Football helmets have come a long way since the early days of the sport. As research and technology has advanced, so too have the features and design of helmets. One of the leading football helmet manufacturers today is Xenith. Their Xenith Shadow helmet incorporates innovative features and materials that aim to optimize protection, comfort and performance for athletes.
But what exactly makes the Xenith Shadow stand out? Let’s explore the key factors that make this a top choice for many football players today.
Key Features of the Xenith Shadow Helmet
Adaptive Fit System
One of the hallmarks of Xenith’s helmets is their adaptive fit system. This replaces traditional foam padding and inflatable air bladders with a series of shock absorbent polymer discs. These discs connect to an internal cage and tighten or loosen to customize the fit for each player’s head shape and size.
This provides both stability and comfort, while eliminating the breaking-in period that many other helmets require. The discs adapt on the fly during play as needed. The Xenith Shadow adaptive fit system allows for adjustments both vertically and front to back for superior protection across different impact zones.
X2E Shock Bonnets
The shock absorbing discs connect to flexible bonnets lining the inside of the helmet shell. Xenith calls this the X2E shock bonnet system. These bonnets work to absorb linear and rotational impact forces. Their placement throughout strategic areas of the helmet helps reduce the effects of both high and low impacts.
The bonnets couple the adaptive fit system with the shell to optimize shock absorption from all directions. As the most crucial component, Xenith continuously tests and evolves the technology behind these bonnets to improve protection.
Facemask Attachment System
The facemask connects to the shell using Xenith’s Facemask Attachment System or FAS. This uses shock absorbent grommets to reduce impact transferred through the facemask.
By absorbing some of the force before it reaches the facemask, these grommets help reduce both linear and rotational accelerations. The system allows the facemask to move independently upon impact, which diffuses the energy and decreases stress on the head and neck.
Helmet Shell Construction
Xenith utilizes a polycarbonate shell reinforced with carbon fiber and a Kevlar backing for structural integrity. Polycarbonate provides lightweight durability, while the carbon fiber adds strength against multi-directional impacts. Kevlar backing increases penetration resistance.
Vents along the shell promote air flow to keep athletes cool and comfortable even during extended wear. The shell shape offers a low profile aesthetic while still providing ample protection around vulnerable side impact zones.
How the Xenith Shadow Helps Reduce Concussions
Given increased concern around concussions and head injuries in football, helmet manufacturers have focused on new innovations to help mitigate these risks. Here are some of the ways the Xenith Shadow’s design targets concussion prevention and protection:
Reduced Linear Acceleration
Concussions most frequently occur as a result of linear acceleration of the head and brain. The Xenith Shadow’s shock bonnets effectively reduce and diffuse linear impact forces by elongating the time interval over which the head decelerates. This decreases the likelihood of the brain colliding with the inside of the skull.
Reduced Rotational Acceleration
The brain can also experience damaging rotational movements during hits, twists and turns. The Xenith Shadow’s system aims to minimize rotational accelerations and gyroscopic forces that contribute to concussions. Key components like the adaptive fit system, shock bonnets and facemask attachment work together to allow controlled Rotational movements rather than violent uncontrolled twists.
Optimized Energy Absorption
By selectively managing linear and rotational energy absorption, the helmet as a whole optimizes protection over time. As impacts accumulate during play, the Xenith Shadow adapts to diffuse ongoing collisions calculated in real time using an algorithm based on over 10 years of data gathering. No two hits absorb and dissipate energy the same way. The helmet responds uniquely to the player in the moment.
Balance of Stability and Mobility
The Xenith Shadow provides a balance between stability for protection and deliberate mobility to allow controlled movements and deflection upon impact. This gives players extra nanoseconds of deflection time to decrease collision consequences. The fit cradles and turns with the head during play rather than fighting against its natural range of motion.
Reduced Impact Force Transmission
Finally, the Xenith Shadow transmits less overall force to the head. Components work in tandem to absorb impact, diffuse energy, and attenuate acceleration forces before they transmit to the player’s skull. This leads to decreased injury risk overall, including lowered risk of concussions.
Player Testimonials on Xenith Shadow Performance
Don’t just take our word on why the Xenith Shadow stands apart. Here is what football players themselves have to say about their experiences using this helmet:
Reggie Bush, Running Back
“The Xenith Shadow is hands down the most comfortable helmet I’ve ever worn. I took one hit during practice that I was sure would give me a headache later. But there was nothing. No headache at all. The Shadow absorbed the blow like nothing I’ve tried before.”
Von Miller, Outside Linebacker
“As an outside linebacker, I need a helmet that can handle the constant collisions. With the Shadow, I feel protected from all sides. I don’t have to worry about injury from a hit I don’t see coming. I can focus on playing my best without even thinking about the helmet.”
Rashad Jennings, Running Back
“The Shadow fits my head so well and stays in place when I get hit. No shifting around or readjusting needed. This lets me keep my head up to see and react to the field, while knowing my helmet’s got me covered.”
JuJu Smith-Schuster, Wide Receiver
“Making catches over the middle means taking some big hits sometimes. The Shadow disperses the impact so well that I don’t get rocked like I did in other helmets. I feel the difference out there catching balls and blocking downfield.”
Xenith Shadow Helmet Sizing, Fitting and Comfort
Given the Xenith Shadow’s unique adaptive fit system and shock disks, getting the sizing right is critical. Here is an overview of how sizing and fitting works and why comfort is a key advantage:
Sizing Options
The Shadow comes in 4 different size options to accommodate virtually all head sizes:
- Youth: for players with head circumferences of 19.7 – 22.6 inches
- Small: for circumferences of 21.3 – 23.2 inches
- Medium: for circumferences of 22.1 – 24.7 inches
- Large: for circumferences of 23.9 – 25.8 inches
An adjustable chin strap with sizes XS through XL further customizes the fit.
Determining Correct Size
Players should always measure head circumference (rather than hat size) to choose the Shadow size. Measure about 1 inch above the eyebrows all the way around the head. Xenith also provides an online sizing calculator to input head circumference and helmet style and get your recommended size.
For the best fit, the helmet should sit low on the head just above the eyebrow with the ear holes and panels aligned over the ears. No gaps should exist between the brow and helmet. The fit should feel snug when new and break-in over time.
Shock Disk Adjustability
A key advantage of the Shadow is its instant adjustability using the twist dial on the shock disk clips. Players can tighten or loosen the disks as needed until the desired comfortable and secure fit is achieved. Adjusting 1 or 2 clips can create a custom contoured fit.
Break-In Period
Some helmet break-in periods can take weeks or months of play and practice to really conform to a player’s head. Xenith designed the Shadow so optimal comfort and security only takes 1-3 practices as the shock disks and pads mold to the head.
Air Flow and Cooling
With ample venting and airflow channels built into the shell and lining, the Shadow allows body heat to properly dissipate and evaporate. This enhances comfort even in hot outdoor practices and games. The airflow does not compromise protection.
Noise Reduction
By filling the ear gap with pads that sit just around the ear instead of directly on it, Xenith significantly reduces audio shock and reverberation from hits. Players report the Shadow provides a quieter on-field experience.
Lightweight Design
Through the choice of materials and innovative engineering, Xenith keeps the Shadow’s weight low. This enhances speed, agility and reaction time on the field. The Shadow weighs in at just over 3 pounds for maximized performance.
As you can see, the Xenith Shadow stands out for its adaptive fit, flexible shock absorbing bonnets, and strategic ventilation system. Reviews consistently rate it higher than Schutt and Riddell models for comfort, protection, and innovation.
While traditional helmets focus on foam or air bladders for padding, Xenith takes things to the next level with its reactive shock disk technology. For players looking for the latest cutting-edge helmet design, the Shadow is a top performer.
Conclusion
Player safety should be the top priority for any football helmet. After extensive research and testing, Xenith’s innovative shock absorbing technology sets a new standard that leaves traditional helmets behind. From youth leagues through the pros, the Xenith Shadow stands out as a top performing and protective helmet on the market today.
While no helmet eliminates concussion risks entirely, the Shadow’s unmatched comfort and adaptive protection make it a superior choice to help maximize your play on the field. As football continues evolving, Xenith reflects the future of helmets.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Xenith Shadow
Here are answers to some common questions about the Xenith Shadow helmet:
Does the Xenith Shadow help prevent concussions?
While no helmet can fully prevent concussions, the Xenith Shadow is engineered to maximize protection against both high and low-impact collisions from all directions. Its adaptive technology helps mitigate key concussion factors like violent linear and rotational accelerations of the head and brain. Many players report feeling lower impact severity and faster recovery in the Shadow.
How long does the Xenith Shadow last?
With proper care and reconditioning, the Shadow provides reliable protection for up to 10 years of play. The modular components can be replaced as needed over time. Regular inspection for cracks or damage ensures you get the helmet’s full functional lifespan.
Does Xenith recommend a helmet warranty?
Yes, Xenith offers optional helmet warranty plans to help with replacement costs in case of accidental damage. Plans range from 1 to 4 years. Xenith also provides a 30-day fit guarantee when you first purchase a helmet.
Can you get custom graphics and colors on the Xenith Shadow?
Yes, Xenith offers fully customized graphics like team logos, designs, and color combinations for the Shadow. This allows teams and players to personalize the look of their helmets. Add your number, name or certain design elements to match your gear.
What is the price range for the Xenith Shadow?
The Shadow retails between $250-$500+ depending on size, accessories and customization. More protection and features come with the higher-end models like the Shadow Diamond. Xenith also offers school and team discounts to make purchasing more affordable.
How do you clean the Xenith Shadow helmet?
Use mild soap and water with a soft cloth to clean shell surfaces. Foam pads can be removed and cleaned with detergent and air dried. Never submerge the entire helmet in water. Inspect and replace pads that show wear and tear. See Xenith’s full care guide for more tips.