Football guide
Youth Football Helmet Size Chart
Football helmet sizing starts with measurement, not age.
Best next step
Check the table, then confirm the brand chart.
Photo: Dani Adkins / Unsplash
Editorial note
We use these guides as starting ranges, then compare the recommendation against brand charts, fit checks, and sport-specific safety rules before surfacing gear links.
Step 1
Find the likely size range
| Player / measurement | Starting size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Measure | Head circumference | Measure above eyebrows and around the widest part. |
| Match | Brand model chart | Charts vary by shell and padding system. |
| Verify | Coach or fitter check | Protective gear deserves a second check. |
Step 2
Measure before you shop
- 1Measure in socks or the base layer your child will actually wear.
- 2Write down age, height, weight, and any league requirement before shopping.
- 3Compare your measurement to the brand chart and choose the more comfortable beginner-safe range when between sizes.
Good reasons
When to size up
- Your child is between sizes and the larger size still feels controlled.
- The season is several months long and the gear is not protective headgear.
- The brand chart says the current measurement is at the top of a range.
Avoid these
Common mistakes
- Buying only for growth and making the gear hard to control.
- Skipping the brand chart because another brand fit last season.
- Ignoring league rules for bats, balls, sticks, and protective equipment.
Parent tip
Avoid used helmets unless age, condition, certification status, and safety history can be verified.
Used gear note
Used gear can save money, but avoid used helmets unless you can verify age, condition, and safety history.
Step 3
Adjust for skill level
Beginner
Comfort, control, and simple sizing.
Intermediate
More precise fit based on position and preference.
Advanced
Performance feel, brand-specific model fit, and rules.
Optional
Recommended starter gear
Use these as comparison starting points, then confirm the exact model against brand charts, league rules, and your child's measurements.
$Schutt / Helmet
Schutt F7 Air Youth Helmet
Families comparing youth helmets after measuring head circumference.
Why we surface this
Families comparing youth helmets after measuring head circumference.
Measure first
Head circumference and the exact brand chart for the model.
WhatGearFits may earn a commission when you buy through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
$$Riddell / Helmet
Riddell SpeedFlex Youth football helmet
Families checking youth helmet fit after measuring head circumference.
Why we surface this
Families checking youth helmet fit after measuring head circumference.
Measure first
Head circumference and the exact brand chart for the model.
WhatGearFits may earn a commission when you buy through links on this site, at no extra cost to you.
FAQ
Is this size guaranteed to fit?
No. Treat it as a good starting point, then check the brand's official size chart before buying.
What should I do when my child is between sizes?
Consider comfort, growth, position, league rules, and whether the gear is protective. Avoid sizing up helmets without a proper chart match.
Related guides
Ready to narrow the size?
Choose a sport, add age and measurements, and get a beginner-safe starting recommendation.