Choosing the Best Head and Neck Restraint System For You
There are several head and neck restraints styles and brands offered to suit nearly any kind of racer out there. Some examples are the Hans device, Simpson Hybrid Sport, NecksGen, Impact Accel, and Zamp Z-Tech. We are not referring to the typical foam neck brace here that has been popular for many years in various motorsports. A neck brace, be it the horseshoe or circular design, does not offer the same support and safety of a full head and neck restraint system, which works with your racing harness and special threaded adapters in your helmet to keep your head and neck supported in line with your body to prevent injuries from high load "whipping" forces exerted on the neck and spine. It can also aid in prevention of a concussion due to excessive rotational forces exerted on the brain. Trust us, a concussion is nothing to ignore should one happen, as this MedlinePlus summary explains. This buyers guide helps you understand what to look for and how to find the right one for you.
The SFI specification provides test procedures and minimum standards for evaluating and determining performance capabilities for use by individuals engaged in competitive motorsports. When choosing a restraint for whatever kind of racing you do, head and neck restraints must meet or exceed the SFI 38.1 specification that is established by the SFI Foundation for motorsports competition.
The SFI Foundation defines a head and neck restraint as follows: “An active head and neck restraint system is a piece of protection providing an alternative load path which decreases both neck stress and head excursion during a vehicle impact without reliance on helmet impact into structures or nets.”
The SFI 38.1 specification requires that the head and neck restraint system must be designed and manufactured to allow freedom of movement of head, torso, arms, etc., corresponding with operating a race vehicle under all race and associated conditions. Effective January 1, 2012, the SFI Foundation requires that head and neck restraint systems shall be inspected for recertification every five years after the date of original certification.
Inspection should only be done by the original manufacturer. When a restraint is said to be okay for recertification and use, the original manufacturer will put on a new SFI 38.1 label marked with the inspection date. While many tracks and sanctions do not currently require the use or recertification of head and neck restraints, you should still consider using one for your safety.
When choosing your head and neck restraint you should find the proper fit and the most comfortable one for you. If you are able to do so, Speedway Motors has a parts counter where you can try on different makes and models to find the right fit. You do not want to get one that is too big or too sloppy as it will be uncomfortable with your belts being pulled over it and it will most likely not work correctly like it is supposed to.
I personally recommend the Hans device. I’ve tried on a couple of different options and the most comfortable for me and the one I thought was the best was the Hans. Speedway Motors has a variety of head and neck restraints to choose from. Below is a list of some of the more popular head and neck restraints that customers prefer.
Hans Device Sport III - Post Anchors & Sliding Tethers/Quick Click Anchors & Sliding Tethers
- 451-142311 - 20 deg Medium
- 451-144311 - 20 deg Large
- 451-142411 - 20 deg Medium
- 451-144411 - 20 deg Large
Hans Device Pro Ultra Series - Post Anchors & Sliding Tethers/Quick Click Anchors & Sliding Tethers (Carbon Fiber)
- 451-323531 - 20 deg Medium
- 451-323541 - 20 deg Medium
- 910-72200 (Specify Size) - with seatbelt hook up
- 910-72300
- 910-91002 (Specify Size)
- 910-92502 (Specify Size)
- 449-92499 (Specify Size)
- 91002003 (Specify Size)
- 91006003 (Specify Size)
Updated by Mark Houlahan
