What are the differences between the F7 AiR Youth and F7 AiR Youth Elite helmets?Updated a month ago

Schutt F7 AiR Youth vs. F7 AiR Youth Elite

The Schutt F7 AiR Youth and F7 AiR Youth Elite are both youth football helmets built on the same F7 AiR Youth platform. Both are designed for young athletes, meet NOCSAE youth standards, and carry a Virginia Tech 5-star youth football helmet rating.

Internally, the helmets are very similar. Both use the Helmet Stabilization System, Inflatable Comfort Liner, Tektonic Mohawk, and Advanced EPP Impact System to help provide lightweight protection, comfort, and a secure fit for youth athletes.

F7 AiR Youth

The F7 AiR Youth is the standard version of the helmet. It comes equipped with a carbon steel facemask, which Schutt describes as football’s most popular facemask material.

The F7 AiR Youth does not include an attached visor. However, it is compatible with the Oakley F7 Exclusive Shield, which can be purchased separately.

This model uses the same core youth helmet platform as the Elite version, including the Inflatable Air Liner, Helmet Stabilization System jaw pads, Tektonic Mohawk, and Advanced EPP Impact System.

F7 AiR Youth Elite

The F7 AiR Youth Elite includes the premium accessories already installed. It comes equipped with a titanium facemask, which is 60% lighter than carbon steel.

The Youth Elite also includes an Oakley F7 Exclusive clear shield and a Fusion Hardcup Chincup.

This makes the Elite model a more complete upgraded package for athletes who want the lighter titanium facemask, included visor, and higher-grade chin cup from the start.

Key Differences

• Facemask: The F7 AiR Youth includes a carbon steel facemask. The F7 AiR Youth Elite includes a titanium facemask that is 60% lighter than carbon steel.
• Visor: The F7 AiR Youth is compatible with the Oakley F7 Exclusive Shield, but the visor is not included. The F7 AiR Youth Elite includes a clear Oakley F7 Exclusive Shield.
• Chin cup: The F7 AiR Youth uses a soft-cup chin cup. The F7 AiR Youth Elite includes a Fusion Hardcup Chincup.
• Core protection: Both helmets use the same F7 AiR Youth platform and are Virginia Tech 5-star rated.
• Weight: Both models are listed at 3 lbs. and are designed as ultra-lightweight youth helmets.

Which Helmet Should You Choose?

Choose the F7 AiR Youth if you want the core F7 AiR Youth helmet platform with a carbon steel facemask and the option to add a visor separately.

Choose the F7 AiR Youth Elite if you want the upgraded package with a lighter titanium facemask, clear Oakley visor, and Fusion Hardcup Chincup included.

Fit Reminder

Both helmets are available in youth sizes 2X-Small through X-Large. Measure the player’s head approximately one inch above the brow line, around the widest part of the head, and use the size chart to determine the best helmet size.