The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Kevlar and Ballistic Helmet

Ballistic helmets are an essential piece of tactical gear. They offer protection against gunshots, fragmentation, and blunt trauma.

Choosing the fitting helmet can be challenging, but understanding what features to look for can help you find the best option. 

Size

Getting a ballistic helmet that fits well is critical to comfort and protection. Most manufacturers give sizing guides to assist you in selecting the appropriate size. A correctly sized helmet should be snug without touching your forehead or ears and be comfortable for long periods.

Several years ago, DuPont chemists developed a tough fiber called Aramid that was five times stronger than steel on a weight basis. This new material revolutionized ballistic body armor.

Today’s tactical helmets typically feature Kevlar or aramid fibers in multiple layers to protect against shrapnel and bullets shot from handguns at submachine gun velocities. These protective helmets are often NIJ level IIIA certified and tested. Some features include rails for attaching accessories, such as a mounting assembly for night vision goggles or a riot control visor.

Weight

The weight of your Kevlar helmet directly impacts how comfortable it is to wear for long periods. The lower the helmet weight, the less strain it puts on your neck and the more focus you can put on other combat areas.

Some ballistic helmets have accessories such as visors and chin straps that can be attached to increase comfort. Some also have mounts that can add functionality, such as night vision capabilities or integrated lighting systems.

Ballistic helmets that protect against armor-piercing rifle rounds typically have a thicker construction, making them heavier than other types. This is a trade-off between protection and weight that should be carefully considered. A lighter helmet will still offer adequate protection from various ballistic threats.

Comfort

Comfort might seem like a non-issue in tactical applications, but companies emphasize that the right fit and padding can make all the difference. An uncomfortable helmet can lead to headaches and distraction, which limits your ability to perform.

The PASGT (Personal Armor System Ground Troops) was the oldest helmet type, which remained in use until the MICH replaced it and later the ACH helmets. Those models offer protection from shrapnel and handgun fire.

Material

Helmets are intended to protect you from injuries caused by kinetic energy. This energy is produced when something hits you, whether a brick falling from a building or a motorcycle hitting you. Helmets change how this energy affects you, converting it into multiple forms of harmless energy that are not harmful to your head.

A good helmet will be made from a composite of materials with different physical and chemical properties. This allows the helmet to offer a range of characteristics while remaining cheaper than its alternatives.

A ballistic helmet is essential for military and law enforcement personnel frequently exposed to ballistic threats or shrapnel. They are typically rated at Threat Level IIIA and can also be worn by civilians who need protection for other situations like civil unrest or security jobs.

Style

A ballistic helmet’s internal liner is designed to deform on impact and remain unfractured, offering an extra layer of protection for the wearer. The outer shell and internal liner are molded together, making them more durable than helmets made of other materials.

These helmets come in various styles, with many military personnel using them with additional combat gear. From older PASGT helmets to next-generation ATE-type tactical helmets, you can find the right style for your needs.

To keep your helmet in good shape, you should inspect it regularly for signs of wear and tear. Avoid exposing it to strong chemicals or abrasive materials, and keep it in a cool, dark place away from excessive temperatures.