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It is possible to get hit by a ball or even a bat in the face while playing baseball. If your head and face are not fully covered, you can suffer from severe injuries. To reduce the risk of these head or face injuries, you should always wear a baseball helmet. The baseball helmets also help the players to play with the utmost confidence on the pitch. It is because they are no longer distracted by the thought of getting injured while wearing a helmet. 

Types of Baseball Helmets

Before choosing a baseball helmet, you should know how many of its types are available in the market. 

The three main types of baseball helmets are described below:

1. Open Face Baseball Helmets

These helmets have complete protection for the head. However, there is no face guard to protect the face from injuries. You get more visibility if you choose a baseball helmet with no faceguard. But you end up having less protection. Such helmets are better for those who are professional and want more focus on the pitch. 

If you are playing in small league matches, the open-face helmet would be perfect for you. But if you are a beginner or playing on a pitch with more chances of being hit, you should not choose this type. 

Some open-face helmets are also compatible with face masks. So if your helmet does not have a faceguard, you can buy one separately. 

2. Face Mask Baseball Helmets

These helmets have a metal or plastic guard on the anterior to protect your face from being hit. This face guard protects the teeth and the jaw area as well. Softball players than baseball players need this increased protection more. The main reason lies behind the difference in their throwing style. 

Facemask helmets are also called fastpitch helmets. It is because they are designed to withstand fast shots on a baseball pitch. 

3. Jaw Guard Baseball Helmets

Jaw guard baseball helmets, as their name suggests, have a jaw guard. These helmets have an extended flap on one side of their helmet to protect the player’s jaw from hitting a ball. 

The jaw guards are on opposite sides for left and right-handed players. So when you choose a baseball helmet with a jaw guard, keep your batting stance in mind. 

How to Choose a Baseball Helmet?

Before you choose a baseball helmet, these factors should be taken into account. 

Material

The baseball helmet that you choose must be constructed from a strong material. This way, the helmet will be able to withstand hard hits by the ball. The outer side of most helmets is made from ABS or PVC material. It would be best if you chose a baseball helmet made from ABS material. 

ABS material is strong despite being lightweight, and it does not break easily. 

The inner layer should be lined with a soft material so that it does not suffocate your head. It will be well and good if the helmet you choose has an EVA foam lining. The EVA foam also acts as an excellent shock absorber. It will further protect your head from impact injuries. 

Ear Guards

Just like the jaw guards, ear guards in a helmet prevent injuries. The part of the helmet that is present over the ears must have an EVA foam lining. It will ensure additional safety for your ears. 

Chin Straps

Chin straps are present on the lower side of the batting helmets. These straps not only keep the helmet in place but also protect your chin area. So, make sure the helmet you are buying has a chin strap for added protection.  

Weight

Baseball helmets must be lightweight. Heavy helmets cause neck pains. These also make your head more susceptible to injuries. A batting helmet should not weigh more than 2 pounds. Helmets heavier than 2 pounds hinder the ability of players to play well. 

Price

Batting helmets have a price range of $30 to $70. The difference in price is due to the variation in their quality, design, features, and brand. 

Open-face helmets are cheaper than those with a jaw guard. So, it will help if you keep this factor in mind while choosing a helmet. 

Durability

Baseball helmets are made to withstand impacts and fast shots. These must be durable and sturdy enough to tolerate such effects. A wise choice is to buy a durable helmet that will last for years. 

NOCSAE Standard

If a helmet is NOCSAE approved and built on NOCSAE standards, it means it is safe to wear. NOCSAE is an organization that runs safety tests on sports equipment. It maximizes the protection of the athletes. 

Size

It is the most crucial factor for consideration while choosing a baseball helmet. 

The helmet must fit your head. It must not be too tight or too loose. Too loose a helmet will fall off, and too tight a helmet will cause you a headache. 

Baseball Helmet Sizing

The size of a baseball helmet is measured around the head. You should measure the entire head circumference for it. 

• If your head circumference is 19-20.5 inches, you should buy a tee-ball size helmet. 
• If your head circumference is around 21 inches, then you want a junior or small helmet. 
• A senior helmet has a circumference of 21.5-24 inches. 

What are the Best Baseball Helmets?

Now that you know how to choose a baseball helmet and measure your size, you are ready to buy a baseball helmet. Check out these top 10 baseball helmets. The helmets mentioned here are from top-notch brands and have incredible features. These will enhance your gaming experience and let you play with maximum safety. 

Final Thoughts

Baseball helmets are crucial sports equipment for baseball matches. These helmets ensure the player’s safety by preventing head injuries. It is essential to choose a helmet that is lightweight, sturdy, comfortable, durable, and NOCSAE approved. Choosing the right size of a baseball helmet is also necessary for quality performance.