Riddell Acquires Xenith Assets

DOWNERS GROVE, ILLINOIS (April 22, 2025) – Football helmet and equipment manufacturer Riddell announced today it acquired the assets of Xenith, which paused operations on January 10, 2025. The news that Xenith was “officially a part of Riddell Sports” was shared on 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 from Riddell said. “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 made the announcement to pause operations in mid-December 2024. The Detroit-based company was founded in 2004 by former Harvard University quarterback and doctor Vin Ferrara, according to a 2010 story 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.” 

^{Photo Source: Xenith LinkedIn Account}

The Xenith Orbit Pro model, which was launched earlier in 2024, tested as one of the top-rated helmets for safety. Laboratory 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 the Guardian/Xenith Loop was rated No. 3 of 38 products in the flag football/7-on-7 headgear category by Virginia Tech. 

Ferrara believed there was a better way to make football helmets after suffering several head injuries during his football career, according to the Xenith website. The company launched its first helmet in 2009 and originally sold through team dealers and retailers, switched to a direct-to-consumer model and then returned to working through dealers and retailers again a few years ago. Xenith also manufactured and sold shoulder pads, back plates, facemasks and other helmet and equipment accessories. 

Riddell was founded in 1929 by John T. Riddell, who is a member of the Sporting Goods Industry Hall of Fame. Riddell invented the first plastic helmet in 1939 and the first plastic suspension helmet in the early 1940s, according to the company website.

Riddell is a member of NSGA.