How to Make a Helmet More Comfortable for Football

Football helmets are not a one-size-fits-all piece of equipment. Each football player deserves a helmet that fits him well for safety. From extra padding to air systems, modern football helmets make customizing a simple task. A proper fitting will ensure that the player’s head is as protected and as comfortable as possible when playing the full-contact sport of football, from the youngest pee-wee league player up to the professional level.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape or head caliper
  • Inflation pump and needle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the player’s head 1 inch above the eyebrows with a measuring tape or head caliper. Select a helmet based on the head size.

    • 2

      Dampen the player’s head to resemble sweaty conditions. Place the helmet on the player’s head.

    • 3

      Inflate the air liner in the helmet, if it has one, with an inflation pump and needle. Begin at the lower portion of the helmet, and then finish at the top.

    • 4

      Look to confirm that the front of the helmet rests approximately 1 inch above the player’s eyebrows -- the widest part of the head. Press on the top of the helmet to confirm that the pressure is on the crown of the head and not on the forehead.

    • 5

      Center the chin strap on the player’s chin and tighten it. Confirm that the ear holes are directly over the player’s ears. Adjust the jaw pads so they are snug against the player’s jaws, but not tight.