10 Best Junior Football For Kids 2026 in the United States

The Schutt F7 AiR Youth Football Helmet is designed specifically for younger players in youth and middle school football, sized medium to fit that age group well. It weighs around 3 pounds, which is relatively light for a helmet, helping kids stay comfortable during play. The outer shell is made of durable polycarbonate, which offers strong impact resistance and long-lasting protection. Inside, foam padding combined with an inflatable air liner allows a customized fit that enhances comfort and safety by reducing helmet movement on the head.

The helmet includes a carbon steel facemask, a popular choice for toughness and durability, and it arrives fully assembled so you don’t have to worry about setup. This model stands out for its top-tier protection, having earned a 5-star rating from the independent Virginia Tech Helmet Lab, which is a trusted measure of helmet safety. The integrated stabilization system around the jaw area adds extra security and comfort, which is important for younger players who need reliable protection without feeling restricted.

This helmet offers excellent safety and adjustability, although the medium size means it may not suit smaller or larger kids, so checking the fit before purchasing is important. While the weight is light for a helmet, some very young players might still notice it compared to non-helmet gear. This helmet represents a solid choice for parents looking for a comfortable, highly protective option that is easy to use and trusted in youth football.

The Riddell SpeedFlex Youth Helmet in medium size is designed specifically for young football players, offering solid protection and comfort. It uses a tough ABS outer shell combined with an inner liner made from expanded polystyrene, which helps absorb impacts during play. A standout feature is the patented side impact protection and the Flex system that reduces force from hits, which is important for keeping kids safer on the field.

The helmet also has an adjustable Ratchet-Lock chin strap for a snug fit and a quick-change liner system, making it easier to keep clean and maintain comfort. The materials used suggest it is reasonably light enough for youth players without sacrificing durability. The texture and grip on the helmet come mainly from the face mask and shell design, which provide secure handling but might feel a bit firm until broken in.

With excellent customer ratings, this helmet is a reliable choice for junior football, striking a good balance between protection and usability. Because it’s a medium size, it’s best suited for kids in that size range and may not fit younger or smaller children well.

The Riddell SpeedFlex Youth Helmet is designed specifically for young football players, offering a good balance of protection, comfort, and adjustability. It comes in a small size suitable for youth and teens, with a lightweight build at 2.4 kilograms that helps reduce neck strain during play. The outer shell is made of durable polycarbonate, a tough material that resists impacts well, while the inner foam provides cushioning and helps absorb shocks.

One of its standout safety features is the patented side impact protection (PSIP) and a flexible design in the shell and face mask attachment, which work together to lessen the force from hits, especially from the sides—a common concern in football. The Air Fit Liner System and the Cam-Lock chin strap make it easier to get a snug, secure fit, which is important to keep the helmet stable during the game. The quick-release facemask attachment also adds convenience when putting on or taking off the helmet. However, the helmet’s surface texture prioritizes smoothness over grip, which is typical and generally fine but means it might be slick if wet.

This helmet represents a strong choice for parents looking for reliable, research-backed safety gear for their young football players, combining solid materials, thoughtful design, and easy customization.