Steel Grille Cover from Face to Neck: the Gray-Nicolls Elite 360 Junior Helmet for Young Batters
Overview
The Gray-Nicolls Elite 360 junior helmet is a cricket helmet built for young batters. It fully conforms to British Standard BS 7928:2013+A1:2019. A factory fitted steel grille extends over the neck for 360 coverage. It comes in Small Junior, Junior and Youth sizes, in navy, maroon or green.
Gray-Nicolls designed its 360 construction for junior cricketers, bringing a feature from its senior helmets to younger players. The grille does more than cover the face. Its wires absorb the force of a ball strike. They also deflect the ball away from the face and base of the head.
Inside, an EPS layer and soft foam liner sit within a tough ABS shell. Ventilation keeps the head cooler during a long innings. Christmas is close and winter nets are starting. A well-fitted helmet makes a sensible gift for a young player before April.
Features
- Tested to the current standard: full conformation to BS 7928:2013+A1:2019 gives parents clear reassurance.
- Cover around the neck: the steel grille extends over the neck, adding protection to the base of the head.
- Clear view of the ball: the traditional helmet shape has a reinforced peak above the eyes.
- Cooler at the crease: an internal ventilation system helps young batters stay comfortable on warm days.
- Light to wear: open wire construction lets air flow while keeping weight down.
- Stays in place: internal chin and rear adjustment straps help the helmet sit firmly when you move.
- Sized for juniors: choose Small Junior, Junior or Youth to match your child's head size.
Design and Materials
The outer shell is ABS, a tough plastic that spreads the force of a hit. Under it sits an EPS layer, a firm foam that absorbs impact energy. A soft fill foam liner rests against the head for comfort. Above the eyes, a reinforced peak gives the helmet its traditional look.
The steel grille is fitted at the factory. It runs down and back over the neck, which is what Gray-Nicolls means by 360 performance. Gray-Nicolls also makes an Elite Junior 360 neckguard that works with this grille. Its dual inserts lock into the grille to shield the base of the head.
Key Technologies
BS 7928:2013+A1:2019 Conformation: The helmet fully conforms to the current British Standard for cricket helmets. That standard covers ball impact protection for the head and face.
Innovative 360 Construction: Gray-Nicolls designed this 360 build for junior cricketers. It brings neck-area cover to a younger player's helmet.
Factory Fitted Steel Grille: A steel grille comes fitted from the factory. It extends over the neck for wider coverage.
Open Wire Construction: The grille wires absorb the force of a strike. They also deflect the ball away from the face and base of the head.
ABS Shell with EPS Inner: A robust ABS outer shell sits over an EPS inner. Together they protect the head from impact.
Soft Fill Foam Liner: A soft foam liner lines the inside. It adds comfort against the head.
Internal Ventilation System: Air channels run through the helmet. They help keep players cool at the crease.
Chin and Rear Adjustment Straps: Internal straps adjust at the chin and rear. They improve stability when the batter moves.
Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Brand |
Gray-Nicolls |
| Model |
Elite 360 Junior Helmet (2027) |
| Standard |
BS 7928:2013+A1:2019 |
| Sizes |
Small Junior (SJ), Junior (J), Youth (Y) |
| Colours |
Navy, Maroon, Green |
| Shell |
ABS outer with EPS inner |
| Liner |
Soft fill foam |
| Grille |
Factory fitted steel, extends over the neck |
| Peak |
Reinforced |
| Ventilation |
Internal ventilation system |
| Fit |
Internal chin and rear adjustment straps |
| Compatible neckguard |
Elite Junior 360 Neckguard |
VKS Review
The Elite 360 gives young batters more than basic face cover. The steel grille runs over the neck, so a ball that gets past the face still meets metal. Open wires keep it light and airy. A junior can wear it through a long net session without overheating.
It is a junior helmet. Older teenagers with larger heads will need a senior model such as the Ultimate 360. The steel grille is heavier than the titanium grille on the Ultimate 360 Pro. For most young players, though, the Gray-Nicolls Elite 360 junior helmet offers strong value. VKS has fitted cricket kit for over 50 years. You can visit our London store in Ealing to have a helmet fitted before you buy.
Q&A Section
Does this helmet meet the British Standard?
Yes, it fully conforms to BS 7928:2013+A1:2019. That is the current British Standard for cricket helmets. Always check that any helmet your child wears meets it.
What size helmet does my child need?
The Elite 360 comes in Small Junior, Junior and Youth. Measure around the head just above the eyebrows, then try the helmet on. It should feel snug, with the peak just above the eyes.
Is a neckguard included?
Gray-Nicolls lists the Elite Junior 360 neckguard as a separate item. It is built to work with this helmet's grille. One pair fits all helmet sizes.
What does 360 mean on a cricket helmet?
It means the grille extends over the neck, not just the face. That adds protection to the base of the head. It is designed to work alongside a compatible neckguard.
Should my child replace a helmet after a hard hit?
Yes, check it carefully after any heavy blow. Damage to the shell, foam or grille can reduce protection. If in doubt, replace it or ask our team to inspect it.
Which colours are available?
You can choose navy, maroon or green. Many clubs and schools ask players to match team colours. Check your club's kit rules before you order.
Can I try the Gray-Nicolls Elite 360 junior helmet in store?
Yes, visit our Ealing store to try every size. A good fit matters more than anything else with a helmet. Our team can adjust the straps and check the peak position for you.
