Score 2.19 · ranked 14 of 45 helmets · tested in 2025. The lower the score, the better.
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In short
The SpeedFlex Youth by Riddell belongs to our « Youth helmets » category. Level: Youth. Certification: NOCSAE. Rated 4/5 stars by Virginia Tech (tested in 2025). 2 European offers found, from €424.95.
- 4 Virginia Tech youth stars, score 2.19 (14th of 45)
- NOCSAE and SEI certified, compliant with EU Regulation 2016/425
- Compatible with 13 SpeedFlex-platform facemasks
- Only one European offer found, at €424.95 (American-Footballshop.de, shop.american-football.com)
- ABS shell with a 3-year warranty, versus 5 years for adults
- No inflatable crown pad as standard
Strengths and weaknesses drawn from the verified manufacturer and Virginia Tech data. Our field-test verdict will follow.
Specs
| Reference | R41196 |
|---|---|
| Category | Youth helmets |
| Level | Youth |
| Sizes | S, M, L, XL |
| Weight measured by Virginia Tech | 1,860 g |
| Compatible facemasks | SF-2BD, SF-2BD-SW, SF-2BD-HD, SF-2BDC, SF-2BDC-HD, SF-2BDC-TX-HD, SF-2EG-II, SF-2EG-II-HD, SF-2EG-SW, SF-2EG-SW-HD, SF-2EG-TX-HD, SF-3BD, SF-KICKER |
| Certification | NOCSAE |
| Virginia Tech | ★★★★☆ · score 2.19, 14 of 45 (2025) |
| Indicative price | €424.95 |
Sources: Riddell website, Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings, SEI. Missing data is left out rather than guessed.
Which positions?
The manufacturer does not target a specific position.
Level: Youth.
Size guide
- S
- M
- L
- XL
| Size | Measurement (manufacturer) |
|---|---|
| S | Head circumference: up to 52 cm (20 3/8 in); US hat size up to 6 1/2 |
| M | Head circumference: 52–56 cm (20 3/8–22 in); US hat size 6 1/2–7 |
| L | Head circumference: 56–60 cm (22–23 1/2 in); US hat size 7–7 1/2 |
| XL | Head circumference: 60 cm and over (23 1/2 in and over); US hat size 7 1/2 and over |
Measure around the head with a soft tape measure, about 2.5 cm (1 in) above the eyebrows. If you fall between two sizes, Riddell recommends starting with the smaller one. The SpeedFlex Youth has no inflatable crown pad: if it sits too low on the head, try the smaller size.
Sizes and measurements published by the manufacturer. Check its size chart before ordering. Official size chart
Same range
SF Echo helmet
5/5
€668.99
SF-2BD-SW facemask
—
€128.91
SF-KICKER facemask
—
€170.00
SpeedFlex helmet
3/5
€459.90
SpeedFlex Diamond helmet
5/5
—
SpeedFlex II helmet
4/5
—
SpeedFlex ND6 helmet
5/5
€379.00
Alternatives
FAQ
What age is the SpeedFlex Youth for?
Riddell recommends it for youth players up to junior high school level. Beyond that, the adult SpeedFlex takes over.
Which size should I choose?
Measure the head about 2.5 cm above the eyebrows: S up to 52 cm, M 52–56 cm, L 56–60 cm, XL above that. Between two sizes, Riddell recommends the smaller one.
What is the SpeedFlex Youth's Virginia Tech rating?
4 stars in the youth helmet ratings, with a score of 2.19 measured in 2025, ranking 14th of 45. Virginia Tech measured 1.86 kg with an SF-2BD facemask.
How should I look after the helmet?
Riddell asks you to use only its own cleaners and waxes. The helmet must be reconditioned at least every two years by a NOCSAE-licensed reconditioner, ideally every year.