Best Ballistic Helmet Reviews – Real Life Experience of Bulletproof Helmets

With this article, we’re sharing our list of some of the best ballistic helmets, along with answers to commonly asked questions about choosing combat headgear that is the best for you.

A quality helmet that meets NIJ/military standards and has been thoroughly tested serves the same purpose as a bulletproof vest.

Read on if you’re interested in learning more about this vital piece of ballistic protection or if you’re looking to expand your knowledge.

When worn by soldiers during combat, this kind of headgear protects the head from shrapnel, bullets, glass, and the like.

As opposed to “ballistic helmets,” these terms are sometimes called “bulletproof helmets” or “tactical headgear.”

Everyday citizens, from bikers to construction workers, use helmets. In combat or other violent situations, they typically cover your head with multiple layers of ballistic protection material.

You should consider investing in them if you work in an environment where objects may fly at your head (intentionally or otherwise)!

Check out our detailed guide on the best ballistic helmet for more information.

Best Ballistic Helmet Reviews

Comparison List Of Top 10 Best Ballistic Helmet

1. Jadedragon Ballistic Helmet – Best Overall

Key Specifications

Size	23 inches x 26 inches
Inner Material	Expanded Polystrene, Mesh
Available Color	2
Recommended Uses For	Tactical, Cycling

The major thing that differentiates this helmet from other models is the level of comfort. It provides you 360^o all-round protection while playing games like paintball.

You will not find a helmet that comes with tactical goggles and a tactical ear mask other than this helmet model.  Moreover, it is lightweight and can be adjusted easily due to adjustable suspender straps.

This helmet is one of the best helmets that come with a fully adjustable helmet strap. You can buy them for teenagers and adults.

We can call it a perfect combination set that comes with a tactical ear mask and goggles. You are provided with all-around protection where your head is fully protected.

The practical value of this helmet is very high. You can wear this helmet to play different types of games such as paintball or cosplay. You will not be disappointed after purchasing this helmet as it is worth it.

The additional functionality of this helmet includes an NVG shroud and Bungee retention for NVG.

It comes with a night vision device, visor, camera, flashlight, strobe battery pack, and many more features that make it a quality product.

The hook and loop panels of this helmet add more value to it and make it adorable such as safety lights, nametapes, IFF, blood type patch, morale patch, etc.

The eye mask is made of steel material with the addition of soft padded nylon fabric.

2. ATAIRSOFT Ballistic Helmet – Best Runner Up

Key Specifications

Size	59cm (23 inches)
Outer Material	Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Available Color	5
Recommended Uses For	Outdoor, Tactical, Paintball

Someone recommended ATAIRSOFT when I read the Shellback Tactical Helmet review. In terms of sturdiness and comfort, this maritime helmet is one of the best I’ve worn.

Even after extended use, the Halo system doesn’t cause me any headaches despite providing a tight grip on my head. It works well in conjunction with the padding.

Communication wire was installed through the interior, and there was still room to wear the jacket comfortably.

It allows me to finely adjust the helmet by using the knob on the back of the helmet. Wallet multi-tool and free patches are also included, so what’s not to like?

Fortunately, the patches were attached well to the helmet and stayed put.

The features it offers are impressive. You can slide down the goggles before starting the game to protect your eyes.

You can also use this multifunctional helmet for cycling while participating in tactical activities.

This hat has an internal width of 6.69 inches (17cm) and an internal length of 8.66 inches (22cm) which is not ideal for large heads but is suitable for small ones.

An NVG mount is also built-in to work with most GoPro NVG-style mounts. A Velcro patch or nameplate can also be attached. One multifunctional card is also included.

With a weight of only 1.45 pounds, this helmet is pretty lightweight. It is guaranteed that you will be satisfied! You will get a great deal if you consider its low price.

As it wraps around my chin on both sides, the chin strap fits perfectly on me. Using this helmet for long hours is easy on my neck because it is as lightweight as my old Top Gentle helmet.

In addition to its exceptionally durable feel, the ABS shell can withstand any bumps or falls during a mission.

Although this helmet is designed for heads 7 to 38 inches in size, the helmet may not fit heads larger than that.

Overall, the ATAIRSOFT Maritime Helmet will not injure the wearer when bumped or blown on the head. Helmets with fine-tuning knobs and chin straps provide a comfortable fit.

3. LOOGU Ballistic Helmet – Best Durable

Key Specifications

Weight	22.4 inches to 23.5 inches
Outer Material	Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Available Color	8
Brand	LOOGU

You can clearly see the difference between the other bulletproof helmets of LOOGU and this helmet. It is one of the best helmets that are durable and comfortable.

It is best for outdoor activities like climbing and hunting. Its unique design also makes it different from other helmets.

The use of high-quality ABS plastic increases the value of this helmet and makes it durable.

Its construction has been done using hard polymer material which is best for people with a head circumference of 22.4 inches to 23.5 inches.

It is a lightweight helmet that comes with an adjustable fit band and ultra-comfortable liner carry bag.

You will see that there is replaceable leather used in the side, front, and nape pads. You can easily adjust it as it comes with adjustable straps.

Its lightweight design lets you feel there is nothing on your head and you are free. Plus, you are provided with more protection when performing outdoor activities like CS games, hunting, and many other similar activities.

This helmet is available in different colors and styles which makes it worth it. You can buy any of them depending upon your needs, requirements, and preferences.

4. EMERSONGEAR Ballistic Helmet – Best Comfortable

Key Specifications

Weight	0.89KG
Purpose	Ballistic
Available Color	11
Vehicle Service Type	Tactical, Ballistic

In the industry, this is one of the top tactical gear manufacturers. Users love it. This helmet is known to be nicely made and great for the sake of customization.

It’s made of ABS plastic that’s heavy-duty. Helmets come in one size that fits any individual, with an adjustable chin and head strap.

Reviewers overwhelmingly found it to be very comfortable, lightweight, and adjustable. Additionally, it has a tactical edge in airsoft or paintball games.

Velcro straps are not included, but you can easily add them to customize. As long as the straps are correctly adjusted, you’ll feel comfortable and lightweight on your head. There are two colors available, and it weighs about 2 pounds.

I can also use it with my plain-looking tactical helmets since it fits almost any helmet. In addition to the appearance of the camo print, the cloth cover can be removed and washed easily.

By covering my ears, this helmet provides better head protection. In addition, it protects my sides from blows, leaving me unscathed after a grueling airsoft battle. I fit my comms gear and eye-protection gear on this unit.

I’m surprised at how durable the plastic construction is. The helmet has an adjustable strap and can easily fit children’s heads and stay in place. Additionally, it’s light enough to use my nephews for paintball.

5. OneTigris Ballistic Helmet – Best For Ventilation

Key Specifications

Size	22-24 inch
Inner Material	Sponge
Available Color	3
Recommended Uses For	Airsoft

A well-known tactical gear manufacturer on the market is OneTigris. Their latest product is a MICH 2000 helmet. In addition to their reputation for quality work, OneTigris wishes everyone a happy life in the outdoors.

It has several incredible features. Your first impression of this product will be influenced by its non-frosted appearance.

With the OneTigris MICH 2000 Style ACH Tactical Helmet, you can add additional accessories such as flashlights, GoPros, COM headsets, batteries, and many more.

This best ballistic helmet’s internal sponge padding provides more comfort. The neck and straps can be adjusted for a custom fit.

This lightweight tactical helmet works excellent with my low-profile goggles since I need to protect my eyes during the game.

This worked well for my airsoft game. The helmet stayed in place during my run around the area and didn’t bobble.

The helmet will not disappoint you whether you play airsoft, paintball, or cosplay with your friends. It comes in four different colors for you to choose from.

My head and chin fit perfectly with adjustable straps on both sides. The interior padding is my favorite since it provides a nice cushion from head blows.

Unfortunately, I did not fall because I ran through a pine tree branch. I mount my favorite over-ear headset and camera on the side rails to film my airsoft games.

The helmet is similar to a Kevlar helmet, but it’s plastic, so it’s easier on your neck. The helmet’s above-the-ear (ATE) design ensures it doesn’t get too hot during games in humid weather conditions.

6. Outry Ballistic Helmet – Best For Outdoor

Key Specifications

Size	Head circumference is about 52-64cm (20.5-25.2 inches)
Outer Material	Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Available Color	3
Recommended Uses For	Cycling, Shooting, Hunting, Ballistic

Compared to the PTS MTEK Flux, the Autry Tactical helmet is half the price. In addition to the NVG mount, this model has side rails for carrying extra accessories.

It feels like I’m wearing something more premium for the cost since both ABS plastic and nylon materials have a little weight to them. The construction is also quite comfortable.

I found that the helmet fitted my head more naturally initially, but it became even more comfortable with the added padding.

The padding perfectly contours my head. It looks fantastic for airsoft games, where I used it. The straps can also withstand my constant tugging for rugged use.

I was pleasantly surprised by how sturdy the NVG mount is. This mount allows me to ride my Juggernaut with my GoPro securely attached.

Also, I can use the side rails to attach other accessories, including a flashlight.

Although the helmet came with easy-to-understand instructions, there were no directions for attaching the twisted pads. It must be done by someone else. 

Thanks to the nine pieces of sponge padding inside, you will feel more comfortable wearing this hat. The suspender straps and chin/neck pad can be adjusted for optimal fit.

Therefore, it fits head circumferences between 52cm and 64cm (20.5-25.2 inches). Loop panels around the helmet will allow you to personalize it with patches.

A side rail connector on an accessory provides attachment points for quick attachment or release of accessories, such as flashlights, cameras, visors, headsets, etc.

In summary, it is a great head protector for airsoft, paintball, hunting, and tactical activities such as gun shooting. It can also be used when biking.

Overall, the Autry Tactical Helmet is ideal for outdoor sports like airsoft and mountain biking. The ABS/Nylon materials and NVG mount make this helmet durable.

7. DLP Ballistic Helmet – Best For Heavy Duty

Key Specifications

Weight	‎1 Kilogram
Material	Reinforced Nylon Fiber Polymer Composite
Available Color	8
Brand	DLP Tactical

A tactical helmet ATE bump design protects without sacrificing comfort with the Impax Extreme. Airsoft players and trainers love it because it’s lightweight and comfortable compared to its other helmet models.

The cam lock, straps, and buckle of this particular DLP Tactical model are almost identical to the Ops-Core helmet, which is pricier.

My favorite accessories can be mounted on the rails along with a single night vision adapter. Furthermore, I found a variety of Velcro to fit different patch designs.

The best function of this helmet is to protect against light trauma. My head feels protected when I fall or take a blow from the heavy-duty nylon fiber shell.

Knowing that it bears a CE safety rating made me feel even safer wearing this helmet. Despite playing for long hours, this helmet doesn’t get uncomfortable and fits perfectly.

The helmet can also be adjusted to fit large heads using a forceful adjustment on the knob, in addition to small heads. This allows me to mount a flashlight, so I can still see what I’m doing even when I have my hands complete.

The adjustable worm liners adjust to fit all sizes and shapes of skulls and provide maximum impact protection while maintaining comfort.

Night Vision Goggles, cameras, and lights can be mounted on the helmet with the removable, replaceable NVG amount. Other helmet accessories can also be mounted on the ARC rails.

Enhance your helmet velcro with this mesh set, a Wing-Loc universal accessory mount adaptor for arc rails, an Arc rail Picatinny accessory mount adaptor, and an AR-15 universal mount bracket for NVG shroud, all included free!

This military bump helmet seems perfect in an airsoft game, training session, or mission that doesn’t require bullet resistance.

However, there were no instructions regarding where the Velcro and padding should be placed inside the box. Overall, Impax Extreme meets the needs.

8. HYOUT Ballistic Helmet – Best Lightweight

Key Specifications

Outer Material	Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Inner Material	Expanded Polystyrene
Available Color	7
Recommended Uses For	Cycling, Tactical, Hunting Shooting

A helmet like this one from HYOUT would be perfect for adventure sports. Despite all the padding, my head felt secure, and the chin straps can be adjusted for different head shapes thanks to four attachment points.

Throughout the helmet are also Velcro pads, which I use to attach my favorite patches. Several rails allow me to mount my GoPro cameras and lights.

As a result, I had no problems fitting my goggles on the helmet, leaving no gaps for BBs to pass through.

With an NVG mount, this helmet makes a great night-hunting companion. While on the move, the NVG mount stays put. Further, I could also wear my M50 airsoft mask with this helmet without any problems.

The HYOUT MH-type helmet is designed for head circumferences between 22.04 and 24.00 inches. An adjustable chin/neck pad and suspender straps are also included. 

High-quality ABS engineering plastics, anti-seismic EPS plastic, Velcro, and nylon comprise HYOUT airsoft helmets. High-quality foam fills the interior of this helmet, making it lightweight and comfortable.

These headsets feature replaceable leather pads on the front, nape, and sides which detach easily to provide convenient donning and doffing. 

Mounts most of the GoPro NVGs seamlessly. Many accessories can be attached to side rails. Training, Search and Rescue, Climbing, Flying, Riding, Jumping, CS Airsoft, and Paintball Games are all possible with this mountain.

The instructions included in the package made it easy to assemble the pads and other parts.

The entire construction seems solid, and it should protect you from head bumps well. I only received a few nicks and scratches when a rock was thrown at me.

9. Lancer Ballistic Helmet – Best For Night Vision

Key Specifications

Weight	2.1 Pounds
Outer Material	Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Available Color	2
Brand	Lancer Tactical

The Lancer Tactical helmet costs half as much as the PTS MTEK Flux. The model comes with side rails for carrying extra accessories in addition to the NVG mount.

Both ABS plastic and nylon materials have a little weight, so it feels like I’m wearing something more premium for the price.

It’s also very comfortable to wear. At first, I found that it fitted my head more naturally. With the extra padding, the helmet became even more comfortable.

My head is perfectly contoured by the padding. I can also pull the straps constantly for rugged use. My favorite use was for airsoft games.

An extremely durable ABS plastic helmet for airsoft field use made of industrial-grade ABS. The Maritime Helmet is an accurate 1:1 replica, down to the accessory functions.

On the nape of the helmet adjustment crown, you can adjust the size of the helmet with the rear dial knob.

Quick Detach helmet straps will keep your helmet securely in place even when hurrying or performing strenuous tactical maneuvers.

An embedded Night Vision mount is ideal for affixing an existing Night Vision system or adding a replica for aesthetics. Easily accessible, the Bungee Retention Cord secures your devices securely.

If you’re looking to add a tactical flashlight to your gear or ensemble, then the Side Helmet Rail System is precisely what you need.

Goggles clips will hold them in place when you run, jump, and set out on a skirmish.

10. ActionUnion Ballistic Helmet – Best For Money

Key Specifications

Inner Material	Expanded Polystyrene
Outer Material	Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Available Color	4
Brand	ACTION UNION

The Impax Extreme in this helmet is equipped with an ATE bump design that protects without sacrificing comfort.

Lightweight and comfortable, it’s a favorite among airsoft players and trainers.

Almost identical to the Ops-Core helmet, this particular Tactical model has the same cam lock, straps, and buckle.

A single night vision adapter can be mounted with my favorite accessories on the rails. Moreover, I found a variety of Velcro to fit a variety of patches.

Light trauma is the best protection provided by this helmet. As a result of the heavy-duty nylon fiber shell, I feel protected from falling or getting hit.

After learning that it bears a CE safety rating, I felt even safer wearing this helmet. The helmet does not get uncomfortable even after playing for long hours.

A forceful adjustment on the knob can adjust the helmet to fit both large and small heads. It allows me to mount a flashlight, so I can still see what I’m doing, even when I have my hands complete.

They provide maximum impact protection while maintaining comfort, as the adjustable worm liners can be adjusted to fit all shapes and sizes of skulls.

A removable, replaceable NVG amount can mount Night Vision Goggles, cameras, and lights on the helmet. ARC rails can also be used to mount other helmet accessories.

This mesh set offers an AR-15 universal mount bracket for NVG shroud, a Wing-Loc universal accessory mount adaptor for arc rails, as well as an Arc rail Picatinny accessory mount adaptor, all of which are free!

It did not appear that there were instructions on how to place the Velcro and padding inside the box.

It seems perfect for airsoft games, training sessions, and missions that don’t require bullet resistance.

Things to consider while buying Best Ballistic Helmets- Buyer’s Guide   

Many military services require heavy-duty ballistic helmets (and for a good reason). Still, bump helmets are a less expensive and less fiddly alternative that might be more useful every day.

To make sure that you’re getting the best value for your money and the fitting tactical helmet for your needs, whatever the situation, keep these things in mind when purchasing a tactical helmet.

Before purchasing a level 4 ballistic helmet, you may want to consider your budget, safety, and comfort.

1. Weight

Your needs will determine the weight of your helmet. The helmets we tested are all extremely light compared to previous models, but some are noticeably lighter than others.

A lighter helmet usually comes at a cost, less protection. When you reduce the helmet’s weight, the deformation of the back-face and the blunt impact numbers increase.

Hence, it is usually possible to achieve the same resistance to penetration with a lighter helmet!

Ballistic helmets may provide some extra protection, but anyone who has worn one for over ten hours and walked more than ten kilometres to reach their destination knows that every ounce counts.

Especially in this situation, lighter-weight helmets will let you focus on your task rather than cursing every step.

2. Retention System

We tested helmets with various retention systems. There are two basic types of retention systems. A construction helmet has an adjustment dial at the back; the other does not.

Adjustment dial systems allowed for greater comfort. The downside is that they require more space in the helmet.

We tested four different chin-strap systems, including the X-nape, the H-nape, the H-Harness, and the Cam-Lock.

The helmet design affected how well these worked, while others didn’t achieve enough adjustment. In more recent ACH/MICH helmets, the H-Harness was the worst.

3. Helmet Pads

After more than 5 minutes of wearing a ballistic helmet for the first time, finding the most comfortable helmet pads becomes critical. Older helmets have uncomfortable and sometimes even dangerous pads.

Additionally, too hard, too thin, or even too soft helmet pads can increase the possibility of brain damage from an impact, along with the usual hot spots, headaches, and fatigue.

4. Budget

A high-cut type of best ballistic helmet with a face shield can usually be purchased for $200 to $1500 depending on the model.

If you don’t care about the expiration date, you might be able to find a used helmet for much less.

Generally, a tested helmet that meets all safety regulations costs $400 or more, and a lightweight, higher-end helmet costs $1000 or more.

For high-cut helmets costing $200-$300, the tested companies could not produce any test data beyond one resistance to penetration test. Invest if you are ready for it!

How have we tested ballistic helmets?

You will often hear about these three types of helmets when it comes to the design or shape of a modern military or police helmet: PASGT, MICH/ECH/LWH, High-Cut, FAST®, and Above the Ear.

A helmet’s performance is one of the most important aspects to consider when choosing it.

The NIJ did not test each of our review helmets, but any company that provides detailed testing reports should be able to do so.

As part of our helmet-testing process, we randomly batch test each helmet in-house, and we send helmets to a 3rd party NIJ lab every year for these tests that we consider essential.

• (9mm, 357, and .44 magnum) Resistance to Penetration (NIJ Level IIIA according to NIJ Standard 0106.01 / 0108.01)
• Deformation of the back surface: 9mm (1400 fps) BFD: Average less than 25mm (front/back/crown/sides)
• A performance measure of fragmentation with a 17gr V50 bullet is 2400 feet/second (731 m/s).
• Typical Blood Impact Performed by Plants over 14 drops: Less than 150g on average.

Some other tests that should be included along with those above include compression tests and even element testing (hot, cold, wet, salt).

It is important to remember that the NIJ does not certify helmets like they do body armor, so it is your responsibility to inspect the test results to ensure the helmet meets your needs!

Your needs will determine the weight of your helmet. Compared with earlier helmets, all of our tested helmets are incredibly light, but some are notably lighter than others.

A lighter helmet usually comes at a cost, less protection. In general, lighter helmets can provide the same level of penetration resistance, but the back-face deformation and blunt impact numbers increase as the weight is decreased.

What’s the difference between bump vs. ballistic helmets?

A fatal mistake can be made when distinguishing between bump and ballistic helmets.

You will know exactly which one you have in your hand as soon as you take either one in your hand.

Ballistic helmets, or bulletproof helmets, are designed to protect a person’s head from bullets, shrapnel, and other fast-moving projectiles.

Even though there isn’t anything genuinely bulletproof, an armored helmet is resistant to bullets and not a shield to shield you against all bullets.

It is essential to know that there is no bulletproof helmet that is 100% impenetrable. Therefore, don’t buy a bulletproof helmet in hopes that it will protect you against all kinds of weapons and ammunition.

As a result, bump helmets are significantly lighter than ballistic helmets because they don’t have a layer of aramid ballistic protection. Usually, the fastenings won’t be as intricate to be visually discerned.

Helmets designed to protect the wearer against shrapnel and falling debris are known as bump helmets. Moreover, they can mount NVGs, hearing protection, and communication systems.

Bump helmets are not designed to protect against gunfire of any kind. A bump helmet cannot stop bullets of any caliber.

Their purpose is to protect from relatively slow-moving threats such as throwing rocks or debris falling or when the operator runs into a sharp or blunt obstacle.

Conclusion

We are sure that with our detailed guide on best ballistic helmet reviews, you can find the one suitable for you to stand on your budget and requirements.

Do a bit of research which we have helped you by sharing the buying guide instructions to make your task easier to perform. 

Go for the best selection now and grab a great best ballistic helmet by your side!