As a baseball player, safety is everything. While it is no doubt one of the most thrilling games around, without the right equipment, like well-made baseball gloves, it can also be one of the most dangerous. To ensure your head is protected as much as possible, it’s vital to wear a high-quality baseball helmet.
If you’re unsure of what differentiates a mediocre baseball helmet from a stand out one, this guide will make it crystal clear. You’ll find that we’ve not only highlighted which features to look for and answered common questions players and parents have. We’ve also reviewed dozens of baseball helmets to find the best of the best. To narrow down the top 25 baseball helmets out there, we looked at the quality of the materials used, comfort level offered, the inclusion of helpful features such as moisture-wicking properties, and Amazon user ratings.
In the end, the DeMarini Paradox Batting Helmet clearly shined above all of the other options. This baseball helmet covers all the bases, offering a balance of comfort, style, and performance. If you’re ready to learn more about this product, as well as the other 24 products we recommend that you consider, read on.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Baseball Helmets
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Baseball Helmet Overall | DeMarini Paradox Batting Helmet | 4.6 |
| Best Youth Baseball Helmet | Rawlings Coolflo Molded Baseball Batting Helmet | 4.7 |
| Best Budget Baseball Helmet | Easton Z5 2.0 Batting Helmet Solid Color Series | 4.5 |
| Best Baseball Helmet with Face Guard | DeMarini Paradox Youth Helmet With Fastpitch Mask | 4.4 |
| Best Catcher's Helmet | Mizuno G4 Samurai Catcher's Helmet | 4.5 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Baseball Helmet Overall: DeMarini Paradox Batting Helmet
There is no shortage of reasons why we selected the DeMarini Paradox Batting Helmet as our ultimate pick of baseball helmets. It has everything you could want in a baseball helmet, from a ton of practical features to second-to-none aesthetics.
We were particularly taken aback by the high-quality of the design as well as the materials used. You’ll quickly notice this for yourself once you feel the superior comfort offered by the premium rubberized matte finish and dual-density padding, as well as the difference that the strategically-placed vents make.
This helmet complies with the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) protection standards, meaning that it’s built with your safety in mind. It comes in two different sizes and a choice of 6 matte colors, so you can easily ensure that this helmet fits and looks just right.
DeMarini Paradox Batting Helmet Key Features:
- Premium rubberized matte finish
- Low profile shell design
- Venting for maximum airflow
- Dual density padding
Best Youth Baseball Helmet: Rawlings Coolflo Molded Baseball Batting Helmet
Featuring the distinctive Rawlings logo in center place and a choice of four colors, the Rawlings Coolflo Molded Baseball Batting Helmet is certainly an eye-catcher. This 1.5-pound youth baseball helmet has a molded finish and notably features Rawlings’ revered CoolFlo Design. If the name sounds familiar, CoolFlo Design was first introduced during the 2006 Major League Baseball season to promote greater helmet airflow for hitters.
The helmet meets NOCSAE standards and includes pre-drilled holes for attaching a face-guard, should you need to add one. The only downside is that it only comes in one size: 6 1/2 to 7 1/2.
Rawlings Coolflo Molded Baseball Batting Helmet Key Features:
- Molded finish
- Traditional CoolFlo design
- Meets NOCSAE standards
- Can easily attach a face-guard
Best Budget Baseball Helmet: Easton Z5 2.0 Batting Helmet Solid Color Series
If you’re wary of buying a budget baseball cap for fear that it won’t meet your expectations, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the Easton Z5 2.0 Batting Helmet Solid Color Series. The junior and senior sizes are both priced under $25 and come with a good variety of features.
The Easton Z5 2.0 is highly-functional thanks to its high impact resistant ABS shell, dual-density foam liner, and moisture-absorbing BioDri padded inner liner. We particularly appreciate that the ear pads are wrapped for added comfort.
Easton Z5 2.0 Batting Helmet Solid Color Series Key Features:
- High-impact resistant ABS shell
- Dual-density foam liner
- Padding absorbs moisture
- Wrapped ear pads
Best Baseball Helmet with Face Guard: DeMarini Paradox Youth Helmet With Fastpitch Mask
Are you on the hunt for a baseball helmet with a durable face-guard? You can finally end your search, as our analysis found the DeMarini Paradox Youth Helmet With Fastpitch Mask to be the best choice available. The helmet is designed for players 6.5 and below, and features well-placed vents and a premium rubberized matte finish.
Customers have not held back with their praise of it, as highlighted by Amazon reviews. “Perfect fit,” “beautiful matte finish,” “great padding,” and “impeccable quality,” are just a handful of the glowing reviews you’ll find. Once your child gives it a go, they’re sure to voice similar sentiments.
DeMarini Paradox Youth Helmet With Fastpitch Mask Key Features:
- Designed for players 6.5 and below
- Premium rubberized matte finish
- Strong ventilation system
- Meets NOCSAE standards
Best Catcher’s Helmet: Mizuno G4 Samurai Catcher’s Helmet
For a catcher’s helmet that is built to last and offers a stunning performance, you can’t go wrong with the Mizuno G4 Samurai Catcher’s Helmet. The helmet features a super strong steel frame and adjustable jaw pad. Catchers will appreciate the inclusion of effective moisture control technology.
So what do catchers who have tried and tested the G4 Samurai really think of it? It’s telling that its received a whopping 4.5 out of 5-star rating on Amazon. Customers have commended the helmet for being well-constructed, lightweight, and generously padded, among a range of other qualities.
Mizuno G4 Samurai Catcher’s Helmet Key Features:
- Strong steel frame
- Adjustable jaw pad
- Meets NOCSAE standards
- Moisture control technology
Who Should Buy a Baseball Helmet
If you’re a baseball player who’s wondering if you really need a baseball helmet, the short answer is, “Without a doubt.” There are really no ifs of buts about it; if you play baseball in any capacity, you need a high-quality baseball helmet to protect your head from injury. Even if you’re just playing friendly games for fun, you can never be too cautious when it comes to safety considerations.
If you still need further convincing, the following shocking statistics will drive home why helmets are a non-negotiable in baseball:
The American Association of Neurological Surgeons notes that baseball and softball combined represented the sport/recreational activity that contributed the 3rd highest number of estimated head injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms in 2009. The total number of baseball and softball head injuries recorded was 38,394.
They also noted that baseball and softball combined represented the sport/recreational activity that contributed the 3rd highest number of head injury categories among children aged 14 and younger, with a total of 18,246 injuries recorded in 2009.
At the end of the day, there’s simply no need to put your safety at risk when wearing a helmet offers a proven way to avoid serious injury.
Important Features to Consider
When you’re on the hunt for a new baseball helmet, it’s vital to keep a range of features in mind. Don’t just pick the first one you come across, as you may end up buying one which is of a questionable quality. Instead, try your best to keep the following features in mind:
- Shell material. The level of protection a baseball helmet offers primarily depends on the material its shell is made out of. The material needs to be highly-effective in absorbing shock, which is why the strong plastic Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is typically used. It’s vital to take a careful look at which material is used, as failure to do so could mean your head isn’t adequately protected in the event a ball strikes your head.
- Ventilation system. If you’ve owned a couple of helmets over the years, you’ll know that a well-designed ventilation system will make a substantial difference to how much you sweat. Without a ventilation system in place, you’ll quickly heat up. As you’ll see once you start comparing different helmets, there are many types of ventilation system used. The number of vents, as well as the placement, size, and shape of the vents can all differ. There isn’t one type of system that triumphs over the rest, so you will need to pinpoint which one will best fit your idea of comfort.
- Type of foam. Foam padding in baseball helmet not only provides a better fit, but also greater comfort. However, not all padding is the same. Cheaper helmets tend to have low-quality, soft, and bulky padding. In contrast, top baseball helmets boast more advanced, high impact reducing padding, such as dual-density padding. Better quality padding will also incorporate other useful features, such as moisture-wicking properties.
- Comfort. When it comes to baseball helmets, comfort is one non-negotiable feature you should look for. After all, if you wear an uncomfortable helmet it will impact your ability to focus on the game, and additionally leave you with a sore head. When shopping around, take note of whether a helmet offers features which are known to enhance comfort, such as wrapped jaw pads and comfort stacked foam.
- Meets NOCSAE standards. If you want to ensure the baseball helmet you’re interested in is high-quality and safe to wear, look to see if it has met National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) standards. NOCSAE is “an independent and nonprofit standards development body with the sole mission to enhance athletic safety through scientific research and the creation of performance standards for athletic equipment.” You can read more about NOCSAE certified baseball helmets here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of helmet do MLB players wear?
The Official Baseball Rules state the rules Major League Baseball (MLB) players must follow in regards to the helmets they wear. It is written that all players need to wear “some type of protective helmet” when batting and running bases, specifically a single ear-flap helmet. However, a player may choose to wear a double ear flap helmet if they prefer.
Catchers are required to wear a catcher’s protective helmet and face mask while receiving a pitch, while base coaches are required to wear a protective helmet.
Why do MLB players wear one flap helmets?
There are a number of reasons MLB players wear one flap helmets. For starters, they are more practical, as they can be taken off easier and quicker than a standard two flap helmet.
This also makes them more comfortable for MLB players. Given that a baseball helmet needs to fit snuggly on your head, taking it off can be quite uncomfortable as it will inevitably catch on your ears. If a helmet only has one flap, that’s one less ear that needs to experience this discomfort!
Finally, one flap helmets allow MLB players to hear any communication from their fellow players more clearly. Unlike a two flap helmet that will block off hearing in both ears, a one flap one allows for sound to travel more freely into the exposed ear.
Do base runners have to wear helmets?
It is strongly recommended that base runners wear helmets as it’s in the interests of their own safety. Base running without a helmet makes a player vulnerable to being hit by a ball, which could cause a serious injury, or even death. It’s worth keeping in mind that all Major League Baseball—including base runners—are required to wear a helmet. To sum up, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and wear a baseball helmet regardless of the position you play.
What is a baseball helmet made of?
Baseball helmets are made of a combination of materials, which can vary from helmet to helmet. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is the standard material used for the shell of a baseball helmet. It is a type of plastic revered for its durability and strength.
The biggest difference between the materials of baseball helmets is in the padding. Higher-quality or more professional helmets tend to use high impact resistant, high density foam padding, whereas lower-end tend to only use bulky soft padding.
Other Baseball Helmets We Reviewed
Youth Baseball Helmets
Schutt Sports AiR 5.6 Baseball Batter’s Helmet
This batter’s helmet features an AiR–XE shell and 18 vent holes which work to provide an optimal fit and strong ventilation. What’s more, the D3O Aero impact foam is designed to disperse impact energy and reduce the force transmitted.
Key Features:
- D3O Aero impact foam
- 18 vent holes
- More than 20 color options
Cost: $35
Rawlings R16 Series Metalllic Baseball Batting Helmet
Don’t underestimate how feature-packed this batting helmet is simply due to its gorgeous metallic paint finish. It has no shortage of useful features, from heat exchange vents that rapidly circulate cooler air to wrapped jaw pads that provide top comfort.
Key Features:
- Metallic paint finish
- Heat exchange vents
- Wrapped jaw pads
Cost: $30
Under Armour Converge Batting Helmet
Under Armour has long been a trusted name in sporting equipment, and their batting helmet shows why. The one size fits all design, which is ideal for players aged 11 and under, features high-quality foam and fabric that has been treated with antimicrobial properties to ensure that it will last the test of time.
Key Features:
- For players 11 and under
- One size fits all design
- Foam and fabric treated with antimicrobial properties
Cost: $35
After a baseball helmet that does its job without a fuss? Within its ABS shell, the Easton Alpha Batting Helmet boasts everything you could need, from a moisture-wicking liner to dual-density impact absorption foam.
Key Features:
- ABS shell
- Moisture-wicking liner
- Dual-density impact absorption foam
Cost: $24
Boombah DEFCON Baseball Helmet
Standing out on the field won’t be hard when you’re wearing this Boombah helmet. Not only can you choose from over 25 unique color combinations, you’ll also benefit from its streamlined design, dual-density padding system, and water and sweat repelling foam.
Key Features:
- Water and sweat repelling foam
- Dual-density padding system
- Choice of over 25 different color combinations
Cost: $50
Mizuno B6 Baseball Batting Helmet
This helmet from Mizuno isn’t flashy, as it instead focuses on getting the fundamentals right. It’s simple, lightweight design as well as its excellent protective properties will give you the peace of mind that your head is fully-protected while on the field. Be sure to choose the “Small/Medium” size for your junior baseball player!
Key Features:
- 1 pound weight
- Can add a face-guard
- Range of colors available
Cost: $40
Rawlings Coolflo Single Flap Batting Helmet
Featuring Rawlings’ effective Coolflo technology, this single flap option is fantastic for players who don’t want to be distracted by sweating or overheating on their head.
Key Features:
- Covered leather head band
- ABS plastic shell
- Clear coat finish
Cost: $33
All-Star Adult System 7 OSFA Batting Helmets
While this helmet is designed for adults, customers have commented that it’s perfect for juniors who require a larger helmet size. This unisex helmet has nifty features such as a pony tail cut-out, moisture-wicking Ultra Cool liner, large vent ports, and an AEGIS Microbe Shield.
Key Features:
- AEGIS Microbe Shield
- Includes a pony tail cut-out
- Moisture-wicking liner
Cost: $24
Easton Junior Z5 Grip Two-Tone Batters Helmet
Suitable for players of all ability levels, the Easton Junior Z5 Grip Two-Tone Batters Helmet meets NOCSAE standards and is parent-approved. Just look at the countless parents who have left rave reviews about it, commenting on the helmet’s great comfort, lightweight design, and matte finish.
Key Features:
- ABS plastic shell
- Dual-density foam
- Wrapped ears
Cost: $64
Left Handed Baseball Helmets
Rawlings Right Ear Batting Helmet for a Left Handed Batter
This left handed baseball helmet has a classic design with an ABS shell. The clear coat finish looks sleek and is super comfortable to wear.
Key Features:
- Official Helmet of Major League Baseball
- Designed for left handed batters
- ABS shell with clear coat finish
Cost: $53
Easton PRO X Baseball Batting Helmet with Jaw Guard Series
An average customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars and its 3 layers of impact absorbing density foam are just a few of the many reasons you should give serious consideration to this ABS thermoplastic shell batting helmet.
Key Features:
- MDP Multi-Density Protection
- ABS thermoplastic shell
- Extended Jaw Guard
Cost: $70
Rawlings MACH Matte Batting Helmets with Extension Flap
It can be difficult to find a left handed baseball helmet that’s just as feature-packed as a right handed one. Rawling’s MACH option doesn’t skimp on the features, offering attractive ones such as a strong ventilation system, an extension flap, and high-performance IMPAX padding.
Key Features:
- Extension flap provides
- High-performance IMPAX padding
- Meets NOCSAE standards
Cost: $65
Rawlings Baseball Helmet for Left Handed Batters with C-Flap Attached
We love that this Rawlings baseball helmet for lefties comes with a C-flap that can easily be detached simply by unscrewing the screws. It perfectly fits batters with a head size of 6.5-7.9.
Key Features:
- Constructed with durable plastic
- Detachable C-flap
- Fits head sizes 6.5-7.9
Cost: $55
Catcher’s Helmets
Rawlings Sporting Players Series Goods Catcher’s Helmet
Rawlings’ high-strength catcher’s helmet provides maximum protection with its high impact resistance cage and plastic shell. The Pro Dri plus interior padding also provides superb ventilation.
Key Features:
- Cool-flo style
- Meets NOCSAE standards
- Pro Dri plus interior padding
Cost: $53
Wilson Prestige Catcher’s Helmet
If you’re looking for 360-degree protection from balls and bats, this helmet that meets NOCSAE standards is it. It features a premium grade ABS Shell in addition to well-placed venting.
Key Features:
- Premium Grade ABS Shell
- 360-degree protection
- Meets NOCSAE standards
Cost: $55
Easton Stealth Speed Elite Catcher’s Helmet
One of the most eye-grabbing features in this translucent polycarbonate shell catcher’s helmet is the use of Easton’s exclusive VRS technology. The technology amazingly reduces shock and vibration by up to 76%.
Key Features:
- 1 pound weight
- Translucent polycarbonate shell
- Bio-Dri comfort chin pad
Cost: $70
Easton Gametime Baseball Catcher’s Helmet
This high-end baseball catcher’s helmet from Easton has comfort stacked foam with BioDri moisture-wicking fabric liner. We particularly love its ergonomic chin cup as well as its extra wide top strap.
Key Features:
- ABS plastic shell
- BioDri moisture-wicking fabric liner
- 4 matte colors
Cost: $90
Wilson Silver Series Shock FX 2.0 Baseball Catcher’s Helmet
Wilson Silver Series Shock FX 2.0 Baseball Catcher’s Helmet was built for durability and protection. Its extended cage absorbs up to 50% more impact than regular masks, while its Quad-Axial Impact Design diffuses energy of impact in four key zones.
Key Features:
- Extended cage
- Quad-Axial Impact Design
- Meets NOCSAE standards
Cost: $77
All-Star Youth System 7 Matte Catcher’s Helmet
Standout features of this premium option include its I-Bar Vision steel cage, high impact resistant ABS plastic shell, and machine-washable liner.
Key Features:
- I-Bar Vision steel cage
- Machine-washable liner
- SEI certified to meet NOCSAE standards
Cost: $160
Rawlings Velo Series 2.0 Two-Tone Baseball Catcher’s Helmet
Coming in a dashing two-tone maroon and white color, this Rawlings catcher’s helmet for sizes 6.5-7.9 is sure to give an ideal fit thanks to its three-way adjustable back plate and advanced chin strap.
Key Features:
- Impact-resistant
- Moisture-wicking liner
- Fits head sizes 6.5-7.9
Cost: $128
