How does the F7 AiR compare to the Riddell SpeedFlex and Riddell Axiom?Updated a month ago
Schutt F7 AiR Compared to Riddell SpeedFlex and Riddell Axiom
The Schutt F7 AiR is a newer varsity football helmet designed with advanced fit, impact management, and on-field performance in mind. When comparing football helmets, athletes and parents should consider independent testing scores, fit system, helmet technology, field of vision, weight, style, and price.
Schutt F7 AiR vs. Riddell SpeedFlex
One of the biggest differences between the Schutt F7 AiR and the Riddell SpeedFlex is independent impact testing performance. According to Virginia Tech helmet ratings, the lower the score, the better the helmet performed in testing.
- Schutt F7 AiR: 0.92 score, 5-star rating
- Riddell SpeedFlex: 4.49 score, 3-star rating
The F7 AiR also features an onboard AiR-Lock System, allowing the player to fine-tune helmet fit with the push of a button without needing a separate handheld air pump.
Inside the helmet, the F7 AiR uses RFLX-S internal buckling columns to help absorb impact before it reaches the player’s head. The Riddell SpeedFlex uses standard foam.
The SpeedFlex launched in 2014, while the F7 AiR launched in 2025. That makes the F7 AiR a much newer helmet platform with more recent design and technology.
Despite the F7 AiR’s stronger independent testing score and newer technology, both helmets are priced at $499.99.
Schutt F7 AiR vs. Riddell Axiom
The biggest differences between the Schutt F7 AiR and the Riddell Axiom are price, size, weight, style, and on-field visibility. The F7 AiR is also three years newer than the Axiom.
- Schutt F7 AiR: 0.92 score, 5-star rating
- Riddell Axiom: 0.85 score, 5-star rating
The F7 AiR and Axiom offer nearly identical independent testing scores, and both helmets have received 5-star Virginia Tech ratings. However, the price difference is significant. The Riddell Axiom costs almost $1,000, while the Schutt F7 AiR costs $499.99.
This means the F7 AiR provides comparable independent impact testing performance at roughly half the price of the Axiom.
The Axiom also has a larger shell than the F7 AiR. Because of the larger shell profile, the Axiom may reduce an athlete’s field of vision, including both left-to-right visibility and upward visibility. The F7 AiR’s more traditional profile may provide a competitive advantage by allowing the athlete to see more of the field.
Why Choose the Schutt F7 AiR?
- 5-star Virginia Tech helmet rating
- 0.92 independent testing score
- Newer helmet platform launched in 2025
- Onboard AiR-Lock fit system
- RFLX-S internal buckling column technology
- More traditional shell profile compared to the Axiom
- Strong value at $499.99
Important Fit Reminder
Helmet performance depends on proper fit, proper use, and correct maintenance. Always follow the helmet fitting instructions and select a helmet based on the athlete’s head measurements, level of play, comfort, and fit.