How to Properly Measure and Fit a Football Helmet for Safety

Ensuring a Proper Football Helmet Fit

Having a properly fitted football helmet is crucial for safety and performance. However, studies show the majority of youth players end up with poorly fitted rented helmets. Learning correct helmet sizing and fit methods helps ensure your helmet protects against injury.

Dangers of an Improperly Fitted Football Helmet

Helmets worn by most youth football players fail safety and sizing standards, according to an ongoing study. Ill-fitting helmets increase injury risk, especially concussions resulting from impact.

Parents may think that the helmets have been checked over and deemed safe, and thats not always the case, explains study author Dr. Remington Plum. Rented helmets often lack proper inspection and sizing.

Without proper fit and coverage, impacts can more easily reach the head. Poorly secured helmets also tend to twist or shift upon impact or contact, reducing protection.

Elements of Proper Football Helmet Fit

Determining helmet size and fit involves assessing multiple criteria according to safety organizations like the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE).

Helmet coverage, security, positioning and comfort all contribute to proper fit. Meeting every sizing element helps minimize injury risks and enhances on-field awareness.

Measuring Head Size

Using a soft measuring tape, carefully measure the athletes head circumference just above the eyebrows and ears. Compare the measurement against the helmet manufacturers sizing chart to determine optimal helmet size.

Write down the head measurement and model size for future reference. Mark them inside the helmet as well for easy checking as the player grows over seasons.

Assessing Helmet Coverage

A fitted helmet should completely cover the head from the bottom of the skullcap up, with no gaps at the forehead or back of head.

The brow should align just above the eyebrows, allowing only enough space to fit the index and middle finger vertically between the brow and skin.

Cheek pads should contour snugly along the cheeks without pressing uncomfortably into the face or obstructing peripheral vision.

Evaluating Helmet Security

Properly secured helmets wont shift in any direction more than about half an inch. Test security by gently grasping the helmet at the face mask and crown and attempting to twist or turn.

Next, try slowly rolling the helmet from front to back and side to side, making sure no gaps form against the skull while moving. There should be no internal slipping either.

Secure chin straps firmly so no more than one or two fingers fit between strap and chin. The helmet jaw pads should contour snugly too.

Checking Helmet Positioning

Helmets worn too high or low lose protection capabilities and appear visibly askew.

Properly fitted helmets sit level from front to back when viewed from the side. They appear equally balanced when looking down from the top as well.

Ask the player to move their jaw around while you observe if the helmet stays centered or shifts. Remind players to self-check helmet positioning pre-play too.

Getting Accurately Sized for a Football Helmet

Rather than guessing at helmet sizing or making quick visual assessments, utilize proper measuring and fitting methods. Seek guidance fitting helmets before games and practices start.

Consult Local Sports Organizations

Area high school athletic programs, youth football leagues, and sports shops often hold preseason fitting events providing correctly sized helmets.

Attending a group helmet fitting session ensures you receive size assessment and helmet model recommendations from trained experts.

Schedule Fittings at Sports Retailers

Major sports retailers like Dicks Sporting Goods offer private football helmet fitting appointments performed by knowledgeable staff. They measure head circumference and assess elements like coverage and security to determine optimal helmet sizing.

Retailers also provide equipment like shoulder pads cut specifically for certain helmet models and brands. This helps optimize fit and comfort within the entire protective system.

Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

Reputable football helmet manufacturers like Riddell and Schutt provide detailed sizing charts and fitting instructions. Refer to their guidelines when assessing helmets to ensure optimal standards.

Some companies offer phone consultations as well to talk through measuring methods, answer questions, and troubleshoot issues getting the helmet properly sized pre-purchase.

Ongoing Proper Helmet Sizing Assessment

Regularly check helmet fit even once sized, especially for growing youth players. While helmets must fit snugly, they should not press painfully anywhere or restrict blood flow.

Be Aware of Equipment Life Spans

Replace older helmets according to manufacturer guidelines, usually every ten years or so. More frequent replacement becomes necessary following major impacts that damage shells, linings or straps.

Seeking recertification of older helmets involves inspection by industry professionals to assess condition and safety. Some groups offer equipment recertification events locally.

Accommodate Physical Changes

Young athletes grow rapidly over weeks and months, potentially impacting helmet sizing and fit. Keep the original head measurement handy and periodically recheck it against current size to determine resizing needs.

Update helmet models along with changes in head dimensions or shape to maintain both safety and comfort season to season.

Weight changes over 20 pounds also necessitate helmet refitting and possible replacement to account for physical shifts.

Address Discomfort Issues

Do not ignore persistent helmet discomfort brought up by players as games and practices progress. Discomfort often signals sizing issues or shifting that compromises protection and play.

Special helmet liner and pad inserts can quickly help improve fit. For ongoing discomfort or noticeable helmet movement, though, pursue professional follow up assessments and replacing unsteady models.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.