Travis Kelce, one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history, made his mark with his stellar performances with the Kansas City Chiefs. A three-time Super Bowl champion, he set a string of career highs throughout his 12 seasons in the league. But it’s not just his on-field prowess that sets him apart; his game gear, including his helmet, also plays a crucial role in his longevity and protection. Find out why Kelce chooses a different helmet than his teammates.

Travis Kelce didn’t have an easy start in the NFL. After playing just one snap during his rookie season in 2013, he has become a staple of the Chiefs’ offense. To date, he has not missed a regular-season game in 10 consecutive seasons, and he’s still playing in every game for the Chiefs in 2024. That kind of longevity at a position as demanding as tight end is impressive.

Tight ends, while primarily known for catching passes, also have to excel at blocking and sometimes even running. That makes them one of the most physical and risky positions in the NFL. Kelce, for his part, has called upon top-notch protective gear, including a helmet that stands out from his teammates.

For eight seasons, Kelce wore the Schutt Air XP helmet, a model known for its durability. However, in 2021, he made a notable change by opting for the Schutt F7, a much more technologically advanced model. The Schutt F7 helmet is considered one of the best on the market, earning a perfect 5/5 rating in Virginia Tech’s helmet safety rankings.

This helmet is particularly appreciated for its lightness and its innovative design. It is equipped with Schutt’s “Tektonic Plates”, plates placed on the top of the helmet that move independently of the rest of the shell. These plates help to better distribute impacts and absorb rotational forces, thus providing increased protection against brain injuries. This innovative system is a major asset for Kelce, who frequently absorbs violent impacts during games.

Kelce complements his F7 helmet with an F7-EGOP-VI facemask and a Riddell hardcup chin bar. The F7-EGOP-VI facemask, which replaces the F7-EGOP-III model he used in 2023, gives Kelce better visibility while still remaining durable. These choices show that he prioritizes not only safety but also functionality, seeking the perfect balance between protection and performance.

However, while the helmet’s technology has been applauded, the appearance has sparked some debate among NFL fans. Some critics find the helmet’s design, with its angular bars, unflattering on the player, pointing out that the tilt of the helmet can affect his appearance. One fan even wrote, “This helmet and facemask combo makes his head look like it’s shrinking down to a small face.”

That said, despite these aesthetic quibbles, the F7 helmet remains popular among many NFL athletes, who appreciate its performance and ability to provide better protection.

Schutt’s F7 helmet doesn’t just protect Travis Kelce; it’s become a top choice among several NFL players. Technical benefits, such as the “Tektonic Plates,” have caught the attention of other athletes, and the model’s popularity has continued to grow throughout the league.

This reflects the NFL’s growing focus on player safety. In an era where brain injuries and concussions are major concerns, innovations like the Schutt F7 show a commitment to reducing risk while maintaining a high level of performance. Kelce, with his equipment choices, appears to be positioning himself as a model for personal protection in high-performance sports.

For Travis Kelce, every detail counts, both on and off the field. His longevity in such a physical position is due to a combination of hard work, raw talent, and meticulous attention to his equipment. The Schutt F7 helmet, while somewhat controversial in its appearance, is a perfect example of how technology can help keep players safe while meeting high-level performance demands.

Ultimately, while the look of his helmet may not be universally appreciated, it’s clear that Travis Kelce is doing whatever it takes to stay at the top of his game. After all, in a sport where every impact can have consequences, choosing a quality helmet isn’t just about style—it’s about survival on the field.