George Kittle’s helmet: Why is it different from what other NFL players wear?

San Francisco 49ers’ George Kittle, renowned as one of the best blocking tight ends in football, has made a notable switch in his gear. Moving away from his previous Riddell Speedflex, Kittle has now donned the Vicis Zero2 Trench, marking a significant change in his game-day attire.

The Vicis Zero2 Trench stands out as the market’s first position-specific helmet, meticulously designed for lineman. This piece of equipment is a specialized version of the standard Zero2, enhanced with an additional frontal pad. This distinctive feature aims to provide added protection against the recurrent low-velocity impacts that linemen, encounter every snap.

For a player of Kittle’s caliber, who consistently faces the brunt of blows when blocking as, the Vicis Zero2 Trench serves as a crucial protective measure. Despite its unconventional appearance, the helmet has earned accolades for being one of the most protective options available, gaining recognition from both the NFLPA and the VT Helmet Rating Scale.

The innovative design and specialized features of the Vicis Zero2 Trench not only align with Kittle’s role on the field but also signify a step forward in player safety. The helmet’s focus on cushioning linemen, or tight end’s in Kittle’s case against frequent impacts demonstrates a thoughtful approach to addressing the challenges faced by players in this position.

The investment in such advanced gear underscores the growing emphasis on ensuring player safety and the continuous efforts to develop equipment that caters to the specific needs of different positions in football.

George Kittle’s transition to the Vicis Zero2 Trench is not just a personal choice but also a testament to the evolving landscape of sports gear, where innovation and player protection go hand in hand.