Football Helmet Guide: Construction, Fit, Safety & Care

An American football helmet consists of much more than a hard outer shell. The helmet shell, interior padding, jaw pads, facemask, chinstrap and mounting hardware must work together, be adjusted correctly and be inspected regularly.

This football helmet guide explains the basic construction of a helmet, different adjustment systems, correct fit, the differences between youth and varsity helmets, and important information about safety, care, inspection and accessories.

Our Football Helmet Buying Guide compares specific models from Riddell, Schutt and LIGHT, including current test results, weights and buying recommendations. Currently available helmets, facemasks and replacement parts can be found in the American Football Helmets & Facemasks category.

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Construction · Helmet shell · Padding · Fit · Youth or varsity · Facemask · Chinstrap · Safety · Care · Inspection · Accessories · FAQ

Important safety notice: No football helmet can completely prevent head or neck injuries or concussions. A helmet can only perform its intended function when the correct model is worn in the proper size, adjusted correctly, used according to the rules and inspected regularly for damage.

How Is an American Football Helmet Constructed?

The exact construction differs depending on the manufacturer and model. However, the basic components are similar in most modern football helmets.

• outer shell
• impact-absorbing interior structure
• comfort and adjustment padding
• cheek pads or jaw pads
• rear-head stabilization
• facemask
• facemask clips and mounting screws
• chinstrap
• front and rear bumpers
• ventilation openings
• depending on the model, air valves or replaceable fit pads

These components should not be considered separately. A correctly selected helmet shell may still fit poorly when the jaw pads do not match the player’s face shape or the chinstrap is adjusted incorrectly.

The Outer Shell, Interior Padding and Accessories Form One System

Football helmets are developed as complete protective systems. Only facemasks, pads, jaw pads, clips, screws and accessories specifically designed for the particular model should therefore be used.

A similar shape or matching helmet size does not automatically mean that a component is compatible with another helmet.

The Outer Shell of a Football Helmet

The outer shell gives the helmet its shape, supports the facemask and distributes forces across the interior structure beneath it. Different plastics, wall thicknesses, reinforcements and flexible areas are used depending on the model.

Rigid and Flexible Shell Areas

Some helmets have a largely uniform outer shell. Other models use flexible panels, separate external elements or specially shaped areas designed to move in a controlled manner under impact.

These constructions differ in areas such as:

• helmet shell shape
• weight
• rigidity
• ventilation
• position of the mounting points
• facemask compatibility
• construction of the underlying impact-absorbing elements

Shell Shape and Head Shape

Not every helmet shell fits every head shape equally well. Two players with the same head circumference may experience completely different fits with the same model.

For example, a helmet may appear to fit correctly at the forehead but create excessive pressure at the temples. Another model may fit well at the sides but fail to provide sufficient stability at the back of the head.

Take Cracks and Structural Changes Seriously

The outer shell should be inspected regularly for cracks, breaks, deep cuts, deformation and unusually soft areas. A damaged section of the shell must not be repaired using glue, filler, heat or other improvised methods.

When visible damage is present, the helmet should not be used again until it has been inspected by a suitable specialist or according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Interior Padding and Impact-Absorption Systems

Impact-absorbing elements, liners and comfort padding are located beneath the outer shell. They help absorb forces, position the helmet on the head and create an even fit.

Fixed Impact-Absorbing Elements

Many helmets use fixed foam or plastic elements. These may consist of one or more layers of material and may have different shapes, densities and levels of firmness.

Fixed elements must not be cut, sanded, glued or modified independently.

Inflatable Liners

Some Riddell and Schutt models use air-assisted interior liners. Specific areas can be adjusted gradually through designated valves.

When inflating the liners, observe the following:

• use only the designated valves
• use a suitable helmet pump and compatible inflation needle
• follow the manufacturer’s instructions
• add air gradually
• do not overinflate the liners
• check the fit again after every adjustment
• do not compensate for an oversized helmet by fully inflating the liners

When a liner regularly loses air, the valve and interior padding should be inspected. Constantly reinflating the liner does not replace repairing or replacing a damaged component.

Replaceable Fit Pads

Other helmets, including models from LIGHT, are adjusted using fit pads of different thicknesses. These pads can be installed or replaced in specific positions.

Only the intended pad shapes and thicknesses should be used. Randomly added padding may create pressure points or change the position of the helmet.

Jaw Pads or Cheek Pads

Jaw pads rest against the sides of the face and help keep the helmet securely in place. They are often available in different thicknesses.

Jaw pads that are too thin may allow excessive side-to-side movement. Jaw pads that are too thick may create severe pressure points or make it difficult to fasten the chinstrap.

Rear-Head Stabilization

Many modern helmets include a specially shaped area at the back of the head. This may consist of fixed padding, an Occipital Lock, air liners or replaceable fit pads.

The helmet should hold the back of the head securely without sitting too high or sliding forward over the eyes.

How to Measure and Fit a Football Helmet Correctly

Correct fit is one of the most important factors when choosing a football helmet. An improper fit cannot be compensated for by a well-known brand, a high price or a good laboratory rating.

Measuring Head Circumference

Place a flexible measuring tape horizontally around the head. Measure approximately one finger width above the eyebrows and around the widest part at the back of the head.

Compare the result with the size chart for the specific manufacturer and helmet model. Size charts from different brands are not automatically identical.

Further information can be found under How to Determine Your Football Helmet Size.

Putting the Helmet On Correctly

Hold the helmet on both sides around the ear openings. Pull the sides slightly apart and place the helmet onto the head from front to back.

The front edge should sit approximately one finger width above the eyebrows. The helmet must not be tilted far backwards or pulled too low over the eyes.

How Can You Recognize a Good Fit?

• the helmet sits level on the head
• the front edge sits approximately one finger width above the eyebrows
• the forehead, temples and back of the head are held evenly
• the jaw pads rest evenly against the face
• the helmet moves with the head during head movements
• the skin on the forehead moves slightly when the helmet is carefully turned
• the helmet does not slide over the eyes
• there are no individual severe pressure points
• the player can see, speak and breathe normally

Snug Does Not Mean Painful

A new football helmet may feel snug. Severe headaches, numbness, persistent pain or one-sided pressure points are not desirable signs of a correct fit.

When problems occur, check the following:

• is the basic helmet size correct?
• does the shell shape suit the player’s head shape?
• are the jaw pads too thick or too thin?
• have the air liners been overinflated?
• have the fit pads been installed incorrectly?
• is the chinstrap adjusted unevenly?
• does the helmet sit too high or too low?

Try the Helmet On with the Facemask and Chinstrap

Whenever possible, a football helmet should be tried on with the intended facemask and the chinstrap fastened. The facemask affects the weight, balance and, depending on the construction, how the shell feels.

A correctly adjusted chinstrap may also change the position of the helmet. The final fit assessment should therefore always be completed with the full game configuration.

Do Not Buy a Helmet to Grow Into

Especially for children, a helmet that is clearly too large should not be purchased. An oversized helmet may shift, restrict the field of vision and cannot be corrected reliably by adding more air or randomly inserting additional padding.

Youth and Varsity Football Helmets

Youth and varsity helmets are not simply different sizes of the same product. Depending on the manufacturer, they may differ in shell material, construction, size range, weight, interior padding and intended use.

Youth Football Helmets

Youth helmets are intended for younger players and the corresponding youth level of play. The manufacturer’s specifications and the rules of the club, governing body or event organizer are decisive.

A youth model may be suitable when:

• the player competes below the varsity or adult level
• the club or league requires a youth model
• the available size range fits the player’s head better
• the specific model is expressly intended for youth football
• a lighter youth configuration is required

Varsity Football Helmets

Varsity helmets are developed for older youth players, adults and higher levels of competition. The specific model must still suit the player’s head size, head shape and level of play.

A varsity model is not automatically better simply because it is more expensive, heavier or intended for adults.

Available youth models can be found in the Children’s and Youth Football Helmets category.

Facemask: Field of Vision, Facial Coverage and Compatibility

The facemask helps protect the face while also affecting the field of vision and the helmet’s total weight. It must be specifically compatible with the particular helmet model.

Facemasks Are Model-Specific

Typical product groups include:

• Riddell SpeedFlex Facemasks
• Riddell Speed Facemasks
• Schutt F7 Facemasks
• Schutt Vengeance Facemasks
• LIGHT Facemasks

Speed, SpeedFlex, F7, F7 AiR, Vengeance and LIGHT facemasks use different shapes, mounting points or hardware. A facemask that looks similar must therefore not automatically be installed.

Selecting a Facemask by Position

The playing position primarily affects the preferred facemask design rather than necessarily determining the helmet model.

• Quarterback, wide receiver and defensive back: often a more open field of vision and fewer additional bars
• Running back, tight end and linebacker: a balanced combination of visibility and additional coverage
• Offensive and defensive line: often additional bars around the mouth and face
• Kicker and punter: often particularly open facemask designs

Model names and position recommendations differ between manufacturers.

Inspecting the Facemask and Mounting Hardware

Before training sessions and games, check the following:

• bent or broken bars
• chipped or severely damaged coating
• loose screws
• damaged clips
• missing mounting hardware
• unusual movement of the facemask
• damaged quick-release components

Selecting and Adjusting the Chinstrap Correctly

The chinstrap helps keep the helmet securely in position. It should sit centrally beneath the chin and be adjusted as evenly as possible at all mounting points.

Hardcup and Softcup

Depending on the model, chinstraps may have a harder or softer chin cup. The more suitable version depends on the helmet, fit and personal comfort.

Check Compatibility

Not every chinstrap fits every helmet. Differences may include:

• mounting height
• strap length
• ratchet or snap system
• SpeedFlex-specific mounting systems
• Xenith or other manufacturer-specific systems

The chinstrap must not be improvised, extended, knotted or attached to points that are not intended for it.

How the Chinstrap Should Fit

• the chin cup sits centrally on the chin
• all straps are fastened
• the left and right sides are adjusted evenly
• the helmet is stabilized without being forcefully pulled downwards
• the player can speak and breathe normally
• the straps are not twisted or damaged

Safety, Certification and Independent Helmet Testing

A football helmet is intended to reduce forces, but it cannot completely prevent injuries. A concussion may still occur while wearing a new, correctly fitting and highly rated helmet.

NOCSAE and SEI Certification

NOCSAE develops performance standards for football helmets and other sports equipment. Compliance of specific models with the relevant standards is assessed through an independent certification body.

Certification indicates that the tested model meets the requirements of the relevant performance standard. It does not mean that injuries are impossible.

Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings

The Virginia Tech Helmet Lab performs additional independent comparative testing. Helmets are evaluated under defined laboratory conditions and compared within their respective categories.

The ratings can assist when choosing a model. However, they do not replace:

• correct size selection
• individual fit
• manufacturer instructions
• regular equipment inspections
• medical assessment following a head impact
• proper playing and tackling technique

Varsity, youth and flag football ratings use different test methods. Numerical values from different categories should therefore not be compared directly.

Current model ratings can be found in the Football Helmet Buying Guide. Additional background information is available under Football Helmet Safety and Testing.

What Should You Do After a Severe Head Impact?

When a concussion or another injury is suspected, the player must be removed from play and assessed by a medical professional. The condition of the helmet does not replace a medical examination.

Even when no external damage is visible, the helmet should be inspected following an unusual or severe impact.

Do Not Make Unauthorized Modifications

Drilled holes, cut shell areas, adhesives, third-party padding, unsuitable brackets and other modifications may affect the helmet’s function and potentially its certification status.

Only use components and accessories intended for the specific helmet model.

Cleaning and Caring for a Football Helmet

Sweat, dust, grass, artificial-turf particles and moisture collect on the helmet during training sessions and games. Regular care improves hygiene and makes damage easier to identify.

Cleaning the Outer Shell

• remove loose dirt using a soft cloth
• use lukewarm water and a mild cleaning product
• do not use aggressive solvents
• do not use abrasive brushes or sponges
• do not work on decals or coatings with sharp objects
• allow the shell to dry completely afterwards

Cleaning the Interior Padding

Removable pads should only be taken out and cleaned according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Some interior components may be cleaned carefully by hand, while others should only be wiped down.

All components must be allowed to air-dry completely after cleaning.

Do Not Use Extreme Heat

Football helmets should not be dried on radiators, with hot-air devices or in direct extreme heat. Storage inside a heavily heated vehicle should also be avoided.

Preventing Unpleasant Odors

After every use, remove the helmet from the equipment bag and allow it to dry in a well-ventilated area. A helmet that remains damp may develop unpleasant odors and hygiene problems.

Inspecting a Football Helmet Regularly

A brief visual and functional inspection should be completed regularly and additionally after particularly severe contact.

Inspecting the Outer Shell

• cracks
• breaks
• deformation
• unusually soft areas
• deep cuts or gouges
• damaged mounting points

Inspecting Interior Pads and Liners

• severely compressed padding
• cracks or separation
• missing fit pads
• leaking air liners
• damaged valves
• a different or altered fit

Inspecting the Hardware

• loose or missing screws
• damaged clips
• rusted or bent components
• defective quick-release fasteners
• damaged chinstrap attachments

Inspecting the Facemask and Chinstrap

• bent facemask
• broken bars
• damaged coating
• stretched straps
• cracked chin cup
• defective buckles or ratchets

When Should a Helmet No Longer Be Used?

A helmet should be temporarily removed from use when:

• the outer shell is cracked, broken or deformed
• the facemask is broken or severely bent
• important mounting components are missing
• the helmet no longer fits securely despite correct adjustment
• liners or pads are significantly damaged
• the model has been modified without authorization
• unusual changes are discovered following a severe impact

Repair, Replacement and Service Life

A damaged component does not automatically mean that the entire helmet must be replaced. Many models have replaceable jaw pads, liners, fit pads, chinstraps, bumpers, screws or facemask clips.

However, the outer shell itself should not be repaired independently. Cracks, breaks and deformation require assessment by a suitable specialist or, depending on the damage, replacement of the helmet.

There Is No Universal Service Life for Every Helmet

How long a football helmet can be used depends on factors including:

• manufacturer instructions
• age of the helmet
• frequency of use
• intensity of contact
• storage conditions
• care and maintenance
• condition of the shell
• condition of the padding and hardware
• repair and reconditioning history
• requirements of the team, governing body or league

Detailed information can be found on the Football Helmet Service Life, Inspection and Replacement page.

Choosing the Correct Football Helmet Accessories

Eyeshields and Visors

An eyeshield is attached to the facemask and may help protect the eyes from fingers, dirt and particles. It must be compatible with the facemask and the intended clips.

Clear, tinted or mirrored versions may be regulated differently depending on the league. The current rules should therefore be checked before use in a game.

Helmet Pumps

Inflatable helmets require a suitable helmet pump with a compatible needle. The needle should be inserted carefully into the valve according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Replacement Padding and Jaw Pads

Replacement padding must be specifically compatible with the manufacturer, model and, where applicable, helmet size. Pads that look similar may differ in shape, attachment and material.

Screws, Clips and Quick-Release Hardware

Even small mounting components are model-specific. Do not use general-purpose screws from a hardware store, and replace damaged clips only with suitable helmet components.

Helmet Covers and Attachments

Additional external helmet covers or other attachments should only be used when they are compatible with the helmet and permitted under the requirements of the manufacturer, team and league.

Choosing a Football Helmet by Playing Position

The playing position does not normally determine the helmet model on its own. A quarterback, receiver or lineman may generally wear the same helmet model when it fits correctly and is intended for the required level of play.

Position-specific differences more commonly involve:

• facemask shape
• field of vision
• number of facial bars
• facemask weight
• personal preference regarding total weight
• type and frequency of typical contact

A detailed model and position comparison can be found in our Football Helmet Buying Guide.

Common Mistakes When Using Football Helmets

Compensating for the Wrong Basic Size by Overinflating the Helmet

Air liners are intended for fine adjustment. They cannot make a fundamentally oversized helmet fit correctly.

Installing an Incompatible Facemask

A facemask must not be selected based only on appearance or mounting points that appear to match.

Leaving the Helmet Damp Inside the Equipment Bag

Moisture encourages unpleasant odors and makes it more difficult to inspect the interior padding.

Using Aggressive Cleaning Products

Solvents and unsuitable chemicals may damage surfaces, padding, coatings or plastic components.

Ignoring Damaged Hardware

Loose screws, cracked clips and damaged straps should be replaced before the helmet is used again.

Modifying the Helmet Independently

Drilled holes, cut-out sections, third-party padding and unsuitable attachments may affect the helmet’s function.

Considering Only Ratings or Price

A test result or high purchase price does not replace correct fit and regular inspection.

FAQ – Football Helmet Guide

Football Helmet Knowledge and Suitable Models

A football helmet should not be selected based only on the brand, design or price. The correct size, suitable shell shape, even interior padding, compatible facemask, correctly adjusted chinstrap and proper equipment condition are what matter.

Currently available models, facemasks and accessories can be found under American Football Helmets & Facemasks.

Further information:

• Compare and Select Football Helmets
• Determine the Correct Football Helmet Size
• Safety and Independent Helmet Testing
• Service Life, Inspection and Replacement
• Riddell Football Helmets
• Schutt Football Helmets

Technical features, included components, compatibility and competition rules may differ or change. Always check the current product description, manufacturer instructions and the requirements of your club, governing body or event organizer.