. Reducing the weight of this revised model was important for youth play and performance. This is a terrific piece of football gear that is a high performance at a fantastic price point. It features a rear bumper, nose bumper, and a release bumper of black twist.
Protection
The mixture of strong TPU layers, padding, and bumpers all work in unison to give the user of this equipment the best protective experience on the field for games and practice sessions.
Comfort
Players that are familiar with the original model of this helmet will appreciate the upgrades that are featured on this version. The lighter and sleeker form is much more comfortable.
Durability
Exterior bumpers on this helmet give added protection that is not available on the interior of the gear piece. These smaller elements will guard against impacts that can affect both the front and the back of the head.
Fit
The interior comfort liners will ensure an outstanding customized fit for your little player on the field. These do not require inflation and are easy to use and comfortable.
4. Schutt Recruit Hybrid with Facemask
Has crown and front TPU cushioning
Back and side patented D30
Great selection of position-specific faceguards
Features mechanically attached jaw pads
Interior Comfort Liners that are not inflatable
Must have knowledge of faceguards to select one
Not all possible sizes are offered
The Schutt Recruit Hybrid Youth Football Helmet with a facemask has crown and front TPU cushioning that is hybrid plus back and side patented D30 on the same helmet.
Read moreIt provides a pillow-like soft feel with the added foam and enhanced surface coverage of the liner. Included is a great selection of DNA position-specific faceguards of steel carbon titanium. Some knowledge of faceguards and their various styles is required for choosing the correct one. This football gear has a fabulous price point and is a helmet of high performance. Featured are mechanically attached jaw pads that are the Inter-Link type and interior Comfort Liners that are not inflatable.
Protection
Having a tough outer shell and a strong faceguard on this product is the most protection that a player could want. The interior padding, foam, and liner add to this protection also.
Comfort
Several factors were included in this helmet product to make it very comforting for the user. There are Comfort Liners, jaw pads, and added foam to not only protect the head but to also make it comfortable.
Durability
The outstanding shell of this gear piece is, of course, the most sturdy part of the item, but the choice of wonderful facemasks also aids with the longevity of the product too.
Fit
Several sizes are offered for this incredible helmet model, plus the fit is improved with the pillow-like interior foam and amazing liner coverage. Players will forget they are even wearing this helmet since it fits so well.
5. Recruit Schutt Hybrid
Many DNA position-specific faceguards offered
The interior has Comfort Liners that are non-inflatable
Mechanically attached jaw pads are included
A gear piece of high performance and great comfort
Has impact absorption in a powerful combination
Sizing can be a problem
Faceguard is not included
A Youth DNA type facemask is needed for the best performance for using this Recruit Schutt hybrid Football Helmet. The omission of the facemask is the main difference between this great helmet and the one featured just above.
Read moreMany DNA position-specific carbon steel faceguards are offered for this model, but they are not included with the purchase of the helmet. The interior of the helmet has Comfort Liners that are non-inflatable and mechanically attached jaw pads included that are inter-link. It is a gear piece of high performance and great comfort with high impact absorption in a powerful combination. The back and sides have D30 and the front and crown of the helmet have TPU Cushioning.
Protection
When you choose the specific faceguard you desire and need, you will have the best protection for the face. The durable hard shell of the helmet will guard the head well for gameplay.
Comfort
There are so many padding aspects to this gear equipment to protect the head and make it comforting even on impact. The user should not experience any discomfort as long as the fit is good.
Durability
Plenty of innovation and modern technology went into producing this excellent helmet for youth football. These features make it the most durable and long lasting for kids from year to year.
Fit
You should be able to get the most perfect fit with the Comfort Liners and jaw pads that are attached on the inside of this gear. In the front, back, and sides, the cushion there is helpful for fit as well.
6. Riddell Victor-I
Inflatable back, jaw, and side padding
Support system is tailored for the head shape
Has a shell of high impact and comfort
A great beginner model of equipment
Shell is aggressive with large vent holes
Requires a helmet pump for the padding
Color may be off somewhat
The Riddell Youth Victor-I Football Helmet is solid white with a faceguard that is perfect for beginners to the game of football.
Read moreIt has inflatable back, side, and jaw padding and a shell that is aggressive with large vent holes for increased circulation of air. The support system is customized and tailored for the head shape and size of the player with this type of cushioning. The shell of high impact and over liner of enhanced comfort are important features of this equipment model that protects the head well upon collisions and impacts. There is a mid-high hookup on the chin strap that secures the helmet in position and gives added jawline protection.
Protection
The face guard is included with this fabulous product to protect the face and facial features from harm during play. The hard, outer shell does the rest by guarding the entire head.
Comfort
The comfort of this helmet model is maximized with the inflatable padding inside. This is a unique way of making the helmet fit the exact shape and size of the player’s head.
Durability
For a helmet to be the most effective and long lasting, it has to be made the most durable from the strongest possible materials. This one has an outer shell of high impact that will last for years in great condition.
Fit
This terrific helmet will fit novices well to the game with the positioning chin strap and inflatable padding inside. They will enjoy a customized feeling with the helmet fitting them individually well.
7. Schutt Air Standard V
Has an ABS lightweight plastic shell
Includes shock absorber X2E+ technology
Custom fit with the silicone Fitband
Features 3DX Jaw Guard and Aware Flow
Shell is polycarbonate for high impacts
The chinstrap bothered a few people
Not the best for beginners
With an ABS lightweight plastic shell, this Schutt Air Standard V Helmet for youth football is designed for the varsity level of players.The football helmets youth feature the 3DX Jaw Guard and Aware-Flow for enhanced fit.
Read moreMitigating forces that are rotational, the shell and helmet move independently of each other due to the system of shock suspension incorporated. The shock absorber X2E+ technology gives a linear impact optimal response by adapting with the hits. Users get a custom fit with the silicone Fitband that conforms along with the size and shape of the individual’s head. Comfort pads of dual density provide protection and comfort. The shell is made of polycarbonate for high impacts, and a protective liner forms a custom fit when the player tightens the chinstrap.
Protection
The system of shock suspension that is featured on this item is one of the best for head protection. The shell and the helmet do their own movements according to the movements of the wearer.
Comfort
The comfort pads and shock absorber give this product its comfort aspect that the player will like. Helmets must be comfortable to the point that hits and impacts do not hurt even if they are hard.
Durability
As with other helmet models, this football gear’s sturdiest section is the outer shell. If this part is inferior, then the whole helmet is not adequate for good head protection.
Fit
The best fit comes when the user secures the chinstrap in the final act of putting the helmet on their head. This makes all the other aspects of the equipment effective in forming a good defense barrier.
8. Xenith X2E+
Has a lightweight plastic ABS shell
Includes comfort pads of dual density
Custom fit of head shape and size
Outer shell and helmet move freely
Has the Shock Bonnet liner of protection
Chinstrap can be a problem
Does not include the facemask
The shell and the helmet of this Xenith model move separately from each other with the suspension shock system. It has the Shock Bennet liner of protection to conform around the head of the player and a lightweight plastic ABS shell.
Read moreIncluded are comfort pads of dual density with the foam of low-density giving comfort and the foam of high density providing the protection. This wonderful helmet has a custom fit of head shape and size with the Silicon Fitband. The technology of shock absorbency gives an optimal response for the linear impacts. It has the 3DX Jaw Guard and Aware-Flow technology for an enhanced fit and better performance. The silicone fit technology and system of absorbing shock are employed for great field protection without hurting the comfort level.
Protection
An incredible suspension shock system is included in this terrific gear piece that offers the best protection for those in the sport of football. It gets the shell and the helmet to act independently of each other.
Comfort
With double pads on the interior to cushion and support the head, users will get great protection and comfort with the two types combined. The low and the high densities have a specific purpose in the helmet.
Durability
The all-important outer shell is the area that takes the hits and knocks from other players and the ground when the person falls or stumbles. It is tough and long lasting to withstand this rough treatment.
Fit
Players will get an almost exact fit with the included Silicon Fitband. It will be customized for their specific head type, shape, and size to be comfortable and snug but not tight.
9. Schutt 2018 R3+
Plushift Comfort Liner with D30 cushioning
Liner is washable, removable, and treated
D30 on the back and sides; TPU for the crown and front
TPU cushion is thick inside the shell
Air Maxx jaw pads and a soft chin strap
Facemask is purchased separately
Better for players with some experience
Several colors are offered for the Schutt Youth R3+ Football Helmet which is an improved model that expands on the previous version’s custom fit and absorption rate of impact.
Read moreIt has the Plushift Comfort Liner that features D30 cushioning, Air Maxx jaw pads, and a soft chin strap. It does not come with a facemask but needs a DNA youth facemask for the best fit and protection of the face. The liner is washable, removable, and includes an antimicrobial treatment. There is D30 on the back and sides and TPU cushioning for the crown and front of the helmet. It has a pillow-like experience from the inner liner of foam material. The TPU cushion is thick inside the shell that is large and standoff, which makes for better performance and greater absorption of impact.
Protection
The large standoff shell is the most protective part of any football helmet, as it is the area that takes the hit to the head and does not break or pass the impact on to the head inside.
Comfort
Having plenty of interior cushion makes a good football helmet a great one. This amazing model has superior padding with the new liner, D30, and TPU all around the interior.
Durability
Both the inner cushioning and the exterior hard shell are long-lasting and sturdy for many years of enjoyable play in the game. Kids will love that this comfortable helmet and other baseball gear will be useful for their many practice sessions and games.
Fit
This upgraded model of the Schutt helmet takes the customized fit of the previous product and runs with it. This one includes the Plushift Liner that makes the helmet fit better with increased comfort.
10. Riddell SpeedFlex Painted Custom
Tri-Curve Liner System offers great comfort
Includes a facemask of stainless steel
Ratchet-Loc non-removable chin strap
For junior high and youth levels of playing
Users choose the color, model, and size
Glycerin kit and pump not included
Has a different outer look without the usual gloss
The Riddell Youth SpeedFlex Painted Custom Football Helmet has Patented Side Impact Protection (PSIP) to decrease the side impact force that is forced upon the mandible area.
Read moreThe pads will keep their place and be durable with the Composite Energy Management cushioning that absorbs impact. By conforming to the helmet’s shell contours and a player’s head, the Tri-Curve Liner System offers great comfort. The occipital lobe is cradled when impacted for the best safety with the Occipital Lock liner that is inflatable. Included are a facemask of stainless steel and a Ratchet-Loc non-removable chin strap for adjusting the fit. This fabulous model is best for junior high and youth levels of playing. Users choose the color, model, and size of the product they want.
Protection
The impact force is decreased with the hinged clips and Flex System on the facemask and shell. This is important when the user is hit, especially in the front of the face area.
Comfort
Plenty of cushioning for the head is incorporated into this helmet’s interior. The PSIP technology is also helpful in making the user as comfortable as possible when wearing the helmet.
Durability
The areas of a football helmet that show signs of wear first are the inside cushions because they come in contact with the head and face. These are also the softest and most pliable of the materials used.
Fit
The fit of this great helmet model is maximized with the Tri-Curve Liner System, which matches the wearer’s head and the shell of the helmet together for an almost perfect fit.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Protection
Exterior bumpers, hard outer shells, superior linings, strong facemasks, and plenty of cushioned padding all work together to protect the face and head during the game of football on these helmets for youths. Football is a high impact sport that really takes a toll on the head even with a good helmet in use, so going without one or having an inferior helmet is not an option. Only the best models should be considered, such as those listed on this page for kids to enjoy.
Comfort
Football helmets do not have to be a uniform burden for the wearer that they hate using. Kids should like to dress out in their uniforms and enjoy the sport, as this determines their level of confidence and performance during practice sessions and games. With a comfortable helmet on their head, they will have the encouragement to give it their all and go for the tough plays. They can have this boost of moral with one of these excellent helmets that we spotlight in this terrific buying guide.
Durability
The most durable part of a football helmet is the hard, outer shell that protects the majority of the skull. The facemask, whether it is included on these models or not, is also a vital part of the durability of the football product. All of these items listed have fabulous exterior shells that will last for several years of wear by the user. The sturdy facemasks are made of stainless steel to be the ideal guard for the face and features.
Fit
The fit of a football helmet is determined by the interior padding and cushioning that can be altered somewhat for a terrific wearing experience. Chinstraps, Fit bands, comfort pads, and liners are part of this positioning inside the helmet to achieve the most perfect fit for the wearer. When it is terrific and well balanced, these characteristics make a good helmet a great one that the youth will enjoy wearing since it is the most effective.
Protection Comfort Durability Fit 
The padding for helmets is made to absorb an incredible amount of hard-hitting impact, so you can play with confidence. This padding is most often made of a combination of soft silicone and hard plastic known as TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane). It is durable, supportive, and soft protection for the head.
TPU cushioning is the best currently available for football helmets. It is more durable than foam plus it is almost impossible to destroy. It is anti-fungal and anti-bacterial to be usable for plenty of games and practices in the future.
Other Factors to Consider
Age Range
These pieces of football gear are made for younger players on teams that are not suitable for adult helmets yet. Adults can wear this helmet type, but it is advisable for youths to wear these helmet models until they can comfortably and safely wear an adult helmet of a larger size. If the child is on a team for school or the neighborhood association, the coach will be the best determinate as to when the child can graduate to an adult helmet from this youth size.
Design
Being that all of these helmets are made for youths and for the same game of football, their designs cannot deviate too much from each other. They do have varying amounts of protective features, different colors offered, many choices of size, and performance measures. The faceguards come with some while others must be bought separately to fit the helmet.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Can youth helmets be worn by adults?
Yes, they can but only if they fit them well. the fit is the most important as it should not be too tight and allow the right amount of space inside for the best protection. It would be better for an adult to wear an adult helmet in any case.
q: How do you measure your head for a football helmet?
Wrap a flexible measuring tape around your head about one inch above the eyebrows and find the circumference of your head. This measurement is needed to look it up on one of the manufacturer’s charts for helmet sizes that they provide.
q: Do these helmets come with a chinstrap and/or facemask?
Some of them do while others do not. We made note of exactly what comes with the helmets in each product’s individual section to best inform you of what it includes.
q: What are some good features of a football helmet?
A good helmet should have an adjustable snug fit that is not loose, comfortable protection, and outstanding shock absorption. It must not hinder your performance or distract you during gameplay because of a bad fit or heavyweight. If it does not fit properly, it will not do its main task of protecting your head from injury upon impact.
q: What is the purpose of the facemask on a helmet?
The facemask is to protect the mouth, nose, and eyes of the face during gameplay. The helmet guards the head, and this feature protects the features of the face. It is usually comprised of stainless steel or carbon steel and is lightweight. Facemasks are different for the various positions of play on the field.
q: Should a helmet fit loose or tight?
There must not be any room between the helmet and your temple to be a good fit. The helmet should be snug as to not allow any movement when it is on the head. Make sure that it is not too tight though, either.
q: What is the NOCSAE seal on helmets?
When a football helmet has the NOCSAE seal on the back, this means that it can handle what it was designed for. The National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) certifies the safety of helmets in the US. Right on the back of the helmet will be stamped “Meets NOCSAE standards.” This is an acceptable standard indicator for professional and youth helmets. The cost or brand of the helmet does not matter, as all quality helmets should carry this seal of approval. Every year or so helmets are recertified.
q: What does the weight of the football helmet have to do with anything?
Understandably, heavy helmets take more strength to carry when you play, so it is best to try for a lightweight helmet. The heavier it is the more tired you become and faster. Lightweight helmets will not alter your performance when playing because of any added weight, and you will be less tired.
Sources
- , Choosing a Football Helmet: 6 Tips for Best Protection, Online Article
- , Safety Tips For Choosing Football Helmets, Online Article
- , FOOTBALL HELMET BUYING GUIDE, Online Article
- , What to Look For When Buying a Youth Football Helmet, Online Article
