Wisconsin football helmets throughout the years

Even though many might not associate Wisconsin football with new or flashy uniforms, the Badgers have debuted several refreshed looks including updated helmets over the last few decades.

The lasting changes for Wisconsin’s uniforms and helmets came with the turnaround of the Badgers’ program under former head coach Barry Alvarez when he started in 1990. Since 1991, Wisconsin has used the motion ‘W’ design with the classic red facemask and two center stripes for the majority of their games.

Despite Wisconsin sticking with one helmet for most of its games, the Badgers have debuted several uniforms with different helmets since the 90s. A personal favorite helmet of mine is the Rose Bowl-inspired helmet with rose petals outlined in the motion ‘W,’ that Wisconsin wore against Oregon in 2011.

Below are all of Wisconsin football’s helmets over the last few decades. Let us know which ones you think should make a comeback in the comment section below.

1978-87, 1990

Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

This is the Badgers’ first big move toward the helmet we recognize today. This helmet features the block ‘W’ in cardinal along with a red facemask and two center stripes.

1988-89

Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

There were no photos available for this helmet, but the two center stripes of the previous design were removed for these two seasons. It must not have been a popular switch, as they returned when Barry Alvarez started in 1990.

1991-Current

Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

The motion ‘W’ design has definitely become the most widely recognizable Wisconsin helmet, which in my opinion, has made it into a classic.

2005

(AP Photo/Morry Gash)

This helmet was only worn once against Bowling Green in 2005 and features a throwback design to the Badgers’ helmets…