Riddell announced its acquisition of the assets of Detroit-based football helmet maker Xenith, which paused operations on January 10, 2025.
The report that Xenith was “officially a part of Riddell Sports” was shared on the social media accounts of both companies and confirmed in a statement from a Riddell spokesperson.
“As the market leader in football helmet technology and protective equipment, Riddell remains committed to advancing the game through innovation that prioritizes athlete protection and performance across all levels,” the statement reads from Riddell. “Earlier this year, Xenith announced plans to cease operations. Recognizing a shared commitment to athlete protection and product excellence, Riddell has acquired Xenith’s assets effective today.
“Several Xenith technologies and products have been well-regarded in the football community, and Riddell will evaluate opportunities to incorporate them into our portfolio to further enhance our offerings. We appreciate Xenith’s contributions to the sport and look forward to continuing to serve the football community with the highest standards of innovation and care.”
Xenith announced the pause in operations in mid-December 2024. The Detroit-based company was founded in 2004 by former Harvard University Quarterback and Physician Vin Ferrarn, M.D., according to a 2010 editorial in Harvard Magazine.
“Since our inception, we’ve worked to revolutionize football safety and innovation, and we are proud of the impact we’ve made together,” Xenith said in its letter to customers late in 2024. “Your loyalty has been invaluable, and it’s been an honor to support your football journey. Thank you for being part of our mission to create meaningful change in the football industry.”
The Xenith Orbit Pro model, launched in early 2024, tested as one of the top-rated helmets for player safety. Lab testing in April 2024 by the NFL, in conjunction with the NFL Players Association (NFL), rated the helmet No. 2 overall for its players behind only the Riddell Axiom 3D, No. 1 for offensive and defensive linemen and No. 2 for quarterbacks behind the Vicis Zero2 Matrix ID QB.
The Virginia Tech Varsity Football Helmet Ratings had the Xenith Orbit Pro at No. 3 of 34 helmets tested. Xenith also had the Nos. 2, 5 and 6 rated youth helmets (10-to-14 years old), and Virginia Tech rated the Guardian/Xenith Loop No. 3 of 38 products in the flag football/7-on-7 headgear category.
Image courtesy Xenith
