What are the new NOCSAE youth football helmet standards?Updated a month ago
NOCSAE ND006 Youth Football Helmet Standard
NOCSAE stands for the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment. NOCSAE develops performance standards for athletic equipment, including football helmets.
Beginning September 1, 2027, newly manufactured youth football helmets must meet the NOCSAE ND006 standard. This standard includes a helmet weight requirement for youth football helmets tested on small headforms.
What the ND006 Standard Means
Under the ND006 standard, newly manufactured youth football helmets tested on small headforms must weigh 3.5 lbs. or less. This total weight includes the helmet, facemask, and any attached accessories.
Existing youth helmets that weigh more than 3.5 lbs. may still be worn after the 2027 effective date, provided they otherwise remain eligible for use. However, newly manufactured youth helmets will need to meet the new ND006 requirements.
Schutt F7 AiR Youth and F7 AiR Youth Elite
The Schutt F7 AiR Youth and Schutt F7 AiR Youth Elite are designed to meet NOCSAE youth standards while remaining extremely lightweight.
- Schutt F7 AiR Youth: 3.1 lbs.
- Schutt F7 AiR Youth Elite: 3.1 lbs.
At 3.1 lbs., the F7 AiR Youth and F7 AiR Youth Elite are below the 3.5 lb. ND006 weight requirement for newly manufactured youth football helmets.
The F7 AiR Youth also carries a 5-Star Virginia Tech youth football helmet rating, giving it one of the strongest weight-to-performance combinations available for youth football.
Why Helmet Weight Matters
Youth football helmets should be designed for younger athletes, not simply scaled down from varsity models. Helmet weight, fit, comfort, and impact performance all matter when selecting equipment for youth football players.
A lighter helmet may help improve comfort and reduce fatigue, while proper fit helps the helmet perform as intended. Always select a youth-designated helmet based on the athlete’s level of play, head measurement, and league requirements.
Fit Reminder
The ND006 standard is important, but weight is only one factor when choosing a helmet. Always follow Schutt’s fitting instructions and choose a helmet that fits properly, feels secure, and is appropriate for the athlete’s level of play.