Different Types Of NFL Helmets (Four Major Types Analyzed!)

Last Updated on October 10, 2023 by Alex PT

The major types of NFL helmets are Vicis 02 & 01, Riddell Speedflex, Xenith Shadow XR, and Schutt F7 UR1. These are the most commonly used helmets in NFL games. 

The National Football League team-up with the National Football League Player Association to thoroughly test every helmet on the market before the commencement of every NFL season to ensure that high-quality helmets are sold to football players at all playing levels.  To test the helmets with the ability to best ameliorate head impact complications, they undergo extensive laboratory research. Many people want to know whether the NFL players only use the same type of helmets. Well, if you’re one of those who want to know whether there are different types of NFL helmets, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll talk about different types of NFL helmets.

The Table Below Contains The Different Types Of NFL Helmets And Their Prices On The Market. 

Different Types Of NFL Helmets	Prices On The Market
Riddell Speedflex	$499.99
Vicis 02	$699
Xenith Shadow XR	$459
Schutt F7 UR1	$1399

1. RIDDELL SPEEDFLEX (3 MODELS)

The Riddell Speedflex is the most popular helmet in the NFL since its debut in 2014. It comes with a flexible, polycarbonate shell. For contact absorption, the helmet was designed with a flex panel that flexes upon impact. Additionally, there’s a Patented Side Impact Protection which helps to protect players from hits from the side. That’s not all. This helmet is equipped with a very unique Cam-Loc retention system that remains intact during play just like the traditional chinstraps. Besides, it only costs about $499.99. 

2. VICIS 02 (3 MODELS)

The next on our list of the different types of NFL helmets is the Vicis 02. You should know that the Vicis 02 is the upgraded version of the Vicis 01. It was designed with four layers – the reinforced Inner Shell, the updated RFLX 2.0, the Deformable Outer Shell, and the DLTA Fit System. If you’re looking for the safest helmet on the market right now, you can’t go wrong with Vicis 02. Besides, it costs about $699. 

3. XENITH SHADOW XR

Xenith brand is one of the most underrated helmet manufacturers on the market today. The Xenith Shadow XR is the latest helmet edition from Xenith and was released in Spring two years ago. This helmet is incredibly lightweight. Thanks to its advanced polymer shell, you’ll get to enjoy the most advanced contact absorbing technology. That’s not all. It comes with Rhenon cells which helps provide enough cushioning for high-impact absorption. One thing we loved about this helmet is its 360 Adaptive Fit system. The fit system makes the chinstrap wrap around your entire head. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, then the Xenith Shadow XR should be a good option for you. It retails for just $459 on their website. 

4. SCHUTT F7 UR1

The Schutt F7 UR1 is the most inventive and freshest helmet among the Schutt helmets. The F7 UR1 is Schutt’s custom fit model designed to deliver a perfect fit for all players. This model is quite expensive, but it’s worth the price. It retails for a staggering $1399. 

FAQs

We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions and answers. These FAQs will help you understand everything you need to know about different types of NFL helmets. Let’s check it out!

What Are The 2 Major Types Of Football Helmets?

The two major types of football helmets in the NFL are Riddell and Schutt. They are known to be the largest manufacturers of helmets in the United States. For the record, two-thirds of NFL players wear Riddell helmets while the other third use Schutt models. By the way, Riddell is the official helmet of the NFL. 

Are There Different Football Helmets For Different Positions?

Yes! There are different football helmets for different positions. This is to ensure that players are provided with the necessary balance of visibility and protection. The style for the football helmets is R—Reinforced; DW—Double-wire configuration depending on the player’s position. 

Why Are There Different Football Helmets?

In football, each position has a unique type of helmet to integrate great visibility with maximum protection. Besides, some NFL players integrate polycarbonate visors into their helmets to help keep their eyes safe from glare and impacts. Also, preference is another great factor responsible for the differences in a football helmet. Players have the right to choose the helmet that suits their personality. 

What Helmet Does Tom Brady Use?

One of the best players in the history of American football, Tom Brady, uses the Riddell Speedflex model. This model is quite popular among quarterbacks in quarterbacks. According to a statistic, nearly 60% of starting NFL quarterbacks currently wearing use Riddell Speedflex. Why’s that? The Riddell Speedflex is designed and built to deliver football players with excellent vision for a pocket passer like Peyton Manning, Philip Rivers, and Tom Brady.

What Is The Most Popular NFL Helmet?

Riddell Speedflex is the most popular NFL helmet since its debut in 2014. This model has 3 different versions and they are featured on the NFL list. By the way, the shell and overall helmet structure of the three Speedflex versions remain indistinguishable.  

Does Riddell Still Make NFL Helmets?

Following the conclusion of the 2013 season, Riddell won’t be the manufacturer of the official helmet of the NFL. Sports business reporter, Darren Rovell announced to the public that the NFL has ended its partnership with Riddell following the conclusion of the 2013 season. 

Do NFL Players Pay For Their Helmets?

No! The NFL teams are responsible for all the equipment and uniforms. Players do not pay for their helmets. As a matter of fact, some players have special equipment delivered to them by big brands & manufacturers. 

What Does The NFL Do With Old Helmets?

Old helmets are watched after every use and then re-used. It doesn’t matter whether the user/player participated in the game/practice or not. NFL only replace these helmets when it starts showing signs of damage or wear. 

Final Word 

The NFL collaborates with the NFLPA to thoroughly examine every helmet from the major manufacturers on the market before the commencement of every season. All the helmets on our list are the major types of helmets used in the NFL. We’ve reached the final session of this informative article. We hope you were able to find good and reliable resources in your quest to know different types of NFL helmets. If you have any questions or comments about the article topic, don’t hesitate to contact us. Thanks!