Best Lacrosse Helmets Reviewed for Youth & Adult Players
16 adult, goalie and youth helmets broken down by protection, fit and vision, plus how to pick the right size and what every part of the helmet does.
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There's a risk of concussion in any game with big body checks, swinging metal sticks and hard rubber balls flying 90+ miles per hour, and lacrosse is no exception.
Of all the equipment lacrosse players are required to wear, the helmet is the most important. It protects your head from fast-moving balls, the accidental slash to the head and the big hit you never saw coming. I've watched it from youth jamborees in Virginia Beach to rec fields in upstate New York: the kid in a helmet that fits right plays braver.
I made this guide to help you find the best lacrosse helmet for yourself or your child so you can stay protected.
Heads up: BattleLax doesn't stock every helmet on this list. When one isn't available, I point you to the closest helmet they do carry.
Our top picks
- Best overall: Cascade XRS Pro
- Most protective: Warrior Burn X
- Best value: Cascade CPV-R
- Best for goalies: Cascade CPV-R Goalie
- Best youth helmet: Cascade XRS Youth
- Best youth value: Cascade CS-R Youth
Compare all 16 helmets
| # | Helmet | Type | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Cascade XRS Pro Helmet | Adult | Buy |
| 02 | Warrior Burn X Helmet | Adult | Buy |
| 03 | Cascade R Helmet | Adult | Alt |
| 04 | Warrior Evo Helmet | Adult | Alt |
| 05 | Cascade CS-R Helmet | Adult | Buy |
| 06 | Warrior Burn Helmet | Adult | Alt |
| 07 | Cascade CPV-R Helmet | Adult | Buy |
| 08 | Cascade CPV-R Goalie Helmet | Goalie | Alt |
| 09 | Cascade XRS Helmet | Adult | Alt |
| 10 | Cascade S Helmet | Adult | Alt |
| 11 | Cascade XRS Youth Helmet | Youth | Buy |
| 12 | STX Rival Jr Helmet | Youth | Alt |
| 13 | Cascade CS-R Youth Helmet | Youth | Buy |
| 14 | Cascade S Youth Helmet | Youth | Alt |
| 15 | Cascade CPV-R Youth Helmet | Youth | Buy |
| 16 | Warrior Burn Jr Helmet | Youth | Alt |
"Buy" goes straight to the helmet at BattleLax. "Alt" goes to the closest helmet BattleLax has in stock.
Best adult lacrosse helmets (12 years & older)
Adult helmets are usually right for players 12 and older. More specifically, if your head measures over 21.5" around at the forehead, you likely need an adult helmet. Looking for a youth helmet? Jump to the youth picks. If you're a goalie, check out our top picks for the best goalie helmets and throat protectors.
Here are my top picks for the best adult lacrosse helmets:
- Cascade XRS Pro Helmet
- Warrior Burn X Helmet
- Cascade R Helmet
- Warrior Evo Helmet
- Cascade CS-R Helmet
- Warrior Burn Helmet
- Cascade CPV-R Helmet
- Cascade CPV-R Goalie Helmet
- Cascade XRS Helmet
- Cascade S Helmet
1. Cascade XRS Pro Helmet Top pick
The Cascade XRS Pro isn't an entirely new model. The design is close to the OG XRS, but Cascade flattened the second vision bar, and that gave me even better downward visibility. You see the ball on the ground and your hands in the cradle without dropping your chin.
I loved the softer comfort liner with a mesh layer. It doesn't add protection, but it molds to your head for a comfortable fit with plenty of breathability. The back panel is slightly longer and wraps around the neck for a more secure fit, and the Quick Clip chin strap uses a magnet that's very easy to snap on and off.
Still, it popped open after a hit in a game, so make sure you tighten the straps correctly before the whistle.
Read my detailed review of the Cascade XRS Pro here.
2. Warrior Burn X Helmet Most protective
The Warrior Burn X wasn't my favorite at first, but it won me over after a few weeks of use. It's slightly heavy, but I got elite-level protection and barely felt the impact on big hits.
The BOA fit system dials in a comfortable, snug fit, so my helmet rarely moved during games. It does start to feel heavy after a few hours, though.
The ventilation pads inside keep you dry and your head cool. The outer shell is extremely durable, with new back fins and swooping eyelets, and it held up well against stray sticks with minimal wear even after multiple games.
Read my detailed review of the Warrior Burn X lacrosse helmet here.
3. Cascade R Helmet
The Cascade R was my go-to helmet for three years. It's comfortable, fits well and offers excellent protection.
It's heavy, and the ventilation isn't as advanced as the S, but I rarely found that to be an issue. The one-piece shell is sturdy and cushioned on the inside, and it kept me safe from head injuries.
Despite the old-school vision bar design, I didn't have major visibility problems. It can slightly block your peripheral vision when you side-glance at your defender while cradling.
It has a roomier fit rather than a snug one, and once the chin strap is adjusted, it's exceptionally comfortable. Newer models bring real improvements, but the R is still one of the best.
Read our detailed comparison of the differences between the Cascade R, S and XRS.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the original Cascade R right now. The closest helmet they stock is the Cascade CPV-R Lacrosse Helmet ($175.00), which uses the same R-series shell.
4. Warrior Evo Helmet
The Warrior Evo is one of the best helmets for players with bigger heads. I thought it would shift on lateral head movement, but the chin strap kept it locked in for a great fit.
There's enough space between the bars to track the ball. I didn't like the Warrior straps running diagonally up each side of the head, though. They sometimes got in my line of sight.
It's durable and lightweight. The hard shell layered with soft padding inside doesn't transfer the blow to your dome. It doesn't have the best ventilation, though, and I ran warmer in summer ball than I should have.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Warrior Evo helmet right now. If you want a Warrior lid, they stock the Warrior Burn X Lacrosse Helmet ($309.99).
5. Cascade CS-R Helmet
The Cascade CS-R is another lightweight helmet, with an R-series shell upgraded for even better performance. Its freeform padding molds to your head shape for a snug fit. It only comes in one size, though, so some players won't get a perfect fit.
The best thing about the CS-R is how light it is. It doesn't cause neck cramps like the Cascade R. The outer shell is thick, but the venting cutouts give you good airflow and kept my head dry even in the second half.
The front bars are very well designed, and I had better visibility of the field in every direction.
Note: BattleLax sells the CS-R as a youth helmet. If your head measures over 22", look at the CPV-R or one of the adult helmets above.
6. Warrior Burn Helmet
I've used the Warrior Burn helmet for a year, and it's one of the most stylish helmets in my collection. Its BOA system tightens evenly around the head rather than just at the back, so I got a snug, uniform fit that stays locked in.
The chin strap is soft, flexible and way more comfortable than the glossy, rigid one on the Cascade R. I loved how easily the outer shell spread out impact without the helmet shifting.
The oversized chin piece feels a little out of place, though, and the facemask bars get in the way of peripheral vision more than I'd like.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the original Warrior Burn right now. Its upgrade, the Warrior Burn X Lacrosse Helmet ($309.99), is in stock.
7. Cascade CPV-R Helmet Best value
The Cascade CPV-R is an older model, but it's still one of the best helmets for high school middies. It's one of the lightest R-style shells out there, so it doesn't feel bulky when you're dodging or running in transition.
The SPRfit system lets you fine-tune the fit quickly without messing around with padding. It doesn't lock in as tight as the BOA system on the Warrior Burn, though.
The Chevron mask frames the field well, but the bars felt slightly more restrictive on lateral vision. It also has a FreeFlow venting system that kept my head cool through summer practices.
8. Cascade CPV-R Goalie Helmet Goalie
The Cascade CPV-R Goalie is the most protective helmet on my list for goalies. Its thick outer shell and stiff, durable chin guard kept me safe from high-velocity shots and the unexpected slash in the crease.
The SPRfit adjustable ratchets let you dial in the fit one-handed and lock the helmet in place without any annoying shifting. The EPP liner is very snug, though, so if you like a roomier fit, size up.
FreeFlow venting kept me cool even in long, fast-paced games, but the CPV-R doesn't have a dedicated moisture-wicking liner for summer ball. The Chevron mask gave me a clearer view of ground balls and passing lanes.
Goalies, check out our top picks for the best goalie helmets and throat protectors.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't list the goalie version of the CPV-R right now. Most goalies wear a standard helmet with a throat guard, so pair the Cascade XRS Pro Lacrosse Helmet ($339.99) with the Cascade TP-S Goalie Throat Guard ($39.99).
9. Cascade XRS Helmet
Cascade released the XRS in 2021, just in time for NCAA Championship Weekend, and it was Cascade's most protective and comfortable helmet at the time. It has since been followed by the XRS Pro.
It uses a tri-liner system to handle different kinds of impacts, and a Double Jaw Deflection system gives you more protection than previous models along with better ventilation to keep you cool.
Beyond the protection and comfort, the XRS improves on the S with better visibility. Cascade's VISION system opens up your peripheral vision, and the Power-Pressed vision bar shrinks the top of the face mask without giving up rigidity.
Overall, the XRS is still a great helmet. If you want the latest version, go with the XRS Pro.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the original XRS anymore. Its successor, the Cascade XRS Pro Lacrosse Helmet ($339.99), is in stock.
10. Cascade S Helmet
Even with the XRS out since 2021, the Cascade S is still a solid option.
It uses a tri-liner system with the Supermono S shell to absorb different types of impacts in different spots, so you stay protected no matter what happens on the field.
It's also extremely comfortable and looks great. The tri-liner and multiple vent ports keep it breathable, so your head stays cool on the hottest days. The HardTail SPRfit lets you adjust it to fit your noggin perfectly.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Cascade S right now. The Cascade SL Lacrosse Helmet ($279.99) is the closest helmet they stock, with the same fit as Cascade's top design.
Best youth lacrosse helmets (under 12 years old)
Youth helmets are usually right for kids under 12, or anyone whose head measures 22" or less around the forehead.
Here are my top picks for the best youth lacrosse helmets:
- Cascade XRS Youth Helmet
- STX Rival Jr Helmet
- Cascade CS-R Youth Helmet
- Cascade S Youth Helmet
- Cascade CPV-R Youth Helmet
- Warrior Burn Jr Helmet
11. Cascade XRS Youth Helmet Top youth pick
The Cascade XRS Youth is another stylish helmet, built for young players. The tri-liner system absorbed impacts well and gives your kid the confidence that it can handle tough hits.
The soft padding inside soaks up a big part of the impact, so it delivers high-level protection while staying lightweight.
The outer shell is extremely sturdy against rough use, and the low-profile design with plenty of cutouts gives enough airflow to keep their head dry.
The chin strap adjusts the fit, but it loosens after a while, so check it before games. Otherwise, it's very durable.
12. STX Rival Jr Helmet
Cascade has owned the helmet market for years, but STX is making a serious push with the Rival Jr. It has some of the best airflow out there, with cutouts and a sweat-absorbing liner that keep the head cool.
Instead of messing with extra padding, STX built in a pump system from Schutt. It tightens evenly around your head when you pump it and loosens when you release the air.
It gives a snug feel without being uncomfortable, and the helmet doesn't wobble on quick cuts or sharp head movements. Tilt and vision were solid too, with the facemask set so the sightlines felt natural.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the STX Rival Jr. For a youth helmet in stock, go with the Cascade CS-R Youth Lacrosse Helmet ($129.99).
13. Cascade CS-R Youth Helmet Best youth value
I haven't bought a CS-R Youth myself, but it's been a favorite with young players for the past couple of years. Even my nephew won't trade his in for the upgraded version.
The EPP liner with Poron XRD foam absorbs impact well, and the memory foam sides give an excellent fit. The Velcro system loosens over time, but it's very easy to adjust.
It's one size, but the Velcro strap cuts down on helmet shifting during games. The three-bar front cage gives better visibility, and the cutouts on the top and back of the shell let in plenty of air.
14. Cascade S Youth Helmet
The Cascade S makes the youth list for many of the same reasons it made the adult list. It has the same shape, design and safety features.
It uses a tri-liner system with the Supermono S shell to absorb different types of impacts in different spots, so your child stays protected no matter what happens on the field.
It's extremely comfortable and looks great too. The tri-liner and XFLO vent ports keep it breathable on the hottest days, and the HardTail SPRfit lets you adjust it to fit your child's head perfectly.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Cascade S Youth right now. The Cascade XRS Youth Helmet ($270.00) is the step-up youth helmet they stock.
15. Cascade CPV-R Youth Helmet
The Cascade CPV-R is the next helmet to consider for youth players. What makes it great is that it costs much less than the Cascade S but still meets all the safety standards.
It comes in four sizes, from XXS up to M/L, so there's an option that fits your child's head, and Cascade's SPRfit ratchet lets you change the fit as they grow.
The EPP liner and R-series shell protect your child's head while keeping the helmet as comfortable as possible.
16. Warrior Burn Jr Helmet
If you don't want a Cascade, the Warrior Burn Jr, built for players under 12, is a decent alternative.
It has an energy-absorbing vinyl nitrile foam liner plus an expanded polypropylene liner to handle impacts. Pull-tab attachments let you adjust the fit as your player gets older.
Like the others on this list, it meets NOCSAE standards and is SEI certified, so you can rest easy knowing your child is protected.
BattleLax pick: BattleLax doesn't carry the Warrior Burn Jr. A youth helmet they do stock is the Cascade CS-R Youth Lacrosse Helmet ($129.99).
Helmets in stock at BattleLax
Want a lid you can order today? These are the helmets from this list, and the closest matches, that BattleLax carries right now. They also do custom-colored XRS Pro helmets for teams and clubs.
| Helmet | Type | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Cascade XRS Pro Lacrosse Helmet | Adult | $339.99 |
| Cascade Z Lacrosse Helmet | Adult | $449.99 |
| Warrior Burn X Lacrosse Helmet | Adult | $309.99 |
| Cascade SL Lacrosse Helmet | Adult | $279.99 |
| Cascade CPV-R Lacrosse Helmet | Adult & youth sizes | $175.00 |
| Cascade XRS Youth Helmet | Youth | $270.00 |
| Cascade CS-R Youth Lacrosse Helmet | Youth | $129.99 |
| Cascade TP-S Goalie Throat Guard | Goalie add-on | $39.99 |
| Cascade Helmet Chin Strap | Replacement part | $9.99 |
How to choose a lacrosse helmet
Here's what to think about when you're picking a helmet for yourself or your child.
1. Safety
First and foremost, you want a helmet that's safe. That's what matters most. If your kid isn't safe, comfort and style don't matter.
How do you tell if a helmet is safe? The easiest way is to check that it meets the standards set by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) and is certified by the Safety Equipment Institute (SEI).
I'd be surprised if any new helmet released today didn't meet these standards. An older helmet can fall out of compliance when the standards are updated, but generally, every helmet on the market today should meet them.
You can also read customer reviews to see if players have had issues with helmets breaking or hurting, which I did to build the list above.
2. Size
Make sure you order the correct size. There are generally two sizes: youth and adult. Youth sizes are usually for players around 12 and under, and adult helmets are for older players.
Beyond comfort, the right size is crucial for safety. If your helmet is too tight or too loose, it won't absorb and spread out hits correctly, and that can lead to injury.
If you're not sure which size makes sense, measure your head or your child's. Most helmet brands have sizing charts that match your head circumference to the right size. You can also stop by your local lacrosse shop or try on teammates' helmets to see what fits best.
3. Comfort
Not everyone finds lacrosse helmets "comfortable," but yours shouldn't cause you any pain.
If it's too tight, use the adjustment system (usually on the back of the helmet) or adjust the chin strap to loosen it up, and do the opposite if it's too loose.
Some helmets are more comfortable than others simply because they fit your head shape better. That's another good reason to try on a few models before you buy.
4. Vision
Good vision out of your helmet is also very important. Most helmets have a similar shape, but the shells and facemasks vary slightly from model to model, and that can affect how well you see.
Putting on a helmet shouldn't dramatically cut down your field of vision, especially since most don't block much of your peripheral vision.
5. Weight
If you're comparing helmets that meet all the safety standards and seem equally safe otherwise, it can pay to choose the lighter one.
A lighter helmet helps you play faster, both in your running speed and in how quickly you can turn your head to react to passes and checks.
6. Colors
Many teams have specific helmet colors that players are supposed to wear. Before you buy, check whether your team provides helmets or wants players to buy certain colors.
If your club needs matching lids, BattleLax builds custom-colored Cascade XRS Pro helmets for teams. If colors don't matter as much, a stock white helmet is usually the fastest and cheapest way to go.
Parts of a lacrosse helmet
I thought it would help to put together a diagram of the different helmet parts. The terminology is pretty consistent across brands.
(And yes, that's me in the picture.)
Shell
The shell makes up most of the helmet's outer layer. It's usually hard plastic, with liners inside that keep your head safe and comfortable.
Visor
The visor is like an extension of the shell that covers your forehead. Some helmets use a separate piece of plastic for the visor, while on others it's continuous with the shell.
Chin
The chin, as the name suggests, covers your chin. It's usually made of a similar material to the shell and visor but may be a different color.
Facemask
The facemask is usually metal and covers your (you guessed it!) face.
The facemask can have a big impact on your visibility. If the horizontal bar lines up with your eyes when you're wearing the helmet properly, you may have trouble seeing. Try tilting the helmet up or down a bit, but make sure it still fits properly so you aren't risking injury.
Chin strap
The bottom of the chin strap covers your chin, and the straps on each side run up the helmet and connect to the shell to keep it secure. There are two straps per side: one connects around the temple, and the other connects around the base of the shell toward the back.
Make sure the chin strap is tight enough that your helmet doesn't move around on its own. If you grab a player's facemask and move it side to side or up and down, the helmet shouldn't move all over while the head stays still. It also shouldn't be so tight that the helmet hurts. Worn-out strap? BattleLax sells a replacement Cascade chin strap ($9.99).
Mouthpiece
It's not technically part of the helmet, but most players also wear a mouthpiece, either strapped to the facemask or just in the mouth. Check your league's rules to see if a strap is required. My state, for example, required one for high school players.
Many players boil their mouthpieces to mold them to their teeth. That makes the mouthpiece more comfortable, so players are more likely to actually wear it, and it also makes it safer.
How we rate lacrosse helmets
We take our ratings seriously and only recommend products we'd use ourselves. To come up with each rating, we test the product ourselves whenever possible, review the specs (weight, protection features and more), and read customer reviews and talk to players we know who use it.
With helmets, we mainly test for comfort and fit with our staff and our staff's friends, and we only recommend helmets that meet the current NOCSAE standard. When we can't test a helmet extensively ourselves, we spend extra time talking to real customers who've worn it for a while.
If you have feedback on any helmet on this page or a helmet you think we should add, let us know.
People also ask
What is the best lacrosse helmet?
Our top pick is the Cascade XRS Pro. It builds on the XRS with a flatter second vision bar for better downward visibility, a softer mesh comfort liner and a magnetic Quick Clip chin strap. The Warrior Burn X is our pick for the most protective helmet.
What size lacrosse helmet do I need?
If your head measures over 21.5" around at the forehead, you likely need an adult helmet. Youth helmets are usually for players under 12 or with a head circumference of 22" or less. Always check the brand's sizing chart.
When should I replace my lacrosse helmet?
Replace it if the shell cracks, the padding breaks down, it no longer fits snugly, or it no longer meets the current NOCSAE standard. If a helmet ever causes you pain or breaks, stop using it right away.
Do lacrosse goalies need a different helmet?
Goalies can wear a goalie-specific helmet like the Cascade CPV-R Goalie, or a standard helmet paired with a throat guard. Either way, a throat guard is a must in the crease.
Tying it together
I hope this guide helped you find a lacrosse helmet that works for you. The most important thing is to pick a helmet that's safe and comfortable. If your helmet ever causes you pain or breaks, stop using it right away and either get it adjusted or find a new one.
If you're looking to take your game to the next level, check out some of our other guides:
- Best lacrosse gloves
- Best lacrosse arm guards & pads
- Best lacrosse shoulder pads
- Best lacrosse rib pads & kidney pads
- Best lacrosse bags
- Best lacrosse backpacks
- Best lacrosse sticks
- Best lacrosse goals
- Best portable lacrosse goals
- Best lacrosse rebounders
- Best lacrosse backstops
- Where to find cheap lacrosse balls
- Best women's lacrosse goggles
