Lab data from Virginia Tech and the NFL/NFLPA shows clear differences in protection between helmet models — and fit decides whether any of it works.
When you’re coaching athletes or recruiting, helmet safety isn’t optional. Lab data from the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab and NFL/NFLPA helmet performance testing shows clear differences in protection between models.
Why safety ratings matter
- The Virginia Tech helmet ratings use a STAR system: lower STAR scores mean better performance and less concussion risk. More stars is better. Full varsity ratings here.
- NFL lab testing found that players wearing lower-performing helmets had higher concussion rates.
- At youth and high school level, the equipment you pick and how you fit it matters just as much, if not more. A poorly fitted high-end helmet may perform worse than a well-fitted mid-tier one.
What to look for
- 4-star or 5-star ratings on the Virginia Tech list. Helmets rated 1–3 stars carry higher risk.
- A recent model year — many older helmets no longer meet the latest impact protocols. How to buy a football helmet that fits.
- Proper fit and sizing — even the best helmet won’t do its job if it’s loose or misaligned.
- Position and level of play: linemen have different impact profiles to receivers, and youth players differ from varsity.
- Budget vs value: premium models cost more, but given what’s at stake it is often worth it.
Top helmet models for 2026
The best helmets available now, based on safety data and performance.
VICIS Zero2 Trench — $779.99
One of the best lab performers in recent ratings. Built for high-impact positions (line play) and uses advanced materials. Buy one here
LIGHT LS2 Composite Varsity — $495.00
Lightweight composite shell with an excellent safety ranking — LIGHT’s Apache line ranked first in some tests.
VICIS Zero2 Varsity — $649.99
Premium model, solid for high school and college athletes where you want best in class. Buy one here
Riddell Varsity SpeedFlex — $519.99
Big brand, trusted, and the newer models perform well — convenience plus fit adjustability. Buy one here
Schutt F7 VTD Adult — $593.99
Strong value in a high-performance adult helmet. Buy one here
Schutt F7 2.0 Professional — $659.99
Top tier, high budget — more for elite programs or teams investing heavily in safety. Buy one here
How to get the proper fit and size
Gear fit matters. Here are the straight facts on sizing helmets.
- Measure head circumference. Use a soft tape measure. Wrap around the head about 1″ (2.5cm) above the eyebrows, across the forehead and around the largest part of the back of the head.
- Match to the manufacturer’s size chart. Each brand — Riddell, VICIS, Schutt, LIGHT — has its own guide with inch and centimetre ranges.
- Initial fit check. The shell should sit level on the head, not tilted back, about 1–2 fingers above the eyebrows.
- Chin strap and retention system. Fasten snugly under the chin. The helmet should not shift significantly when pushed side to side or front to back.
- Cheek pads and liner fit. Pads should contact the head evenly with no gaps. No hot spots or pressure points that make an athlete re-position the helmet.
- Face mask clearance. The athlete should see clearly; the facemask should not block vision or sit too close to the face.
- Run a movement test. Nod, shake, look up and down and side to side. The helmet should stay snug, not shift or wobble.
- Re-check each season or whenever a player’s size changes. Pads compress and wear out, and growth especially matters for youth.
- Inspect for damage. Cracks, worn padding or degraded liners mean replace the helmet.
- Document the fit. Keep a helmet fit log for each athlete. Good practice for protecting your program and your players.
Fit mistakes to avoid
- Sizing up because “he’ll grow into it”. If it’s too loose now, protection is compromised.
- Letting players loosen the chin strap for comfort during practice.
- Skipping the side-movement test. If the helmet shifts, it won’t protect as intended.
- Assuming brand equals fit — even a top-rated model underperforms if the fit is wrong.