Ergodyne Skullerz 8970 Cap-Style Hard Hat — Type I, Class E, Ratchet Suspension
$109.99
Final price set by Amazon · may vary
Color: White
Style: Standard
EDITORIAL REVIEW: 4.7/5 WC Safety Review — the Ergodyne Skullerz 8970 Cap-Style Hard Hat Editorial assessment by the WC Safety Editorial Team, based on published Ergodyne specifications and the ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 sta...
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EDITORIAL REVIEW: 4.7/5 WC Safety Review — the Ergodyne Skullerz 8970 Cap-Style Hard Hat
Editorial assessment by the WC Safety Editorial Team, based on published Ergodyne specifications and the ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 standard. We did not laboratory-test this product.
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Ergodyne Skullerz 8970 Cap-Style Hard Hat Overview
The Ergodyne Skullerz 8970 Cap-Style Hard Hat is an ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type I, Class E hard hat that protects the top of the head from falling objects and bumps. It is non-vented, which is what allows the Class E electrical rating, and it uses a 4-point ratcheting suspension with a one-handed adjustment knob.
As the Ergodyne Skullerz 8970, this Skullerz 8970 hard hat is a Type I Class E cap-style hard hat. It is a cap-style hard hat with ratchet suspension and a non-vented Class E hard hat for general construction and industry.
It has a removable moisture-wicking sweatband, front and rear headlamp slots, and can be worn forward or reversed. Because it is non-vented Class E, it suits electrical-adjacent work where a vented hat cannot go. Compare it with the vented Class C sibling and the full-brim Skullerz 8971 and 8963 Type II safety helmet, understand the ratings in hard hat classes explained, and browse the range in cap-style hard hats.
Who This Hard Hat Is For
| Use case | Fit | Buyer guidance |
|---|---|---|
| General construction, top impact | Strong | Type I cap-style shell. |
| Electrical hazard environments | Strong | Non-vented Class E, 20,000 V. |
| Headlamp and task lighting | Strong | Front and rear headlamp slots. |
| Hot conditions, max airflow | Choose vented | Non-vented; the 8972 is vented Class C. |
| Side-impact (lateral) hazards | Consider Type II | Type I covers top impact only. |
Match the hat to the hazard. It is Type I, Class E: Type I covers top impact only, not lateral impact, and Class E is proof-tested to 20,000 volts as supplementary protection — it reduces the danger from head contact with an energized conductor but is not authorization to work on live parts, so still de-energize, use rated electrical PPE, and follow your electrical-safety program. This is a cap-style hard hat, not a chinstrap safety helmet, so it has no chin strap by default and can come off if you bend or fall; for work at height, add a compatible chin strap or choose a retained safety helmet. A hard hat protects your head, not your body, so working at height still requires a personal fall arrest system with a harness, connector, and rated anchor. Confirm the Type and Class molded inside the shell against your hazard. Learn more in Type I vs Type II and best hard hat for electrical work.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ANSI Type I, Class E (20,000 V)
- 4-point ratchet; one-handed adjustment
- Removable moisture-wicking sweatband
- Front and rear headlamp slots
- Reversible; fits sizes 6.5 to 8
Cons
- Type I only; no lateral-impact rating
- Non-vented, so warmer than a vented hat
- No chin strap for height by default
- Class E is supplementary, not live-work rated
How It Compares
The 8970 is a Type I, Class E cap-style hard hat. Weigh it against nearby options:
| Option | Style | Rating | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skullerz 8970 (this page) | Cap-style, non-vented | Type I, Class E | Electrical-adjacent general work |
| Skullerz 8971 | Full-brim hard hat | Type I | All-around sun and debris shielding |
| Skullerz 8963 | Full-brim safety helmet | Type II | Lateral-impact protection |
Choose the 8970 for a Class E cap-style hat, the full-brim Skullerz 8971 for all-around shielding, or the Skullerz 8963 for Type II lateral protection. See our best cap-style hard hats guide, cap-style vs full brim, and hard hats vs safety helmets.
Specifications
| Brand / Model | Ergodyne Skullerz 8970 (8970-WH) |
| Style | Cap-style hard hat, non-vented, white |
| Rating | ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type I, Class E (electrical, 20,000 V) |
| Suspension | 4-point ratchet; one-handed knob; removable wicking sweatband and top pad |
| Sizing / wear | Fits 6.5-8 (21-25 in); reversible forward or backward |
| Accessories | Front and rear headlamp slots for the Skullerz LED light |
Related Guides
hard hat classes explained, Type I vs Type II, best cap-style hard hats, cap-style vs full brim, best hard hat for electrical work, hard hats vs safety helmets.
Related Resources
cap-style hard hats hard hats head protection Skullerz 8973 vented full-brim Skullerz 8971 full-brim
Frequently Asked Questions
What ANSI rating does the Skullerz 8970 have?
It is ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 Type I, Class E. Type I covers impact to the top of the head, and Class E means the non-vented shell is rated for electrical protection, proof-tested to 20,000 volts. Confirm the marking inside your hat matches your task.
Is the 8970 vented?
No. The 8970 is non-vented, which is what allows its Class E electrical rating. Ergodyne makes a vented Class C cap-style hard hat, the 8972, if you want airflow and do not need electrical protection.
Can I use it for electrical work?
Class E is proof-tested to 20,000 volts as supplementary head protection, but it does not authorize live work. You still de-energize where required, use rated electrical PPE, keep safe approach distances, and follow your electrical-safety program.
Is it a Type I or Type II hard hat?
It is Type I, rated for top impact only. It is not Type II, which adds lateral (side) impact protection. If your hazard assessment calls for Type II, choose a Type II hard hat or safety helmet instead.
How does the suspension adjust?
It uses a 4-point ratcheting suspension with a one-handed knob so you can tighten or loosen the fit without taking the hat off. A removable moisture-wicking sweatband and top pad add comfort and are replaceable.
Can I wear it backward?
Yes. The 8970 can be worn forward to keep sun and rain off your face, or reversed to improve upward visibility, such as when looking up during a task. Reversing a hard hat is only proper if it is certified for reverse wear, which this model supports.
What size does it fit?
It fits hat sizes 6.5 to 8, roughly 21 to 25 inches in head circumference, adjusted with the ratchet. Set it so the hat sits level and snug without pressure points.
Does it have headlamp slots?
Yes. It has integrated front and rear headlamp slots designed for the Skullerz Hard Hat LED light, so you can add task lighting without straps that slip. Confirm accessory compatibility before relying on it.
Does this listing include the LED headlamp light?
No. This SKU (8970-WH) is the standard configuration without a bundled LED light - it has the headlamp slots so you can add one separately. Ergodyne also sells an "8970LED" configuration that includes the light; product photos showing an attached LED are illustrating the accessory, not confirming it ships with this listing.
Is this a cap-style hard hat or a safety helmet?
It is a traditional cap-style hard hat with a short front brim, not a chinstrap climbing-style safety helmet. Cap-style hard hats are common in general construction and industry; a safety helmet adds retention and often Type II protection.
Does it come with a chin strap for work at height?
A standard cap-style hard hat does not include a chin strap, so it can come off if you bend or fall. For work at height, add a compatible chin strap or choose a retained safety helmet, and use separate fall-arrest equipment.
Is the shell electrically insulating on its own?
The Class E rating is a supplementary test of the shell to 20,000 volts; it reduces risk from head contact with a conductor but does not make you safe from electricity. Treat it as one layer within a full electrical-safety program.
When should I replace it?
Replace it after any significant impact or electrical contact, when the shell shows cracks, dents, or chalking, or per Ergodyne's service-life guidance. Inspect the shell and suspension before each use and swap a worn sweatband.
Written by Steven Eaton, WC Safety Editorial. Specifications sourced from Ergodyne published data and the ANSI/ISEA Z89.1 standard. Compare the range in cap-style hard hats.
WC Safety is an independent PPE retailer and Amazon Associate; no paid placement. A Class E hard hat is supplementary head protection tested to 20,000 V; it does not replace de-energizing, rated electrical PPE, or safe work practices.
Brand / Vendor
Ergodyne
Model / SKU
8970-WH
Product Type
Hard Hat
Price
$109.99 (Amazon)
Rating
5.0 / 5 — 6 reviews
Availability
Check current availability on Amazon
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Verified Buyer Reviews
Customer Reviews
★★★★★4.6 / 5· 43 ratings on Amazon
★★★★★
great hard hate
fits great, light weight. works with the head lamp as well.
Verified Purchaser · December 2 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
It's a hard hat
It is what you expect. No issues with shipping defects.
Verified Purchaser · January 4, · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Great quality!
Very good quality with the material and adjustable head strap.
Verified Purchaser · August 17, · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Gets hot with the extra padding.
It's a fairly high quality hardhat. Better than all I have worn. The extra padding can be hot on your head, but it can be removed, washed and replaced unlike most hardhats.
Verified Purchaser · December 2 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
Good Hardhat
I like this hardhat a lot, comfortable to a point but like all hardhats I've worn I wear it because I am required to not because I enjoy wearing a hardhat all day. Is there a mount available either by Skullerz or another party to go in the light mount slot to hold a camera such as a go pro or other? I am also buying the red safety light for the back as I do highway maintenance and want to be as visible as possible since half of my shifts are nighttime.
Verified Purchaser · May 22, 20 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
★★★★★
really weak ratchet suspension.
Maybe in my particular case i notice this flaw a lot, and this may not apply to your trade. Thats my disclaimer.Now with that out of the way im a scaffolder and i often have to look upwards. This helmet usually slips right off my head when i do.I took away two stars because of this but i realize this may be a problem that other users wont have .
Verified Purchaser · July 26, 2 · ✓ Amazon Verified Purchase
Showing 6 of 43 Amazon reviews.
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