Football Safety Ratings Explained: Helmets, Shoulder Pads, and Buying Tips | BSG
Posted by Burghardt Sporting Goods on Oct 10th 2025
Football Safety Ratings Explained: Helmets, Shoulder Pads, and Buying Tips
This guide breaks down how helmet safety ratings work, what certifications mean, and how to pick shoulder pads that protect and perform. Team Sales can help outfit a roster with top helmet lines from VICIS, Riddell, Schutt, and Xenith, plus shoulder pads from Douglas, ProGear, and more.
How Helmet Ratings Actually Work
Virginia Tech STAR Ratings
Virginia Tech evaluates varsity and youth football helmets using lab tests that estimate concussion risk across many impact conditions. The result is a STAR score where lower is better and a 1 to 5 star label to simplify comparison. Ratings are independent of manufacturers and updated as new models are tested. See current ratings.
NOCSAE Certification
Every new helmet must meet NOCSAE performance standards prior to sale. Certification is pass or fail and confirms a baseline of impact protection, including rotational acceleration requirements added in recent revisions. Teams should verify the NOCSAE seal on each unit. Learn more at NOCSAE.
Fit and Care Matter
Proper fit, maintenance, and consistent use are essential. CDC HEADS UP and USA Football outline simple checks for fit height, pad contact, and chin strap alignment. Recheck fits during the season to guarantee continued safety. CDC HEADS UP · USA Football
Ratings help compare models, but no helmet can prevent all concussions. Rules, technique, and reporting symptoms are part of a full safety plan.
Popular Helmet Families Teams Ask About
VICIS Zero2 Line
Known for multi layer shells engineered to deform and disperse energy. Multiple position focused variants exist. The line has tested well in independent evaluations and is widely used at higher levels.
Riddell SpeedFlex Family
Flexible shell and facemask attachment designed to manage impact forces with familiar fit options and accessory ecosystem. Recent models continue to appear in published rating tables.
Schutt F7 Series
Distinctive external tectonic plates and TPU cushioning. Models routinely earn high marks in third party testing updates.
Xenith
Adaptive shock systems with floating chin cup fit. An option for programs wanting a different interior feel while meeting certification requirements.
Shoulder Pads and Safety: What to Know
No Unified Star Rating Yet
Unlike helmets, there is not a widely adopted third party star rating for football shoulder pads. Emerging research suggests pad design and stiffness can influence head kinematics during shoulder to helmet contact, but the category lacks a single consumer facing rating system.
Fit and Coverage Drive Protection
Correct arch size, channel depth, and epaulet or cap style by position are key. Secure straps and deltoid coverage help maintain pad position on contact and keep the neck and AC area clear. Team staff should evaluate fit pre season and after any size changes. CDC HEADS UP · USA Football
Trusted Pad Families
Douglas and ProGear are common choices for varsity programs, with position specific builds for skill, hybrid, and linemen. Newer pads continue to evolve, and comparative testing efforts are ongoing in academic labs.
How to Use Ratings When Choosing Gear
| Step | What to check | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Confirm Certification | NOCSAE seal on every new helmet and recert dates on reconditioned units | Baseline performance requirement for play. NOCSAE |
| Compare STAR Ratings | Look for 5 star or low STAR score in the latest Virginia Tech list | Independent comparison across impact conditions. Virginia Tech Ratings |
| Prioritize Fit | Follow CDC and USA Football guidance for sizing and strap adjustment | Fit consistency improves performance on contact. CDC HEADS UP · USA Football |
| Match Position Needs | Pick helmet variants and shoulder pad profiles by role and contact patterns | Coverage and stability vary by position and play style. |
Buying for a Full Roster
Model Mix
Most teams select two helmet families to cover budgets and face shapes, plus position specific shoulder pads. Ask about VICIS, Riddell, Schutt, or Xenith helmets and Douglas, or ProGear pads.
Reconditioning Cycle
Set an annual recert schedule for varsity shells and track serial numbers. Replace units that age out or no longer pass testing. Ask Team Sales about getting your equipment reconditioned!
About Burghardt Sporting Goods
Burghardt Sporting Goods supports Wisconsin programs with safety focused gear, team fittings, and predictable delivery. Reach out for helmet and shoulder pad packages, varsity through youth, and guidance on standards and sizing that make sense for your schedule.