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Testing methodology
Every recommendation on FootballTested follows the same process, so you can compare pages with confidence.
Format and fit first
Every recommendation starts with the format (tackle, flag or 7v7), the player's size and position, and the league's equipment rules.
A clear verdict
Each review says who the gear suits, who should look elsewhere, and what to know before you buy. No filler, no hedging.
No paid placements
Brands cannot buy a review or a spot on a list. Partner codes save you money; they never decide what we recommend.
Kept current
Prices are dated, codes are updated across the site at once, and pages are revised when a product or rule changes.
Where our facts come from
We use the manufacturer's published specs and size charts, NOCSAE certification and recertification guidance, the Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings where published, and rules from the NFHS, NCAA, USA Football and NFL FLAG.
What we check, by product type
| Helmets | NOCSAE certification, recertification schedule, fit system, sizing, face mask options and published independent ratings. |
|---|---|
| Shoulder pads | Sizing by chest and weight, position cut, coverage and weight. |
| Cleats | Stud type (molded or detachable), cut height, traction, fit and league legality. |
| Gloves | Position (receiver or lineman), grip palm, padding and sizing. |
| Footballs | Size by age group, material, laces and league approval. |
Hands-on testing versus research
A review carries a "Hands-on tested" badge only when our team has used the product, and it lists the date and what we did. Every other page is built from published specs, governing-body rules, the brand's own documentation and owner feedback, and says so. Comparisons are research-based unless marked otherwise.
Prices and codes
Prices come from each brand's own store and are dated on every review. Reader codes come directly from the brands we partner with. When a brand changes an offer, we update the code everywhere it appears on the site at once.
Corrections
If you spot something out of date, email [email protected] and we'll check it and fix it.