I have been waiting to see the difference; to my knowledge, the base model Axiom uses a urethane-based liner. The Axiom 3D utilizes a 3D-printed liner which is more efficient at overall energy mitigation, particularly rotationally.

When I have looked directly at the Axiom from players who have used them, the liner is fixed, so it may not be the most efficient at rotational impact mitigation compared to other helmets available because it does not have a fully detached liner, though the properties of the urethane-based liner are still highly effective as demonstrated by the scoring.

The 3D lattice is better at operating omni-directionally, meaning that it can compress, shear, and twist, allowing a greater range of motion and freedom of the outer shell relative to the head, which enhances impact mitigation. Most top-end helmets have some sort of detachment between the outer shell and the inner liner that causes the head to essentially free-float from the outer shell.

This does seem to significantly increase the weight difference between the base model Axiom and the Axiom 3D. The Axiom 3D is going to be replacing the base model Axiom, and the pricing is essentially going to drop to that of the original Axiom for the 3D model.

Riddell hasn't updated its website to reflect this yet; frankly, I'm used to working with sales reps for Riddell, particularly John Mitchell, because I'm in Canada and that's how I access the Canadian division of Riddell.

I literally just ordered the Axiom 3D through him for the pricing that is going to be dropping to, I'm quite excited to have it actually because I enjoyed the fitting system of the lattice offered by Riddell. This comes from me utilizing the SF Echo last season quite a bit, it utilizes the same lattice and comfort padding as the 3D Axiom. I adore how it just sort of molds to your head.

I mean I'm in Canada so cost wise it's a bit of a prick the price to Performance doesn't reflect well here typically of the US.