Michael Vick, the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback, signed a two-year deal with Unequal Technologies, best known for its insoles. It marks his first paid endorsement contract since his return to football two years ago.
The Kennett Square, PA, firm also manufactures shock-absorbing sports equipment. Vick wore a vest designed by Unequal after his return from a rib injury
early in the season and he also wore shoulder pads and thigh pads made
by Unequal. Unequal was first introduced to many of the NFL teams, including the
Philadelphia Eagles, with its Unequal Insoles.
“We're excited and proud to have Michael on our team,” said Rob Vito, president of Unequal Technologies, in a statement. “In considering this deal there were several factors. As a dog owner, I know the love of a pet and the tremendous loss we felt when she died of cancer. But as a Christian, I believe that people can repent and deserve a second chance. I share President Obama's support for Michael Vick and believe America is truly the land of second chances. I commend the NFL and the Eagles for granting Vick the opportunity to make a better life for him and his family. Vick's performance on the field this season was unequaled and his passion for the game is in lock-step with our vision. After experiencing firsthand the Unequal difference, Vick asked to work with us to make safer protective gear for athletes. We believe, together, we can educate athletes, parents and children on the benefits of the Unequal Technology and help eliminate the daily pain and needless injuries encountered on and off the playing field.”
“I'm thrilled to be a part of the Unequal team. I've been wearing
Unequal chest protectors, shoulder pads, and thigh pads for much of the
late and post-season — resulting in pain-free playing,” stated
Vick, who becomes the company's first spokesperson. “The Unequal technology is a part of my game now and I won't play
without my Unequal. Unequal's protective power gives me a whole new
level of confidence in my game. It makes me feel invincible.”
Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Vick served 18 months in federal prison after a conviction on dogfighting charges. He signed with the Eagles and returned to the NFL in 2009 and began starting for the team this season. He will start in the Pro-Bowl for the NFC on Sunday.
Last month Vick appeared in a television commercial for a car dealership but was not paid. He was compensated by having use of a Nissan sport utility vehicle.
Unequal's core insoles product, featuring a patented
composite made with DuPont Kevlar, promises to absorb up to 80 percent of chronic impact shock (CIS) all
while delivering comfort.
