Albion 'NXT' cricket helmet
Object No. 2009/4/1
This latest version of the Albion cricket helmet has a unique articulated shell that can be finely adjusted for a more personalised fit. The new design is more streamlined and comfortable to wear than previous helmets. A fabric covered panel allows for better airflow while allowing the emblem to be embroidered on the front of the helmet, retaining historical references to the 'Baggy Green' cricket cap. The helmet received an Australian International Design Award and the Powerhouse Museum Selection in 2008, and represents excellence in Australian product design. This object also represents the ongoing improvement of an Australian innovation. The Albion cricket helmet was first introduced in 1978 and developed by Tony Henson at Coonan & Denley (C&D), which later became Albion. The first version had a rigid polycarbonate shell covered in fabric with a clear polycarbonate face guard. The clear faceguard was safe but not too obvious, retaining the aesthetic of the fabric 'Baggy green' cap. The introduction of the Albion cricket helmet meant cricketers could face fast bowling or field close to the bat with less fear of injury. The helmet reduced risks in top level cricket, made the game more entertaining, and was later adopted in other levels of cricket. Once the helmet was accepted, the company grew to hold 80% of the world market and branched out to produce other cricket equipment. The clear faceguard was later replaced with a wire guard and the helmet has since been redesigned a number of times to improve comfort and airflow. Angelique Hutchison Curator November 2008 References Ferguson A., 'Networking the key to company growth' Business Review Weekly, 20 June 1994, p 63. Haigh G., 'The cricket war : the inside story of Kerry Packer's World Series Cricket', Text Pub. Co., Melbourne, 1993.
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Summary
Object Statement
Cricket helmet, 'Albion NXT', metal / plastic / textile, designed by Design + Industry / Albion Hat and Cap Company, made by Albion Hat and Cap Company, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, 2007
Physical Description
Protective cricket helmet with green plastic (polypropylene) and fabric shell with visor. The helmet has a grey titanium wire face guard and a black chin strap.
DIMENSIONS
Height
300 mm
Width
223 mm
Depth
280 mm
PRODUCTION
Notes
Helmet designed by Design + Industry and Albion Hat and Cap Co Pty Ltd, 2007. The helmet was made by Albion Hat and Cap Co Pty Ltd, Alexandria, New South Wales, Australia in 2007. This helmet has an articulated shell which adjusts to the shape of the head to provide a personalised fit. The unique head adjustment mechanism draws the rear shells together for a superior fit and retention. The mechanism is operated from inside the helmet with a tuning key. The same key is used to adjust the position of the grille. If the key is lost a coin can be used. The face grille is made from titanium wire for weight reduction and enhanced strength. The design has been refined to follow the contours of the jaw line, reducing the overall size and thus allowing greater head movement, which improves player stance and line of sight. The grille adjustment fasteners are located internally for safety and aesthetics, creating a streamlined dynamic look. The ventilation system is incorporated into the mechanical assembly to increase the airflow. The fabric-covered front branding panel provides for the air intake directly on the player's forehead, drawing in cool air in from the front and exhausting the hot air out the back. 'Cooltech' comfort pads allow the players to adjust the padding to get an exact fit. Super absorbent frontal pads made from 'Quick Wik' towelling draw the moisture away from the player's forehead so players stay dry during play. Reference 2008 Australian International Design Awards entry, 'Albion NXT International Test Series Cricket Helmet' http://www.designawards.com.au/application_detail.jsp?status=8&applicationID=3584
HISTORY
Notes
This helmet was displayed in the 2008 Australian International Design Awards exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum from July 2008 - July 2009. The Albion NXT cricket helmet received an Australian International Design Award and the Powerhouse Museum Selection in 2008. In 2008 the AIDA received 159 entries. The judging panel recommended 60 of these products as finalists and of these, 18 products for an Australian International Design Award. The products receiving the Australian International Design Award were announced at a gala dinner and awards ceremony on 30th May at the Australian Technology Park, Redfern. In 2008 the Australian Design Awards program was opened up to internationally designed products on the market in Australia, and became known as the Australian International Design Awards. The 2008 AIDA judges commented on the Albion NXT cricket helmet: 'A great looking, superbly detailed helmet with extreme protection, taking test cricket into the next generation.' (2008 Australian International Design Awards Yearbook)
SOURCE
Credit Line
Gift of Design + Industry, 2009
Acquisition Date
14 January 2009
Copyright for the above image is held by the Powerhouse and may be subject to third-party copyright restrictions. Please submit an Image Licensing Enquiry for information regarding reproduction, copyright and fees. Text is released under Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivative licence.
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