Cricket Helmet Buying Guide: Safety Rules, Fit and Neck Guards

Choose a cricket helmet that meets the British Standard BS7928:2013, fits snugly without rocking, and has a neck guard (also called a stem guard) fitted to the back. Those three things matter far more than brand or looks. If you're buying new, look for "BS7928:2013+A1:2019" on the label, which means the helmet has also been tested with a neck guard.

We fit helmets for juniors, club cricketers and keepers at Western Sports Centre in Derrimut, and make club helmets in team colours with Masuri. This guide covers the safety rules, how a helmet should fit, neck guards, our picks and how to look after your helmet.

Quick picks

Models and sizes change through the season. Click through to see current stock and prices, or give us a call.

What are the helmet safety rules?

The safety standard for cricket helmets is the British Standard BS7928:2013. In 2019 it was updated to BS7928:2013+A1:2019, which adds testing for neck guards.

• In Cricket Australia-run competitions, players must wear a BS7928:2013 helmet when batting, keeping up to the stumps or fielding close to the bat, and batters facing fast or medium-pace bowling must also wear a neck guard.
• In community cricket, Cricket Australia strongly recommends a BS7928:2013 helmet for batting, keeping up to the stumps and close fielding, plus a neck guard. Many associations have made helmets compulsory, so check your club's rules.

A helmet that meets the standard is tested, not unbreakable. It lowers the risk of serious injury; it doesn't remove it.

How should a cricket helmet fit?

1. Measure your head. Wrap a tape measure around your head about 2 cm above your eyebrows. Use that measurement with the size chart on the product page.
2. Try it on and do it up. The helmet should feel snug all round, with no gaps at the sides.
3. Shake your head. The helmet shouldn't rock forwards, backwards or sideways. If it does, tighten the adjuster or go down a size.
4. Check the grille. You should see clearly when you look down the pitch, and the grille shouldn't touch your face.
5. Get into your stance. Make sure the helmet stays put and the neck guard doesn't dig into your shoulders or pads.

Children's heads grow quickly. Choose a helmet with an adjuster so it fits now, not one they'll "grow into".

Do I need a neck guard?

Yes. Neck guards are compulsory for batters facing pace in Cricket Australia competitions, and Cricket Australia strongly recommends them in community cricket, so we recommend one for anyone facing pace bowling. A neck guard clips to the back of the helmet and covers the back of the head and upper neck, an area a helmet alone leaves open.

Neck guards are made to fit particular helmets, so match the brand and model. For example, the Gray-Nicolls Ultimate Neckguard fits the Gray-Nicolls Ultimate, and the Masuri Stem Guard Pro Junior fits Masuri junior helmets. If you're not sure, bring your helmet in and we'll check what fits.

Steel or titanium grille?

Steel grilles are strong and cost less. Titanium grilles are just as strong but noticeably lighter, which helps over a long innings. Both are safe if the helmet meets the standard; titanium is about comfort, not extra protection.

The brands we stock

• Masuri: the T-Line, E-Line and C Line ranges for seniors and juniors, and the helmets behind our club helmet service.
• Gray-Nicolls: the Ultimate for seniors and the Junior Elite for younger players.
• Kookaburra: the Pro 600, sold as a helmet and neck guard bundle.
• Shrey: helmets plus the Shrey Pro neck protector.

Browse every model in our cricket helmet range.

Looking after your helmet

• Wipe it down after use with a damp cloth. Don't use strong cleaners.
• Air the padding. Take removable pads out now and then, wash them in mild soapy water and let them dry fully.
• Keep it cool. Don't leave it in a hot car, which can weaken the shell and padding.
• Check the grille nuts and straps before each game. We stock spare helmet nuts and team-colour clads.
• Replace it after a big hit or if you see cracks or a bent grille, even if it looks fine otherwise. Never drill, bend or modify the grille or shell.

Frequently asked questions

Is a helmet compulsory in junior cricket?

In many competitions, yes, when batting, keeping up to the stumps or fielding close in. Cricket Australia strongly recommends BS7928:2013 helmets for all community players, and many associations make them compulsory. Check with your club.

How do I know if a helmet meets the standard?

Look for "BS7928:2013" on the label or product page. "BS7928:2013+A1:2019" means it has also been tested with a neck guard. The ICC publishes a list of tested helmets on its website.

How often should I replace my helmet?

Replace it straight away after a heavy blow or any visible damage. Otherwise, replace it when it no longer fits properly or the padding has worn out.

Can I use my batting helmet for wicket keeping?

Yes, a standard batting helmet is fine. Some keepers prefer a keeping helmet, which has a cut-out at the back that's more comfortable when crouching.

Can my club get helmets in our colours?

Yes. We make club cricket helmets with Masuri in your club's colours and logo. Contact us to set up an order for your club.

Need a hand choosing?

Come to Western Sports Centre in Derrimut and we'll measure your head and fit your helmet and neck guard properly. Or shop cricket helmets online. For the rest of your batting gear, read why we rate Masuri protective gear and our cricket bat buying guide.