Kato Collar

Kato Collar is a football protective-equipment brand founded by Jeff Chambers, inventor of the collar and founder of Guardian Athletics. Designed to complement a helmet and shoulder pads, the Kato Collar uses a patented deceleration system with adjustable pads to help slow head and helmet movement during impacts. The company says this approach can reduce forces acting on the brain and help protect the neck, while supporting players’ natural range of motion. It also describes the collar as helping limit the stretching and compression associated with burners and stingers.

Kato Collar products are offered in medium and large sizes, with multiple pad thicknesses and sizes supplied to help players adjust fit and placement. The design is intended for adult shoulder pads and many larger youth pads, though compatibility may vary. The brand presents its products as independently biomechanically tested and reports use by professional athletes and college teams. Through its online shop, Kato Collar provides product information, fit guidance, customer support, and resources about the science behind its approach to football protection.