Working on the next-generation Guardian Cap was a rewarding experience, knowing the impact it could have on player safety at all levels of football—one of the country’s most beloved sports. Guardian Sports already had a proven product that effectively mitigated impact forces and reduced the loud, damaging sounds caused by helmet-to-helmet collisions. The challenge for the new design was to enhance the visual appeal without compromising any of the functional benefits.
That meant sticking with the same trusted materials and padding structure, while rethinking the style, shape, and flat pattern of the compression-molded elements. No easy task when designing to wrap around a spherical surface. In parallel, we also set out to improve the cap’s fit and retention across a wide range of helmet models—another layer of complexity.
Our team generated a variety of concepts before selecting an evolutionary direction that balanced innovation with practicality. We explored multiple construction methods beyond the current layup to ensure we were pushing the design forward in meaningful ways. I led the effort, directed collaboration with the client, and once a direction was chosen, I developed the final tech pack artwork and worked closely with engineering to ensure the geometry aligned with our design intent.
The new Guardian Cap is already beginning to show up during primetime matchups—so keep an eye out for this next-gen product as it makes its way into the spotlight.
Designed in 2023; Released in 2025
Available to Purchase HERE