When you’re coaching athletes or recruiting, helmet safety isn’t optional. The lab data from Virginia Tech Helmet Lab and the NFL/NFL Players Association helmet performance testing show clear differences in protection between models.
Why safety ratings matter
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The Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings use a “STAR” system: lower STAR scores mean better performance (less risk of concussion). More stars = better. Full Article HERE.
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The NFL lab testing found that players wearing lower-performing helmets had higher concussion rates.
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For youth/high school level, the equipment you pick and how you fit it matters just as much if not more. As a coach you already know that a poorly fitted high-end helmet may perform worse than a well-fitted mid-tier one.
What to look for
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4-star or 5-star ratings on the Virginia Tech list. Helmets rated 1-3 stars = higher risk.
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Recent model year — many older helmets no longer meet the latest impact protocols. Here is How to Buy a Football Helmet that Fits
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Proper fit and sizing (see below) — even the best helmet won’t do its job if it’s loose or misaligned.
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Position & level of play: linemen have different impact profiles than receivers; youth players are different from varsity.
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Budget vs value: premium models cost more, but given what’s at stake, it’s often worth it for your athletes.
Top Helmet Models for 2026
Here are some of the best helmets right now (as of 2025/26) based on safety data and performance. I picked models that you could recommend to your athletes, and I included linkable examples (though you may link them to Amazon or your affiliate program as you choose).
VICIS Zero2 Trench Helmet: One of the best lab performers in recent ratings. It’s built for high impact positions (line play) and uses advanced materials.
LIGHT LS2 Composite Varsity Helmet: Lightweight composite shell, excellent safety ranking (LIGHT Helmets’ Apache line was ranked #1 in some tests)
VICIS Zero2 Varsity Helmet: Premium model, solid for high school/college athletes where you want best in class.
Riddell Varsity SpeedFlex Helmet: Big brand, trusted, newer models perform well — convenience + fit adjustability.
Schutt F7 2.0 Professional Helmet: Top tier, high budget — more for elite programs or teams investing in safety.
How to Get the Proper Fit & Size before buying a Football Helmet
As a performance coach, you know gear fits matter. Here are the straight-facts on sizing helmets.
Step-by-Step: Proper Sizing
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Measure head circumference. Use a soft tape measure. Wrap around the player’s head about 1″ (2.5 cm) above the eyebrows, across the forehead, and around the largest part of the back of the head.
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Match to manufacturer’s size chart. Each brand (Riddell, VICIS, Schutt, LIGHT) has a sizing guide (Small, Medium, Large, etc with inch/cm ranges).
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Initial fit check (helmet off). The athlete wears the helmet and the shell should sit level on the head (not tilted back) and about 1–2 fingers above the eyebrows.
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Chin strap & retention system. Fasten the chin strap so it fits snugly under the chin. The helmet should not shift significantly when you push on it laterally (side to side) or front/back.
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Cheek pads and liner fit. The pads should contact the head evenly. No gaps between liner/pad and skull. The athlete should not feel hot spots or pressure points that may cause them to mis-position the helmet.
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Face mask clearance. The athlete should see clearly, the facemask should not block vision or be too close to the face (affects safety & comfort).
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Run a movement test. Have the athlete nod, shake head, look up/down, side to side. The helmet should remain snug, not shift or wobble.
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Re-check each season or when player size changes. Helmets compress/pad wear out; growth especially matters for youth.
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Inspect for damage. Cracks, worn padding, degraded liners — any found = replace helmet.
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Document the fit. As a performance coach you might keep a helmet fit log for each athlete. Good practice for protecting your program and athletes.
Fit Mistakes to Avoid
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Using a helmet “one size up” because “he’ll grow into it” — bad idea. If too loose now, protection compromised.
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Not adjusting the chin strap or letting players loosen strap for “comfort” during practice.
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Ignoring the side protective movement test. If helmet shifts, it won’t protect impact as intended.
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Assuming “brand = fit” — even a top-rated model will underperform if fit is wrong.
