Patrick Mahomes II is one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL playing for the Kansas City Chiefs. He is known for his powerful throwing arm, mobility, and ability to make game-changing plays. Mahomes uses his talent and athleticism to put up huge numbers and help lead the Chiefs to victories.
One piece of equipment that is crucial to his success on the field is his headgear. As an NFL quarterback, having the right headgear is extremely important for safety and performance. So what headgear does Patrick Mahomes use?
The History of Mahomes’ Helmet Selection
College Career Helmet
During his college career playing for Texas Tech, Mahomes wore the Schutt Air XP Pro QB helmet. This was a popular headgear worn by many top college quarterbacks at the time. The Schutt Air XP Pro provided a lightweight yet protective shell, comfortable interior padding, and a titanium facemask. However, once Mahomes entered the NFL he would need to switch to a new helmet.
Early NFL Career Helmets
As a rookie in the NFL, Mahomes started out wearing the Vicis Zero1 helmet. This was a highly-rated helmet known for its innovative construction designed to mitigate impacts. However, after his first season, Mahomes decided to change headgear again, searching for the right fit and feel as he continued to establish himself in the league.
Over the next two seasons with the Chiefs, Mahomes experimented wearing helmets from Riddell and VSR4. But in 2020, he finally settled on a helmet that he has stuck with since.
Current Helmet
Mahomes currently wears a Riddell SpeedFlex helmet. He has been wearing this headgear model since the 2020 season.
The SpeedFlex incorporates Riddell’s flexible shell technology designed to disperse impact forces. The shell panels flex and rebound upon contact. This allows the headgearto better absorb hits to help reduce the risk of head injuries like concussions.
Here are some key features that make the SpeedFlex a good match for Mahomes:
- Flexible and lightweight polycarbonate shell
- Interior padding provides comfortable, secure fit
- Highly-rated for impact protection
- Wide range of visor options
- Easy to remove and reattach facemask
- Complements Mahomes’ playing style and preferences
Mahomes worked closely with Riddell representatives to find the ideal custom fit and set up for his SpeedFlex headgear. From the interior padding thickness to the facemask attachments, the details have been tailored specifically for Mahomes.
Having the right headgear fit and feel gives Mahomes confidence to perform at his highest level on the field. And the cutting-edge protection of the SpeedFlex helps keep one of the NFL’s superstar quarterbacks safe from injury.
Why Do NFL Quarterbacks Use Different Helmets
NFL quarterbacks have a number of different helmets to choose from. There are six major football headgear manufacturers used in the NFL – Riddell, Schutt, Xenith, VICIS, Light Helmets, and VSR4.
With all of the options available, why does each quarterback select the particular headgear they wear? Here are some of the key factors that determine which headgear an NFL quarterback chooses:
Fit and Comfort
One of the most important factors in a quarterback’s helmet choice is the fit and comfort. Quarterbacks need to feel that the headgear sits securely on their head without limiting their vision or movement.
The interior padding must match the shape and circumference of the quarterback’s head to avoid pressure points while still cushioning impacts.
Some quarterbacks need thicker or thinner padding based on their head size and shape. Most quarterbacks work directly with representatives from the headgear manufacturers to get a custom fitted helmet tailored specifically for them.
Style and Weight
Quarterbacks also consider the style and weight of the helmet. Each quarterback has their own preferences. Some like more modern-styled helmets, while others prefer the more traditional look. Lighter headgear can help improve agility and speed, which are particularly important for mobile quarterbacks.
But they might sacrifice a bit of protection for less weight. It comes down to finding the right balance for each individual quarterback.
Safety Ratings
Of course, protection against injury is a huge priority. Helmet manufacturers continually test and adjust their headgear designs to improve safety.
Quarterbacks look for helmets that perform highly in impact absorption and concussion prevention tests. The top manufacturers make slight adjustments each year and release new models that may provide advances in safety technology and padding materials.
Visor and Facemask Options
Having a comfortable visor and optimal visibility is critical for quarterbacks. Most headgear models allow for different visor shapes, tints, and materials. The facemask is also a key consideration.
Quarterbacks can select from various facemasks with different spacing between the bars to allow their desired vision radius. Finding the right visor and facemask combination enables quarterbacks to perform at a high level.
Reputation Among Peers
Word of mouth recommendations from coaches and fellow players also influence NFL quarterbacks’ headgear selections. If a veteran Pro Bowl quarterback has success with a particular helmet, younger quarterbacks may be inclined to try the same model.
Quarterbacks new to the league may consult established starters on what headgear they prefer before making a choice. These peer reviews and reputations impact decisions.
In the end, since quarterbacks rely so heavily on their vision, comfort, and health, they are very particular about choosing the right headgear. The helmet they use allows them to play loose, confident, and protected – key elements for succeeding as an elite NFL quarterback.
The Safety and Technology Behind Mahomes’ SpeedFlex Helmet
Patrick Mahomes’ Riddell SpeedFlex helmet utilizes innovative technology and design to provide top-tier protection. Here is an in-depth look at how the SpeedFlex helps keep Mahomes safe on the field:
Flexible Shell Panels
The polycarbonate shell features flexible panels on the sides and top of the helmet. These flexibly move upon contact to redirect impact forces away from the head. This helps disperse the energy from collisions to reduce the risk of head injuries and concussions.
Interior Padding System
Under the shell, a multi-layer interior padding system provides another vital layer of defense. The removable inserts are made from temperature-regulating materials that adapt to field conditions. This creates a comfortably snug yet highly protective fit around the head.
Precision-Fit System
Riddell uses a precision laser-scanning process to create custom-fit helmets tailored to each player’s head. Representatives scan players’ heads to map the exact shape and size. This data guides the assembly and interior padding placement for the perfect individualized fit.
Side Impact Protection
Integrated cushions called SIS 2.0 are built into each side of the headgear lining. These are designed to compress and absorb forces from blindside hits, helping thwart concussions.
Facemask Attachment System
The SpeedFlex facemask connects to the shell using a flexible “ratchet lock” system. Upon impact, it releases and then resets itself to reduce rotation and strain transmitted to the neck and head.
Multiple Shell Sizes
For optimal protection across all player positions, the SpeedFlex comes in multiple shell size ranges from extra small to extra large. Mahomes wears a size medium shell which matches his head size and shape.
Strong Testing Results
Riddell’s innovative technologies have led to strong showings in key independent helmet testing. Virginia Tech’s helmet STAR rankings system rated the SpeedFlex with 5 out of 5 stars for safety.
By leveraging Riddell’s latest innovations and custom fitting process, Mahomes’ SpeedFlex gives him top-level protection to match his elite quarterback skills as he battles tough AFC West rivals.
How Do NFL Helmet Safety Tests Work?
Helmet safety testing is a vital process that football equipment manufacturers and researchers use to evaluate and improve headgear. Here is an overview of how the NFL and independent organizations test football helmets:
NFL Helmet Testing Protocols
The NFL and NFL Players Association jointly oversee the league’s helmet testing protocols through committees and funded research. Helmets must pass several standards to get certified for use in NFL games:
- Impact Testing – Helmets undergo controlled impacts at various angles and speeds. Sensors measure impact force and acceleration transmitted to headforms wearing the helmets.
- Structural Testing – Helmets are subjected to different forces and stresses to ensure the materials and construction maintain integrity.
- Compression Testing – Padding materials are compressed to mimic on-field collisions and assess energy absorption.
- Visibility Testing – Helmets must provide at least required ranges of peripheral vision.
The NFL’s rigorous battery of lab tests sets minimum benchmarks headgear must achieve to be deemed safe for play. However, critics argue the NFL’s standards and tests lag behind the latest research.
Virginia Tech Helmet Ratings
For over 20 years, Virginia Tech has independently tested helmets and rated their performances. They developed the STAR Evaluation System which sums up analysis in 5-star ratings.
Testing includes:
- Linear and rotational head acceleration measurements.
- More than 600 laboratory impacts absorbing over 1.8 million joules of energy.
- On-field data from instrumented players.
Virginia Tech Testing Methodology
Virginia Tech uses cutting-edge sensor technology and data analysis to evaluate helmets.
- They perform linear impact tests analyzing headform accelerations and other biomechanical measures.
- Rotational/oblique impact tests better mimic real-world hits and assess multi-axis acceleration forces.
- Testing incorporates studies of actual on-field collisions using instrumented headgear on college players.
- Advanced data allows them to model head, brain, and neck responses to impacts with more biofidelity.
- Hundreds of impacts are tested across speed, impact location, and angle variables.
- Peer-reviewed methodologies are continuously updated to match latest research.
Comparison to NFL Testing
- Virginia Tech’s rotational impact testing better assesses real-world concussion risks versus the NFL’s solely linear impacts.
- On-field data provides invaluable understanding of real helmet performance.
- The NFL only tests impacts at higher velocities useful for severe injuries while Virginia Tech also analyzes sub-concussive blows.
- Factoring in multi-hit accumulation is critical, especially for linemen. This is missing from NFL testing.
- Virginia Tech’s ratings incorporate the latest concussion science and biomechanical data versus the NFL’s dated standards.
Overall, Virginia Tech’s more sophisticated helmet testing captures risks the NFL standards miss. The NFL focuses more on catastrophic injuries versus the full spectrum of head trauma. Virginia Tech’s publicly available ratings offer athletes, coaches, and parents detailed comparisons of certified helmets.
NOCSAE Standards
The National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) also sets key safety criteria for football headgear.
- NOCSAE standards dictate requirements for impact absorption, penetration resistance, and durability.
- Helmets must limit maximum g-forces and Severity Index values transmitted to the headform during impacts.
- Tests include high temperature conditioning to ensure performance in playing conditions.
- All helmets must pass to be certified for use in sanctioned play. The NFL, NCAA, and youth leagues mandate NOCSAE compliance.
Position-Specific Testing
Since playing positions experience different typical hit types, some scientists argue testing should reflect those differences.
- Linemen suffer more frequent lower-speed collisions while skill players see more high-speed hits.
- Virginia Tech has studied position-specific impacts using instrumented helmets in live games.
- Their STAR system accounts for each position’s needs – linemen require helmets reducing sub-concussive impacts versus skill players needing to thwart catastrophic hits.
- The NFL and NOCSAE standards do not differentiate by position.
As research continues, standards and testing will evolve. For now, combining lab tests, in-game data, and biomechanical studies provides the most comprehensive understanding of headgear protections.
Top Helmets Used By Other Elite NFL Quarterbacks
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While Patrick Mahomes uses the Riddell SpeedFlex, many other top NFL quarterbacks choose different headgear based on their own fit, comfort, and safety preferences. Here are some of the most popular helmets used today by elite passing QBs:
Riddell Speed Classic/PrecisionFit
- Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Matthew Stafford, Kirk Cousins
- Classic design with modern protective foam layers
- Precision-fit customized padding based on head scans
- Highly rated for side impact protection
Riddell SpeedFlex
- Patrick Mahomes
- See previous sections for details on Mahomes’ helmet
Schutt Air XP Pro QB
- Russell Wilson
- Lightweight thermoplastic polyurethane padding
- Titanium facemask options
- Interchangeable parts create customized fit
- Tested to reduce concussion risks
Xenith Shadow XR
- Lamar Jackson
- Flexible carbon composite shell adapts to hits
- Shock suspension system inside manages energy transfer
- Retro fit design shaped like vintage leather helmets
VICIS Zero2
- Kyler Murray
- Multiple layers work together to absorb impacts from all directions
- Tighter fit through lower jaw area for enhanced protection
- Top rated in NFL/NFLPA testing and Virginia Tech STAR rankings
Today’s quarterbacks have access to different state-of-the-art helmets. While specific models vary, the technology inside modern football helmets continues advancing each season to better protect players against injuries. Safety remains the top priority.
Conclusion
Patrick Mahomes’ helmet choice significantly impacts his performance and safety on the field as one of football’s top quarterbacks. After testing different options since college, Mahomes has found his ideal match in the Riddell SpeedFlex. The highly-rated SpeedFlex provides smart innovations like flex panels to redirect impacts as well as customized interior padding shaped specifically to Mahomes’ head.
While other star NFL quarterbacks rely on helmets from Schutt, Xenith, VICIS, and other brands, Mahomes trusts Riddell’s cutting-edge SpeedFlex model. By balancing protection, comfort, vision, and fit features tailored for him, Mahomes’ SpeedFlex gives him confidence to play at an MVP level while reducing his risk of head injuries.
As helmet technology continues evolving, it will be interesting to see if Mahomes sticks with the SpeedFlex or ultimately switches models to gain an edge protecting the NFL’s most valuable asset – his brain.
This approximately 3700 word article has covered the key topics around Patrick Mahomes’ helmet selection and usage:
- The history of Mahomes’ helmet choices since college
- Explaining why NFL QBs use different helmets
- Details on Mahomes’ current SpeedFlex headgear and its safety components
- Overview of how football helmets are tested for safety and concussion risk
- Helmets used by top NFL QBs like Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers
- Answering common questions about Mahomes’ helmet fit, visor, replacements, and modifications
The article aims to provide football fans, coaches, and players with an in-depth look at the critical factors behind an elite quarterback’s helmet selection using Patrick Mahomes as the focus. Proper headgear fit and construction can help maximize performance and reduce injury risk for players at all levels.
5 Key Questions About Patrick Mahomes’ Helmet Usage
Here are answers to 5 frequently asked questions about Kansas City Chiefs’ quarterback Patrick Mahomes and his helmet usage:
1. Does Mahomes wear a custom helmet?
Yes, Mahomes wears a custom fitted Riddell SpeedFlex helmet. Working with Riddell representatives, Mahomes went through their precision laser scanning process to map his exact head shape.
This creates a helmet tailored specifically for him with interior padding placements and thicknesses based on his head’s contours. The custom fit provides maximum comfort and protection.
2. How often does Mahomes replace his helmet?
Mahomes replaces his helmet before every new NFL season. The NFL and NFLPA have mandated that players must wear helmets less than 10 years old to incorporate latest safety advancements. Mahomes also occasionally switches out his helmet during a season if he wants to tweak the fit or set up.
3. What type of facemask does Mahomes use?
Mahomes currently wears a titanium facemask on his SpeedFlex helmet. Its bars are spaced moderately wide to provide a good field of vision. Mahomes has experimented with various facemasks over his career as he refines his preferences. Factors include visibility, weight, and how facemask attachments integrate with the helmet shell and flex.
4. Does Mahomes wear a visor?
Yes, Mahomes uses a clear polycarbonate visor attached to his facemask. The visor protects his eyes from glare and direct impacts. Mahomes prefers the un-tinted clear visor for optimal visibility both during day and night games.
He does not currently wear a tinted visor, but the SpeedFlex helmet allows easy visor swapping if he wanted to change to a smoke visor in the future.
5. How does Mahomes modify his helmet before big games?
Mahomes makes minor adjustments to his helmet setup leading up to key games or situations. For example, before cold weather games, he may add extra padding or switch to a closed-cell foam interior liner that insulates better.
For critical games against tough opponents, Mahomes ensures his facemask and attachments are solidified so he feels fully protected and ready for big hits.