SBJ Power Up: NFL helmet tech keeps getting better

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NFL, NFLPA tout results of helmet safety tests

The NFL and NFLPA have published their annual helmet safety ratings, highlighted by seven new models, the first position-specific option for cornerbacks and wide receivers and the prohibition of several previously permissible helmets, SBJ’s Joe Lemire reports. The space is evolving so rapidly that top-rated models three years ago are now obsolete.

The rankings are based on lab testing jointly overseen by the league and union and intended to mimic the direction and severity of injury-resulting hits on an NFL field. Because of rule changes and equipment improvements in safety, last season had the fewest concussions since the NFL began its careful record keeping.

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Hippos Exoskeleton knee brace coming

Few injuries are as debilitating and career-altering as an ACL tear, which is why a San Francisco-based startup is developing a product to protect the knee with a rapidly inflating air bag, Lemire also reports.

Hippos Exoskeleton has created prototypes, raised $642,000 and tested its technology with athletes such as American world skiing champion Alex Schlopy and at the Brixton TopCats basketball club. The company is now accepting pre-orders for its yet-to-launch consumer product while drawing interest from elite sports organizations such as UK Athletics, Crystal Palace’s academy and the Chinese Olympic Association.

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Bat Around virtual game comes to Coors Field

SBJ’s Mike Mazzeo reports that Bat Around, a gamified batting practice experience powered by HitTrax, debuted at Coors Field on April 4 as part of a three-year deal with the Rockies, according to Bat Around CEO Matt Farrell.

Last year, Bat Around was at Tropicana Field as part of a three-year deal with the Rays. However, the Rays’ deal was paused due to hurricane damage at the Trop that caused Tampa to move its games to Steinbrenner Field for the 2025 season.