Arkansas football demands toughness, and nothing is more crucial than protecting your head. Your helmet is your first and most vital line of defense, and choosing the right one is a decision that impacts your safety and your ability to play with confidence. Van Winkle Sports, your trusted local source right here in Batesville, Arkansas, offers a premium selection of football helmets designed for maximum protection.
Safety First for Arkansas Players: Understand the Football Helmet Rating System
When it comes to football helmets, you can’t afford to compromise on safety. That’s why understanding the ratings from independent organizations is so important. Our football helmets in Arkansas are compliant with the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE – which sets the minimum impact performance standards).
Since 2015, third-party certification has been required, ensuring these standards are rigorously met. The NFL, in collaboration with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), also conducts annual testing, categorizing helmets into “Recommended,” “Not Recommended,” and “Prohibited” groups. For the 2025 season, new top-performing models are available, while lower-performing ones have been moved to the “Not Recommended” list.
On-field data backs this up, showing fewer concussions for players in top-rated helmets. When you choose a highly-rated helmet like ours, you’re investing in your safety and your future on the Arkansas gridiron.
The Perfect Fit for Arkansas Athletes: Protection and Comfort You Can Trust
A helmet’s safety rating is only as good as its fit. Here’s how to ensure your helmet fits perfectly, right here in Arkansas:
- Measure Your Head: Use a flexible measuring tape to measure the circumference of your head about one inch above your eyebrows. Compare this to the manufacturer’s size chart for the helmet you’re considering. Sizing can vary between brands.
- Snug, Not Squeezing: The helmet should feel snug all around your head without causing any pressure points.
- The Eyebrow Rule: When you put it on, the helmet should sit about an inch above your eyebrows.
- No Unwanted Movement: Try moving the helmet side to side and up and down. It should move with your skin, not slide around.
- Secure Chin Strap: Adjust the chin strap so it’s comfortably snug, keeping the helmet firmly in place.
- Padding Check: Make sure there’s no extra space between your temples and the helmet padding, or between your jaw and the jaw pads.
Consider the padding – TPU foam offers great shock absorption and hygiene, while vinyl nitrile foam provides reliable protection. The outer shell, usually made of ABS plastic or polycarbonate alloy, provides the primary impact protection. And don’t forget a compatible facemask for full protection.
Your Top Football Helmet Choices for 2025 Are Right Here in Arkansas at Van Winkle Sports!
Van Winkle Sports offers a selection of top-rated football helmets in Arkansas – Batesville and Searcy. Our product descriptions detail safety features and technologies.
Find Your Perfect Helmet: Take Our Quiz!
Not sure where to start? Our interactive quiz can help you find the best helmet for your position and playing style. Get personalized recommendations and gear up with confidence! Contact us here!
Gear Up for Safety and Success at Van Winkle Sports in Arkansas!
Your safety is our priority. Choose your 2025 football helmet wisely and step onto the field with the best protection available, right here in Arkansas!
