According to the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE), any helmet over 10 years from its initial certification is not eligible for recertification. To comply with this standard, you must replace any helmet used for over 10 years.
Shopping for a baseball helmet is relatively straightforward, as helmet sizing corresponds to hat sizes. If you know your hat size, look for a helmet of the same size. Alternatively, you can measure the circumference of your head to find your helmet size.
| Hat Size | Head Circumference (in) |
| 6 | 18 3/4 |
| 6 1/8 | 19 1/4 |
| 6 1/4 | 19 5/8 |
| 6 3/8 | 20 |
| 6 1/2 | 20 3/4 |
| 6 3/4 | 21 1/4 |
| 6 7/8 | 21 5/8 |
| 7 | 22 |
| 7 1/8 | 22 3/8 |
| 7 1/4 | 22 3/4 |
| 7 3/8 | 23 1/8 |
| 7 1/2 | 23 5/8 |
| 7 5/8 | 24 |
| 7 3/4 | 24 3/8 |
| 7 7/8 | 23 3/4 |
| 8 | 25 |
Buying used gear is a sustainable way to score high-quality items at a fraction of the cost. Not only can you find great deals, but you might also stumble upon rare or discontinued gear that’s no longer available in stores. When buying a used batting helmet, here's what to look for:
✔️ Look for any visible cracks, dents, or deep scratches.
✔️ Interior padding should be intact, not worn down or compressed.
✔️ Ensure the chin strap is intact, functional, and not frayed.
✔️ Inspect the outer shell for signs of wear, such as fading, scuffs, or peeling paint.
✔️ If the helmet includes a face guard or cage, check for bends, cracks, or misalignments.
✔️ Certification sticker (like NOCSAE) that guarantees safety standards, even if used.
✔️ Check for any signs of mold, mildew, or heavy dirt that might indicate neglect.
🏆 The best part of shopping used on SidelineSwap? We offer Buyer Protection and will issue you a full refund if your item is never shipped, arrives damaged, or is not as described. We also provide No-Questions-Asked returns with Seel. Learn more here.