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Today's football helmets offer superior protection for the head and come in a variety of sizes and with different padding systems. It is important to know the different components when purchasing a football helmet.

Types of Helmets

• Youth
  • Youth models are obviously designed to fit a smaller player's head.
  • Additionally, these typically use a different type of plastic, such as ABS, which is plenty durable but less expensive than tougher plastics used in adult helmets.
• Adult
  Adult helmets generally use a Lexan Polycarbonate shell, a very resilient material.

Helmet Components

• Air Systems
  • Helmet manufacturers offer models with an air system liner.
  • This is designed to return the air system to its original state after a collision much more rapidly than foams or straps.
  • Air systems withstand repeated blows better than helmets that use just foam pads
  • In addition, air systems are generally more comfortable and provide for an easy fit since air can be adjusted to tighten the helmet to your head's specific shape.
• Padding
  • Helmets come with a series of pads, usually foam, that further cushion the head, jaw and nose.
  • These pads usually come standard with any helmet.
  • Replacement pads, liner padding systems and liners also are offered.
  • Pads may be designed specifically for the helmet model.
  • Pads include front and back sizes to adjust the helmet's fit.
  • Pads for the top, side and back of the helmet and jaw pads also are part of the padding system.
  • Manufacturers offer these pads in different thickness, ranging from 1/2 to 1 inch allowing preferred firmness.
• Chin Straps
  • Chin straps perform two functions.
  • First, they protect the chin area, with a cup that fits snugly underneath and around the chin.
  • Second, the straps snap onto your helmet to hold it firmly on your head. That's why it's crucial to keep it centered and without slack.
  • Helmets come with standard chin straps, but you can buy different styles and replacement straps.
• Face Masks
  • Helmets come in two basic ways: with and without the mask.
  • There is an array of face masks offered, each designed to protect various parts of the face and to optimize protection for different players while still allowing them the best visibility to play their position.
  • In order to protect the carbon steel that is generally used in face masks, manufacturers may offer different coatings, with a premium paid for more durable coatings.