Football guide

Youth Football Helmet Size Chart

Youth football helmet sizing by head circumference, including the Riddell SpeedFlex Youth chart, fit checks, and 2026 ND6 standard context.

By WhatGearFits editorial teamUpdated August 25, 20264 sources reviewedHow we research

Short answer

Measure head circumference about one inch above the eyebrows. For the Riddell SpeedFlex Youth, the official chart starts at S up to 20 3/8 inches, M at 20 3/8-22, L at 22-23 1/2, and XL at 23 1/2 and up. Other models require their own chart.

Best next step

Check the table, then confirm the brand chart.

See the size chart Find the starting size

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Photo: Dani Adkins / Unsplash

Step 1

Find the likely size range

Open calculator

Swipe the table left to see every column.

Riddell SpeedFlex Youth size chart
Helmet size	Head circumference	Model-fit note
Small	Up to 20 3/8 in	If between listed sizes, Riddell says to start with the smaller size.
Medium	20 3/8-22 in	Confirm helmet height, crown pressure, and pad contact.
Large	22-23 1/2 in	The exact model chart controls; do not transfer this range to another helmet.
X-Large	23 1/2 in and up	Have the adjusted fit verified before play.

Source context: The displayed ranges are Riddell's official SpeedFlex Youth chart. They do not transfer to Schutt, Xenith, other Riddell models, or a different padding system; use the exact model chart and complete its physical fit process.

Official chart check: Riddell; Riddell

Football helmet sizing is a safety measurement, not a style preference. The only valid starting point is head circumference — measured with a soft tape around the widest part of the head, level above the eyebrows and around the ears. Age-based sizing should not be used for helmet selection because head size varies widely among players of the same age. Two 10-year-olds can easily measure into different helmet size ranges.

After you have the circumference measurement, find the official chart for the specific brand and model you are buying. Helmet shells, padding systems, and adjustment mechanisms vary enough between brands that a general guide cannot tell you which size is right. For youth players in organized leagues, a certified fitter or equipment manager can verify the fit, and getting that second check is worth the time for a piece of protective gear worn every practice and game.

Editorial note

We use these guides to narrow the starting range. Before you buy, compare that range with the exact brand chart, hands-on fit checks, and current sport rules. Read more about how our sizing works.

Spot a range that looks off, or a league rule we should mention? Tell us — corrections make these guides better for every parent.

Step 2

Check the deciding measurement or rule

Illustrated head measurement with a level tape above the eyebrows and ears and around the widest rear point. — Keep the tape level. Follow the exact helmet model's chart and fitting instructions.

1. Wrap a cloth tape around the widest part of the head, approximately one inch above the eyebrows. Keep the tape level and record the number.
2. Open the chart for the exact brand and model. The table above is specifically for the Riddell SpeedFlex Youth, not a universal football helmet chart.
3. Position the front edge about one inch above the eyebrows and adjust only according to the manufacturer's fitting instructions.
4. Confirm snug crown, side, back, and jaw contact; the forehead skin should move with the front pad when the helmet turns.
5. Have the final fit checked by the league's equipment manager, coach, athletic trainer, or qualified fitter before play.

Step 3

Validate the fit before you shop

Good reasons

When to try the next helmet size

The measured circumference is above the SpeedFlex Youth range shown for the current shell.
The current helmet cannot be adjusted to make even contact without painful pressure.
The next size remains level and secure and passes the complete Riddell fit process after adjustment.

Avoid these

Common mistakes

Transferring the SpeedFlex Youth ranges to a different Riddell model or another brand.
Choosing a loose shell for growth instead of fitting the player's current circumference.
Stopping at the chart match without checking helmet position, pad contact, movement, and the chinstrap.

Parent tip

Avoid used helmets unless age, condition, certification status, and safety history can be verified.

Ready to shop?

Compare helmet picks

Confirm the exact model's chart and fit before ordering football gear.

Lower costSchutt F7 Air Youth HelmetCompare on Amazon MidrangeRiddell SpeedFlex Youth football helmetCompare on Amazon Higher costVicis ZERO2 Youth HelmetCompare on Amazon

Paid links: if you buy, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Confirm the exact product chart and current price on Amazon.

When the checks agree

Choose a model, then confirm the size

Use the range above as a starting point, then recheck the exact product's brand chart before ordering.

Compare helmet picks

FAQ

How do I measure my child's head for a football helmet?

Wrap a soft tape around the head about one inch above the eyebrows, keeping it level over the widest point at the back. Record the number in inches and centimeters, then match it to the exact helmet model's chart — youth shells from different brands fit differently at the same measurement.

What size football helmet does a 10-year-old need?

There is no reliable age-based answer — two 10-year-olds can be two shell sizes apart. Measure head circumference, use the brand's model chart, and have a coach or fitter verify the fit after adjustment. Age never decides helmet size.

What is the youth SpeedFlex helmet size chart?

Riddell lists SpeedFlex Youth Small up to 20 3/8 inches, Medium from 20 3/8 to 22 inches, Large from 22 to 23 1/2 inches, and X-Large from 23 1/2 inches and up. Treat those as starting ranges and complete the model's fitting process.

Does the new NOCSAE youth helmet standard make my current helmet illegal?

Not automatically. Riddell says helmets purchased before the youth ND006 standard's September 1, 2027 effective date can continue under the previous standard for their service life when properly maintained, reconditioned, and recertified. Your league decides which standard its rules require.

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