I don’t know about you, but people often tell me I have a thick skull. That may be, but something tells me that it’s not wide enough to protect me from a serious accident when it comes down to it.
That’s why, when I’m working, I need to make sure that my head is protected from any threat that can come my way. High temperatures, electricity, falling objects like tools, and other hazards are all things that pose a real danger.
And yet, when I’m working, I have to be focused on the job; I can’t be distracted worrying about those things. Having the right hard hat gets rid of that worry. If I know I’m safe, then it can let me stay focused on the job.
Review contents
What is a Hard Hat, And What Do I Need To Know About Them?
A hard hat is a type of helmet specifically designed and manufactured to protect your head from potential injuries.
Hard hats are usually made from high-density polyethylene or HDPE, a material known for its impact-resistant properties.
Different types of hard hats are available in the market, each designed for specific purposes and industries.
This blog post will guide you through some of the best hard hats available and help you choose the right one for your needs.
What is a hard hat?
A hard hat is a head protection device that workers wear on construction sites, in factories, and in other workplaces where there is a risk of falling objects or being hit by equipment.
Hard hats are made of durable materials such as plastic and metal, and they have a suspension system that helps to distribute the force of a blow evenly around the head.
The different types of hard hats
When it comes to hard hats, there are many different types on the market.
Here is a brief guide to the most popular types of hard hats to help you choose the best one for your needs:
- Standard Hard Hats: These are the most common type of hard hats designed for general use. They typically have a four-point suspension system and can be fitted with various accessories, such as face shields and ear muffs.
- Full-Brim Hard Hats: These hats offer more protection than standard hard hats as they have a brim around the hat rather than just in the front and back. This provides more protection from sunlight and debris. They are also ideal for use in dusty or dirty environments.
- Cap Style Hard Hats: These hats are similar to baseball caps and are often worn in warmer climates as they provide good ventilation. They typically have a four-point suspension system like standard hard hats but do not have as many accessory options.
- Bump Caps: These caps are not designed to protect against impact but are meant to protect against minor bumps and scrapes. They are often worn in environments with a risk of head injuries but not necessarily from falling objects.
MSA 475407 Natural Tan Skullgard Hard Hat with Fas-Trac Suspension & 10126693 Replacement Ratchet, Large
MSA 475405 Large Skullgard Cap Style Safety Hard Hat with Fas-Trac III Ratchet Suspension | Non-slotted Cap, Made of Phenolic Resin, Radiant Heat Loads up to 350F - Large Size in Natural Tan
$142.40
$128.86
in stock
MSA Skullgard Full Brim Hard Hat with STAZ ON Suspension - Natural Tan
How to choose the right hard hat
When it comes to choosing the right hard hat, there are a few things you need to take into account.
- You first need to consider the type of work you’ll be doing. If you’re working in an industrial setting, you’ll need a hard hat specifically designed for that type of work. There are different types of hard hats available on the market, so make sure you choose one that’s appropriate for the job. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best hard hat for the job:
- Another essential factor to consider is the size of your head. Hard hats come in different sizes, so choosing one that fits snugly and comfortably on your head is important. Otherwise, it could slip off or become uncomfortable after a long period.
- It would be best if you also thought about the climate you’ll be working in. If you’re going to be working outdoors in hot weather, you’ll need a hard hat designed to keep your head cool and comfortable. There are unique ventilation systems available on some hard hats that can help with this.
- Finally, please take into account any personal preferences you have when it comes to choosing a hard hat. For example, some people prefer hard hats with suspension systems that help distribute the weight evenly around their heads. Others prefer more arduous hats because they offer more protection against impact injuries. It’s really up to you.
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The same goes for you:
If your job or hobby involves the possibility of severe head injuries, you must buy the right hard hat to protect yourself.
The problem is there are so many options for you to consider that it’s easy to get lost trying to make the right choice. I’ve taken the time to find and list some of the best hard hats.
With this review, you should be able to cut through all the different options, so you can make a wise choice and buy the right hat for you and your head.
Things to Consider
When purchasing a hard hat, there are several essential things to consider. Depending on your job and situation, some features will be more critical than others.
Here, though, are some basic questions you should ask yourself, regardless of your particular circumstances:
–Does it fit comfortably? An uncomfortable fit will make you miserable and be distracting, affecting your overall safety and causing accidents.
–Is it adjustable? If it doesn’t fit your head correctly, you risk losing much of your protection due to slippage or other factors.
Different hard hats are placed to protect you from other types of impacts or other electrical dangers. Depending on your situation, you must ensure you get the hat with the proper protection.–What is it rated for?
–Will it last? You want a hat that’s as tough as you are. What good is it if the cap can’t take any punishment?
With these options in mind, let’s consider some of the best options.
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MSA 475407 Natural Tan Skullgard Hard Hat
The MSA 475407 Natural Tan Skullgard Hard Hat with Fas-Trac Suspension comes in various styles and options, depending on your needs.
This hard hat can be ordered with a full brim or a front bill like a baseball cap.
Three different suspension options, as well as a variety of sizes, allow you to find the fit and style that works best for you.
This hat is Type 1 Standard compliant so it will protect you from blows to the top of the head caused by falling objects, such as hammers.
It is also Class G Compliant, which can help protect you from low-voltage conductors. This is a strong hat that can take a lot of punishment and still come through it all intact.
Features
- Type 1 Standard and Class G Compliant to help protect your head from a variety of dangers
- Available in two styles: full-brim hat or front-brim cap
- Available in three suspension styles: Staz-on Pinlock suspension for a tight, natural fit,
- Fas-Trac III suspension, for a safe but more comfortable fit, and Swing-Ratchet suspension, for those who need to turn their helmet around
- It comes in sizes ranging from 6 ½” to 8” and a large assortment of colors to fit a uniform or your preference.
- Protects your head from temperatures up to 350 degrees
MSA 475407 Natural Tan Skullgard Hard Hat with Fas-Trac Suspension & 10126693 Replacement Ratchet, Large
MSA 475405 Large Skullgard Cap Style Safety Hard Hat with Fas-Trac III Ratchet Suspension | Non-slotted Cap, Made of Phenolic Resin, Radiant Heat Loads up to 350F - Large Size in Natural Tan
$128.86 in stock
MSA Skullgard Full Brim Hard Hat with STAZ ON Suspension - Natural Tan
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Fibre-Metal Hard Hat Injection Molded Roughneck Fiberglass
The Fibre-Metal Hard Hat Injection Molded Roughneck Fiberglass is a rugged, durable, lightweight option designed to protect your head and your wallet.
This hat is made of robust, injection-molded fiberglass and offers Type 1 protection to help protect your head from top-down blows.
The material is also heat-resistant, helping to ward off temperatures at or over 370 degrees Fahrenheit.
This hard hat ensures safety and comfort no matter what you put it through. The helmet has a no-chip, no-peel finish that boasts eight times the strength of a standard polyethylene shell. An included 8-point suspension harness offers maximum comfort and impact protection.
Features
- Type 1 helmet protects your head from top-down blows
- Heat resistant up to 370 degrees Fahrenheit
- 8-point suspension harness helps the helmet stay on snugly yet comfortably
- Crack-resistant to keep protecting your head for longer
- Offers Class C and G protection
![Fibre-Metal Roughneck Gray Fiberglass Cap Style Hard Hat - 8-Point Suspension - Ratchet Adjustment - Strip-Proof - P2ARW09A000 [Price is per Each]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31Rz0jc19zL._SL500_.jpg)
Fibre-Metal Roughneck Gray Fiberglass Cap Style Hard Hat - 8-Point Suspension - Ratchet Adjustment - Strip-Proof - P2ARW09A000 [Price is per Each]
Fibre-Metal by Honeywell P2HNRW01A000 Super Eight Fiber Glass High Heat Ratchet Cap Style Hard Hat, White
Fibre-Metal by Honeywell P2HNQRW11A000 Super Eight Fiber Glass Ratchet Cap Style Hard Hat with Quick-Lok, Black
$52.70 in stock
1 used from $45.05
Pyramex Ridgeline Cap Style 4 Pt Ratchet Suspension
The Pyramex Ridgeline Cap with 4 Pt Ratchet Suspension offers a strong yet lightweight option for head protection.
The 4-point ratchet suspension helps the hat stay on while offering a comfortable fit. This suspension system also allows you to adjust the hat forward, backward, up, or down until you find the right spot to work, free from distractions.
The easy-to-use triangle knob allows the hat to adjust in size to accommodate anywhere from size 6 ½ to 8. Rear padding helps to keep the back of your head and neck comfortable even after wearing the hat all day. A replaceable sweatband helps keep you comfortable and dry and can be washed later.
Features
- The 4-point suspension harness allows you to adjust the position for maximum comfort.
- Adjustable triangle knob lets that adjust to fit most head sizes, from 6 ½ to 8.
- Meets ANSI Z89.1-2009 Standards, Type I, Class C, G, and E
- Removal padding for easy washing
- Vented pressure pads help to keep straps in place
- Rear padding helps to keep your neck comfortable
PYRAMEX Ridgeline Cap Style Hard Hat, Vented, 4-Point Ratchet Suspension, Shiny White Graphite Pattern
1 used from $21.00
Pyramex Vented Cap Style RIDGELINE Patterned Hard Hat with 6 Point Ratchet Suspension and Hard Hat Tote - Shiny White
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The Fibre-Metal by Honeywell E1RW11A000 Super Eight Full Brim Ratchet Hard Hat is an injection-molded fiberglass powerhouse that ensures extreme protection for your head.
This strong, durable, lightweight hat has a full brim to help keep you protected from all sides. This hat meets the ANSI Z89.1-2009 Type 1 Standard for top-down protection.
This hard hat is also ideal for jobs dealing with or around electricity, as it is class E rated to insulate your head from up to 20,000 volts (phase to ground). An 8-point suspension harness helps to keep the hat comfortable and snug.
This hat comes with a frontal terrycloth sweatband to absorb plenty of sweat, helping keep you comfortable. This hat is available in three colors, as well.
Features
- 8-point suspension for comfort and adjustability
- Injection-molded fiberglass is tough and durable for long-lasting protection.
- Class E rated for protection of up to 20,000 volts
- Type 1 standard hat for protection from top-down blows
- Available in black, blue, and green
Fibre-Metal Hard Hat E1RW71A000 Full Brim Ratchet Blue Supereight 8pt Hd Hardhat
$22.99 in stock
Fibre-Metal by Honeywell E1SW01A000 Super Eight Full Brim Swing Hard Hat, White
$31.29 in stock
Fibre-Metal by Honeywell E1RW Supereight Thermoplastic Full Brim Hard Hat with 8 Pt. Ratchet Suspension, White
$22.99 in stock
MSA Safety Works 10105971 Professional Hard Hat
This hat offers maximum protection and comfort. Comfort-fit nylon crown suspension straps help keep the cap on and fit right, and the adjustable suspension lets you get the right fit.
The Type 1 Standard meets or exceeds ANSI regulations and protects you from top-down impacts. Although not recommended, this hat can also be worn backward when needed.
Features
- Comfort-fit nylon crown straps keep the hat comfortably on your head
- Ratchet suspension makes it easy to adjust the cap for the perfect fit
- Strong and lightweight
- Type 1 standard protects you from top-down impacts
- Adjustable to fit most heads
MSA 475358 V-Gard Cap Style Safety Hard Hat With Fas-Trac III Ratchet Suspension | Polyethylene Shell, Superior Impact Protection, Self Adjusting Crown-Straps - Standard Size in White
$20.67 in stock
Msa Safety Sales, Llc Orange Polyethylene Cap Style Hard Hat With 4 Point Pinlock Suspension, Hi-Viz Orange, Standard (488148)
MSA 475407 Skullgard Full-Brim Hard Hat with Fas-Trac III Ratchet Suspension | Non-slotted Hat, Made of Phenolic Resin, Radiant Heat Loads up to 350F - Standard Size in Natural Tan
$137.99 in stock
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How to care for your hard hat
When you purchase a hard hat, it is essential to ensure that you understand how to care for it properly. Here are some tips on how to care for your hard hat:
1. Always store your hard hat in a cool, dry place.
2. Avoid exposing your hard hat to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or excessive humidity.
3. Do not store your hard hat in an area with chemicals or other corrosive materials.
4. Inspect your hard hat regularly for signs of wear and tear, and replace it if necessary.
5. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning your hard hat.
Final Verdict
When facing a day of working in dangerous conditions, knowing that you are safe and your equipment can handle whatever you put it through is essential.
These five hats I’ve discussed today are all hard hats that will help keep you safe and can withstand any punishment you try to dish out. As you are considering your options, remember this: these hard hats are going to be used to protect the most critical part of your body.
It’s essential to have peace of mind to focus on the job rather than being distracted by every little thing. Because of that, this is a crucial decision, and you need to take all the advice you can get.
These five hats can take a beating and keep you safe, so as you try and make a decision, keep these things in mind: comfort, safety, and adjustability are key.
If you stick with one of the choices I’ve outlined here today, I know you’ll be happy with your purchase, and more importantly, I know you’ll be safe!
