The Riddell Retro Collection Has Landed: Mini, Replica, and Authentic Helmets for Every NFL Team
Kraig CableRiddell's new 2026 Retro Collection brings back the throwback 70s–80s look for all 31 NFL teams (sorry, Raiders fans — this one skipped Las Vegas), and it now comes in three collectible tiers: Mini, Replica, and Authentic. Whether you're building a display shelf, hunting for an autograph-ready helmet, or want the closest thing to true on-field construction in a retro colorway, there's a size and build quality to match.
Here's a breakdown of all three series, what actually separates them, and where to find your team.
The 3 Retro Series at a Glance
| Mini | Replica | Authentic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 5" | 9.5" | 10" |
| Shell | Cream gloss mini shell | Cream gloss Speed shell | Tru-Curve polycarbonate Speed shell |
| Interior padding | No | No | Yes — full foam padding |
| Face mask | Mini-scale | S2BD-SW-SP | S2BD-SW-SP |
| Chinstrap | Mini-scale | 4-point | 4-point |
| Best for | Desks, shelves, budget collecting | Display, autographs, gifting | Collectors who want true Speed-shell construction |
| Starting price | $40.49 | $206.99 | $422.99 |
Mini Retro Helmets
The Mini Retro is the entry point into the collection — a 5-inch desk-and-shelf-sized helmet that carries the full retro design (cream shell, team-colored stripe, retro script team name) at a fraction of the size and price of the full-size versions. It's a popular pick for gifting, stacking a full 31-team set, or adding retro flavor to an office or man cave without needing display case real estate.
Shop the Mini Retro Collection →
Replica Retro Helmets
The Replica is the full-size, display-ready version of the retro design — 9.5 inches tall with a cream gloss Speed shell, team-colored face mask, and the same three-color top stripe and retro script lettering that defines the whole collection. It's built for display and autographs rather than on-field wear, which makes it the go-to choice for collectors who want the full-size look without the true Authentic price tag.
Shop the Replica Retro Collection →
Authentic Retro Helmets
The Authentic is the top of the line. It's built on Riddell's Tru-Curve aggressive polycarbonate Speed shell and — unlike the Replica — includes full interior foam padding, giving it the genuine weight, feel, and construction of an on-field helmet rather than a display-only shell. At 10 inches tall, it's the largest and most true-to-life piece in the collection, aimed at serious collectors who want more than just the retro look.
Shop the Authentic Retro Collection →
A Few Team Favorites From the Collection
Arizona Cardinals Retro Replica — cream shell with the classic Cardinal bird and red-and-black retro stripe.
Dallas Cowboys Retro Replica — navy and silver striping with the iconic star.
Pittsburgh Steelers Retro Authentic — black and gold, full interior padding, true Speed-shell build.
Seattle Seahawks Retro Authentic — navy and action green, the flagship piece for Seahawks collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between the Replica and Authentic Retro helmets?
The Replica is a 9.5" display shell with no interior padding, built for looks, autographs, and shelf display. The Authentic is a 10" true Speed shell with full interior foam padding, built to true on-field construction standards — it's the closer-to-real option for serious collectors.
Are these helmets meant to be worn or used for play?
No. All three tiers — Mini, Replica, and Authentic — are collectible display helmets, not certified for on-field use.
Is this a limited run?
Yes, the Retro Collection is a limited edition run from Riddell for the 2026 season, covering all 31 NFL teams with helmets (excluding the Las Vegas Raiders).
Can I get matching Mini, Replica, and Authentic helmets for the same team?
Yes — every team in the collection is available across all three tiers, so you can build a full display set at whichever size and budget works for you.