You’re looking for a hard hat for work and wondering why there’s a lack of decent, comfortable, safe hard hats on the market?
You’ve seen basic hard hats out in the field and know that that there has to be a better option out there.
So you’ve done some research and you’re here.
I’m going to help you ASAP.
Below is a quick buying guide for hard hats to help you figure out what you actually need and what you don’t.
After that, we’ll review the 10 best hard hats available right now.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Pyramex Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat | Best Overall |  |
| DEWALT DPG94-1C Dominator SAFETY Glasses | Budget Pick |  |
| Lift Safety DAX Fifty 50 Carbon Fiber Full Brim Hardhat | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. Pyramex Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat
Pros:
- Adjustable fit for a custom, comfortable fit
- 4-point ratchet suspension ensures great fit and comfort
- Sweatband and chin strap offer great ventilation
- Comes with a soft PVC coating for comfort
- Solid defense against electrical shock
- Sits close to head for minimum interference
- Meets ANSI and CE standards
- Easy to clean
- Comes with a storage bag
- Good overall value at a reasonable price
Cons:
- Not ideal for heavy industrial work
- Headband can slip during work
- Cylindrical shape makes it a little heavy and a little awkward
- Chin strap is not fully adjustable
Ed Shell, Black PVC Coated Black Rope.
If you need the best hard hat for your industrial job site, you should consider the Pyramex Ridgeline full brim hard hat.
The hat has a classic black color with a matte finish and a black PVC coated black rope. Its configuration is useful for any job site where it can be used to protect against falling objects as well as electrical.
2. MSA Tan Skullgard Hard Hat
Pros:
- Lightweight – 35.2 ounces
- Breathable padding, made of 100% polyurethane fabric with laser-cut ventilation holes
- Versatile – ideal for various kinds of work
- Conforms to ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014
Cons:
- Conical shape uncomfortable for some users
- Stretches easily according to some reviews, especially considering the price point.
The MSA Tan Skullgard Hard Hat has a suspension in Staz-on. It’s available in yellow and comes in one size. The polyurethane padding on this hard hat conforms to ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014.
This hard hat features an industry-leading, fully-adjustable ratchet suspension system that makes it easy to minimize the hard hat’s profile. It offers a superior level of comfort due to its lightweight design and breathable structure.
Bottom line: Overall, this hard hat offers good value for money. It’s lightweight, well-ventilated, and conforms to ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014. The cut-resistant suspension on this hard hat is a major plus.
3. DEWALT DPG94-1C Dominator SAFETY Glasses
Pros:
- Versatile, universal design
- Very well-made and durable
- Lightweight
- Extremely comfortable fit
- Very affordable
Cons:
- Not super scratch resistant
- Lenses are not ANSI-rated
The DEWALT DPG94-1C Dominator Glasses are a set of 3-point adjustable glasses that are ideal for use in nearly all kinds of eye protection situations. They are designed to be compatible with 99% of all hard hats on the market, so they can be used with most respirators, welding masks, and face shields. The Dominator prescription safety lenses are extremely clear, upscale, and have a higher abrasion resistance. The side protection comes down to just over the side of your nose, and they feature a tear-off plate for anti-fog glasses.
The frames are designed to be impact-resistant polycarbonate and meet CSA Z94.3 standards. They are pretty lightweight as well. After both eyes are protected, they weigh only 5oz. The Dominator glasses are also lightweight, weighing only 2oz per lens.
They are designed with a three-point adjustment system at the temples for a snug and comfortable fit. The design is also scratch and chip resistant, and features a soft cloth for wiping. DEWALT also includes a microfiber bag with a wrist strap and slots for decals.
4. TRUECREST Hydro Dipped Black Full Brim Hard Hat
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Great combination of comfort and protection
- 100% waterproof
- Easy to fit and adjust
- Very comfortable to wear
- Easy to clean
- Compliant with OSHA (Certified)
- Great rating online
- Delta pressure technology
- 100% crush-proof
Cons:
- Oversized and uncomfortable
- Lower rating for safety
- Similar priced to some other products that score higher for safety
- Not as comfortable as some more expensive models
The Tru-Crest hard hat is one of the best hard hats due to its lightweight and crush-proof self-cooling Hydro-dipped hard shell. The Tru-Crest hard hat is highly durable and is compliant with OSHA Class E and ANSI Z89.1 1992 standards.
It is designed to be extremely comfortable while offering all-around protection. It has a flame resistant interior lining that is soft and comfortable to wear. It comes in a variety of attractive colors. These secure and comfortable hard hats are cool to the touch and help reduce heat by up to 25% with the use of the self-regulating Delta Pressure System (DPS).
5. JKSafety 9 Pockets Class 2 High Visibility Zipper Front Safety Vest
Pros:
- Available in 5 different sizes
- Comes with 5 patch pockets
- Built-in pencil holder
- Price is affordable
According to reviews, the JKSafety 9 Pockets Class 2 High Visibility Zipper Front Safety Vest With Reflective Strips is the best hard hat for the price. It comes in five different sizes and five different colors, so there’s sure to be one for everyone out there. It’s made from a high-visibility yellow material that’s sure to draw attention wherever you go.
The vest also has a unique patch pocket design that was specifically designed to fit a variety of things like a tape measure, gloves, beaters, scrapers, and more. Plus, it comes with a built-in pencil holder for convenience (we all need to carry a pen in the workplace, right?).
6. Lift Safety DAX Fifty 50 Carbon Fiber Full Brim Hardhat
Pros:
- Meets ANSI Z89.1-2003 standards
- Lighweight yet durable
- Comfortable ear flaps
- Breathable
- 5-point harness for added safety
- Provides full protection for the head and face
- 6 vents for added air flow
- One of the more affordable hard hats available
Cons:
- The headband isn’t very wide or padded, which makes it uncomfortable to wear for longer periods
- The retention strap can break easily if not treated well
This is one of the few hard hats that provides a 5-point harness to secure the head comfortably. It’s also one of the helmets that can be used for low-level activities, such as DIY projects or simply working in the garage. The harness on the lid allows for a secure fit and can prevent head injuries in the event of a fall.
The DAX Fifty 50 hard hat meets ANSI Z89.1-2003 standards and provides full protection for the head and face without compromising your view or hearing. The ventilation holes help with airflow to prevent fogging of your glasses or goggles. Because it has a full brim, it also provides decent protection for your forehead.
7. Lift Safety HDF-15NG DAX Hard Hat
Pros:
- Ideal for any industry or setting
- Multiple dents for excellent comfort and fit
- Quick release side buckles
- Nylon suspension
- Meets CSA Class E350-03 requirements
- Adjustable suspension up to 54 cm
- Meets standards for the U.S. and Canada
- Compatible with the Pellguard (sold separately)
- One size fits most
- Overall excellent reviews
Cons:
- Some found the foam inner lining to be a bit coarse for some users
- The suspension doesn’t fit as close to the head as some prefer
New Gold.
Our top pick is the Lift Safety HDF-15NG DAX Hard Hat, in the color New Gold. From construction to the workplace, the DAX hard hat by Lift Safety is a popular safety choice for many. The DAX features an adjustable suspension, quick change sides buckles, and a new gold color that matches the new CPSC standard.
The base of the hard hat provides a wider area for increased protection and prepares the wearer for impact. As far as the design goes, the DAX is a second generation stepless construction hard hat, which means there is no adjustment on the side buckle, as it was designed to be secure without needing continuous adjustment.
8. Fibre-Metal Hard Hat Injection Molded Roughneck Fiberglass
Pros:
- Price point is very affordable
- Can provide adequate protection against potential head injuries
- Ratchet suspension and ventilator for maximum comfort and ventilation
- Good for situations at heights
- No annoying whistle when the head is tilted downwards
- Made from a fiberglass/resin composite
- Meets ANSI standards
Cons:
- Not the strongest safety rating
- Fits large heads well but not necessarily smaller ones
- Depending on individual, some people might find it uncomfortable
- No padding for the chin strap that comes included
The Fibre-Metal Hard Hat Injection Molded Roughneck Fiberglass is a decent option if you want to buy an all-around hat for your construction site. The hat includes three vents on the top and two on the back, so you can be sure about a constant supply of fresh air while you work. It's also fairly lightweight, and reviewers mention that the chinstrap is easy to adjust.
However, the one thing that some users seem to find problematic is the actual fit. Depending on who is wearing it, the hat might either be too tight or too loose. So, you might want to pay a bit more attention to the size of the hat, so that you can get one that fits you better.
9. Occunomix VCB100-06 Vulcan Cowboy Style Hard Hat
Pros:
- Attractive design
- Rubberized webs for extra grip
- Lightweight but sturdy
- Great ventilation and comfort
- Comes with hard hat suspension system and 3D EPP foam
- Three color variations to choose from
Cons:
- Slight wobble when worn
- Some durability issues have been reported
Occunomix’s VCB100-06 is an excellent choice for a hard hat because it has a great design that appeals to most people. It’s lightweight but also sturdy enough to withstand various types of abuse. It has rubberized webs at the top of the hat, so it has a good grip.
The hat also has great ventilation to keep your head cool even during the hottest days. There are five colors to choose from, so you can find one to suit your style, and the hat comes with a suspension system and a 3D EPP foam to make it even more comfortable to wear.
The only downside to this hard hat is that it wobbles a little bit when you wear it. We have worn the hat ourselves and it seems a little flimsy. So in order to prevent slippage, you have to tighten the headband a little. With that said, the Occunomix VCB100-06 is a solid, stylish hard hat that will protect your head well.
10. Pyramex White Full Brim Hard Hat
Pros:
- Lightweight, durable, and comfortable
- Flexible sizing and compatibility
- Wide brim for improved protection
- Comfortable suspension system
- Efficient air flow system
- Two-point adjustment, which makes it simple to fit
- Great value for the price
Cons:
- Lens is not as scratch resistant as advertised
- More ventilation would be useful
If you’re looking for a solid, mid-range hard hat with a broad brim that offers ample protection, look no further than the Pyramex White Full Brim Hard Hat. It’s lightweight, comfortable, and efficient.
This hard hat comes with an adjustable suspension system that will allow you to adjust it to fit your head perfectly, ensuring that it will stay bolted on if and when a fall does occur. The Pyramex Full Brim Hard Hat also features a flexible sizing system that will help it fit a range of head sizes. This is especially useful if you’re in construction with a few different crew members.
The brim of this awesome hard hat from Pyramex is wide enough to provide you with excellent protection from all sorts of debris, from overhead objects to the little things you can’t see, like nails and pieces of stone.
11. Evolution Deluxe 6161 280-EV6161-10 Full Brim Hard Hat
Pros:
- Works excellently during the heat of summer
- Breathes perfectly and can withstand scalding summer heat
- Very comfortable to wear for long hours
- Great ventilation
- Highly adjustable- stops any discomfort caused by sun glare and sweating
- Excellent customer service
- Fits both small and large heads
- Looks stylish
- Has a longer brim that adds excellent sun protection
- ABS plastic, impact-resistant polyurethane foam construction
Perfect for:
- Construction workers
- Demolition workers
- Breakers
- Utility workers
- Scaffold builders
12. Pyramex Safety Products HP14030 Sl Series 4 pt. Snap Lock Suspension Hard Hat
Pros:
- Impact resistant
- Adjustable suspension
- Stackable for easier storage
- Lightweight and comfortable
- 9 color choices
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Strap tends to break easily
- Doesn’t fit as well on top of berets
X-Large, 200-2003.
If you work in industries like manufacturing or construction, a hard hat is an essential part of your personal protective equipment (PPE). Not only will a hard hat protect your head from falling debris or other accidents in the workplace; it will also protect your head and eyes from the harmful rays of the sun. A four-point harness hard hat is therefore one of the best choices for PPE as it’s rigid and tough.
The Pyramex Safety Products HP14030 Sl Series hard hat is one of the best on the market in terms of both quality and value, offering excellent protection at a low price. The Pyramex Sl Series hard hat is lightweight and offers superior protection thanks to the fiberglass shell, durable plastic visor, and securing leather chin strap.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best hard hat on the market?
The best hard hat is the one you will wear the most consistently. Even though I advocate for hard hats to all my readers, not all hard hat manufacturers have the same design intent for their product.
So depending on how you will wear your hard hat, you may benefit from a different brand or design than me. Read on to understand which design you should pick.
I recommend five different helmets for different working scenarios.
How do I choose a hard hat?
A hard hat is an essential tool used in workplaces to protect workers’ heads from impact, falls, and over-exertion. They are a critical piece of safety gear that not only helps to protect your head but also your life. That said, it is essential you get one that fits properly.
There are three sizes of hard hat:
- XS
- S
- M
After getting the correct size, you then have to pick your hard hat based on your job.
What do hard hat colors mean?
The most common colors are yellow, orange and white. The color coding has been used for years to designate several different job site locations and conditions.
Yellow hard hats are used for locations where Class A flammable liquids are present.
Orange hard hats indicate locations where electricity is present.
White hard hats are used in locations where no class A or B flammable hazards are present. However, industries have added a black stripe to the hard hats in order to designate locations where well-defined hazards or hazardous situations such as a construction site with exposed electrical lines are present.
When you are working on any job site, it is important to remember that if there is any doubt about safety, ALWAYS wear your hard hat.
Why do ironworkers wear their hard hats backwards?
The cited reason for why iron workers wear their hard hats backwards is for the safety of the worker who wears hardhats.
In 2008, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Heath Association (OSHA) considered it an acceptable practice for an iron worker to wear the protective hardhat facing them in such a way that the brim covers their face and neck.
Although OSHA has relaxed the regulations, the preference among the iron workers in New York City is still to turn the hard hat backwards. New York City is a densely populated area which houses iconic skyscrapers. It is known for its iron workers, and it is the home to the ironworkers Local 40 as well.
It has been said that it is easier to remove the hard hat if it faces forward. Experienced ironworkers are known to have reversed their hard hats because they want to make their safety equipment easy to remove in case of an accident.
Conclusion
The construction industry is often associated with danger. From workers falling from buildings to being run over by trucks, construction sites can seem very dangerous. However, with the right equipment, construction sites can be safer for employees and the surrounding environment. All too often construction hard hats are left out of the equation when it comes to safety measures. This leaves workers vulnerable to injury while on the job. But there are many hard hat safety standards to choose from. These are the best rated hard hats that have made the cut in our reviews.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Pyramex Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat | Best Overall | |
| DEWALT DPG94-1C Dominator SAFETY Glasses | Budget Pick | |
| Lift Safety DAX Fifty 50 Carbon Fiber Full Brim Hardhat | Upgrade Pick | |