Buying a football helmet in Europe used to mean ordering from the US, paying customs fees you didn't expect, and hoping it fit when it finally showed up three weeks later. That's changed. You can now get NOCSAE-certified helmets from Riddell and Schutt shipped fast across Europe, and you don't have to guess at sizing.
This guide covers every helmet we stock at Reyrr Athletics, what makes each one different, and how to figure out which one fits your position, your head, and your budget.
The helmets — ranked by protection level
Riddell SpeedFlex
The SpeedFlex is the helmet you see on NFL broadcasts. More NFL players wear this helmet than any other model. The shell has a patented Flex System — a panel at the front of the crown that flexes on impact, spreading the force across a wider area instead of concentrating it at the point of contact.
It also holds a five-star Virginia Tech rating. The Ratchet-Loc chinstrap system clicks in securely (no fumbling with snaps during warmups), and the interior padding is inflatable so you can fine-tune the fit precisely. Riddell's fitting guide walks you through the inflation process step by step.
The SpeedFlex is the safe choice in the best possible way. It's proven, it's trusted at the highest level, and the fit system is hard to beat. If you're investing serious money and want the helmet with the longest track record at elite levels, this is it.
We stock the SpeedFlex in multiple shell colors. Facemasks are sold separately so you can pick the right cage for your position — we carry Riddell facemasks specifically designed for the SpeedFlex platform.
Schutt F7 VTD Collegiate
The F7 is the most technologically advanced helmet we carry. Schutt's Three Dimensional Movement (3DM) system uses Tektonic Plates on the outside of the shell that move independently when you take a hit. The idea is that rotational energy gets absorbed by the plates before it reaches your head. Inside, the Radian Diffusion System liner adds another layer between you and the impact.
The F7 has a five-star Virginia Tech Helmet Rating. It looks different from anything else on the field — the plate system gives it an aggressive, segmented appearance that players either love or find too busy. That's a personal call.
Where it shines is rotational impact protection. If you play a position where you're taking hits from multiple angles — linebacker, running back, defensive end — the F7's design handles that well.
One thing to know: the F7 uses its own facemask system. You can't swap in a Riddell facemask. We carry the full range of Schutt F7 facemasks so you can match your position.
Riddell Axiom
The Axiom is Riddell's newest flagship helmet and represents their most advanced technology to date. It features the Surround Flex System with multiple integrated flexible panels that wrap around your head and work together with the inner liner and facemask system to manage impact energy from every angle.
What sets the Axiom apart from other helmets is Tru-Fit technology. Riddell uses a database of thousands of head scans combined with your head circumference to determine the exact shell size and energy management components for your head shape. No foam adjustments, no air pumps. The fit is dialed in from the start.
It also comes with InSite Smart Helmet Technology built in, which tracks impact data in real time, plus a factory-installed optically correct visor and Cam-Loc retention system. Facemask options include a traditional design with a top bar or a newer open design with just a mouth guard bar for maximum visibility.
Riddell Speed Icon
The Speed Icon sits between the SpeedFlex and budget options. It uses the classic Riddell Speed shell — the same shape that defined football helmets for a generation — but with upgraded internals. The HS4 facemask system is lighter than previous generations, and the NuBuck overliners improve comfort on long practice days.
The Quick Release faceguard system lets you swap facemasks without tools, which is useful if you play multiple positions or want to switch between practice and game setups.
If you like the traditional Riddell look (rounded shell, clean lines) and don't need the flex panel technology of the SpeedFlex, the Speed Icon gives you solid protection at a lower price point. It's a popular choice among European club players who want a quality helmet without going full premium.
Riddell Victor-I Youth
If you're buying a helmet for a young player, the Victor-I is purpose-built for youth athletes. At 2.2 lbs, it's noticeably lighter than adult helmets, which matters for developing neck muscles and maintaining proper tackling posture.
The Victor-I has patented Impact lateral protection and inflatable jaw pads. The inflation system means the helmet grows with the player — you can adjust the fit as their head changes over a season or two instead of buying a new helmet every year.
This is the helmet we recommend for players aged roughly 8-14, whether they're in flag football transitioning to tackle or playing in youth leagues. It's NOCSAE-certified and approved for competitive play.
Shop the Riddell Victor-I Youth →
Quick comparison
| Helmet | Best for | Virginia Tech Rating | Available at Reyrr |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riddell SpeedFlex | All-round premium protection, NFL-proven | 5-star | Yes |
| Schutt F7 VTD | Rotational protection, contact positions | 5-star | Yes |
| Riddell Axiom | Next-gen technology, personalized fit | Ranked | Yes |
| Riddell Speed Icon | Classic fit, mid-range budget | High | Yes |
| Riddell Victor-I Youth | Youth players aged 8-14 | Rated | Yes |
How to size your helmet
Getting the right size matters more than getting the right model. A premium helmet that doesn't fit properly protects you worse than a cheaper one that does.
Here's how to measure:
- Wrap a soft measuring tape around your head, just above the eyebrows and ears, around the widest part of the back of your skull
- Measure in centimeters
- Match to the manufacturer's size chart
We have fitting guides for both major platforms:
If you're between sizes, go with the larger size and use the internal padding system to tighten the fit. A helmet that's too tight will give you headaches and sit too high on your forehead.
Don't forget the facemask
Most helmets at Reyrr are sold as shell-only, meaning you pick your facemask separately. This is actually better — it lets you choose a cage that matches your position:
- Skill positions (WR, DB, QB): Open cage designs for maximum visibility
- Linemen (OL, DL): Closed cages with extra bars for face protection
- Linebackers / hybrid players: Mid-coverage designs that balance vision and protection
Browse the full selection:
Shipping helmets across Europe
We ship from Sweden to 13+ European markets. Helmets ship within 1-3 business days. If you're in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Spain, Finland, or the UK, delivery times are short and customs is handled on our end — you won't get surprised by hidden fees at your door.
For Norwegian customers specifically: Reyrr is VOEC-registered, so VAT is included in your price at checkout. No extra toll or customs charges.
The bottom line
If budget is not a concern, the SpeedFlex and F7 are both five-star helmets that protect at the highest level. The choice between them comes down to fit preference and aesthetics — some players prefer the Riddell fit system, others like the Schutt plate design. Try both if you can.
The Axiom is Riddell's most advanced helmet to date and takes personalized fit to the next level with Tru-Fit technology. If you want the newest innovation in helmet design, it's now available at Reyrr.
If you want quality protection without spending premium prices, the Speed Icon is a reliable mid-range option with the classic Riddell shape.
For youth players, the Victor-I is the clear choice. It's light, adjustable, and built for growing athletes.
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