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April 17, 2008 - Ryca Pte, Ltd. Exhibits SKYDEX at Defense Service Asia Conference & Exhibition
April 9, 2008 - SKYDEX Features Ballistic Helmet Upgrade Kits at Malaysia Exhibition
March 31, 2008 - SKYDEX Sponsors 2008 Best Ranger Competition
March 19, 2008 - SKYDEX Makes an Impact at Applied Ergonomics Conference
March 3, 2008 - SKYDEX to Showcase New Seating Technology at Ergonomics Conference
February 29, 2008 - SKYDEX Invited to Attend 2008 Army Intelligence Senior CSM/SGM Conference
January 14, 2008 - SKYDEX to Attend Annual C-Port Conference
January 4, 2008 - SKYDEX to Feature Sea Shocks Boat Mat at Miami International Boat Show
January 1, 2008 - SKYDEX Invited to Attend Sergeant Major Nominative Conference
May 29, 2007 - SKYDEX to Showcase Boat Decking at MACC
May 15, 2007 - SKYDEX Technologies, Inc At A Glance
April 20, 2007 - SKYDEX Sponsors 2007 Best Ranger Competition
April 5, 2007 - WISH-TV Web Entry
February 4, 2007 - Military Helmet Pads
November 7, 2006 - Military picks Skydex to supply helmet pads
November 6, 2006 - SKYDEX called into action by United States Military
September 22, 2006 - Schutt / SKYDEX featured on Friday Night Lights
September 18, 2006 - SKYDEX Joins US Cavalry in saying thanks to the men and women of the 101st...
August 15, 2006 - U.S. Cavalry Carries SKYDEX® Helmet Pad Kits
March 10, 2006 - SKYDEX Wins Procurement of USMC Knee and Elbow Pad Inserts Protecting Marines in Battle
February 10, 2006 - New SKYDEX Website Launched
February 8, 2006 - Letter of Appreciation from Secretary of Defense Rumsfield
October 21, 2005 - Letter from Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
August 19, 2004 - Houston Astros Employ Navy SEAL Technology to Better Protect Ballplayers at Minute Maid Park
July 22, 2004 - Sea Shocks™ Chosen “Most Innovative New Product” by Boating Writers International and the NMMA
March 1, 2004 - Sudden Impact: Manufacturers push for an ASTM Standard that quantifies the performance of wall padding
December 31, 2003 - SKYDEX making an impact: From CSU helmets to Navy SEAL boats, safety padding a hit
December 26, 2003 - Military Technology Hits the Gridiron Head-On This Bowl Season
December 12, 2003 - SKYDEX Technologies outperforms competitors in first phase of federal grant program
December 8, 2003 - Tactical and Practical: War and football really do have something in common
December 3, 2003 - New helmet gets added help from military
October 27, 2003 - SKYDEX introduces Sea Shocks™
April 28, 2003 - SKYDEX Makes Great Leaps in Pole Vaulting Safety
News
April 17, 2008 - Ryca Pte, Ltd. Exhibits SKYDEX at Defense Service Asia Conference & Exhibition
Ryca Pte Ltd is participating in DSA 2008 in KL from 21 to 24 April. For this time, we are exhibiting 2 products.
Magnum Boots continues to be a very popular combat footwear in Malaysia and the region. During this fair, we will showcase several new models : Stealth Force (which will supercede Stealth II) and the all new Firefighters http://www.military.sg/Images/brochures/MagnumFirefighter.pdf footwear. Do drop by our booth and have a look and feel of the ultimate boots. Never before have a Firefighting Boots been made so comfortable.
We are also launching SkyDex www.skydex.com (made in the USA) during the fairs. The Helmet Retrofit Kit promises to be the most popular product in the near future, with trials being carried out by both the Malaysian and Singapore Armed Forces. There are several other applications for this product.
We are located at Hall 1 Mezzanine, Booth # M037.
Mr Ivar Schout (Magnum), Mr Mike Buchen (SkyDex) will be at the exhibition. Should you desire to have an in-depth understanding of the products and wishes to discuss any issues, please do make advance appointment, so we can attend to you. After Exhibition hours, we will be available, if necessary, at nearby Legend Hotel.
April 9, 2008 - SKYDEX Features Ballistic Helmet Upgrade Kits at Malaysia Exhibition
Kuala Lampur, Malaysia – SKYDEX® Technologies, Inc. takes their patented cushioning technology to the international frontline in Malaysia. Attending the 11th Annual Defense Services Asia Exhibition and Conference, SKYDEX will feature their Ballistic Helmet Upgrade Kit utilizing their twin hemisphere technology.
Currently used by the United States Military and numerous armed services around the world, SKYDEX helmet pads, designed to protect things that matter, dramatically improve the impact protection and offer superior comfort for almost any military helmet.
SKYDEX materials are proven to offer far more effective impact protection and require less space that traditional cushioning materials like foam or rubber. With additional features such as stability, airflow and anti-microbial materials, the pads are custom engineering to provide shock absorption at the most critical impact points.
Representatives of SKYDEX, based in Centennial, CO USA, are proud to share their technology and knowledge to help improve the experience and comfort for all soldiers.
About SKYDEX Technologies, Inc.
SKYDEX shock absorbing technology redefines cushioning and protective capabilities in a wide variety of products to protect the things that matter. SKYDEX products range from helmets of all types and running shoes to industrial seating pads. Its materials have been proven to outperform and significantly outlast foams, gels and other products. Patented SKYDEX technology combines high performance polymers and proprietary geometry for superior cushioning power and the technology can be endlessly customized for specific applications. Quickly becoming a household name in cushion and impact protection, SKYDEX technology is used by some of the world’s most innovative consumer brands as wall as by the U.S. Military. SKYDEX Technologies, Inc. is a privately held company based in Centennial, Colo. For more information, visit www.SKYDEX.com
March 31, 2008 - SKYDEX Sponsors 2008 Best Ranger Competition
Head to toe padding absorbs impact to protect Rangers
Centennial, CO (April 3, 2008) – For the second year in a row, SKYDEX is a sponsor for the Best Ranger Competition in Fort Benning, Georgia to support our troops and to share its knowledge about impact protection. This is the 25th annual competition and SKYDEX is proud to provide all of the participants with a year supply of Pearl Izumi running shoes, which utilize SKYDEX technology to provide heel and forefoot cushioning.
SKYDEX Technologies, Inc. has become a leading producer of military padding applications utilizing its patented, twin-hemisphere cushioning technology. The padding is used in military helmets, seat cushions, knee and elbow pads, as well as boat decking and continues to be an area of growth for SKYDEX.
The Best Ranger Competition, established in 1982, has evolved from a tradition to salute the best of the best Rangers at Ft. Benning to include the entire United States Armed Forces. Members of the Rangers will compete in teams of two April 18th thru April 20th in Ft. Benning, GA to be recognized as the best two-man team for the entire US Ranger force.
For more information about SKYDEX, and its extensive military applications, please visit www.SKYDEX.com or contact Katy Wanek at kwanek@skydex.com, 303.790.4003. More information about the Best Ranger Competition can be found at www.bestrangercompetiton.com.
March 19, 2008 - SKYDEX Makes an Impact at Applied Ergonomics Conference
Centennial, CO (March 19, 2008) – SKYDEX Technologies, Inc., featured their latest products to reduce the vibrations and impact felt through a seating pad designed for industrial, military, commercial and consumer industries at this past weekends Applied Ergonomics Conference.
Held in Orlando, FL, this was the 11th Annual Applied Ergonomics Conference and Expo. At a conference highlighting the latest in ergonomic solutions for the workplace, SKYDEX seating technology offered an innovative, effective and one of a kind solution for industrial vehicles.
Kicking off the conference and expo, a Product Development Engineer for SKYDEX presented on the topic of Whole Body Vibration and the current presence of the issue in the industrial work place. Spurring questions and ideas from the presentation, SKYDEX representatives spent the rest of the conference meeting with leaders in the ergonomic industry and industrial workplaces to further explain the seating technology and how it can be utilized in the workplace to protect employees and employers bottom lines.
To learn more about SKYDEX seating technology visit www.SKYDEX.com or contact Katy Wanek 303.790.4003, kwanek@skydex.com. For an overview of the 11th Annual Applied Ergonomics Conference & Expo visit http://www.iienet2.org/ergo/conference/.
March 3, 2008 - SKYDEX to Showcase New Seating Technology at Ergonomics Conference
SKYDEX Technologies, Inc. plans to showcase their latest seating technology at the Annual Applied Ergonomics Conference and Expo. Held in Orlando, FL this will be the 11th annual conference which features the latest ergonomic designs and solutions for the workplace in every industry.
This will be the inaugural showing of SKYDEX’s latest designs to offer ergonomic seating solutions for the toughest industrial environments. Engineered in the industrial application to help protect employers bottom line; SKYDEX seating protects vehicle occupants from negative exposure to vibration and shock.
Product Development Engineer Ben Reese will be presenting on the issue of Whole-Body Vibration and the solutions that SKYDEX can offer to prevent the negative effects of WBV through their seating designs. The presentation will be help at 8:45 am on Tuesday March 11 at the Rosen Centre in Signature Room 2.
To speak with a SKYDEX representative and test the latest product for yourself, come by Booth #516 March 11th – 12th at the Applied Ergonomics Conference. For more information on SKYDEX and their seating technology visit www.SKYDEX.com or contact Katy Wanek at kwanek@skydex.com, 303.790.4003.
February 29, 2008 - SKYDEX Invited to Attend 2008 Army Intelligence Senior CSM/SGM Conference
SKYDEX ® Technologies Inc. has been invited to attend the 2008 Army Intelligence Senior CSM/SGM Conference held at Ft. Huachuca in Arizona March 4th – 7th.
SKYDEX has become a leading producer of military impact protection equipment utilizing its patented, twin-hemisphere technology. Beginning with Ballistic Helmet Upgrade Kits, SKYDEX has also developed boat decking for the military and their latest designs focus on humvee seating.
To learn more about SKYDEX, please visit www.skydex.com. For further information please contact Katy Wanek 303-952-8908.
January 14, 2008 - SKYDEX to Attend Annual C-Port Conference
CENTENNIAL, CO (January 14, 2008) SKYDEX® Technologies, Inc. will be attending the 21st Annual C-Port Conference to meet and educate members of the marine assistance and salvage industry. Held on February 1-3 in Amelia Island, FL SKYDEX is excited to feature their IMBD Boat Decking and Sea Shocks™ boating mat and Crew Mat.
At the conference, SKYDEX will be educating top-level decision makers from the marine assistance industry on the importance of impact mitigation and the potential dangers of the marine environment on the human body. Utilizing their patented twin hemisphere technology, SKYDEX has developed specialized products to not only protect marine professionals, but to also increase their operational effectiveness that can be influenced by extended time on the water.
Visit the SKYDEX booth to test out Sea Shocks and IMBD (Impact Mitigating Boat Decking) for yourself February 1-3.
To learn more about SKYDEX, please visit www.skydex.com.
January 4, 2008 - SKYDEX to Feature Sea Shocks Boat Mat at Miami International Boat Show
CENTENNIAL, CO (January 4, 2008)
SKYDEX® Technologies, Inc. will be attending this year's Miami International Boat Show to feature its upgraded boat mat, Sea Shocks™. Held on February 14-18 in Miami, FL the Miami International Boat Show is marketed as "the largest event of its kind."
Sea Shocks consumer boat mats utilize SKYDEX's patented twin-hemisphere technology to absorb the impact of rough water which reduces tension and strain on the joints. Avid boaters know the aching backs and sore legs that can result from spending time on the water; Sea Shocks uses technology designed for boats used by Navy SEALS to mitigate these stresses. Re-released in December 2007, Sea Shocks boat mats are available for sale online at www.seashocks.com.
It is the 67th Miami International Boat Show produced by the National Marine Manufacturers Association and the first time attendance for SKYDEX. Visit SKYDEX and test out Sea Shocks for yourself February 14-18 in booth #4125.
To learn more about SKYDEX, please visit www.skydex.com, and their product Sea Shocks, www.seashocks.com. For more information on the Miami International Boat show, visit www.miamiboatshow.com. For further information please contact Katy Wanek 303-952-8909.
January 1, 2008 - SKYDEX Invited to Attend Sergeant Major Nominative Conference
CENTENNIAL, CO (January 1, 2008)
SKYDEX® Technologies, Inc. will be attending the 2008 Sergeant Major Nominative Conference by invitation. The conference will be held January 7-9 at Ft. Bliss in El Paso, TX.
SKYDEX has become a leading producer of military impact protection, equipment utilizing its patented, twin-hemisphere technology. SKYDEX will be providing samples of its Ballistic Helmet Upgrade Kits to the attendees to share with their commands. This product meets or beats all ballistic helmet performance requirements and is a perfect example of SKYDEX's mission of: protecting things that matter™. Used by ground troops and aviators, the Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH), "Old Kevlar" Retrofit, and Lightweight Helmet (LWH) liner sets provide superior protection and comfort for the U.S. Armed Forces. Additionally, SKYDEX will be showcasing their military-grade boat decking.
To learn more about SKYDEX, please visit ww.skydex.com. For Further information please contact Katy Wanek 303-952-8908
May 29, 2007 - SKYDEX to Showcase Boat Decking at MACC
Centennial, CO (May 29, 2007) SKYDEX® Technologies, Inc is schedule to attend this year’s Multi-Agency Craft Conference (MACC) June 5-7 at the Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Norfolk, Virginia.
SKYDEX has become a leading producer of military impact protection equipment utilizing its patented, twin-hemisphere technology. SKYDEX will be showcasing its military-grade boat decking, termed IMID (Impact Mitigating Interlocking Decking) Panels, at MACC. This remarkable product reduces the amount of shock transferred to personnel during high-speed boat transit resulting in fewer acute and chronic injuries of the neck, lower back, and knees. Other military products include ballistic helmet padding, seat cushions, and knee & elbow pads.
It is the 10th anniversary for the Multi-Agency Craft Conference (MACC), which provides a forum for open exchange and discussion about boats and craft between Government agencies and the maritime community.
To learn more about SKYDEX, please visit www.skydex.com. For more information on MACC, visit http://www.boats.dt.navy.mil/macc/
May 15, 2007 - SKYDEX Technologies, Inc At A Glance
Launch Document
April 20, 2007 - SKYDEX Sponsors 2007 Best Ranger Competition
Padding absorbs impact to protect rangers
Centennial, Colo. (April 20, 2007) – As a BRC Hero, the highest level of sponsor, SKYDEX® signed on with the 24th Annual Best Ranger Competition in Fort Benning, Georgia, to support our troops and to share its knowledge about impact protection. All competitors received a Retrofit Kit, SKYDEX’s most popular and most expensive pad kit and a pair of Pearl Izumi sneakers, from another SKYDEX partner.
SKYDEX Technologies, Inc. has become a leading producer of military padding applications utilizing its patented, twin-hemisphere cushioning technology. The padding is used in military helmets, seat cushions, knee pads and elbow pads and continues to be an area of growth for SKYDEX.
BRC has evolved since 1982 from one that was originally created to salute the best two-man “buddy” team in the Ranger Department at Fort Benning to a contest that recognizes the best two-man team from the entire United States Armed Forces.
For more information about SKYDEX and its extensive military applications, please visit www.skydex.com. For information about the Best Ranger Competition, visit www.bestrangercompetition.com
April 5, 2007 - WISH-TV Web Entry
A recent Peabody award-winning series featured SKYDEX Technologies, Inc.® and its military helmet pad kits. WISH-TV, in Indianapolis, Ind. produced an investigative program about military protection in November 2006. The series looked into the safety of U.S. military helmets currently being used in Iraq and the difference $30 in helmet padding could make between a soldier safely leaving a blast site or suffering serious brain injury.
SKYDEX is committed to protecting things that matter through its work to created safer cushioning technology to mitigate impact and decrease brain injuries. SKYDEX’s patented twin-hemisphere technology is the most efficient in the world in absorbing impact per cubic inch of space. SKYDEX protects people, prevents injuries and saves lives by absorbing impact.
February 4, 2007 - Military Helmet Pads
The same material that's used to cushion your feet in your sneakers is now being used to help keep our soldiers safe in combat. SKYDEX technologies, based in centennial, makes pads for military helmets. SKYDEX CEO Mike Buchen was on CBS4 News, Saturday morning, February 4 to talk about the products.
Watch Video
November 7, 2006 - Military picks Skydex to supply helmet padsLittle Centennial company wins big contract for kits to reduce head injuries
By Jeff Smith, Rocky Mountain News
November 7, 2006
A Centennial firm has won a multimillion-dollar contract to supply 120,000 helmet pad kits to U.S. soldiers to help protect them from head injuries.
Skydex Technologies Inc. of Centennial will provide the kits to ADS Inc. to be distributed to the Air Force.
"We're an eight-person company, so you can tell how meaningful (the contract) is," said Michael Buchen, Skydex chief executive officer.
He said the company, which started in 1999 to design padding for athletic shoes, has been working hard in the military area, and "it's finally starting to bear fruit."
Buchen said he couldn't disclose the exact amount of the award but said it was in the several million-dollar range and by far the largest military-related contract to date.
In addition, various Army bases around the country, including Fort Carson, have ordered a total of more than 30,000 helmet pad kits from Skydex.
Skydex also is in the running to have its patented elastic polymer components included in the military's new advanced combat helmet.
Brain injuries have been referred to as the "signature wound" in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
According to an article last year in The New England Journal of Medicine, protective gear such as Kevlar helmets have improved survival rates in the war in Iraq compared with the Vietnam War. But blasts from explosives have resulted in thousands of injuries, many similar to shaken-baby syndrome.
In the case of the Air Force contract, the Skydex pad kit will be used to upgrade or retrofit an old, post-Vietnam War Kevlar helmet.
"It makes it from an impact standpoint as protective as the new Kevlar helmet," Buchen said.
The Skydex technology consists of polymers molded into a spongy two-hemisphere shape, likes halves of a ball. The technology is designed to better absorb the impact of an explosion than traditional cushioning materials such as foam or rubber.
The Skydex materials also require less space. Buchen said the components also dry quickly.
Skydex can be used for different applications by changing the materials and geometry of the design.
The Air Force deal won't result in a lot of new jobs because Skydex outsources most of its work. It uses outside salespeople, with ADS serving as its military distributor, and Skydex components are made in a Nike manufacturing plant in St. Louis. Buchen said Skydex probably would hire three additional people.
The company's technology also is being used in an NFL football helmet and in a number of popular consumer products, including various models of Pearl Izumi running shoes, Ariat riding boots and Burton snowboard boots.
"We were a company headed down a more or less athletics (road)," Buchen said. "We really were called to the battlefield with this technology because existing technologies were foam. There aren't a lot of companies that know as much about protecting heads as we do."
Source: http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn...910_5123608,00.html
November 6, 2006 - SKYDEX called into action by United States Military
DENVER – November 6, 2006 – SKYDEX Technologies marked its first major contract to protect United States soldiers around the world. SKYDEX was selected because of its unique and disruptive impact mitigation technology.
SKYDEX was selected to provide 120,000 helmet pad kits to ADS, Inc., to be distributed to the United States Air Force immediately.
In addition, various Army bases around the country have ordered more than 30,000 helmet pad kits for its soldiers. SKYDEX's patented technology initially built its brand name protecting athletes with its various products. It later broadened into the industrial, marine and healthcare industries.
Now SKYDEX technology has been called to the battlefield. The opposing twin-hemisphere design protects things that matter by dramatically improving the impact protection of Air Force and Army ballistic helmets.
The padding retrofits military helmets already used in the field by troops to provide more impact protection and help save lives.
"While continuing our work in other markets we have added staff dedicated to the protection of our troops. It has become our top priority," said SKYDEX Technologies CEO Michael Buchen. "Secondly, these partnerships provide SKYDEX with substantial incremental revenue."
SKYDEX materials absorb impact through compression of opposed hemispheres formed from durable elastic polymers. Such materials are proven to offer far more effective impact protection and require less space than traditional cushioning materials like foam or rubber. The pads are custom engineered to provide maximum shock absorption at the most critical impact points.
ADS is intensely focused on providing the timely and cost effective tactical and special operational products as well as logistics solutions clients need to increase their operational effectiveness and complete their missions – at home or in theatre. ADS provides operators with state-of-the-art individual and small unit equipment to enhance their quality of life and increase their combat effectiveness. In addition, ADS helps customers develop integrated, modular, interoperable and flexible multi-mission force packages to deter and defeat our enemies.
ADS has developed procedures that shorten the "logistics pipeline" to provide rapid response and the best possible pricing to customers worldwide. Through customized equipment and logistics packages, ADS supports the war fighter throughout all phases of the deployment process.
About SKYDEX Technologies, Inc.
SKYDEX™ shock absorbing technology redefines cushioning and protective capabilities in a wide variety of products to protect the things that matter most in our lives –our friends and family. SKYDEX products range from helmets of all types and running shoes to stadium outfield walls. Its materials have been proven to outperform and significantly outlast foams, gels and other products. Patented SKYDEX technology combines high performance polymers with proprietary geometry for superior cushioning power, and the technology can be endlessly customized for specific applications. Quickly becoming a household name in cushioning and impact protection, SKYDEX technology is used by some of the world’s most innovative consumer brands as well as by the U.S. Military. SKYDEX Technologies, Inc. is a privately held company based in Centennial, Colo. For more information, visit www.skydex.com.
About ADS, Inc.
ADS supports and supplies all federal, state and local government agencies. ADS is a Worldwide DLA Prime Vendor, a General Services Administration (GSA) contract holder and a DOD EMALL contract holder. ADS' current Prime Vendor contract is an indefinite delivery and indefinite quantity contract to provide specialized equipment and services. The company holds GSA contracts with numerous tactical and special operational equipment manufacturers. ADS is the 2005 Defense Logistics Agency "DLA Business Alliance Innovative Small Business Performer of the Year." This recognition was achieved for outstanding efforts to partner with DLA and improve the agency's mission – providing supplies and services to America's war fighters. For more information, visit www.adstactical.com.
September 22, 2006 - Schutt / SKYDEX featured on Friday Night Lights
September 18, 2006 - SKYDEX Joins US Cavalry in saying thanks to the men and women of the 101st Airborne, returning from Iraq in September at Ft. Campbell KY.
SKYDEX believes it is a great opportunity to say thank you, in a way that really matters.
Mike Buchen CEO was quoted as saying “Sometimes...it is Not About Selling Product, it is Simply About the Soldier”
August 15, 2006 - U.S. Cavalry Carries SKYDEX® Helmet Pad Kits
March 10, 2006 - SKYDEX Wins Procurement of USMC Knee and Elbow Pad Inserts Protecting Marines in Battle
SKYDEX-engineered inserts replace foam in first big military breakthrough
Centennial, CO – The USMC have placed orders for over 83,000 sets of knee and elbow pads that will be issued to Marines containing SKYDEX inserts.
The inserts which add product life in the field as well as substantially more comfort and durability will begin shipping in the next 8 weeks.
The insert rests inside the knee and elbow, right up against the hard plastic outer cap which helps absorb the initial impact from a fall our concussion blast.
SKYDEX materials absorb impact through compression of opposed hemispheres formed from durable elastic polymers. It is proven to offer far more effective impact protection in less space than traditional cushioning materials like foam or rubber. In addition, it was custom engineered to provide maximum shock absorption at the most critical impact points for this application
The USMC placed the order with Source One, a distributor in Florida and the products will be made by Bijans Protective Equipment in Santa Rosa CA.
“We have been working with various branches of the military for over 2 years” said Mike Buchen, chief executive officer of SKYDEX. “We have a remarkable technology, and this first knee and elbow pad order is a significant breakthrough and a reward for our persistence in that market. It is also the first of several products that we believe will follow over the next several months. The military is the perfect place for SKYDEX with its advantages over all types of foam and I cannot think of a better place for our technology, “Protecting Things that Matter
About SKYDEX Technologies, Inc.
SKYDEX™ shock absorbing technology is redefining cushioning and protective capabilities in a wide variety of products, from helmets and running shoes to stadium outfield walls. SKYDEX materials have been proven to outperform and significantly outlast foams, gels and other products. Patented SKYDEX technology combines high performance polymers with proprietary geometry for superior cushioning power, and the technology can be endlessly customized for specific applications. Slated to become a household name in cushioning and impact protection, SKYDEX technology is used by some of the world’s most innovative consumer brands, including Schutt, Nike, Pearl Izumi, Ariat and Burton, as well as by the U.S. Military. SKYDEX Technologies, Inc. is a privately held company based in Centennial, Colo. For more information visit www.skydex.com.
February 10, 2006 - New SKYDEX Website Launched
The new website for SKYDEX, designed by Unleaded Software, has been launched.
February 8, 2006 - Letter of Appreciation from Secretary of Defense Rumsfield
Launch PDF
October 21, 2005 - Letter from Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
Launch PDF
August 19, 2004 - Houston Astros Employ Navy SEAL Technology to Better Protect Ballplayers at Minute Maid Park
New Outfield Wall Padding Uses Same High Tech Material Found in Nike Shoes and Special Forces Boats; Shown to Improve Shock Attenuation by up to 73%
HOUSTON – The crown jewel of Houston’s skyline, Houston Astros Minute Maid Park, now features a revolutionary outfield wall padding system that dramatically increases shock absorption and ultimately, outfielder safety. Discarding its traditional foam and vinyl wall pads, the Minute Maid park outfield wall instead uses SKYDEX cushioning technology, an innovative material formed from durable plastics that is also used by Nike in many of their Air shoes and in the latest NFL and NCAA football helmets. SKYDEX technology is even used on the floors of Navy SEAL boats to better absorb impact and reduce fatigue and chronic injury.
The new outfield wall at Minute Maid Park combines a 2 ¾” layer of SKYDEX material with a thin, lightweight layer of vinyl and foam. The new system has been shown to reduce shock attenuation scores by up to 73%, which could translate into fewer or less severe injuries when outfielders crash into the wall while tracking deep fly balls.
SKYDEX materials absorb impact through compression of opposed hemispheres formed from durable elastic polymers. It is proven to offer far more effective impact protection in less space than traditional cushioning materials like foam or rubber. In addition, it can be custom engineered to provide maximum shock absorption at the most critical impact points.
Installed on July 2nd by Promats, the exclusive distributor of SKYDEX field wall padding, the new wall was ready just in time for the 2004 All-Star game played at Minute Maid Park. Since the All-Star game, the new wall padding system has received positive reviews from Houston Astros management. “We are really pleased with the product thus far,” said Rob Matwick, Houston Astros Senior Vice President of Ballpark Operations and Customer Service. “We feel it is superior to what we were using previously. It was a real plus for us to have it installed in time for the 2004 All-Star Game that we hosted at Minute Maid Park.”
“We’re thrilled that the Houston Astros chose to install our stadium outfield technology to protect the best of the best for the 2004 All-Star game,” said Michael Buchen, chief executive officer of SKYDEX. “We have a remarkable technology, and Minute Maid Park – one of the most technologically advanced big league ballparks – is the perfect showcase for it.”
About SKYDEX Technologies, Inc.
SKYDEX™ shock absorbing technology is redefining cushioning and protective capabilities in a wide variety of products, from helmets and running shoes to stadium outfield walls. SKYDEX materials have been proven to outperform and significantly outlast foams, gels and other products. Patented SKYDEX technology combines high performance polymers with proprietary geometry for superior cushioning power, and the technology can be endlessly customized for specific applications. Slated to become a household name in cushioning and impact protection, SKYDEX technology is used by some of the world’s most innovative consumer brands, including Schutt, Nike, and Burton, as well as by the U.S. Military. SKYDEX Technologies, Inc. is a privately held company based in Centennial, Colo. For more information visit www.skydex.com.
About Promats
Promats, co-developer of the SKYDEX Protected Wall Pad System, is the country's leading manufacturer of protective field wall padding and related products for use in stadiums and gymnasiums. Promats padding products have been installed in over 400 major stadiums and arenas nationally including 16 major league baseball stadiums, products for the NFL, Indoor Arena Football, College Football & Baseball, Canadian League Football, World Cup Soccer, Minor League Baseball, and 17 Major League Baseball spring training facilities. Additionally, Promats padding products can be found in thousands of schools and recreational facilities worldwide. Visit www.promats.com.
July 22, 2004 - Sea Shocks™ Chosen “Most Innovative New Product” by Boating Writers International and the NMMA
Cutting-edge technology, used by Navy SEALs, is now available to protect recreational boaters from the hard impact of a boat on rough water
LAS VEGAS, NV –The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) presented a New Product Innovation Award to SKYDEX Technologies for Sea Shocks™, its new high performance shock-absorbing boat deck mat for the consumer market.
Designed to be placed on the deck at the helm or center console area, the Sea Shocks boat mat can absorb impact up to 75 percent better than foam or rubber products. The same cutting-edge technology is currently used to fight fatigue and chronic injury on high-speed Navy SEAL assault boats. Sea Shocks are powered by SKYDEX cushioning technology, the same high performance shock absorbing material used in many Nike shoes and in the latest NFL football helmets.
The NMMA award was presented in the Safety Products category at the 2004 Marine Aftermarket Accessories Tradeshow (MAATS). A panel of writers representing Boating Writers International judged the awards competition, which is designed to recognize excellence in new products and technologies that benefit the boating consumer.
Sea Shocks technology was initially developed for the United States Special Forces to better absorb the extreme G-forces experienced by Navy SEALs on high speed assault boats. In independent testing at the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Center, Sea Shocks reduced peak G forces by 90 percent compared to the Navy SEALs incumbent foam decking material. Sea Shocks military boat decking is now installed by a variety of boatbuilders, including Zodiac, Willard Marine, USMI, SeaArk and Aluminum Chambered Boats.
“We’ve taken military-grade technology and created the Sea Shocks mat for recreational boaters who want a first-class fatigue and injury reducing solution,” said Mike Buchen, SKYDEX chief executive officer. “We’re extremely honored to be recognized for the effectiveness of our technology.”
Sea Shocks are available in two high-tech translucent colors, require no installation and little maintenance, and come with a 30 day satisfaction guarantee and 1 year warranty. Sea Shocks, currently priced at $109.95, are currently available on the web at www.SeaShocks.com or by calling 1-866-SEASHOCKS (732-7462).
About SKYDEX Technologies (www.skydex.com)
SKYDEX™ shock absorbing technology is redefining cushioning and protective characteristics in a wide variety of products, from helmets and running shoes to stadium outfield walls. SKYDEX materials have been proven to outperform and significantly outlast foams, gels, and other products. Patented SKYDEX technology combines high performance polymers with proprietary geometries for superior cushioning power, and the technology can be endlessly customized for a wide range of cushioning and protective applications. SKYDEX Technologies, Inc., is a privately held company based in Centennial, Colo. Slated to become a household name in cushioning and impact protection, SKYDEX technology already is used by some of the world’s most innovative consumer brands, including Schutt Sports, Nike, and Burton, as well as the U.S. Military.
March 1, 2004 - Sudden Impact: Manufacturers push for an ASTM Standard that quantifies the performance of wall padding
December 31, 2003 - SKYDEX making an impact: From CSU helmets to Navy SEAL boats, safety padding a hit
December 26, 2003 - Military Technology Hits the Gridiron Head-On This Bowl Season
Several College Bowl teams using Schutt® Sports DNA™ Helmet
with technology developed to protect Navy SEALs, Army paratroopers.
LITCHFIELD, IL – Schutt® Sports today announced that several teams competing in upcoming college bowl games will use a new football helmet that features new-to-the-game, military developed technology.
The DNA™ helmet from Schutt® Sports features shock-absorbing SKYDEX™ technology developed for Army paratrooper helmets and Marine, Coast Guard, and Navy SEAL boats.
“Innovation always has been an important part of our mission, and this is the first true departure from traditional padding material that the sport has seen in 30 years,” said Schutt Sports President Julie Nimmons.
The helmet was tested this fall by 35 NCAA Division I teams and several NCAA Division II and III teams, junior colleges, and high schools. Teams that will wear the helmet in the next two weeks and/or took part in the field pilot include:
• University of Nebraska (Alamo Bowl, Monday, Dec. 29)
• U.S. Naval Academy (Houston Bowl, Tuesday, Dec. 30)
• UCLA (Silicon Valley Classic, Tuesday, Dec. 30)
• Auburn University (Music City Bowl, Wednesday, Dec. 31)
• University of Minnesota (Sun Bowl, Wednesday, Dec. 31)
• Southern Mississippi University (Liberty Bowl, Wednesday, Dec. 31)
• Colorado State University (San Francisco Bowl, Wednesday, Dec. 31)
• University of Maryland (Gator Bowl, Thursday, Jan. 1)
• Oklahoma State University (Cotton Bowl, Friday, Jan. 2)
Schutt DNA Helmet
With the pilot completed, the helmet goes on sale Jan. 4, 2004. A youth helmet will also available.
“There is truly nothing like Schutt’s DNA helmet – instead of foam, a thin layer of the SKYDEX shock-absorbing material lines the inside of the helmet,” said Matt Lewis, Equipment Manager at Texas Christian University. TCU participated in the test pilot and competed in this year’s Fort Worth Bowl. “Not only has SKYDEX been proven to outperform and outlast traditional foam, the material is non-porous, so it resists bacteria better,” Lewis said.
The Schutt DNA was designed with insights from an ongoing, NFL sponsored study that is providing new information about mild traumatic brain injuries. The helmet’s design was tested with the same state-of-the-art pendulum testing equipment that NFL researchers are using to measure helmet impacts. Schutt owns one of only three pendulum testing machines in the world.
The DNA absorbs shock using rows of twin hemispheres that are similar to two halves of a ball being squeezed together. The SKYDEX lining attenuates shock and dissipates energy better than foam and is thinner and lighter than traditional foam, allowing for more comfort cushioning. The helmet’s spherical shell is designed to make for a more glancing blow, particularly on helmet to helmet contact.
Like other Schutt helmets, the DNA has a swing-away faceguard – a feature that provides trainers a faster way to remove the faceguard in emergency situations. It also has strategically placed ventilation holes to help move air and prevent heat buildup.
Thousands of professional, college and high school football players wear Schutt Sports helmets, including Heisman Trophy winner and Associated Press Player of the Year Jason White of the University of Oklahoma. In fact, 10 of the last 13 Heisman Trophy winners have worn Schutt helmets.
About Schutt® Sports
Schutt Sports is synonymous with innovation in sports equipment, from the pros to youth leagues. Schutt Sports is the largest provider of football helmets and faceguards in the world and has introduced many of the game’s most important advances in protective equipment, from its first football faceguard in 1935 to breakthrough helmet technology in 2003 via the Schutt® DNA™ helmet with SKYDEX™ material. Schutt Sports also markets innovative, quality, protective and field/court equipment for baseball, basketball, and softball, and is the Official Base Supplier of Major League Baseball®. The Litchfield, Ill. based company also markets collectible football helmets and bases to promote fan enjoyment. Schutt Sports is The Gear That Makes The Game™.
December 12, 2003 - SKYDEX Technologies outperforms competitors in first phase of federal grant program
Company on the path to receiving up to $750,000 in second phase funding for development of more protective aviator helmet.
DENVER, CO - SKYDEX Technologies was invited to apply for Phase II of a development project in the United States Navy’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. This achievement reflects the strength of the company’s Phase I development efforts, which demonstrated that patented SKYDEX technology could dramatically improve the impact protection of naval aviator helmets.
The SBIR program is designed to strengthen the role of innovative small businesses in federally-funded research and development. It follows a competitive three-phase process, awarding funds in each phase for research and development to meet specified needs. SKYDEX received a Phase I grant of $70,000 and is likely to receive up to $750,000 for continued development in Phase II.
SKYDEX materials absorb impact through compression of opposed hemispheres formed from durable elastic polymers. It is proven to offer far more effective impact protection, and in less space, than traditional cushioning materials like foam or rubber. In addition, it can be custom engineered to provide maximum shock absorption at the most critical impact points.
SKYDEX was invited to apply for Phase II of the SBIR project after outperforming the two other Phase I companies they were competing against.
“SKYDEX materials did substantially better than foam in terms of impact scores, while maintaining the same thickness, reducing weight and dramatically improving comfort,” said Michael Buchen, chief executive officer of SKYDEX. “We have a remarkable technology, and these results provide further evidence of its broad potential in protective applications.”
During Phase I of the SBIR project, SKYDEX engineered a liner to fit the specified aviator helmet. The company performed impact testing to determine what material would perform optimally in the helmet, and to identify its most critical impact points. The company then demonstrated how the liner could be tuned to increase protection where it is most needed, by varying geometric structures at specific points. In initial testing, the SKYDEX liner showed a significant improvement in protective capabilities over the current Styrofoam liner.
In addition to enhancing impact protection, SKYDEX materials allow for improved airflow to the wearer’s head, dramatically increasing comfort. SKYDEX conducted biomechanical tests to evaluate airflow within the helmet, and to understand the effect of improved airflow on comfort.
About the U.S. Navy SBIR Program
The purpose of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program is to strengthen the role of innovative small business concerns in federally-funded research and development. The program follows a uniform competitive process of three phases that involve proposal solicitations and funding agreements for research and development to meet stated agency needs. For more information visit www.navysbir.com.
About SKYDEX Technologies, Inc.
SKYDEX™ shock absorbing technology is redefining cushioning and protective capabilities in a wide variety of products, from helmets and running shoes to stadium outfield walls. SKYDEX materials have been proven to outperform and significantly outlast foams, gels and other products. Patented SKYDEX technology combines high performance polymers with proprietary geometry for superior cushioning power, and the technology can be endlessly customized for specific applications. Slated to become a household name in cushioning and impact protection, SKYDEX technology is used by some of the world’s most innovative consumer brands, including Schutt, Nike, and Burton, as well as by the U.S. Military. SKYDEX Technologies, Inc. is a privately held company based in Centennial, Colo. For more information visit www.skydex.com.
December 8, 2003 - Tactical and Practical: War and football really do have something in common
(Sporting News)
December 3, 2003 - New helmet gets added help from military
(USA Today)
October 27, 2003 - SKYDEX introduces Sea Shocks™
High performance boat decking technology provides unrivaled shock absorption for military and commercial boating applications
MIAMI, FL - SKYDEX Technologies introduces Sea Shocks™, a proprietary shock absorption decking system, for use in protecting boat operators and passengers from injury. Sea Shocks customized boat flooring panels act like a car’s shock absorbers, greatly reducing the jarring effects of rough seas.
The repetitive impact of a high-speed boat on water delivers a tremendous amount of shock to the body, leading to acute and chronic injury to the lower back, knees and neck. Sea Shocks utilizes breakthrough SKYDEX cushioning technology to far more effectively absorb the high G forces that result from hard contact on water.
Sea Shocks flooring was initially developed for the United States Special Forces to better absorb the extreme G-forces experienced by Navy SEALs on high speed assault boats. In independent testing at the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Center, Sea Shocks reduced peak G forces by 90 percent compared to the Navy SEALs incumbent material.
“Sea Shocks is also being tested and used by the U.S. Coast Guard and Marines, along with a variety of commercial boat builders,” said Mike Buchen, SKYDEX chief executive officer. “Reducing the stress of rough marine travel is a critical need, and our Sea Shocks system has been proven to absorb shock dramatically better than any of the alternatives.”
Sea Shocks decking systems, available in 1” or 2” thickness, are easy to install and maintain. Additionally, Sea Shocks provide excellent traction, can withstand extreme temperatures and considerable wear - features that are critical in marine applications. Sea Shocks are now available for purchase on the web at www.SeaShocks.com.
About SKYDEX Technologies (www.skydex.com)
SKYDEX, headquartered in Centennial, Colo., manufactures a patented cushioning and protective technology that can enhance the safety, durability and comfort of a broad range of products. SKYDEX technology is currently used in applications ranging from Nike athletic shoes and Schutt NFL helmets to safer playground surfaces and stadium outfield walls. The technology’s superior shock absorption and comfort qualities are based on a twin hemisphere configuration molded from high-durability polymers. By changing raw materials or varying geometry, SKYDEX material technology can be engineered for a wide variety of higher performance applications.
April 28, 2003 - SKYDEX Makes Great Leaps in Pole Vaulting Safety
Penn State, High Performance Athletics in NJ are Among First Customers for Pole Vault Products Made of SKYDEX, a Revolutionary New Cushioning Technology
Centennial, Colo. – Motivated by last year’s death of a Big 10 former junior champion pole vaulter, SKYDEX Technologies, Inc., has created three new padding products that take pole vaulting safety to new heights.
Available to track and field programs this season, the SKYDEX protective products are designed to significantly reduce the potential for critical injuries among pole vaulters by absorbing impact several times better than existing products.
SKYDEX, a breakthrough cushioning and protective technology is already being used in a variety of important applications ranging from playground surfaces and athletic shoes to the U.S. Military, is now the essential safety component in three new pole vault products, including a Vault Soft Planting Box; Vault Box Collar; and Pit Extension Pads. The products currently are distributed exclusively by Gill Athletics.
The first customers for the new SKYDEX pole vault products include Penn State University and Tom Davis, President and CEO of High Performance Athletics in New Jersey, who trains top-performing athletes from more than 38 Southern New Jersey high schools and colleges.
Ed Dare, father of Kevin Dare – the junior national champion pole vaulter whose death just over one year ago while competing at the Big Ten indoor championships thrust the sport and its safety issues into the national spotlight – applauds the safety advances being made in pole vaulting.
“SKYDEX products use new technology to greatly attenuate shock and prevent injury,” said Dare. “I encourage coaches across the country to learn all they can about these products and others that promote pole vault safety.”
“Our company’s mission is ‘protecting what matters,’ and nothing is more important than guarding young athletes against severe physical injury and even death,” said Stuart Jenkins, CEO of SKYDEX Technologies, Inc. “Pole vaulting is an incredibly challenging, dramatic sport whose participants deserve greater protection than has been available to date. We’re proud that new SKYDEX pole vault padding offers these brave athletes the safest, most effective protective cushioning available anywhere, while still enabling vaulters to perform as well as they do using traditional pads and vault boxes,” said Jenkins.
Cushioning Performance and Injury Risk
Pole vault landing surfaces are tested using a device that simulates the impact of an athlete’s head and measures the shock of impact. One important measurement used to rate surface performance is “G-max,” which measures the maximum shock produced by an impact.
Fall height for surface materials is defined as the maximum height from which the metal headform on the testing device, upon impact, yields no more than 200 Gs when tested in accordance with ASTM F1292.
In comparative testing SKYDEX repeatedly delivers significantly greater levels of protection than standard pole vault padding and surfaces. For example, at a fall height of 20 feet, the SKYDEX Vault Box yields a G-max of only 163, substantially below the 200 G maximum for safety. Incredibly, landing on a standard vault box yields a G-max of more than 500 at a fall height of just six inches.
Similarly, the SKYDEX Vault Box Collar yields a G-max of less than 70 at a fall height of seven feet, while a standard vault box collar far exceeds the 200 G limit at the same height.
Lightweight, strong and custom-engineered, SKYDEX replaces old-fashioned, less protective cushioning – such as foam and rubber products. SKYDEX is capable of absorbing unprecedented amounts of shock through a unique double-hemisphere design.
Slated to become the “Gore-Tex of cushioning,” SKYDEX technology already is used by some of the world’s most innovative consumer brands, including Nike, Burton and Airwalk, as well as the U.S. Military. SKYDEX Technologies, Inc., is a privately held company based in Centennial, Colo.
About SKYDEX Technologies, Inc.
SKYDEX™ shock absorbing technology is redefining cushioning and protective capabilities in a wide variety of products, from helmets and running shoes to stadium outfield walls. SKYDEX materials have been proven to outperform and significantly outlast foams, gels and other products. Patented SKYDEX technology combines high performance polymers with proprietary geometry for superior cushioning power, and the technology can be endlessly customized for specific applications. Slated to become a household name in cushioning and impact protection, SKYDEX technology is used by some of the world’s most innovative consumer brands, including Schutt, Nike, Pearl Izumi, Ariat and Burton, as well as by the U.S. Military. SKYDEX Technologies, Inc. is a privately held company based in Centennial, Colo. For more information visit www.skydex.com.
