Buying a Good Cricket Helmet

A good cricket helmet is vital for staying safe. A blow on the head from a hard cricket ball can be serious, so its important to be protected.

I’ve just had to replace my old helmet, and was amazed to discover the multiple features and different levels of sophistication that are now available. So, based on this experience, here’s my rough guide to buying a new model. There's a wide range of prices, depending on quality and the number of features. But, while value for money is important, particularly for growing children, the key point is safety.

There are now safety standards for cricket helmets, so look out for the one that applies in your country. This is BS 7928:1998, Specification for Head Protectors for Cricketers, in the UK, and AS/NZS 4499.1:1997 in Australia/New Zealand.

The next most important factor after safety is ensuring a correct, firm fit – especially if you’re buying online. Most big manufacturers or cricket stores have online helmet size guides eg, Gunn & Moore, Gray Nicolls, or Barrington Sports.

To measure your head size, start above the eyebrows, continue around just above the ears to the “bump” in the back of the head then back around. Remember that, in time, the internal padding will mould to the shape of your head.

Look out for the helmet’s size adjusting mechanism – these range from foam inserts to adjustable internal straps, adjusting wheels or in some cases no adjustment at all. Cricket helmets have either a polycarbonate or moulded carbon shell, and grille materials are either steel or titanium. The most expensive models are moulded carbon with a titanium grille, and are designed to withstand impact from genuinely fast bowling.

But for me, the best model is a lightweight polycarbonate shell and steel grille construction with the right safety accreditation, comfortable lining, good ventilation, good vision and comfortable chinstrap.

Helmets can be hot to wear, so ventilation is particularly important and especially so to prevent spectacles steaming up! As with all cricket equipment, fitting and feel is very personal so consider trying it on before you buy. And if you’re buying online, its good to check that the seller has a suitable returns policy.

Getting kitted out for the new season, or simply looking for new cricket gear? Why not check out my tips on buying cricket bats, cricket bags, cricket shirts, cricket shoes and cricket balls.

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