Best Baseball Helmets in 2024: Batting Helmets Review | The Baseball Guide

Batting helmets for young baseball players are one of the most important protective gear needed when it comes to stepping into the batter’s box.

The right helmet will protect you from serious injuries caused by hard pitches when you’re playing on the plate.

Of course, you want the best for your youth athletes to give them the best experience and the safest gameplay. It is definitely a no-brainer that you must invest in the best baseball helmet for them.

If there is a right helmet for a young catcher, there is also one for a hitter. Choosing the right batting helmet for athletes requires several key factors to consider to ensure the safety of the players.

Below, you will find everything you need to know before buying a batting helmet and some of the best baseball helmets for youth that you should check out this 2023.

My Personal Recommendation

For 3 to 5 Years Old Kids

For small kids, my number one recommendation is Rawlings Coolflo T-Ball Helmet.

The coolflo design with strategically designed vent holes provides air circulation in the helmet. It fits 6.25’’ – 7.8”, and it meets the NOCSAE Standards. You can also attach NOCSAE approved face mask or jaw guard to the pre-drilled holes.

Kids like colorful helmets and these helmets are available in a bunch of different colors.

It is tried & tested that comes at a very affordable price.

Best Batting Helmet for Kids (Elementary School Players)

I’ll recommend you try DeMarini Paradox Protege Pro Batting Helmet for Youth or S/M size as per your kid’s head. This is a general recommendation, and I suggest you check the circumference of your kid’s head first.

As in elementary school age, kids grow fast, and in one or two years, the size of their heads changes. So, this is the age where you have to check the circumference of your kid’s head and then purchase a helmet. A general recommendation can be wrong for elementary-age kids.

Before going any further, you should take a look at the customer reviews, and see how happy they are after purchasing this inexpensive but high-quality youth batting helmet.

Baseball Helmet for Junior or Middle School Players

For middle school junior players, the best youth baseball helmet is Easton Junior Z5 Batters Helmet.

The ABS Shell provides protection from high impacts.

Kids play for hours, and they sweat a lot. Therefore, Easton added Dual Density Foam in it that absorbs any sweat and keeps your head dry.

It meets all the NOCSAE Standards, so your kid can use it in all levels of play whether it’s baseball or softball.

The excellent protection comes at a very affordable price. There is no need to spend big bucks on the helmet if you can purchase Easton Z5 Helmet.

It is inexpensive, tried & tested by hundreds of young players and their parents.

Best Batting Helmet for High School Players

When it comes to high school players, the best youth helmet is DeMarini Paradox Protege Batting Helmet.

The Dual-Density padding along with the low profile shell perfectly fits your head.

This padding also absorbs any sweat and keeps your head dry, while the strategically placed vents improve the airflow.

The different color options along with the clear design that follows all the NOCSAE Standards make this helmet the number choice of high school baseball players.

Top Baseball Batting Helmets for 2023: A Comprehensive Comparison

Best Baseball Batting Helmets in 2023

Easton Junior Z5 Grip Batters Helmet

This is one of the most popular youth helmets 2023 has to offer. It is manufactured by Easton, which is one of the most trusted manufacturers of baseball equipment for more than 40 years.

Easton Z5 Grip Helmet has all the great features that help it to compete with other brands, but when it comes to style & color combination, nothing is close to Easton Z5 Helmets.

Easton gives you various color options from which you can choose any color as per your personal preference. You can choose any color that’ll suit your team’s uniform. This is an excellent feature because many brands only offer 3 to 4 color options. I have rejected many products just because I didn’t like the color, and if I can purchase a youth batting helmet as per my color requirement, then it’s a perfect thing for me.

It is not like this helmet is all about style, grip finish & colors. It’s a durable baseball helmet for middle school players.

The outer protective shell is made of ABS plastic. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a thermoplastic polymer that is an ideal material when there is a need to impact resistance, stiffness, and strength. The sturdy outer protective shell gives you protection again any impacts.

It consists of dual-density foam that is made up of high-density & low-density foam. The high-density foam works as an excellent shock absorber, while the low-density foam provides comfort and BioDri Liner absorbs sweat and keeps it away from the head.

Wrapped ears make it highly durable when used in constant play.

The Easton Z5 Helmets meet the NOCSAE standards for Baseball batting helmets, and therefore it is NOCSAE Approved.

If you take a close look at the Z5 helmet, you’ll see that there are vent holes that provide maximum ventilation which is a really good thing.

For extra protection, you can also attach the face guard with the Z5 helmet. For that, there are pre-drilled holes available on the sides. But, you have to purchase the faceguard separately.

This Easton Junior Z5 Helmet size is 6 3/8” – 7 1/8”, and therefore, it’s a good fit for middle school players.

The price is not the issue with this helmet. It’s affordable.

Different Z5 Helmet Models

If you check online, you’ll find that there are a few Easton Helmet sub-models that the company sells under Z5 models like Z5, Z5 2Tone, and Z5 Grip.

These Easton helmets are almost the same. They are just different from each other because of their style. So, if you can purchase any model you like, whether it is Z5, Z5 Grip, or Z5 2Tone.

DeMarini Paradox Protege Pro Helmet

DeMarini is another well-known and trusted name among baseball players. This brand is popular because of the high-quality sports equipment they manufacture.

In the DeMarini Paradox Batting Helmet, you’ll find strategically placed vented holes that provide maximum airflow, which keeps your head cool. In some helmets, you’ll find that vented holes are not present or they’re not strategically designed, which results in minimal airflow. But, DeMarini has tested their helmet, and it’ll keep you fresh through the airflow.

The dual-density padding fitted inside gives you both safety and comfort.

The low-profile outer shell gives you a superior fit.

Its rubberized matte shell protects you from the impact of any ball or collision with other players. Along with that the outer shell’s glossy finish also looks good.

If you wear glasses, then there will be no problem. It’s not like they created special slots for glasses and arms, but you can even wear sunglasses along with this helmet.

The various color options also make it a good choice as you can buy your preferred color as per your uniform.

It meets all the NOCSAE standards which give you confidence on the field that you’re safe with the DeMarini Paradox.

This DeMarini Paradox Helmet comes in three different sizes. These are based on hat size.

1. YH (6 1/2 and Below)
2. S/M (6 3/8 and 7 1/8)
3. L/XL (7 – 7 5/8)

For the average kids of 7 to 8 years of age, the YH size is a good option. But, I highly recommend that before buying any helmet, you measure the size of the head of your kid.

The size of the high school helmet depends on the head size. They can wear S/M size or L/XL size depending on their head size. So, with that size, this can be a great high school batting helmet.

Note: There is a version of the DeMarini Paradox Protégé Helmet that comes with a face mask. But, if you’re looking for a baseball helmet, then purchase the cover separately because this cage is too broad, and it’ll not be able to stop all the baseballs from getting through it.

So, my suggestion is, to buy the DeMarini Paradox Helmet that comes without a cage, and purchase the face mask separately. As there are pre-drilled holes, so there’ll be no problem in attaching the cage.

Mizuno MVP G2 Batter’s Helmet

Mizuno is a Japanese sports equipment company that was established in Osaka, Japan in 1906. The Company is producing really good products for over a decade and therefore, it has established a special reputation in the United States also.

It has all the good features like other youth helmets, but the feature that makes it different from others is its adjustability, and that is what makes it costly.

It happens with a lot of players that the S/M size helmet is too tight for them, and when they try the L/XL size, it’s too loose for them. This is a common problem because it’s not practical to manufacture helmets that differ by millimeters from each other.

In that case, Mizuno MVP G2 Helmet is the savior. There is a small wheel at the back of the helmet to adjust the size.

The adjustable baseball helmet is an excellent choice because you do not have to purchase any other helmet for years when your kid grows. The problem with standardly sized helmets is that when a kid grows, they become tight, and you have to buy another one in a large size. But, with the adjustability feature, your kid can wear this helmet for years.

The size of the Mizuno MVP Helmet is 6 1/2″ – 7 1/2″ which means, it is adjustable from the 6 1/2” size to the 7 1/2” size which is really a good size range.

If you want to use your adjustable helmet for years, then it should be durable. And, yes, the Mizuno baseball helmet is durable and can protect you from fast pitches for various seasons.

It has a two-tone matte finish shell that gives you a beautiful color combination.

The EVA foam inner core provides cushioning and comfort while the DryLite liner keeps the sweat away from the player’s head & face.

Just like other top brands, the Mizuno helmet has pre-drilled holes for the faceguard or jaw guard but it doesn’t come along with the helmet. If you want a face mask or jaw guard for a baseball helmet, then you’ve to purchase them separately.

Mizuno also uses durable ABS plastic shells which you can find in some other top brands.

It meets NOCSAE standards, so there is no need to worry about the quality & standards.

When it comes to color combinations, you can find various different colors that can match your uniform.

If we talk about the price, then it is slightly costly as compared to other helmets of popular brands like DeMarini, Rawlings, or Easton. If you want a good quality helmet but you’re on a tight budget, then this is not for you.

But, the adjustable feature is worth the price you’ll pay. In a nutshell, this is one fantastic addition to our list for 2023.

Rawlings Coolflo Molded Baseball Batting Helmet

In 2006, Rawlings first introduced the COOLFLO technology, and it revolutionized batting helmet design and the inbuilt venting system along with the aerodynamic look.

The traditional coolflo design and strategically placed vented holes provide maximum airflow to the player’s head.

The dual-density padding gives comfort as well as protection from any mishaps.

The young players love its professional design that comes with various color options with a molded finish.

It meets all the NOCSAE standards.

It is a good fit for players of head sizes 6.5” to 7.5”.

If we talk about age, then it should be for 9 years or older kids. This is not for 3 to 4 years old kids.

Along with that, it may be too tight for the large head, so avoid purchasing it for high school kids having a large head.

You can purchase your Rawlings Baseball Helmet with Gloss or Matte Finish. The cheaper coolflo helmet model comes with a gloss finish, and some users don’t like that.

When it comes to price, you can’t refuse this helmet on the basis of price. It is very affordable or even cheaper than its competitor brands.

Just like other brands, Rawlings gives pre-drilled holes for face masks & jaw guards, but, you’ve to purchase them separately.

Easton Natural Solid Tee Ball Batting Helmet

If you have a son or daughter of 3 to 4 years old then the Easton Tee Ball Helmet is the safest helmet you can purchase.

It has the slimmest profile and a great aerodynamic venting system making it one of the best baseball helmets on the market.

The high-quality ABS shell gives durability and provides maximum strength which will protect your kid from any wrong throw or collision.

The soft urethane comfort foam makes it the best fit and comfortable for wearing, while the Bio-Dri antimicrobial fabric liner absorbs moisture and provides a new level of comfort.

It meets all the NOCSAE standards of baseball helmets, so you need not worry about the safety of your kid while wearing this helmet.

It fits 6 – 6 ½ size or 20 inches – 22 ¼ inches. If your son or daughter is 3 to 4 years of age, then this is a perfect helmet for them. As soon as you take it out of the packing box, you’ll realize that this is a good choice for your kids.

I like that this helmet comes with a face mask. There are very few helmets that offer face guards attached to the helmet at such a reasonable price.

As small kids need extra safety measures, therefore, always look for a baseball helmet with a chin strap.

And I really love that this is one of the rarest baseball helmets that come with a faceguard and chin strap.

All I can say is, if this helmet fits your kid, there is no need to look at other options.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Baseball Helmet

We all know the common thing about a helmet is that it should be comfortable. After wearing it, if you’re thinking again and again about when the game will be over, and you’ll get rid of this helmet, that means you’ve purchased the wrong helmet.

Fitting should be proper. It should stay in place when you do your head movements. Proper fit can help improve a player’s performance to become a good hitter.

A large-size helmet falls forward the eyes and thus can be very distracting. To avoid purchasing a large size, if you want a helmet that your kid can wear for seasons, then adjustable helmets can be the right choice.

Other important things that you need to consider are given below.

Earflap (One or Two)

Are you looking for one ear flap batting helmet, just like MLB players?

Or, do you want two earflap helmets, for protection?

In MLB, it is mandatory to wear at least one ear flap baseball helmet. They can also wear two earflap helmets if they want. But, in MLB, hitters generally wear one earflap helmet.

But, personally, I’ll recommend you choose two earflap helmets because they provide protection to both ears.

The one-earflap helmet provides protection to only one ear which means your one ear is at risk.

So, my suggestion is, to go with two earflap helmets. Safety is the main concern.

Even, some leagues also recommend their players wear only two earflap helmets.

Batting Helmet with Face Mask

If your helmet has a face mask then it provides safety to your face.

The helmet is just for your head, but if you really want a safe helmet that provides full protection then do not ignore the face mask.

Even, there are some leagues that require helmets that include a face mask.

The junior players or kids should wear helmets with a face mask because they’re not well trained to handle every fast pitch that comes towards them. In that case, the face mask will be beneficial.

But, unfortunately, in most cases, you have to purchase a faceguard separately. Some brands give a faceguard along with a helmet, but the majority of brands do not give any mask or cage.

Some players don’t use a face mask, so they just use a baseball helmet with a jaw guard that only protects the cheek and jaw.

Batting Helmet with Jaw Guard

The jaw guard is a strategically designed face protector that can be mounted on one side of the helmet. This protects one side of the batter’s face, which is exposed to the pitcher.

The jaw guard becomes very important for young players who have not developed enough skills to protect themselves from unexpected pitches.

The jaw guard provides the necessary protection to the cheek, ear, and jaw.

In every NOCSAE Approved batting helmet, you can find pre-drilled holes where you can attach a standard-size jaw guard.

Even some professional MLB players also use jaw guards to protect themselves because just a straightforward helmet attachment can save you from an unexpected pitch.

When buying a jaw guard, make sure you order the right one because some right batters order left batters’ jaw guards and that consumes extra time for a replacement.

The Markwort Batter’s C-Flap Face Protector is the best option if you want a jaw guard because this standard jaw guard can be easily mounted on any batting helmet with minimum adjustments.

It is also available in many different colors, so you can find a jaw guard that’ll match your helmet’s color.

Size

We all know that the helmet should be comfortable. It should not be too tight or too loose.

But, if you’re buying it from online stores like Amazon, then you wouldn’t want to replace it again and again until you find the perfect size.

For that, you should know the size of your head.

For knowing the size of your head, you just have to measure your full head circumference. Simply measure from the forehead, from around the head, and then back to the forehead.

If you’re facing any difficulty in it, then watch this short video from Easton. Rawlings also published various charts that show helmet sizing charts and other baseball equipment.

NOCSAE Standards

NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) is a committee that develops performance standards for the protective equipment that are used in various sports.

NOCSAE has developed many specific baseball helmet safety ratings, but that looks confusing, and difficult to grab all those details. But, if you want to take a look at the baseball equipment standards developed by NOCSAE, then you can check their baseball section.

There is no need to know about all the NOCSAE standards, but whenever you purchase a baseball helmet make sure you confirm that it meets NOCSAE standards.

I highly recommend that you only purchase a helmet that is manufactured according to NOCSAE standards. If the product is according to the rules, then you can find it in their product description on the online stores. If you like to purchase from your nearby sports equipment store, then take a close look at the box or ask the shopkeeper if necessary.

So, I think, you got the point.

Where to Buy a Good High School Batting Helmet?

You can find them at sports equipment stores, but personally, I prefer online e-commerce stores. If I become more specific, Amazon is my top choice.

I prefer Amazon over others because it’s trusted by millions of users, and you can find a lot of genuine reviews of a product.

If you don’t like it, then you can return the item. And, most importantly, it is the place where you can get the best deals.

How to Measure for Baseball Helmet

Baseball is a sport that requires players to wear protective equipment, including a helmet, to prevent head injuries.

Wearing a helmet that fits properly is crucial for player safety and comfort.

Determine Head Circumference

To measure for a baseball helmet, you will need a soft measuring tape or a piece of string and a ruler. Start by wrapping the measuring tape or string around the widest part of your head, which is usually just above your eyebrows and ears. Make sure the tape or string is snug but not too tight. Note down the measurement in inches or centimeters.

Find the Right Size

Once you have your head circumference measurement, you can use it to determine the size of the baseball helmet you need. Most baseball helmets come in sizes ranging from small to extra-large. Use the manufacturer’s size chart to find the appropriate size for your head circumference. If your head circumference falls between two sizes, choose the larger size for a more comfortable fit.

Try on the Helmet

It’s always best to try on the helmet before purchasing it. When trying on the helmet, make sure it fits snugly but not too tight. The helmet should sit comfortably on your head, with the brim about an inch above your eyebrows. Check that the helmet covers the entire forehead and the back of the head. It should not be tilted forward or backward.

Adjust the Fit

Most baseball helmets come with adjustable straps that you can use to fine-tune the fit. Once you have the helmet on, adjust the straps to make sure the helmet is secure and doesn’t move around too much. You can also adjust the padding inside the helmet for a more comfortable fit.

Check for Comfort

It’s essential to ensure that the helmet is comfortable to wear for long periods. If the helmet feels too heavy or uncomfortable, try a different size or brand. Keep in mind that a properly fitting helmet will feel snug but not too tight, and should not cause any discomfort or pain.

Final Words

So, these are the best 2023 youth baseball helmets that young players can use in their game.

Whatever brand you consider, whatever product you buy, I’ll suggest you use a baseball helmet with a face mask because it protects you from any mishappening.

I hope this article helped you in making your decision. You can also check the best baseball bats for young players to help improve their batting abilities.

Which is your favorite batting helmet for youth? Do let us know below.