Best Baseball Helmets For All Levels

Among the essential pieces of safety equipment, the helmet stands out for its critical role in protecting players from head injuries. As technology and materials science have advanced, so too have the designs and features of the baseball helmets.

7 Best Baseball Helmets

1) Easton Z5 2.0 Batting Helmet (Best Value)

Why We Like It:

• Revered for its superior protection and comfort.
• Features a high-impact resistant ABS shell and a dual-density foam liner that absorbs shock efficiently, reducing the risk of head injuries.
• The Bio-Dri Liner is padded to keep sweat away.
• Helmet comes in various sizes to ensure a perfect fit for players of all ages.
• Matte finish looks professional! The front decal was easy to remove and replace with team decal.
• NOCSAE Approved for all levels of play

2) EvoShield XVT Baseball Helmet (Great Value)

Why We Like It:

• Lightweight design with internal padding with fully wrapped ear pads help make your helmet more comfortable and protected.
• A top venting system in the helmet regulates temperature, keeping you feeling fresh and cool.
• Choose from two premium finishes — matte or glossy
• Certified by SEI to meet NOCSAE standards

3) Rawlings COOLFLO T-Ball Batting Helmet (Best For Kids)

Why We Like It:

• The Dual Density Foam lining offers unbeatable comfort and protection.
• Stay cool and dry in the heat of the game with their state-of-the-art COOLFLO design.
• ABS helmet shell offers superior protection and durability
• Pre-drilled for face guards and equipped with snaps for chin straps, perfect for kids of various sizes.
• Meets NOCSAE standard

4) Rawlings VELO Batting Helmet (Best For Youth to Intermediate Players)

Why We Like It:

• Eye-catching finish and ultra-cushioned fit for style and comfort
• Aerodynamic venting system that allows air flow, keeping you cool and dry in hot weather conditions.
• Composite helmet shell offers maximum protection without adding extra weight.
• Meets NOCSAE standard

5) Rawlings MACH Batting Helmet (Best For Advanced Players)

Why We Like It:

• Sleek and modern design for a professional look. Rawlings is the official MLB helmet brand.
• Used Impax foam, a high-performance material for added comfort, absorbing and dispersing force.
• The ABS shell is designed to withstand high impacts and provide maximum protection.
• NOCSAE certified for all levels of play

6) Mizuno B6 Batting Helmet (Best For HS and College Levels)

Why We Like It:

• EVA Foam core offers superior protection and interior comfort.
• Drylite liner helps keep moisture/sweat under control.
• Honeycomb Shell pattern innovatively reduces helmet weight, while ensuring high-level protection.
• Meets NOCSAE standard

7) Marucci DuraVent Batting Helmet (Our Favorite)

Why We Like It:

• Three layers of impact-grade ABS material
• High-density, impact-absorbing, contour comfort foam for maximum protection and comfort
• Strategically placed vents enhance airflow, keeping you cool and dry.
• Includes DuraVent Universal Jaw Guard for added helmet jaw protection.
• Looks good, but it’s also super comfy when it’s on your head
• Meets NOCSAE standard

What To Look For When Buying A Baseball Helmet?

Safety Ratings and Certifications

When selecting a baseball helmet, it’s crucial to consider safety ratings and certifications. Look for helmets that meet or exceed NOCSAED (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) standards, as these have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they can protect players from ball impacts at various speeds.

Fit and Sizing

A properly fitting helmet is essential for effective protection. Look for helmets that come in various sizes and offer adjustable features to ensure a snug, comfortable fit. A helmet that is too loose can come off during play, while one that is too tight can be uncomfortable and distracting.

Protection Features

• Impact Absorption: High-quality helmets use advanced materials and padding that absorb and disperse impact energy, reducing the risk of injury.
• Ear Coverage: Full ear coverage protects against side impacts. Some leagues may require helmets with flaps on both ears, especially for younger players.
• Face Guards: Consider whether the helmet can be equipped with a face guard, which provides additional protection for the face, especially for pitchers and infielders.

Ventilation

Good ventilation is important to keep the player comfortable, especially in hot weather. Look for helmets with strategically placed air vents that promote airflow, helping to keep the head cool and dry.

Durability and Material

The helmet should be made of durable, high-impact resistant materials. ABS plastic is a common choice for its strength and ability to withstand impacts without cracking or shattering.

Weight

A lightweight helmet improves comfort and reduces neck fatigue over long periods of play. Advanced materials can offer the necessary protection without adding unnecessary weight.

Design and Aesthetics

While safety and functionality should be the primary concerns, the appearance of the helmet is also important for many players. Many brands offer helmets in various colors and finishes to match team uniforms or personal preferences.

Ease of Cleaning

Consider how easy it is to clean the helmet, as sweat and dirt can build up over time. Removable and washable inner pads or liners are a beneficial feature for maintaining hygiene and comfort.

Compatibility with Accessories

Some players may need or prefer to use additional accessories like jaw guards or extended face guards. Check that the helmet is compatible with these accessories and that they can be securely attached.

FAQs

When Did Baseball Players Start Wearing Helmets?

Baseball players started wearing helmets for protection in the 1940s, but the adoption of helmets was a gradual process that evolved over several decades. Before the introduction of helmets, players wore caps made of fabric, which offered no protection against head injuries from pitched balls or other accidents on the field.

The push for better head protection began to gain momentum in the 1930s. One of the early adopters of helmet-like headgear was Brooklyn Dodgers shortstop Pee Wee Reese, who wore a modified polo helmet in 1941. However, it wasn’t until 1941 that the first helmet resembling what we see today was introduced by the Brooklyn Dodgers, following a serious incident in which one of their players, Joe Medwick, was struck in the head by a pitch.

The National League was the first to officially adopt the helmet rule in 1956, requiring players to wear them while batting. The American League followed suit shortly after. However, it wasn’t until 1971 that Major League Baseball (MLB) mandated helmet use for all players on the field, including batters, base runners, and certain defensive positions. This rule has been expanded and refined over the years, with additional requirements such as ear flaps being introduced to enhance safety.

The evolution of baseball helmets has continued, with ongoing improvements in materials, design, and safety features to better protect players from head injuries. Today, helmets are an essential and mandatory part of a baseball player’s gear at all levels of play, reflecting the sport’s commitment to player safety.

Why Do Baseball Players Put Pine Tar On Their Helmets?

Transfer from Bat to Helmet

• Indirect Application: Players often apply pine tar directly to their bats, but during the course of a game, it can transfer from their hands or gloves to their helmets. This can happen when players adjust their helmets or take them off with hands that have pine tar on them.
• Convenience: Some players intentionally put pine tar on their helmets or the brim of their caps so they can easily reapply it to their hands or gloves during a game. This method allows them quick access to the substance without having to reach for the actual pine tar stick or rag every time they need more grip.

Psychological and Superstitious Reasons

• Routine and Superstition: Baseball is a sport rich in rituals and superstitions. Some players might put pine tar on their helmets as part of their pre-game routine or because they believe it brings them good luck or helps maintain their performance level.

The Aesthetic Aspect

• Intimidation and Style: A helmet streaked with pine tar can give a player a rugged, veteran appearance, which might be seen as intimidating by opponents. Additionally, it can be a style preference, signifying a player’s hard work and dedication to the game.

Why Are Baseball Helmets Made Of?

ABS Plastic (Exterior)

• Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): This is a common material for the outer shell of baseball helmets. ABS plastic is known for its high impact resistance, durability, and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. Its toughness makes it an ideal material for protecting players’ heads from the impact of a baseball.

Foam Padding (Interior)

• Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Foam: Inside the helmet, EPS foam or similar foam materials are used for cushioning and impact absorption. This foam is lightweight and can compress upon impact, helping to dissipate the force and reduce the risk of injury.
• EVA Foam: Some helmets may also use Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam for additional comfort and impact absorption. EVA foam is soft and flexible, providing a comfortable fit while still offering protection.

Padding and Liners (Interior)

• Moisture-wicking Liners: Many helmets feature liners that wick away sweat to keep players comfortable during the game. These liners can be made from various synthetic fabrics designed to pull moisture away from the skin.
• Memory Foam: Some higher-end helmets incorporate memory foam in their padding systems for a custom fit and enhanced comfort. Memory foam contours to the player’s head, providing a snug fit that improves protection.

Conclusion

Choosing the right batting helmet is a critical decision for any player, from youth leagues to the pros. The best baseball helmets combine safety, comfort, and durability, ensuring players can step up to the plate with confidence.