How to Choose the Right Football Helmet

Selecting the right football helmet is crucial for both performance and safety on the field, and we know shopping for football equipment can feel like a minefield of high-tech jargon and confusing terminology. With a wide array of options available, it can be daunting to know which helmet is the best fit for you or your athlete.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a football helmet.

First and foremost, you should prioritize safety. Ensure that any helmet you consider meets the safety standards set by organizations like the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). Look for a certification label on the backside of your helmet that indicates compliance with NOCSAE standards, which assures the helmet meets rigorous safety requirements.

Also, note that all Xenith helmets have earned a 5-Star rating by the independent Virginia Tech Helmet Lab.

A properly fitting helmet is crucial for player safety and performance. The helmet should fit snugly, without being too tight or too loose. Refer to the sizing chart to learn how to fit a Xenith helmet, and determine the correct size for you or your athlete.

Xenith helmets feature a unique Adaptive Fit System that was built to revolutionize the way football helmets are supposed to fit, feel, and perform on the field. Beyond the Adaptive Fit System, the padding in Xenith helmets is decoupled from the shell to further dampen impact forces, allowing the shell to move relative to the head for optimal protection.

Lean more about Xenith's approach to advancing football helmet technology.

When deciding which helmet to purchase, make sure to choose a helmet that suits your position and playing style to ensure optimal performance. Also consider these additional features that can enhance protection and comfort:

Adaptability:

Instead of using substandard air bladders, our unique Adaptive Fit System provides a more balanced and secure fit. The combination of an occipital pad that hugs the back of players' heads and interchangeable sizing pads keeps Xenith helmets locked in place, providing better balance, reduced head whip, and decreased fatigue late in games.

Shock Absorption:

Xenith helmets feature Aware Flow shock absorbers that are uniquely designed to adapt to varying levels of impacts/hits and dissipate the energy by collapsing to vent air for a more complete and gradual compression.

While safety should be your top priority, we’re also aware the cost of everything (including football equipment) has seemingly increased these days. Quality football helmets can vary significantly in price, so determine how much you’re willing to invest based on your needs and preferences - age, and/or level of play may also play a factor in this decision. 

Choosing the right football helmet is an important decision. Consider your position, playing style, and budget when evaluating different helmet options, and make sure to select a helmet that meets stringent safety standards and offers the best fit.

Check out the complete lineup of Xenith helmets now.