Comparing Head & Neck Restraints

How to decide which Head and Neck restraint is best for you?

There are currently 4 companies who manufacture head and neck restraints tested and approved by the SFI Foundation.

• HANS

• DefNder

• Safety Solutions

• NecksGen



HANS DEVICE is the most popular head and neck restraint in worldwide auto racing. The HANS Device is an incredible product which has undoubtedly saved many racers lives.

PROS: Proven product from F1 to quarter mile short tracks, lightweight. Comes in a variety of sizes to suit most applications. Minimal adjustments needed to achieve optimal fit.

CONS: Can place pressure on the collarbone area. Top of device can get caught in window openings when entering/exiting doorless race cars. Tends to push head forward on upright or 10 degree seat inclines. Some entry level models are difficult to release from helmet.



DEFNDER is the most affordable entry into the head and neck restraint market.

PROS: 1 size fits most adult drivers. Little to no pressure on collarbone area. All models come standard with sliding tehters. Relatively affordable.

CONS: As of 2011, DefNder has ceased production. All models will retain the SFI 38.1 certification and hardware and tethers will remain available to racers.



SAFETY SOLUTIONS has focused on production of 2 head and neck restraints, the R3 and the HYBRID PRO. Both are available in carbon fiber or the less expensive Rage models constructed of injected composite. Both the R3 and the Hybrid Pro are becoming the preferred head and neck restraint choice in Drag Racing, Dirt Oval and Off-Road Racing. Many more of these are also showing up on Road Race, Sports Car and Asphalt Oval racers.

PROS: Sled tests have shown superior protection in side and multiple impacts. Does NOT create pressure points on shoulder area. Does NOT need custom shoulder harnesses. "Low back" allows easier entry/exit of race car. All models have quick release helmet tethers.

CONS: Some racers are still skeptical of chest strap design. A few major racing series have yet to approve despite the outstanding performance and SFI certification.



NECKSGEN has just been introduced to racers, as of March 2012. This is the latest head and neck restraint to be SFI certified. Very similiar in design to the DefNder, with some improvements. In comparision to the DefNder, the most notable changes are: a lower profile of the rear section, the quick release hardware and the color, which is now all black.

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Why purchase a Head and Neck restraint?

Many race car drivers may never need a head and neck restraint. Even if they are currently wearing one, the head and neck restraint may never be put to test. Auto racing is a sport of the unknown, disaster is potentially waiting at every corner, no one knows where, when and if it will strike. Being prepared for that critical moment in time may prevent injury or even save your life.

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Why are Head and Neck restraints so expensive?

Engineering, testing, materials and insurances all contribute. Although, to put in perspective, most composite models are less expensive than a set of race tires. Many customers have reported to us that they were able to sell their used head and neck restraints for 95% the cost of buying new, a much better return than selling used race tires!

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