9 Best Youth Baseball Helmet That Saved My Son’s Baseball Career!

Last Updated on July 4, 2023

Yes, you heard it right. My 12-year-old kid was about to get a serious injury during a match. But fortunately, he was wearing a helmet and saved himself from the 44 mile pitch. Having inner padding and an extremely robust outer shell made this gear the best youth baseball helmet for him just after that day, it’s Easton Z5 2.0.

The price is pretty much affordable too. However, there’s a long list of helmets in his collection at this age. He has used helmets from big brands like Rawlings, Marucci, and Under Armour. 

In this article, I’ve listed his favorite 9 baseball bat helmets that are suitable for starters, and available in junior, senior, and adult sizes. Let’s head into the quick chart first before the review. 

At a Glance – Best Youth Baseball Helmets

Helmet Models	Key Features	Purchase Links
Rawlings COOLFLO	● Size: 6.5 to 7.5 inches ● Circumference: 19 ¾ to 21 ⅝ inches ● Face Guard: Attached (detachable)	View on Amazon
Rawlings Mach Extension	● Size: 6 ⅜ to 7 ⅝ inches ● Circumference: 20 ⅛ to 23 ⅞ inches ● Face Guard: Jaw	View on Amazon
Rawlings R16 Reversible EXT	● Size: 6 ⅞ to 7 ⅝  inches ● Circumference: Not available ● Face Guard: Jaw (Reversible)	View on Amazon
CHAMPRO HX	● Size: S, M, L ● Circumference: S (18.8 – 20.2) M (20.2 – 21.9) L (21.9 – 23.5) inches ● Face Guard: Jaw	View on Amazon
Marucci DuraVent	● Size: 6 ½ – 7 ⅛ and 7⅛ – 7½ inches ● Circumference: Not mentioned ● Face Guard: Jaw	View on Amazon
Easton Z5 2.0	● Size: 6 ½ – 7 ⅛, 7 ⅛ – 7 ½ inches ● Circumference: N/A ● Face Guard: N/A	View on Amazon
Easton Alpha	● Size: 7 ⅛ – 7 ¾, 6 ⅝ – 7 ¼ inches ● Circumference: N/A ● Face Guard: N/A	View on Amazon
Under Armour Converge	● Size: 6 ¾ inches ● Circumference: Approximately 20 ⅛ – 22 ⅜ inches ● Face Guard: No	View on Amazon
EvoShield XVT™ 2.0	● Size: 6 ½ – 7 ⅛, 6 ⅞ – 7 ½, 7 ¼ – 7 ⅞ inches ● Circumference: N/A ● Face Guard: N/A	View on Amazon

5 Best Youth Baseball Helmets With Face Guard

Since maximum safety is the primary buying factor, it’s important to have a face guard on your helmet. In this section, I’ve listed all the youth baseball helmets with jaw guards,

Rawlings COOLFLO Batting Helmet

Highlighted Features

• Model: CoolFlo
• Size: 6.5 to 7.5 inches
• Circumference: 19 ¾ to 21 ⅝ inches
• Face Guard: Both attached and detachable
• Available Colors: Black, navy blue, royal blue, red 

It’s needless to mention why you should trust Rawlings as a brand. After testing it for over a year, I can do nothing but admire the quality of this CoolFlo helmet by Rawlings. 

They added the same material used in the MLB helmets. It just adds surplus confidence in the player that he’s safe wearing this gear. 

To enhance your safety on the field, the batting helmet comes with an attached facemask. Whether you’re playing baseball or softball, this facemask provides an extra layer of protection for your face, reducing the risk of injuries from stray balls or collisions. This feature is particularly valuable for younger players.

The inner padding of this Rawlings baseball helmet supports in 2 ways. It protects your head from sun heat and also a sturdy helmet body. 

Without that, I also find the ventilation system quite helpful as it allows necessary airflow. So, you don’t have to struggle with excessive sweating. 

Apart from that, it also caught my attention due to the aerodynamic sleek design. Even during my minor league career, mostly I preferred wearing 1 tone solid finish. And this one features a similar trait, making it the best baseball helmet for me. 

Another good part is Rawlings designed it to fit all-size players, ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 inches. The circumference range is 19 ¾ to 21 ⅝ inches. 

I also found the helmet complies with the NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) standard for safety. In brief, this certification ensures that the helmet meets the necessary requirements for player protection, giving you peace of mind during gameplay.

Why I Chose Rawling CoolFlo

• Made with MLB-level materials 
• Venting system for necessary airflow 
• Certified with NOCSAE, ensuring the milestones for player’s safety
• Available in different colors
• Suitable for all-age baseball batters 

Things to Consider Before Buying

Some customers complained about the helmet getting scratched and inadequate alignment of the face guard. However, there’s always an option for return and replacement from the manufacturer. 

Rawlings Mach Extension Batting Helmet With Jaw Guard Included

Highlighted Features

• Model: Mach Extension
• Size: 6 ⅜ to 7 ⅝ inches (Junior and Senior)
• Circumference: 20 ⅛ to 23 ⅞ inches (Junior and Senior)
• Face Guard: Jaw guard attached
• Available Colors: Single tone (matte black, navy blue, red) and Duotone (matte black, royal blue, red)

Most probably, I bought this helmet last Christmas as a present for my younger son, who was then preparing for the junior league. He’s fond of matte colors, and I couldn’t find any better alternative to this ME. 

As a mid-budget helmet, it didn’t disappoint me or him actually. Without the color priority, the key buying factor for me was its 2-piece flap combination. It provides the required coverage for both junior and senior league players. 

Actually, the feature is intended for improving visibility, allowing batters to focus on the pitch without any obstructions. My son also felt comfortable with the jaw guard’s size and shape. It doesn’t obstruct the player’s line of sight.

It features their patented Impax foam, which is a high-performance material that absorbs and disperses force upon impact. Trust me, it’s a true blend of safeguard and comfort. 

Baseball games can be physically demanding, and players need proper ventilation to stay cool and focused. To ensure that, the helmet incorporates strategically placed vents to facilitate airflow, ensuring players remain comfortable throughout the game. 

Additionally, the moisture-wicking liner prevents sweat buildup, keeping players dry and focused at the plate and on the basepaths.

Lastly, Rawlings made this series suitable for both junior and senior league players. So, there won’t be any with the fitting. 

Why I Chose Rawling Mach Extension

• Approved by the NOCSAE authority 
• Designed with a big-sized jaw guard 
• Adequate ventilation system for extra comfort
• Comfortable padding system to protect heads during impact

Things to Consider Before Buying

If you buy an incorrect size, the jaw guard itself will create obstacles in your eyesight. Make sure to keep that in mind. 

Rawlings R16 Reversible EXT Batting Helmet with Reversible Face Guard 

Highlighted Features

• Model: R16 EXT (R6R07)
• Size: 6 ⅞ to 7 ⅝  inches
• Circumference: Not available
• Face Guard: Jaw guard (Reversible)
• Available Colors: Graphite, black, navy blue, royale blue, red, white

This R16 batting helmet also comes with jaw guard support like the above series. But what makes it different is the jaw guard is reversible. So, players can adjust it according to their comfort measurements. Also, you can eject it if it feels unnecessary. 

To make it resistant to ball impacts, Rawlings made the outer with thermoplastic polyurethane. The jaw guard is covered with TPU rubber, which gives it an extra layer of durability. However, it also makes it easy to get scratched. 

Aside from these fancy specs, I also liked the venting system in the helmet. There are 2 additional holes on the jaw sides along with the head holes. Therefore, it allows access to more air. 

Since I bought this helmet for his practice purpose only, I chose the graphite color. It looks unique. There are 5 more color options available also.

As it’s made for both senior and junior league players, there are different size options you can choose from. For juniors, it has 6 ⅜ to 7 ⅛ inches and for senior league players, there are 6 ⅞ to 7 ⅝ inches.

“If you want to buy the same helmet but without the jaw guard, go for the Rawlings R16 VELO. It’s comparably cheaper and also available in 11 different colors.” 

Why I Chose Rawling R16

• Reversible jaw guard for necessary adjustments during gameplay 
• Double heat ventilation system for extra airflow 
• Backed by 1 year of manufacturer warranty 
• Built with durable plastic material 
• Suitable for junior and senior league players

Things to Consider Before Buying

The lid that covers the screw area of the jaw guard can break if hit by balls. It doesn’t damage the jaw guard, but without the lid, there’ll be dust build-up.

CHAMPRO HX Baseball and Softball Batting Helmet

Highlighted Features

• Model: HX
• Size: S, M, L
• Circumference: S (18.8 – 20.2) M (20.2 – 21.9) L (21.9 – 23.5) inches
• Face Guard: Jaw guard 
• Available Colors: Duotone (black, blue, navy blue, red, white )

Recently, one of my students introduced me to the CHAMPRO HX Batting Helmet. Although I wasn’t initially familiar with the brand, I decided to give it a try.

I wasn’t expecting but it left me with a lasting impression, transforming me into an ardent fan. For budget seekers, no doubt, it’s a deal-breaker. 

If you want to get the feel of early baseball time, this ChamPro HX batting helmet is the best deal.  

Though the design is a bit ancient style, other specs are modern. For example, ChamPro crafted this gear with strategically placed vent holes. Hence, it allows heat to escape, ensuring rough hitters keep a cool head. 

Surprisingly, it’s gonna cost you less than Rawlings youth helmets, yet they feature the same ABS plastic shell, which is durable enough to last multiple seasons. 

I also liked the weight-optimized shell design of the helmet, lined with impact foam, which ensures maximum comfort during extended periods of use. 

A good trait is the jaw pad is wrapped in soft moisture-wicking fabric, providing a snug and comfortable fit.

“If you prefer a single-tone design, I suggest going for their CHAMPRO HX Gamer Plus series. All specs are same in the both series except for Gamer Plus helmets which have solid color without any stripes. Also, it comes in 9 different lucrative colors. These will match any expected league team jersey.” 

Why I Chose Rawling HX

• Made with ABS plastic to resist even the hardest impacts
• Weight-optimized shell, combined with impact foam and jaw pads
• Rounded bill shape to increase visibility 
• Suitable for kids, youth, and adult players

Things to Consider Before Buying

Currently, the sizes are suitable for various ages of players from 6 to 14. Make sure to match the circumference before placing an order.

Marucci DuraVent Batting Helmet

Highlighted Features

• Model: DuraVent
• Size: Junior (6 ½ – 7 ⅛) inches and Senior (7⅛ – 7½)
• Circumference: Not mentioned
• Face Guard: Jaw guard 
• Available Colors: Black, blue, red, navy blue, white

Marucci is comparably a new player in the baseball equipment industry, but already got many professional players’ attention with MLB-grade bats, due to their high-quality assurance. 

Many don’t know, but Marucci helmets are also equally good for baseball and softball. And the conqueror in the field is their DuraVent series. 

When it comes to safety, the Marucci DuraVent Batting Helmet excels. It provides maximum protection against potential head injuries. The backbone is its 3-layer high-end plastic body. It’s denser than regular youth baseball helmets too. With the support of its contour foam, it can handle extreme impacts like a breeze. 

Even for comfort, Marucci engineers did a step-ahead innovation. They have added 17 ventilation portals, which makes the maximum air circulation compared to any youth baseball helmets listed in this review. 

Just like the R16, this DuraVent also features a universal jaw guard and it’s detachable easily. Choose protection or flexibility, whatever you prefer during play. 

During my test wear, I didn’t experience any heat or sweat. Later I found that without the venting system, the helmet is also laminated. It does 2 benefits – firstly, no excessive moisture, and secondly, keeps the paint protected from fading. However, if you’re not using the right size, the wrapped ear pads may feel uncomfortable.

“There’s also a 2-tone variation of this Marucci DuraVent. But the price is nearly the same if you’re picking this variation, let me know your experience in the comment box.”

Why I Chose Rawling Marucci Duravent

• Exceptional protection against head injuries
• Various size options for a secure fit 
• Well-ventilated design for enhanced airflow
• Additional protection with the included Universal jaw guard
• Moisture-wicking liner and fully wrapped ear pads for cooling and comfort

Things to Consider Before Buying

I faced difficulty removing the sticker on the front of the helmet. Besides, the adhesive residue from the sticker required additional effort to remove. 

One of my students told me that the screw covers for the jaw guard don’t stay down securely. However, I didn’t face the issue with mine. 

4 Youth Baseball Helmets Without Face Guard

Many players feel confident without a face or jaw guard. Don’t be amazed, but I’m also one of them. If you’re one of us, the below series are some of the best youth baseball helmets on the market. 

Easton Z5 2.0 Batting Helmet 

Highlighted Features

• Model: Z5 2.0
• Size: Junior (6 ½ – 7 ⅛) and Senior (7 ⅛ – 7 ½) inches
• Circumference: N/A
• Face Guard: Not included
• Available Colors: White, Black, Carolina Blue, Charcoal, Gold, Green, Light Grey, Maroon, Navy, Orange, Red, Royal, Texas Orange, and Vegas Gold

With a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5, as given by more than 1800 baseball players, this Easton Z5 2.0 batting helmet stands out as a top-notch choice. I purchased a senior size of this helmet for my son, who was literally crazy about this series. Anyway, it’s basically the upgraded version of the 1.0, which consists of some additional benefits.  

Easton has a rich history in the sporting goods industry, spanning over 100 years. The company has consistently delivered top-quality equipment and has become synonymous with excellence in the baseball world.

And the Z5 2.0 batting helmet is a testament to Easton’s commitment to crafting exceptional gear. The most key aspect of a batting helmet is its ability to provide maximum protection. In this regard, this Easton Z5 batting helmet excels. 

Though the price is a bit high, Easton justified it with its high-impact resistant ABS thermoplastic shell. This advanced shell technology ensures that your head remains safe and secure. Besides, it features a dual-density foam liner for additional shock absorption support. 

“My son experienced this just during the first day when Andrew’s (a speedy pitcher in my academy) ball accidentally hit him directly on his left head area. He was just okay and steel on the plate behaving like nothing happened.”

The foam liner isn’t removable. And you don’t need to worry about cleaning actually. It’s designed to be moisture-wicking, helping to combat sweat and keep the helmet fresh.

To add a touch of personalization and team spirit, the helmet comes with a removable forehead sticker. You can customize this sticker with your team logo or any other design that represents your unique style. Don’t take me wrong but it’s the key buying factor for many early birds 😂. 

The Easton Z5 2.0 batting helmet comes in various sizes, including junior, senior, and adult sizes. Junior sizes are limited for players aged 5 to 7 years. For senior players, the age limit is 11 to 14 years old, depending on their head size.

Why I Chose Easton Z5 2.0

• ABS thermoplastic shell shields your head from powerful impacts
• With the dual-density foam liner, this helmet delivers immense comfort 
• Removable forehead stickers allow you to personalize your helmet
• The padded Bio-Dri liner effectively manages moisture

Things to Consider Before Buying

Yes, the base version doesn’t come with a faceguard. However, you can get another variant of this that features a jaw guard. 

Easton Alpha Baseball Batting Helmet 

Highlighted Features

• Model: Alpha 
• Size: Large/X-Large (7 ⅛ -7 ¾ inches) and Medium/Large (6 ⅝ – 7 ¼ inches)
• Circumference: N/A
• Face Guard: N/A
• Available Colors: Black, Charcoal, White, Red, Navy, Royal

Most of my first-year students use this Easton Alpha. I also suggest this initially as it’s low priced. 

Being a beginner baseball helmet, Easton Alpha does have some good and a few odds also. 

Starting with the goods, it features the ABS thermoplastic shell. Yes, it’s the same material you’ll see in those $70-$80 baseball helmets.  

To provide comfort to newcomers, the Alpha features 2 liners of inner foam. Combining both, you’ll get solid protection against high impact. It also ensures a snug fit. 

Without that, the Bio Dri liner is an impressive feature that soaks moisture, keeping the kid’s head cool and dry even during intense games or practices.

The helmet runs true to size, so accurately measuring your head before purchasing is essential.  Personally, I opted for the Large/X-Large size, which accommodates head sizes ranging from 7 ⅛ to 7 ¾ inches. Without that, there are other size options available also. 

In terms of aesthetics, the Easton Alpha helmet offers a sleek and sporty design. It comes in various color options, allowing players to choose one that reflects their style or matches their team uniform. 

The Easton logo on the front is also removable, So, if you want to add your team logo or other decals, feel free to try it.

Why I Chose Rawling Easton Alpha

• Beginner-friendly design with all the comfort supports
• Bio Dri liner absorbs moisture, keeping you cool and dry
• Dual-density foam liner for exceptional cushioning and shock absorption
• Various color options to match the personal style or team uniform
• Good fit and ample padding praised by users

Things to Consider Before Buying

Most of this helmet’s inner foam will start to rip off after a year. Well, what more can you expect from a cheap baseball helmet for training?

Under Armour Converge Batting Helmet

Highlighted Features

• Model: Converge 
• Size: 6 ¾ inches
• Circumference: Approximately 20 ⅛ – 22 ⅜ inches
• Face Guard: No
• Available Colors: Black, navy blue, blue, red, white, and graphite.

The Under Armour Converge is the most recent addition to my son’s batting helmet collection. In brief, this helmet is a pure blend of style, protection, and durability. Not only that, it does have some fancy features too!

I was particularly impressed with the anti-odor technology integrated into the helmet. Basically, the fabric and padding quality helps prevent unpleasant odors. Therefore, players don’t need to clean often.  

Like many premium baseball helmets, this one is also certified by the NOCSAE. So, you don’t need to be skeptical about the quality.

Under Armour marketed it as a “One-Size-Fits-All” design. This design eliminates the need to worry about finding the right fit. Additionally, the helmet is recommended for players aged 11 and under, specifically catering to hat sizes 6 ¾ and smaller.

Another good trait of the design is its paint and outer material. It doesn’t leave that many scratches like typical matte helmets. 

Why I Chose Under Armour Converge 

• Meets NOCSAE safety standards
• Matte painted finish adds a touch of sophistication
• One-Size-Fits-All eliminates the hassle of finding the right fit
• Charged foam liner ensures a comfortable and secure experience for players.
• Integration of anti-odor technology keeps the helmet fresh, even during long gameplay 

Things to Consider Before Buying

I found some players had specific concerns. For example, a young fellow mentioned receiving a helmet with a yellow cushion trim instead of the expected black version. 

While this might not affect the helmet’s functionality, it’s worth considering if color coordination is important to you. 

EvoShield XVT™ 2.0 Matte Batting Helmet 

Highlighted Features

• Model: XVT
• Size: Small/Medium (6 ½ – 7 ⅛), Medium/Large (6 ⅞ – 7 ½); Large/X-Large (7 ¼ – 7 ⅞) inches
• Circumference: N/A
• Face Guard: N/A
• Available Colors: Black  

Are you a Gothic fan? If yes, this EvoShield XVT will catch your attention at first glance. Under a $50 price, it’s packed with all the features and quality you can count for. 

For instance, this cutting-edge helmet is designed with lightweight dual-density padding. This strategically placed padding made the helmet quite comfortable for my son. Aside from that, it’s well-performing against high impacts. 

Heat and moisture buildup can be a major concern during long games, affecting both your performance and overall comfort. EvoShield also addressed this issue. They incorporated a top plate venting system in the XVT 2.0 matte batting helmet. It allows for proper air circulation, keeping your head cold even in the most heated moments of the game. 

The EvoShield XVT 2.0 helmet has been rigorously tested and certified by SEI to meet the stringent NOCSAE standards. 

Currently, the helmet is available in sleek black only. It’s suitable for both baseball and softball. The helmet comes in different sizes, suitable for 6 to 12 years.

Why I Chose EvoShield XVT

• Backed by a year of warranty 
• Lightweight dual-density padding that engulfs your head, providing a cocoon of comfort
• A head-turning style that exudes power and confidence
• Optimal ventilation keeps you refreshed during the match or training

Things to Consider Before Buying

The only drawback is there’s no color option other than black. Also, note, it gets scratched easily. 

What Do I Consider Every Time Buying a Youth Baseball Helmet?

Truly speaking, when it comes to choosing the best youth baseball helmet, protection is the utmost attribute to consider. If breaking down, you should dig deep into ear and face guard, chin straps, size, material, durability, etc. 

Type of Helmet

The market is flooded with different types of baseball helmets. However, all that you can find are divided into something that features a face or jaw guard and some without protection. 

For starters, I’ll suggest going with a guard as they are just adapting the game. After a season of rumbling around, they can also go for open-face helmets. 

Must-Have Ear Guard on the Action Side

Not every day you’ll get injured. The unfortunate day comes once in a while. So, it’s wise to be prepared. Baseball batters often get hit by balls in their side head area, including the ear as this zone is exposed to the pitcher. So, make sure your helmet has an ear guard to give you the safeguard.

Having a Chin Strap is Good for Holding the Helmet Tight

Young players often struggle to hold their helmets in the right position. And chin straps are essential in this context. It enables you to get a snug fit. offering protection for the lower face area. 

However, nowadays, helmets are built with liners and padding. These also secure the fitting in a comfortable way.

Right Size = Hassle-free Performance

Selecting the right size for a baseball helmet is crucial for comfort and safety. An ill-fitting helmet can hinder performance and increase the risk of injuries. 

In general, the youth baseball helmets have sizes lie 6 ⅜, 6 ½, 6 ⅛, 7 ⅝, 7 ¾, 7 ¼ inches, etc. And for circumference, the common measurements are 19 inches to 21.9 inches. 

To determine the suitable helmet size, measure the circumference of your head using a measuring tape. Measure from one ear to another. 

Only Go ABS Plastic Made Helmets

The helmet material plays a crucial role in its performance and durability. What I’m referring to is actually the outer shell. It’s better if it’s made of ABS plastic or thermoplastic polyurethane.

These materials are higher in quality than regular plastic. Besides, these aren’t heavier than metal shells, making them good in a starter helmet.  

As mentioned in my review, it’s beneficial if your helmet does have EVA foam as an inner layer. These reduce the impact shock, so the chance of injury becomes null.

To know more you can check out my Baseball Helmet Buying Guide. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What helmet brand does the MLB use?

The official helmet supplier for MLB is Rawlings till now. In the last season, S100 Pro Comp was the most frequently used MLB helmet. 

Do kids wear helmets in baseball?

Whether kids or adults, for every batter, it’s advised to wear a helmet in baseball. It’s for nothing but their own sake of safety 

What size helmet for a 12-year-old?

For 11 to 12-year-old baseball batters, it’s recommended to use a helmet with 56 cm or 22.04 inches of circumference.

What size helmet for a 7-year-old?

Boys aged 7 should wear a batting helmet with a 52 to 54 cm circumference. And for girls, it should be 51 to 53 at max. You will get a more clear idea here: Baseball Helmet Size For 6 Year Old

Wrapping Up

That’s all about the best youth baseball helmet that saved my child from an accident. Whether you’re a player or parent, I don’t want to see you hurting yourself on the playground. 

Show off yourself with big scores, not with your big head. Always, keep yourself protected with a helmet while standing on the plate. Hopefully, next shot you’ll bring in a home run with your new helmet. Cheers! 

Check out more about baseball helmets:

Youth Baseball Helmet Size Chart And Buying Guide

How to Clean a Baseball Helmet? 4 Easy Steps will Make them NEW!

How To Paint A Baseball Helmet 

How to Clean Baseball Helmet