How To Size A Football Helmet Correctly: A Safe & Perfect Fit

Can you wear a football helmet that’s too big? No, you absolutely cannot wear a football helmet that’s too big. A helmet that’s too loose is a serious safety hazard. The primary goal of football helmet sizing is to ensure a snug, secure fit that protects the player’s head.

Why Proper Football Helmet Fit Matters

Wearing a football helmet is non-negotiable for any player on the field. It’s the most crucial piece of protective gear designed to absorb impact and prevent serious head injuries like concussions. However, a helmet only offers maximum protection if it fits correctly. An ill-fitting helmet can be as dangerous as no helmet at all.

The Risks of an Incorrect Fit

Increased Risk of Concussion: A helmet that is too large will shift on the head during impact, failing to properly absorb and distribute the force. This can lead to a higher risk of concussion or more severe brain injury.
Neck and Spinal Injuries: If a helmet is too loose, it can move independently of the head during a tackle or fall. This movement can transmit excessive rotational forces to the neck and spine, increasing the chance of these serious injuries.
Vision Impairment: A helmet that is too tight can press on the temples, causing headaches and potentially impairing vision. Conversely, a helmet that is too loose can obstruct peripheral vision, making it harder to see the field and react to plays.
Discomfort and Distraction: A helmet that doesn’t fit well can be uncomfortable, causing players to fidget and adjust it during crucial moments of the game. This distraction can take their focus away from playing and increase their risk of errors or injury.
Compromised Protection: Ultimately, a poorly sized helmet fails to do its job. The padding, the shell, and the internal systems are all designed to work together to protect the player. If these components aren’t positioned correctly due to an improper fit, their protective capabilities are severely diminished.

The Key to Determining Football Helmet Size: Measurement

The most reliable way to achieve a proper football helmet fit is through accurate measurement. This isn’t a guessing game; it’s a science. Understanding how to perform these measurements correctly is the first step in ensuring your football helmet sizing is spot on.

How to Measure Football Helmet Size

Gather your materials:

A flexible measuring tape (a soft, tailor’s tape measure is ideal).
A mirror for self-measurement or a helper.
A notepad and pen to record the measurement.

Follow these steps carefully to get your football helmet measurement:

Measure Around the Head: This is the most critical step in determining football helmet size.
- Start the tape measure about an inch above your eyebrows, wrapping it around the widest part of your head, usually just above your ears and over the bump at the back of your skull.
- Keep the tape measure snug but not tight. It should feel like how the helmet should feel when properly fitted – firm but comfortable.
- Ensure the tape is level all the way around.
- Take the measurement in inches or centimeters. Note the exact number.
Consider the Facial Structure: While the circumference is the primary measurement, some helmet manufacturers also consider the width of the forehead and the depth from the forehead to the back of the head. This is less common for initial sizing but can be important for fine-tuning the fit, especially for players with wider or narrower heads.
Compare to a Football Helmet Size Chart: Once you have your head circumference, the next step is to compare it to a football helmet size chart provided by the helmet manufacturer. These charts are essential for translating your measurement into a specific helmet size (e.g., Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large).

Common Pitfalls in Measurement

Measuring too loosely: This will result in selecting a helmet that is too large. Remember, the tape should be snug.
Measuring too tightly: This will lead to choosing a helmet that is too small and uncomfortable.
Not keeping the tape level: An uneven tape measure will give an inaccurate reading.
Not using a flexible tape measure: A rigid tape measure will not conform to the shape of the head, leading to incorrect measurements.
Ignoring manufacturer-specific charts: Different brands may have slightly different sizing, so always refer to the chart for the specific helmet you are interested in.

Navigating the Football Helmet Sizing Guide

Once you have your head circumference, you’ll need to consult a football helmet sizing guide. This guide will be specific to the brand and model of helmet you are considering.

Deciphering Football Helmet Size Charts

Football helmet size charts typically list head circumference ranges alongside corresponding helmet sizes.

Example Football Helmet Size Chart (Illustrative)

Helmet Size	Head Circumference (Inches)	Head Circumference (Centimeters)
XS	20.5″ – 21.5″	52.1 cm – 54.6 cm
S	21.5″ – 22.0″	54.6 cm – 55.9 cm
M	22.0″ – 22.5″	55.9 cm – 57.2 cm
L	22.5″ – 23.0″	57.2 cm – 58.4 cm
XL	23.0″ – 23.5″	58.4 cm – 59.7 cm
XXL	23.5″ – 24.0″	59.7 cm – 61.0 cm

Note: These are example ranges. Always refer to the specific brand’s sizing chart.

Factors Beyond Circumference

While head circumference is the primary determinant for football helmet sizing, other factors can influence the best fit:

Head Shape: Some individuals have heads that are more oval than round, or vice-versa. Certain helmet models may accommodate different head shapes better than others.
Hair Thickness: Thick hair can add to the overall circumference. Consider this when measuring.
Cheekbone Structure: The width of the cheekbones can sometimes influence how a helmet sits, especially around the jawline.

Achieving a Proper Football Helmet Fit: The Fitting Process

Measurement is just the start. The real test of a correct football helmet fit comes during the actual fitting process. This involves trying the helmet on and assessing how it feels and performs.

Trying On the Helmet

Seat the Helmet: Place the helmet on your head. It should feel snug, like it’s hugging your head. It shouldn’t be loose enough to wobble easily or tight enough to cause pain.
Check for Gaps: Look in a mirror. There should be no significant gaps between the helmet padding and your head, especially at the forehead, temples, or the back of your head. The helmet should sit low on your forehead, covering your hairline.
The “Shake Test”:
- Forward Shake: With the chin strap unbuckled, shake your head gently from side to side and then nod your head up and down. The helmet should not shift significantly or rotate on your head.
- Back-and-Forth Shake: Gently try to move the helmet forward and backward with your hands. It should feel secure and not slide easily.
The Jaw Test: Buckle the chin strap. It should be snug against your chin, with only about one or two fingers able to fit between the strap and your chin.
- The “Chin Strap Pull” Test: With the chin strap buckled, try to pull the helmet off from the back. It should not come off.
- The “Jaw Twitch” Test: Try to move the helmet by wiggling your jaw. If the helmet moves with your jaw, it’s too loose. If it stays put, it’s likely a good fit.

Adjusting Internal Padding

Many modern football helmets feature adjustable padding systems. This allows for fine-tuning the fit after the initial selection.

Inflation Systems: Some helmets have air bladders that can be inflated or deflated to achieve a precise fit around the head.
Modular Padding: Others come with different thicknesses of foam padding that can be swapped out to customize the fit.

Youth Football Helmet Sizing: Special Considerations

Youth football helmet sizing requires extra attention. Children’s heads are still growing, and they may not be able to articulate exactly how a helmet feels.

Key Aspects of Youth Football Helmet Sizing

Growth Factor: While you don’t want a helmet that’s too big to grow into, it’s also important not to buy one that’s uncomfortably tight. Helmets typically last several seasons, so a slight room for growth might be considered, but safety must come first.
Ease of Use: Ensure the player can buckle and unbuckle the chin strap themselves, but that it remains secure.
Weight Distribution: A helmet that is too heavy or too large can strain a young player’s neck.
Parental Involvement: Parents and coaches play a crucial role in ensuring youth players have properly fitted helmets. Regular checks are recommended.

Adult Football Helmet Sizing: Maintaining Performance

Adult football helmet sizing is generally more straightforward, as head size is stable. However, the principles of a secure and protective fit remain paramount.

Ensuring a Secure Fit for Adults

Comfort: Adults are better equipped to identify discomfort or pressure points. A proper fit should be snug but not painful.
Durability: While helmets are designed to last, a poorly fitting helmet can experience uneven wear and tear on the padding.
Performance: The helmet’s stability during play is critical for maintaining focus and safety at all levels of the game.

Maintaining Your Football Helmet for Optimal Fit

A well-fitted helmet is only effective if it’s maintained properly.

Care and Inspection

Regular Checks: Periodically inspect the helmet for cracks, dents, or wear on the padding and chin strap.
Cleaning: Clean the helmet according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the shell material.
Storage: Store the helmet in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, which can compromise the materials.
Replacement: Helmets have a lifespan, typically 5-10 years, or sooner if damaged. Always replace a helmet that has been in a significant impact or shows signs of wear.

Frequently Asked Questions about Football Helmet Fit

Q1: How often should I measure my head for a football helmet?

A1: You should measure your head whenever you are purchasing a new helmet, or if you notice your current helmet no longer fits securely. For youth players, regular checks throughout the season are also advised.

Q2: What if my head circumference falls between two sizes on the football helmet size chart?

A2: If you fall between sizes, it’s generally recommended to try on both sizes. The helmet that feels more snug and secure without being uncomfortably tight is usually the better choice. Consider the internal padding and adjustability features.

Q3: Can I use a helmet that was used by someone else?

A3: It’s strongly advised against using a used helmet unless you are absolutely certain of its history and condition. A helmet that has been in a significant impact may have internal damage that is not visible, compromising its protective capabilities.

Q4: How tight should the chin strap be?

A4: The chin strap should be snug enough to prevent the helmet from coming off, but not so tight that it causes discomfort or restricts breathing. You should be able to fit one or two fingers between the strap and your chin.

Q5: My football helmet feels fine, but it moves a lot when I turn my head quickly. Is this normal?

A5: No, this is not normal. If the helmet moves significantly when you turn your head, it indicates it is too large or not properly secured. This movement can be dangerous. Re-measure and consult a football helmet sizing guide, or consider a helmet with better internal padding or an adjustable fit system.

Q6: What’s the difference between youth football helmet sizing and adult football helmet sizing?

A6: The core principles of measurement and fit are the same. However, youth sizing needs to account for potential growth, and parents/coaches often have a more direct role in ensuring the fit is correct due to a child’s ability to articulate comfort.

Q7: How do I know if my helmet is still safe?

A7: Inspect your helmet regularly for any cracks, dents, or damage to the padding and straps. If the helmet has been involved in a significant impact, it should be replaced immediately, even if no visible damage is apparent. Most manufacturers recommend replacing helmets every 5-10 years due to material degradation.

Q8: What does “football helmet fit” really mean in terms of feel?

A8: A proper “football helmet fit” means the helmet feels snug and secure, like a second skin. It shouldn’t shift or slide when you move your head, and there should be no uncomfortable pressure points. It should feel protective and stable.

By following these detailed steps for football helmet measurement and fitting, you can ensure a safe and perfect fit for any player. A correctly sized helmet is the foundation of safety on the football field.