Accurately measuring your head for a football helmet is a critical first step to ensure player safety and comfort on the field. The goal is to find the circumference of the widest part of your head to match it with the correct helmet size.
Why Accurate Measurement Matters
A properly fitting football helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries by distributing impact forces and preventing the helmet from shifting during play. An ill-fitting helmet, whether too loose or too tight, compromises protection and can be a serious safety hazard.
Step-by-Step Head Measurement Guide
Follow these simple steps to measure your head correctly for a football helmet:
- Gather Your Tools: You will need a flexible measuring tape (like a tailor's tape) and, ideally, a friend to help you for the most accurate results.
- Position the Tape: Have your friend place the measuring tape about 1 inch above your eyebrows. This ensures you're starting at a common point that will relate well to helmet fit.
- Wrap Around Your Head: Carefully wrap the measuring tape fully around your head, keeping it level and snug but not overly tight.
- Find the Widest Part: For maximum accuracy, make sure you're measuring the widest part of your skull. This often means ensuring the tape covers the prominent bump at the back of your head.
- Record the Measurement: Read the number where the tape overlaps. Record the circumference of your head in inches. Take the measurement a couple of times to ensure consistency.
Once you have your head circumference, you can compare it to a manufacturer's specific football helmet sizing chart to find the corresponding helmet size.
Example Sizing Chart (Illustrative)
While specific sizes vary by manufacturer, here's a general idea of how head circumference relates to helmet sizes:
| Head Circumference (Inches) | Helmet Size |
|---|---|
| 20 - 20.5 | Youth Small |
| 20.5 - 21.5 | Youth Medium |
| 21.5 - 22.5 | Youth Large |
| 22.5 - 23 | Adult Small |
| 23 - 23.5 | Adult Medium |
| 23.5 - 24 | Adult Large |
| 24+ | Adult XL |
Note: Always refer to the specific sizing chart provided by the helmet manufacturer you intend to purchase from, as sizes can differ.
Tips for Best Results
- Be Patient: Take your time with the measurement to ensure precision.
- Hair: Ensure your hair is styled as you would wear it under a helmet (e.g., pulled back if long) to avoid skewing the measurement.
- Double-Check: Always measure at least twice to confirm your reading.
- Professional Fitting: While home measurement is a great start, a professional fitting at a sporting goods store can provide additional assurance and help with final adjustments.
Measuring your head correctly is a crucial step towards purchasing a football helmet that offers optimal protection and performance.
