10 Best Football Helmets 2025 in the United States

The Riddell SpeedFlex Youth Helmet in Large is a well-regarded football helmet designed for teen players, offering robust protection and comfort. One of its key strengths is the patented side impact protection (PSIP) which helps reduce the forces from side impacts, making it a safer choice for young athletes. The helmet's Flex system, which includes flexibility engineered into the shell, face mask, and attachment system, further enhances its ability to manage impact forces, potentially reducing injury risks.

The Ratchet-Loc chin strap offers easy adjustment, ensuring a snug and secure fit, which is crucial for effective protection during play. This helmet is constructed from polycarbonate, a durable material well-suited for high-impact sports, and includes expanded polystyrene inner material for additional safety and comfort. However, it's important to note that the helmet requires proper maintenance, including regular reconditioning as recommended, to ensure its longevity and effectiveness, which might be an added responsibility for users.

Certified for use in football, this helmet meets key safety standards, further providing peace of mind for parents and coaches. Available in white and designed for teens, this helmet is suitable for serious young football players seeking reliable head protection, provided they adhere to the maintenance guidelines to keep it in optimal condition.

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 Trench Football Helmet is a standout option for linemen, thanks to its position-specific design which aims to reduce low-velocity impacts experienced during gameplay. Its deformable outer shell and RFLX 2.0 technology offer enhanced impact absorption, providing additional protection without adding extra weight. The helmet's high ranking by both NFL/NFLPA and Virginia Tech's testing underscores its superior performance in safety standards.

The included SC-223-S facemask adds to the helmet's protective features, ensuring comprehensive safety for the wearer. The helmet is available in a large size, suitable for varsity-level players, and is made from durable polycarbonate on the outside with foam padding inside. The helmet's fit is designed to conform well to the player's head. Its black color and aggressive design also make it visually appealing.

Despite its high level of safety and design, the helmet's best sellers rank indicates it's not widely purchased yet, which might be due to its recent release or higher price point. This helmet is best suited for serious varsity-level linemen looking for top-tier protection and performance in their gear.