Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links.
Best Hard Hat
Hard hats have been a staple of the workplace for decades. Whether you work in construction, landscaping, or any other industry requiring head protection, a hard hat is an essential safety gear. If you’re looking to purchase a new hard hat, there are several different factors you should keep in mind.
Don’t want to read the full article; these are the three best hard hats for work as of Spring 2024:
This guide will help you navigate the world of hard hats and decide which type best suits your needs. We’ll cover everything from the different styles and materials used in hard hats. We’ll also review the critical safety standards that all hard hats must meet to be safe and effective.
What are the four main types of hard hats?
When researching hard hats online, you’ll find two main types. They are aptly named Type I and Type II hard hats. However, there are also different classes within each of these two types.
Type I hard hats are made for work and other situations with a high risk of objects falling onto your head. They typically have a flat shape and a wide brim, which helps protect your face from impacts and debris. You’ll find them in light construction sites, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities.
Type II hard hats protect the wearer from lateral impacts as well. They are a good choice for those working in road work, mills, and other professions. These hard hats often have a distinctive conical shape, which helps deflect debris or objects away from your face.
Within these two main types of hard hats, you can also find classes that may suit your workplace needs. For example, Class G & E hard hats are designed specifically for workers exposed to electrical hazards. These hard hats usually meet additional safety standards and offer extra protection against heat or sparks.
What is the OSHA standard for hard hats?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is responsible for setting safety standards for the workplace. Hard hats must meet the ANSI Z89.1. 29 CFR 1910.135(b)(1) and 29 CFR 1926.100(b)(1) requirements. According to ANSI, these include guidelines for the type and class of hard hats that must be used. OSHA-approved hard hats must also protect against electrical hazards and be capable of withstanding penetration by sharp objects.
Testing is also required to ensure that hard hats can protect against multiple types of impact, such as low-velocity and high-velocity.
What is the best type of hard hat?
The best type of hard hat depends on your needs and the risks present in your workplace. Firefighters need a different type of hard hat than construction workers. Generally speaking, the best type of hard hat does its job. Furthermore, hard hats should be comfortable and lightweight enough to wear all day while providing excellent protection from falling objects, electrical hazards, and other hazards.
How much does a hard hat cost? (16.99 – $161.00)
A hard hat can range anywhere from $16.99 to over $161.00. It all depends on the style and materials used to make the hat. Higher-end hard hats may have advanced features like additional impact protection, attachment slots, or even built-in ventilation. Ultimately, the price of a hard hat will depend on your specific needs and the risks present in your workplace.
However, it is essential to remember that investing in high-quality safety gear is always wise, even if it costs a bit more upfront. It can help protect you from serious injuries or even death.
The following six hard hats are what we currently recommend based on the latest customer sentiment data and recommendations from our community of metallurgists who require hard hats as part of their daily activities:
1. Best Hard Hat for work – Klein Tools 60347 Hard Hat
The Klein Tools 60347 has been a major best-seller for hard hats for several years – the 60347 is priced well for a Class C Type 1 hard hat with a handy LED light. . This hard hat features a vented full brim for maximum protection and comfort, giving you peace of mind that your head is fully protected while you work. The Class C, Type I hard hat offers protection from front, side, and back impacts.
An accessory slot in the front of the hat allows you to attach other safety gear, such as the Klein headlamp included with this hard hat. Thanks to the patent-pending slot design, you can rest assured that your lamp won’t slip or fall off while working. It’s meant to stay securely in place, providing maximum visibility. It’s a rechargeable headlamp with a charging cable, so you’ll always be able to see clearly and work safely.
Klein’s hard hat also features a padded sweatband for maximum comfort. The sweat-wicking padding keeps you dry and cool, preventing you from feeling hot and uncomfortable while working. It’s made from breathable, high-density materials, ensuring this hard hat is lightweight and comfortable without sacrificing durability. After a hard day’s work, toss it in the wash and put it back on the next day, ready to work.
Finally, the hat is highly adjustable. With its easy-to-adjust ratchet suspension system, you’ll only need one hand to get the perfect fit every time. Adjustable vents can also be opened or closed depending on your needs, allowing you to control how much airflow you get. The Klein hard hat covers you whether you work in hot or cold conditions.
Features:
Weight: 1 pound
Type: Class C – Full brim
Country of origin: China
- PREMIUM KARBN DESIGN: Stylish, durable hydro-dipped polymer film KARBN pattern on rugged PC/ABS composite for a modern and rugged appearance
- ENHANCED SAFETY STANDARDS: Class C, Type 1 hard hat with large adjustable vents meets ANSI Z89.1-2014, CSA Z94.1-15; EN397:2012+A1:2012-5.2.4 (Lateral Deformation-LD); EN12492:2012-4.2.1.2, 4.2.1.3, 4.2.1.4 (Front/Back/Side impact)
- PATENTED ACCESSORY MOUNTS: Front and back mounts securely attach optional Klein headlamps without the need for straps or zip ties
- ADJUSTABLE VENTS: Vents can be opened or closed for customized air circulation while maintaining safety compliance
- RECHARGEABLE HEADLAMP INCLUDED: This model includes a Klein Rechargeable Headlamp (Cat. No. 56048) with a charging cable for convenient lighting on the job
2. Best Full Brim and Made in USA: MSA 475407 Skullgard
The next hard hat on our list is the MSA 475407 Skullgard. Made from a specially formulated phenolic resin, this hard hat is designed to be highly durable and impact-resistant. But most importantly, it is heat-resistant up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. These helmets are ideal for those working in hot and hazardous conditions that require a hard hat. For example, if you’re working with molten metals or near an open flame (steel mills or welding), this hard hat will protect your head from high temperatures.
The toughness and durability of this hat stem from the phenolic resin used in its construction. This material is known for its excellent impact, heat, and chemical resistance, making it suitable for various working conditions. A class G helmet, this hard hat meets all the requirements of ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014. They were tested by a third-party laboratory and rated to meet the highest standards of industrial protection.
It’s worth noting that this is a Type 1 hard hat, which protects from direct impact on the top of the head. This is the hard hat for you if you work in conditions that expose you to falling debris or other potentially dangerous hazards.
As for comfort, the Skullgard is known for the Fas-Track III Suspension System, providing a custom fit that adjusts easily. Three levels of adjustability allow you to find the perfect fit for your head, while a flush rear lug attachment eliminates pressure points. It’s designed to reduce headaches, hair pulling, and the discomfort of wearing a hard hat.
Features
Weight: 0.99 pounds
Colors: Blue, Brown, Green, Natural Tan, Orange, White, Yellow
Country of origin: United States
- HIGH QUALITY PROTECTION: Intended for general purpose use or in places elevated temperatures. These Skullgard helmets have been tested to radiant heat loads producing temperatures up to, but not exceeding 350°F. A smooth crown allows for the easiest use of all MSA welding equipment. Meet the voluntary standard for reverse donning, low temperature [LT], higher temperature [HT[, and Hi-Viz [HV].
- MULTI-PURPOSE CAP STRENGTH: Crafted with a phenolic shell and handmade for durability, toughness and quality, this helmet is usable in a variety of industries. Use Skullgard helmets in steel mills, welding, construction, open-pit mining, oil/gas/petrochemical refineries, rubber manufacturing, and steam tunnels.
- FAS-TRAC III SUSPENSION: Designed based on opinions and input from hundreds of customers, our top-end Fas-Trac III suspension functions as an improved ratchet suspension. Flush rear lug attachments eliminate pressure points and three levels of nape strap adjustment give for a fully customized fit. Ratchet comfort pad is contoured to the back of the head, improving airflow and preventing hair-pulling. Ensure continued wear with drastically improved comfort and a graspable ratchet.
- VARIETY OF SIZES & COLORS: Comes available in a large variety of colors and sizes with custom imprinting and striping options. With custom logo options and any of 27+ different reflective and retro-reflective stripes, MSA gives the ultimate experience in hardhat customization.
- MEETS PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS: Skullgard Caps meet all applicable requirements for a Type I (top impact) helmet as outlined in ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014 (Class G). These caps have been fully third-party tested and certified by SEI. Date codes are molded into the underside of the shell’s brim with the year and month in which that specific shell was manufactured. **This date does not indicate a helmet’s service life; the service life begins when it is placed into service.** – See attached FAQ sheet
3. Best Carbon Fibre Full Brim: HDF50C-19WC Lift Safety DAX Fifty 50 Carbon Fiber
If you’re looking for a stylish yet highly durable hard hat, look no further than the HDF50C-19WC Lift Safety DAX Fifty 50 Carbon Fiber Full Brim Hardhat. Outfitted with the LIFT logo, this hard hat is designed with safety in mind while also offering a sleek, modern look. You’ll find the two-tone carbon fiber look to be aesthetically appealing yet durably constructed for long-lasting use. Three colorways are available: Black/White, Orange/Black, and Yello/Black.
This hard hat, constructed from carbon fiber, is stylish, highly durable, and impact-resistant. As you may know, carbon fiber is the most robust material for structural reinforcement, making it great for industrial use. But you’ll also find that this hard hat meets all ANSI Z89. 1-2014 requirements for Type 1 hats. It is a class C protection helmet, meaning it won’t protect you from electrical hazards, but it is designed to withstand more substantial impacts.
The Clarino synthetic leather dome pad is a comfortable, moisture-wicking material that will keep you cool and dry throughout the day. The wide rubber edge on the brim provides further protection from falling debris or other hazards. An oversized ratchet knob is also included, allowing you to adjust this hard hat’s overall fit and feel. Even wearing gloves, you’ll find it easy to make adjustments.
While the LIFT Dax Fifty is nearing the top of the price range for hard hats, you can rest assured that you’re getting a quality product.
Features
Weight: 550g
Thickness: 11 Inches
Country of origin: USA
- A Carbon Fiber reinforced resin shell provides superior structural rigidity.
- Brim grip, exclusive design provides a secure feel
- Perforated synthetic leather comfort dome with molded EVA foam insert for additional shock absorbing protection to the top of head
- Oversized ratcheting fitment dial to adjust size, easy to grip and use with gloves on
4. Malta Dynamics 4 pt. Suspension Hard Hat – Best Budget Hard Hat
Malta Dynamics is a company that is known for manufacturing top-quality hard hats that are built to last. Malta was started by workers who have worked in industrial settings, so they know what it takes to provide safe and reliable protection for every worker. The Malta Dynamics hard hat is a top choice among workers looking for one that exceeds OSHA and ANSI standards for safety and durability.
This hard hat is constructed from lightweight polyethylene, which keeps it lightweight while providing excellent impact resistance. The helmet features a four-point suspension system that offers superior impact absorption, helping to reduce the risk of head injuries in hazardous work environments. While not rated for electrical protection, the ratchet cap design ensures a snug fit, allowing you to adjust on the fly.
Comfort is one of the defining features of this hard hat. Padded pillows and neck cushions provide extra padding, making a comfortable fit. The ratchet cap makes it easy to create the perfect fit, while the low-profile design reduces pressure on your head. The quality-to-value ratio of this hard hat is also very impressive, making it an excellent choice for workers on a budget. If you’re supplying for a team, there’s also a wholesale discount on the 20-pack.
Features
Weight: 0.7 pounds
Colors: Blue, Orange, Red, White, Yellow
- SAFETY & VERSATILITY: Is proudly manufactured in the United States and meets OSHA 1910.135 and 1926.100, ANSI/ISEA Z89.1, Type I and Class E & Gs
- FIELD TESTED & FIELD APPROVED: Trusted by professionals with over 3 decades of experience in construction, masonry, and general industries
- COMFORTABLE FIT: Ratchet suspension allows for fast and easy size adjustments with cushion pillows and nape cushion for a snug and comfortable fit
- BALANCED DESIGN: Low-profile design and low center of gravity provide excellent balance for increased safety and mobility
- FLEXIBLE SUSPENSION: Innovative suspension bends at flexible points for a customized fit, increasing comfort and protection on the job
5. MSA 475395 Skullgard – Cap Style
Another top-of-the-line choice from MSA is the Skullgard Cap Style Safety Hard Hat. This hard hat differs from the 475407 Skullgard full-brim mentioned above because it features a cap style rather than the traditional full brim. This makes it ideal for those who work in hot or humid environments, as the hat will not trap heat and moisture against your head.
The type 1 rating and ANSI Z89.1 2003 compliance for this hard hat means that it will provide reliable protection for Class G and E protection and protection in areas where falling objects are a concern. The same Fas-Trac III ratchet suspension is easy to adjust and provides a comfortable fit that won’t slide or shift while working. And while the hard hat is built for safety, it also looks great on the job site, thanks to its modern style.
The same quality construction and materials of the 475407 Skullgard make this hard hat an excellent choice for anyone looking to stay safe while working in industrial jobs. As a company that’s been at it for over a century, MSA knows its stuff regarding hard hats.
Features:
Weight: 1.12 pounds
Colors: Blue, Gray, Natural Tan, Orange, White, Red, Yello
Country of Origin: USA
- Standard Cap style for light weight comfort
- Equipped with Fast-trac Ratchet type suspension for easy fast size adjustment
- Superior quality comfort and protection and work with all Skullgard helmet accessories
- Made in: United States
6. DAX Carbon Fiber Full Brim (Black Camo)
Finally, if you’re looking for the ultimate in style and comfort, the DAX Carbon Fiber Full Brim hard hat is an excellent choice. Unlike conventional hard hats made from polyethylene or fiberglass, this carbon fiber model offers a lightweight design without sacrificing any strength needed to keep you safe on the job site.
This hard hat features a full-brim design that offers superior protection from falling objects and heat (up to 350 Fahrenheit.) It is very similar to the previous DAX Carbon Fiber model, except it has a black camouflage pattern on the outside. A triple reinforced crown and 6-point suspension system help ensure this hard hat can withstand anything your job throws at it. Whether working in construction, mining, or any other industrial setting, the DAX Carbon Fiber Full Brim will keep you safe while looking great.
With a 4.5-star rating on Amazon from 500+ reviews from satisfied customers, it’s clear that the DAX Carbon Fiber Full Brim is one of the top hard hats on the market today. This is a must-have accessory for your toolbox if you want style, comfort, and total protection from head injuries.
Features
Thickness: 11 inches
Material: Faux leather
- LIFT SAFETY - INDUSTRIAL SAFETY SUPPLIES PROTECTING TODAY, BUILDING FOR TOMORROW
- Our helmet line with race inspired designs offer a 6 point suspension system for superior comfort and impact protection. It features an innovative synthetic leather comfort dome and an over-sized ratcheting fitment dial that makes adjustment easy, even while wearing gloves.
- Designed to offer outstanding protection in hot and dangerous industries, the DAX Hard hat shell has been tested to radiant heat loads producing temperatures up to, but not exceeding, 350˚ F (177˚ C).
What to consider when buying a hard hat for a commercial environment?
- Safety Standards: Ensure the hard hat meets ANSI standards and complies with OSHA regulations.
- Type and Class: Type I offers top impact protection, and Type II offers top and lateral impact protection. Class G is proof-tested at 2,200 volts, Class E at 20,000 volts, and Class C provides no electrical protection.
- Material: Materials include polyethylene, polycarbonate, and fiberglass, each with unique characteristics.
- Suspension System: The hard hat should have a comfortable and adjustable suspension system.
- Comfort and Fit: The hat should fit well, have adjustable straps, and feel comfortable when worn for long periods.
- Durability: Consider your work environment and the lifespan of the hard hat. Replace it if brittle or damaged.
- Accessories: Some hats have slots for mounting safety accessories like face shields or headlamps.
- Ventilation: Ventilation holes can keep your head cool in hot environments.
- Color: Choose the color for visibility or role distinction on a job site.
- Maintenance and Inspection: Understand proper maintenance and inspection. Replace as per the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Here’s a simple reference table:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Safety Standards | Compliance with ANSI and OSHA |
| Type & Class | Impact and electrical protection level |
| Material | Polyethylene, polycarbonate, fiberglass etc. |
| Suspension System | Comfortable and adjustable |
| Comfort & Fit | Good fit, adjustable straps |
| Durability | Consider work environment & lifespan |
| Accessories | Slots for mounting safety accessories |
| Ventilation | Ventilation holes for cooling |
| Color | For visibility or role distinction |
| Maintenance & Inspection | Understand proper upkeep and checkups |