Best facemask for your American Football helmet reviewed [top 5]

Investing in a good facemask will make a big difference during competitions and training.

A facemask is part of you American Football helmet and protects your face, especially the sensitive parts such as the mouth, nose and eyes.

The facemask, which is attached to your helmet, is the only barrier between your face and your opponent. And that's really just a thin piece of metal.

Many (beginning) football athletes tend to choose a facemask with as many bars as possible - because that would offer the most protection - but it is not that easy.

You can read more about this in this article.

Since a facemask has a safety function, I certainly do not recommend buying this item on a whim.

With this article I want to help you find the right facemask for your situation through detailed buying instructions.

It is essential for your own safety - and of course for your wallet - that you buy the right facemask for your helmet.

In general, you buy a facemask separately from your helmet, but sometimes a helmet comes with a facemask.

Before I explain exactly what you should pay attention to when buying your next facemask, I will already reveal my number 1 facemask: that is the Schutt DNA ROPO UB Varsity facemask. Not only do you have a durable and strong product with this facemask, it is also very affordable and can be used by players of different positions. Assembly is easy and comes with the required fasteners.

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Are you curious about other good options? View the table below and read on for more information about each facemask, and how to choose the best facemask.

Best American Football facemask	Image
Best Overall American Football Facemask: Schutt DNA ROPO UB Varsity face mask	(view more images)
Best with American Football facemask with open cage & made of stainless steel: Green Gridiron SF-2BD-SW for Riddell SpeedFlex	(view more images)
Best American Football facemask for all positions & made of carbon steel: Xenith Prime	(view more images)
Best American Football facemask for combination with most visors: Schutt Sports F7-F5 Varsity Face Mask	(view more images)
Best American Football facemask with closed cage & for linemen: Schutt Sports VTEGOP	(view more images)

What do you take into account when buying an American Football facemask?

You don't just buy a facemask. There are some things you should know before buying a facemask for your American Football helmet.

Please read the following information carefully so that you can make an informed choice.

Material

There are three types of materials used for facemasks, namely carbon steel, stainless steel and titanium.

carbon steel

Carbon steel is the most popular choice and standard in the football industry. Its advantages are its affordable price as well as its high durability and sturdiness.

The only drawback compared to the other two materials is that it is much heavier. Carbon steel facemasks are often chosen by aspiring football athletes and youth players.

RVS

Stainless steel facemasks are the perfect combination of light weight and robustness. They are lighter than carbon steel facemasks, but also slightly more expensive.

Being lighter, they can give experienced players an edge and improve their speed.

This type of material is often recommended for the more serious youth and high school athletes, as well as for the 'casual' adult player.

Titanium

Titanium is the preferred choice of professionals, college athletes and elite high school athletes. The material is light in weight, but at the same time strong and durable.

Titanium gives players a remarkable advantage on the pitch, keeping them faster, more agile and better conditioned for long matches.

Titanium is 60% lighter than the traditional carbon steel facemask and much stronger than steel. The titanium facemasks are also the most expensive on the market.

Role

One of the most important purposes of a facemask is of course protection. Your goal should be to get a sturdy, durable and protective facemask.

Another possible goal is to improve vision. Some facemasks can function like sunglasses to improve your vision when your eyes come into contact with extremely bright light.

In addition, you can also base your choice on the way you would like to express yourself and distinguish yourself from the rest. For example, choose one with cool patterns and colors.

Position

Facemasks are designed to protect the face, especially the eyes, nose and mouth. When choosing a facemask, both your face must be protected and the field of view must remain clear.

Based on your position in the field, some facemasks are more suitable than others. The bar configuration of a facemask determines your performance and the degree of protection.

A facemask with many transverse bars higher up over the eyes will protect the player, but it will also obstruct the view.

This won't help a quarterback or wide receiver much, for example, as they need a full view to perform their duties on the field.

On the other hand, a more open bar configuration would provide more visibility, but would be less protective of the mouth and eyes from the opponent's fingers or hands.

Offensive linemen – along with defensive linemen are the players who experience the most physical contact – would be in big trouble if they wore them, and got the hands of the opponents in their faces.

Closed vs open cage

In general, you can choose from two types of facemasks: an open and a more closed facemask.

Closed cage (complete cage)

This one is intended to protect your entire face, but without obstructing the view too much.

Players involved in blocking, tackling or other forms of hard contact are advised to wear a closed face mask.

While it may limit the player's view a bit, the added protection prevents injuries to the eyes and nose.

In addition, a closed facemask gives extra support to the jawline to prevent damage to the teeth and mouth.

These types of facemasks often have many horizontal bars that run across the bottom half of the mask.

They are suitable for defensive linemen who want maximum protection for the mouth, eyes, face and chin. A closed mask is also suitable for offensive linemen, fullbacks and linebackers.

The more bars, the more protected you are and the greater the durability. On the other hand, it will therefore slightly reduce your vision and your field of view.

open cage

For some positions, sight is the key to success. For them, an open cage around the eyes is essential to ensure maximum visibility.

However, they will still have bars around the nose area, which run down for protection. This type of facemask is suitable for wide receivers, quarterbacks, defensive backs, running backs and kickers.

There are a number of open cage models that provide additional protection for 'skill players' (the positions that usually handle the ball and are most responsible for scoring points).

These facemask models feature additional vertical bars in the peripheral field of view or jawline to increase eye and mouth safety.

The right facemask must be able to balance protection and performance.

Additional functions/features

What distinguishes the best football facemasks from the 'standard' facemasks are their 'special features'.

It is always recommended to opt for the most advanced technologies, if possible (mainly for your budget).

These advanced features will offer a player that little bit of extra protection. In addition, they will allow a better view and therefore a better performance.

An example is the use of lighter materials and flexible metals. With these properties, a facemask will better absorb the impact of a tackle or fall.

In addition, they will also be more effective in protecting your mouth and teeth, in preventing injuries and concussions.

Keep in mind that the biggest football manufacturers, including Xenith, Riddell and Schutt, design their facemasks to fit practically only on their own helmets.

So often only a Xenith facemask fits on a Xenith helmet, and the same applies to the other brands.

There are even some facemasks, for example the SpeedFlex facemasks from Riddell, which are designed for specific helmets within the same brand – in this case the Riddell SpeedFlex model – and will not fit on any other helmet.

But there are also facemasks that fit on different helmets. So before you buy a facemask for your helmet, you should know whether these two are indeed compatible.

Protect your teeth with these top 6 best mouthguards for american football

Extensive American Football facemask review

Now that you know exactly what to look for when buying your next facemask, I will now highlight some top facemasks. Starting with the best overall facemask: the Schutt DNA ROPO UB Varsity facemask.

Best overall American Football facemask: Schutt DNA ROPO UB Varsity facemask

(view more images)

• Very affordable
• Very durable and strong
• Made of carbon steel
• Requires little effort and time to attach to your helmet
• Meets the needs of different players and positions
• Comes with the required fasteners

The Schutt DNA Ropo is the perfect choice if you have to or want to watch your money, but still want to buy a good facemask. Robustness and durability are not compromised.

When designing this facemask, an innovative technology has been used, making it easy to mount it on your helmet.

In addition, it is one of the most durable facemasks for football, made of carbon steel. The facemask is specially designed for large Schutt DNA helmets, but also fits on the DNA Pro+ (Elite) helmets.

The facemask is provided with extra protection around the mouth and meets the needs of different players in different positionsincluding the quarterback, wide receiver, tight end, and punter.

ROPO therefore stands for Reinforced Oral Protection Only.

The only drawback of the facemask is that it is somewhat heavy, compared to facemasks made of titanium or stainless steel. All in all, it is one of the best facemasks for a Schutt DNA or Schuitt DNA Pro+ (Elite) helmet.

Check the latest prices here

Best with American Football Facemask with Open Cage & Stainless Steel: Green Gridiron SF-2BD-SW for Riddell SpeedFlex

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• Provides a wide field of view
• Sturdy and durable built
• Light weight (made of high quality stainless steel)
• A good fit for skill position players
• Provides protection for your mouth and face

This facemask is made of stainless steel – which makes it lightweight – and is appreciated by many athletes. Especially experienced players like to choose this product.

The Green Gridiron facemask offers a high level of protection for both your mouth and the rest of your face.

The protection is provided in such a way that it will not restrict your view. On the contrary; it will even improve your vision!

The manufacturers of this facemask boast that it can reduce the force and impact your helmet exerts on your face.

The facemask can be used by both adults and youth players.

The only downside is that it may be difficult to fit to your helmet and this facemask is only designed to fit well on Riddell's new SpeedFlex helmet (size S, M, L XL Adult and Youth).

The facemask is 20% lighter than other helmets thanks to the quality stainless steel construction with thinner bars.

Due to the wide field of view, this facemask is perfect for 'skill position' players such as the running back, quarterback and wide receiver.

The facemask is very solid and built to last. Keep in mind that the facemask is a bit on the expensive side and you don't get a hardware kit with it.

Do you have a SpeedFlex helmet and are you a 'skill position' player? Then this is probably the best facemask you can choose.

Do you have another brand of helmet, for example a Schutt model? Then the Schutt DNA ROPO UB Varsity facemask – which I highlighted above – could be a good choice.

Check the latest prices here

Best American Football Facemask for All Positions & Carbon Steel: Xenith Prime

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• Suitable for all players, especially experienced athletes
• Made of carbon steel with polyethylene powder coating
• Strong and durable
• Light
• Available in different colors
• cool look
• Easy assembly, hardware included

Experienced football athletes looking for a facemask that improves their visibility while still offering ultimate protection should consider the Xenith Prime facemask.

The only drawback of this product is – again – that it only fits helmets from Xenith itself. But be careful! The facemask does not fit the small size helmets of Xenith!

The solid construction and the high-quality carbon steel material provide excellent durability. This facemask guarantees the best protection with every direct impact.

In addition, the polyethylene powder coating increases the durability of the product. It is a long-lasting facemask that provides better performance; and at an affordable price.

It is also nice that the manufacturer has paid a lot of attention to adding specific instructions regarding installation. Installation is simple and you can do it at home without any problems.

The necessary hardware is also included in the price.

The Xenith Prime facemask is recommended for football players looking for an open facemask for a better view of the field.

The material (carbon steel) is also one of the main reasons for players to purchase this mask.

Another great aspect of this facemask is that it comes in different colors. Whichever you choose, you will always look cool.

The facemask is light and you are guaranteed to feel comfortable with it on the 'gridiron'.

This facemask is therefore only an option if you have a Xenith helmet. Do you have a Schutt model? Then the Schutt DNA ROPO UB Varsity facemask might be a good choice, or the Schutt Sports F7-F5 Varsity Facemask (which I'll discuss next).

The first one I mentioned from Schutt is suitable for all types of players. However, the Schutt Sports F7-F5 Varsity Facemask is more suitable for running backs, wide receivers, defensive ends and tight ends.

Check the latest prices here

Best American Football facemask for combination with most visors: Schutt Sports F7-F5 Varsity Facemask

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• This facemask can be combined with all major brands of visors
• The Raised Brow design bounces shock away from the helmet
• Great freedom of movement and reduction of areas of potential impact
• Made for running backs, wide receivers, defensive ends and tight ends.

This facemask only fits on all Schutt F7 VTD (S-2XL) helmets. On the other hand, the facemask can be perfect again be combined with visors from other brands.

Thanks to the Raised Brow design, shocks are bounced off the helmet. This facemask also increases the freedom of movement and reduces the areas of potential impact.

The perfect facemask for running back, wide receiver, defensive end and tight end positions.

This facemask is therefore only an option if you have a Schutt F7 VTD (S-2XL) helmet. Fortunately, this facemask can easily be combined with visors from other brands, if you would like to use a visor.

Do you have a different Schutt helmet model, or a completely different brand? Then check out the other options from this review!

Please note that this facemask is primarily intended for certain positions (running backs, wide receivers, defensive ends and tight ends).

Do you play a different position but do you have a Schutt F7 VTD helmet? Then rather look for another model facemask from Schutt.

Check the latest prices here

Best American Football facemask with closed cage & for linemen: Schutt Sports VTEGOP

(view more images)

• Jaw and mouth protection
• Made of the strong titanium
• Incredibly light
• The design provides freedom of movement and reduces the potential impact areas
• Provides ultimate protection while maintaining maximum visibility
• Perfect for o-line, d-line, full back, linebacker and tight end positions

This product has a high price tag, but that is fully justified given the premium features.

The Schutt Sports VTEGOP has a flexible design and is suitable for defensive and offensive linemen (defensive and offensive linemen).

Schutt has added mouth protection to this facemask by means of sturdy bars. Players can move completely freely without fear of a sudden impact.

The wide-view design also allows you to see the game better, but not blind you when the light hits it.

The material is the biggest highlight of this product. Schutt Sports VTEGOP uses the high-quality titanium material that you often see in the NFL.

It is the strongest material you can have for your facemask. It is more durable and up to 60% lighter than traditional carbon steel.

This material is very durable while keeping weight to a minimum. Moving smoothly on the pitch will no longer be a dream.

Thanks to the 'extended eyebrow' ('raised brow') design, perfect protection is also provided for the entire face.

You can also choose from 13 different colors. You will feel confident and stand out with this product.

If you don't want a heavy facemask anymore, this is the perfect choice. Ultimate protection is guaranteed while keeping maximum visibility of the game.

Are you a line player and do you have a Schutt helmet? Then this is probably the best choice you can make.

Always check whether the facemask you have in mind is actually compatible with your helmet!

Check the latest prices here

American Football facemask Q&A

Now you have a good idea of ​​which facemasks are available. I will answer a few more questions so that you can be fully informed.

Does a football facemask come with a hardware kit?

Not in most cases. You will have to purchase these separately. You often only get the necessary accessories to attach the facemask to your helmet, such as a stainless steel screw, nuts and straps.

How can you choose a facemask that fits your helmet?

Depending on the type of helmet you have (and the position you play!), you can choose the right facemask.

As mentioned before, you have to take into account the big brands, who often design facemasks that only fit on their helmets.

Which facemasks are used for the different positions?

• linemen: A 'closed cage' facemask prevents certain objects, usually fingers or hands, from coming into the face. It can protect the nose, jaw and mouth well. This type of facemask often has a vertical bar to offer more protection.
• Defensive backs, wide receivers, running backs and quarterbacks: These types of players need a facemask that puts more emphasis on sight than protection. Open cage facemasks do not have vertical bars. Instead, they have horizontal bars designed to increase visibility.
• Punters or kickers: These athletes need a face mask with a simple design. It should have a few single bars to maximize visibility.

Which material facemask is suitable for me?

You can choose from stainless steel, carbon steel or titanium.

If you're willing to pay a little for your facemask to ensure the highest level of protection, you can go for titanium, which is the strongest and lightest of the three, but also the most pricey.

Stainless steel is perfect if you are looking for an intermediate level facemask in terms of weight, price and performance. This material is fine if you are a serious player in high school or youth leagues.

If you want to stick to a budget, carbon steel is ideal. It is the most affordable, while still meeting the standard of the football industry.

Conclusion

It is not always easy to find a suitable facemask. You should do some research and evaluate the products carefully before making a decision.

Since it is directly related to your own safety, it is certainly important that you invest time in finding the perfect facemask.

Always check whether the facemask you want to purchase actually fits on your helmet. There are many types of facemasks, so take the time to choose the right one for your situation.

Know that – to attach your facemask to your helmet – you need a hardware kit, which is often not included.

I hope this article has helped you on your way in your search for the best facemask!

Read also what other gear you need to play American Football, from helmet to jersey

Joost Nusselder, the founder of referees.eu is a content marketer, father and loves to write about all kinds of sports, and has also played a lot of sports himself for most of his life. Now since 2016, he and his team have been creating helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with their sports activities.