In the early days, Vandy players sported leather "sailor hats" that resembled those worn by the university's Naval Reserve battalion. These were eventually replaced by felt helmets adorned with a simple "V" logo, evoking Vanderbilt's prestigious academic reputation.

The 1960s ushered in a golden age for Commodore football, and with it, a bold new helmet design. The iconic black shell cradled a sleek, silver "Star V," radiating confidence and power. This helmet became synonymous with Vandy's triumphs under coach Bill Battle, including their 1982 victory over top-ranked Notre Dame.

But the tides shifted in the following decades. The Star V gave way to experimental logos, from a blocky "V" to a stylized one resembling a ship's anchor. These designs, while creative, failed to capture the spirit of Vanderbilt's gridiron legacy.

Then, in 2018, under head coach Derek Mason, the Commodores embarked on a nostalgic voyage. They rediscovered the black helmet with the silver Star V, a symbol of their past victories and future aspirations. This decision resonated with fans, forging a tangible connection between the program's rich history and its present-day ambitions.