From a crashing CAD file to a web-ready 3D model in two days
LAX Helmet Z1
Lacrosse Unlimited needed a web-ready 3D model of their helmet in time for a product launch that was days away. Their existing file was a CAD export - precise, but never meant to run in a browser. It was crashing on mobile devices before it ever reached a customer.
A CAD file that crashed on mobile devices
The source model came in at 1,908,236 triangles - dense engineering geometry never intended for real-time rendering. On desktop it was slow. On mobile, it can crash outright. For a product launching with a configurator built around it, this isn't just a performance issue - it is a launch blocker.
There was no time for a normal production timeline. The model needed to be rebuilt, textured, and delivered in time for the launch day.
Full Rebuild
Retopology: The entire mesh was rebuilt from 1,908,236 down to 66,664 triangles - a 96.5% reduction - without losing the shape, proportions, or detail that make the helmet recognisable up close.
Texturing: PBR materials were built for each component: matte and gloss shell finishes, textured padding, and straps. Every finish was calibrated to match the physical product under studio lighting reference.
Optimization: Every decision was made with mobile rendering as the baseline, not desktop. If it couldn't run smoothly on a phone, it wasn't done.
Launch ready model delivered in two days
A textured and precise model was shipped in time for launch - stable across desktop and mobile. Configurator integration was handled separately. Thoroughly enjoyed working on this project for a returning client and the positive review from the client was appreciated. Client Review:
"We reached out to David to help configure and optimize our 3D model, and the entire experience exceeded our expectations. He responded incredibly quickly, started the project immediately, and delivered exceptional work.
He went above and beyond to ensure our robust lacrosse helmet model was fully optimized for the web while maintaining high-quality, efficient textures across all features. His technical expertise and attention to detail were evident throughout the entire process.
What really stood out was his commitment to ensuring everything worked perfectly. He jumped on multiple calls and screen-sharing sessions to walk us through the work, answer questions, and ensure the model met our standards and integrated seamlessly with our application.
The turnaround time was impressively fast, communication was excellent, and the quality of the deliverables was outstanding. We couldn't be happier with the results and would absolutely work with David again in the future. We highly recommend him to anyone looking for a skilled, thorough, and reliable 3D artist."
Chelsea Kenney, Director of Ecommerce, Lacrosse Unlimited
Key Takeaways