Xenith Plans to “Pause Operations” in January 2025 

By Marty Maciaszek 
NSGA Director of Communications 

DOWNERS GROVE, ILLINOIS (December 17, 2024) – Football helmet and equipment manufacturer Xenith announced it plans to “pause operations” effective January 10, 2025, according to a letter addressed to its “valued customers.” 

The letter said more information on the future of Xenith will be provided at a later date. The last post on the company’s Twitter/X account was November 29 and its last post on its blog was November 5. 

Detroit-based Xenith 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,” the letter stated. “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.” 

Customers seeking reconditioning services were advised to find an authorized reconditioner by visiting the National Athletic Equipment Reconditioners Association (NAERA) website at www.naera.net. 

New orders will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and in-stock inventory can be purchased on its website at www.xenith.com. Customer service requests should be submitted via email to Xenith’s customer service team at cs@xenith.com. 

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 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.