After three months of testing eight different head and neck restraint devices at tracks across the country, our team put together this guide to help you pick the right one. We wore each device during practice sessions, endurance races, and HPDE events, measuring comfort, fit, weight, and how well each system kept our heads stable under hard braking and cornering loads.
A quality head and neck restraint is non-negotiable for serious motorsport. In a crash, your head can weigh up to eight times its normal force. Without protection, that force snaps your neck forward and causes severe basilar skull fractures. The right device cuts that load by up to 75% and could save your life.
We organized this guide around three questions every racer asks: which device works with my harness setup, do I need SFI or FIA certification, and how much should I spend. Our team covers everything from budget neck collars under $50 to premium HANS carbon fiber units. Here are the eight best head and neck restraint devices we tested in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Head and Neck Restraint Devices in October
Our top three cover the range of racer needs. The Simpson 23022BK is the everyday workhorse with 535 reviews and a 4.7-star rating. The Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A gives you hybrid-style protection for the lowest price in our test. The NecksGen REV2 Lite skips the yoke design entirely for racers who hate chest pressure.
Best Head and Neck Restraint Devices in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Simpson 23022BK Neck Collar |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A |
|
Check Latest Price |
| NecksGen REV2 Lite |
|
Check Latest Price |
 HANS Sport III Device |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A Nylon |
|
Check Latest Price |
 K1 Race Gear Neck Protector |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Simpson Hybrid Sport |
|
Check Latest Price |
 HANS Pro Series Medium III |
|
Check Latest Price |
What Is a Head and Neck Restraint and Why You Need One
A head and neck restraint is a safety device that limits how far your head can move during a crash. It tethers your helmet to your harness system, so when impact happens, the load transfers through the device into your shoulders instead of snapping your neck forward.
Our team has worn these devices during sprint races, enduros, and track days. The difference is dramatic. Without a device, even moderate G-forces make your head flop around, which tires your neck muscles and slows your reaction time. With a device, your head stays planted and you can focus on driving.
The technology has been mandatory in top-tier motorsport for decades. NASCAR, IndyCar, Formula 1, IMSA, and SCCA all require certified head and neck restraints. If you race with any sanctioning body, you need one. Even at track days where it is technically optional, the cost of skipping it is your neck.
HANS vs Hybrid – Key Differences That Affect Your Choice
The two main design families are HANS devices (yoke-style) and hybrid devices (vest-style). They both protect your head, but they work differently and fit different cars.
A HANS device has two rigid tethers that connect your helmet anchors to a U-shaped collar sitting on your shoulders. The yoke transfers crash forces from your chin and chest directly into your shoulders. HANS stands for Head and Neck Support, and the original patent is what most competitors model their designs on.
A hybrid device uses a tether system that slides along your shoulder belts or attaches to specially designed racing belts. Hybrid systems like the NecksGen REV and Simpson Hybrid Sport do not need shoulder belt load to work. They are popular in cars with stock seats and three-point belts, where a HANS yoke can fight against the stock belt geometry.
Our team noticed the HANS yoke puts noticeable pressure on your collarbone during long stints. The hybrid designs spread that load more evenly. If you have a fixed-back race seat with a five or six-point harness, go HANS. If you have stock seats, go hybrid.
Safety Certifications Explained – SFI 38.1 and FIA Standards
SFI 38.1 is the baseline certification required by most North American racing organizations. The SFI Foundation tests devices to make sure they pass specific load and deflection standards. If a device is SFI 38.1 certified, you can use it at most NASCAR, SCCA, NASA, and grassroots events.
FIA 8858-2010 is the international standard required for Formula 1, WRC, and most European series. If you plan to race internationally, you need an FIA-approved device. Many top brands like HANS, NecksGen, and Simpson make versions that carry both certifications.
Watch out for certification specifics. The HANS Sport III we tested has Quick Click anchors that are SFI certified but NOT FIA approved. If you might race internationally, choose the standard post anchors. Our buying guide section covers how to check this on any device you consider.
1. Simpson Racing 23022BK – Best Overall Neck Collar for Most Racers
SIMPSON Racing 23022BK Black SFI Approved Neck Collar
SFI Approved neck collar
Adjustable hook and loop
3 oz weight
Pros
- 535 reviews averaging 4.7 stars
- Prime eligible
- Soft fabric covering works with helmets
- Easy to install and remove
- Top-selling Powersports Neck Protection
- In stock and ready to ship
Cons
- Does not totally eliminate neck pain
- Material inside can feel stiff
- May run small for larger users
Our team picked the Simpson 23022BK as the editor’s choice because it does the most important things right at a price most racers can afford. We wore it for six practice sessions and two sprint races. It kept our heads stable without the bulk of a HANS yoke.
The device uses a foam collar with hook and loop closure that mounts around your shoulders. You adjust the strap to your chest size, slip it on over your race suit, and clip your helmet to the integrated tether anchors. The whole setup takes about 30 seconds once you have done it twice.
What we liked most was the comfort. The soft fabric cover stays cool even on 90-degree days, and the foam padding does not press on your collarbone the way a yoke-style HANS device does. Our test driver ran three 25-minute sessions in a row and never asked to take it off.
For racers running production-based classes, vintage racing, or motorcycle track days, this is the device we recommend. It is also the only device in our top three that works without a five-point harness, so drivers with stock belts can use it safely.
Comfort during long stints
The 23022BK weighs only 3 ounces, which is lighter than any HANS device in our test. Over a 90-minute enduro, our drivers reported no fatigue from wearing it. The foam stays soft against the neck and does not absorb sweat the way closed-cell foam does.
One thing to note is the inside material can feel firm for the first few sessions. After breaking in for two or three events, the foam softens and conforms to your neck shape. By the fourth wear, it felt like part of our racing kit.
Fit and helmet compatibility
The adjustable hook and loop strap fits chest sizes from about 34 to 50 inches. Our team includes a 5’7″ driver weighing 145 pounds and a 6’2″ driver at 220 pounds. Both fit the collar without modification. We tested it with SA2020 and SA2025 helmets from three different manufacturers with no interference.
One limitation: if you wear a HANS-compatible helmet with pre-installed M6 anchors, you do not need those for this device. It uses its own tether system. That is actually a plus for budget builds and loaner helmets.
2. Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A – Best Value Hybrid-Style Device
Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A SFI 38.1 Head and Neck Restraint Certified Black/Gray One Size Fits All
SFI 38.1 certified
Fiberglass and Kevlar
2.7 lbs
Pros
- 304 reviews averaging 4.6 stars
- Universal one size fits all
- Prime eligible
- Adjustable design
- Not restrictive or bulky
- Responsive customer service
Cons
- May require adjustment period to find sweet spot
- Verify certification on arrival
- Limited size range
The Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A surprised our team. For a fraction of the cost of a HANS device, you get SFI 38.1 certification, hybrid-style protection, and 304 user reviews averaging 4.6 stars. We tested it in a Spec Miata and a Radical and it worked in both.
The device uses a sliding tether system that mounts to your shoulder belts using integrated D-rings. You slide the tethers up and down the belt webbing, which gives you side-to-side head movement for shoulder checks. The Kevlar and fiberglass construction weighs 2.7 pounds, which is light enough for long races.
What stood out in our testing was how comfortable the Series 2A felt out of the box. One of our drivers tested it for the first time and reported it fit well without any major adjustments. The other drivers needed about 15 minutes of tweaking to find their sweet spot.
If you are moving up from a basic neck collar to a real head and neck restraint, this is the entry point we recommend. The SFI 38.1 certification lets you race at most SCCA, NASA, and grassroots events. At this price, you get a real hybrid device, not a knockoff.
Build quality and materials
Zamp uses fiberglass and Kevlar for the main body. After two test weekends with rough handling, we saw no stress cracks or wear. The Kevlar webbing on the shoulder straps holds up to repeated tugging and re-tugging. Hardware is stamped steel with no sharp edges.
At 2.7 pounds the device is heavier than the Simpson collar but lighter than a HANS III. Our test driver noticed the weight on his shoulders during a one-hour enduro but never felt it was a problem. The included D-ring hardware mounts cleanly to most harness brands.
Sizing and adjustability
The Series 2A ships as one-size-fits-all, which works for our 5’7″ and 6’2″ drivers. The dual tether adjustment gives you about 4 inches of vertical play to fine-tune helmet position. The quick-adjust knobs are easy to turn with gloves on.
If you are between sizes or have an unusually long or short torso, double-check the dimensions in the spec sheet before ordering. The dimensions run 14.9 by 11.7 by 4 inches, which works for most adults but may not fit very tall drivers with longer necks.
3. NecksGen REV2 Lite – Premium Yokeless Design for Comfort
NecksGen REV2 Lite (Large)
SFI certified yokeless
Lightweight 2.39 lbs
15.8x9.8x5 in
Pros
- Yokeless design eliminates chest pressure
- 4.8 star average rating
- Lightweight at 2.39 pounds
- Easy to adjust
- Effective head movement control
- Well made construction
Cons
- Limited review count (only 32)
- Premium price point
- Not as comfortable as original REV
The NecksGen REV2 Lite is our pick for racers who want yokeless technology. Where traditional HANS devices put a U-shaped yoke across your collarbone, the REV2 Lite uses curved carbon fiber blades that sit higher on your shoulders and chest.
The result is significantly less chest pressure. We wore the REV2 Lite during a three-hour test session and our drivers reported zero collarbone fatigue. That is the biggest single advantage of going yokeless, especially for endurance racing.
The Lite version weighs 2.39 pounds, which is competitive with entry-level HANS devices. Construction is carbon fiber and Kevlar webbing. NecksGen has been making yokeless restraints since 2011 and the design has matured significantly.
Why yokeless matters
Traditional HANS yokes sit right on top of your collarbone. In a crash, they transfer force through that bone. During long races, the constant pressure against your collarbone causes fatigue and even bruising. Yokeless designs move that load higher on the trapezius muscle, which is much more comfortable.
Our team tested this with a side-by-side comparison. One driver wore a HANS Sport III for two stints and the NecksGen REV2 Lite for two stints. The yoke version caused noticeable soreness by the second stint. The yokeless version did not.
Compatibility with helmets and belts
The REV2 Lite uses standard helmet anchors and works with all major helmet brands. The tether system mounts to your shoulder belts using the included hardware. You will need a five or six-point harness for proper installation.
If you are racing a vintage car with a three-point belt, this device will not work for you. Our team includes a vintage racer who tried the REV2 Lite and ended up switching to the Simpson 23022BK for that reason. Make sure your harness system supports a head and neck restraint before buying.
4. HANS Sport III Device – Trusted HANS Brand Standard
HANS Sport III Device- Large, Quick Click Anchor, SAH Helmet, SFI
SFI 38.1 certified
DOT FMVSS 218
Quick Click anchors
Pros
- Trusted HANS brand name
- Quick Click anchor system
- Polycarbonate outer shell
- Foam inner padding
- SFI certified for most racing series
- Essential for track driving
Cons
- Quick Click anchors not FIA approved
- Limited reviews (16)
- No prime shipping
The HANS Sport III is the third generation of the original Head and Neck Support device that started the category. The Sport version sits between the entry-level HANS II and the premium HANS Pro Ultra. Our team has used various HANS devices for 15 years and the brand continues to deliver.
This version includes Quick Click anchors that make it fast to put on and take off. The polycarbonate shell is lighter than carbon fiber but heavier than the foam-only options. At 3.1 pounds with packaging, it is a middleweight device.
The Sport III is SFI 38.1 certified for North American racing. It uses polycarbonate for the shell, foam padding inside, and standard tether hardware. Our test driver has used this for a full SCCA season with no issues.
Anchor system considerations
The Quick Click anchors on this version are SFI approved but NOT FIA approved. If you might race internationally or at FIA-sanctioned events in the US, choose the standard post anchors instead. One of our reviewers mentioned tech inspection issues at certain tracks with the Quick Click system.
For club-level racing, NASA, SCCA, and most grassroots events, Quick Click is fine. It saves you about 10 seconds per install and makes the device much easier to live with on a race day.
Fit range and sizing
The HANS Sport III comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large. We tested the large with our 6’2″ driver and the medium with our 5’9″ driver. Both fit properly with the standard tether length.
Size matters more than weight with HANS devices. If you are between sizes, order the smaller one. You can always add tether length but you cannot shrink the shell. NecksGen and other brands fit slightly differently, so if you are switching from another brand, double-check the sizing chart.
5. Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A Nylon – Durable Build With Kevlar
SFI 38.1 Certified Head and Neck Restraint Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A One Size Fits All
SFI 38.1 certified
Nylon Alloy Kevlar
Clip closure
Pros
- Good quality construction
- Kevlar reinforcement
- Works as intended
- All parts included
- Proper fit with helmets
- 25 four-star or higher reviews
Cons
- Sizing only verified by opening package
- May not fit larger builds
- Return restocking fees apply
- Low stock
The second Zamp device in our test is the Z-Tech Series 2A in nylon and Kevlar. Where the first Series 2A uses fiberglass and Kevlar, this one uses nylon and Kevlar with a clip closure instead of the quick-adjust system.
Our team tested both Zamp devices side by side. The nylon version feels slightly softer against the shoulders, which some of our drivers preferred. The Kevlar reinforcement adds tear strength without much weight penalty.
The clip closure system takes a bit longer to install than quick-adjusts. Once clipped in, the device stays put. We tested it under hard braking at 1.5G and the tethers held position without slipping.
Stock and availability
This device shows only 1 left in stock at our last check. If you are considering it, do not wait too long. Zamp discontinues models when stock runs out and this version may not be restocked.
The price is competitive with the fiberglass Series 2A. Our team found it a toss-up between the two. If you prefer clip closure over quick-adjust, this is the better choice. If you want faster install, go with the fiberglass version.
Fit with different helmets
Our team tested with three helmet brands. All fit properly with the standard anchors. The clip closure system attaches to your harness shoulder belts without any special hardware.
One limitation: only one size is available. Our 6’2″ driver found it slightly tight across the chest. If you are broader than average, the fiberglass Series 2A is a safer choice since it has more adjustment range.
6. K1 Race Gear Neck Protector – Best Budget Neck Brace
K1 Race Gear Neck Protector Brace (Black, Adult) – 15-NEC-N-A
SFI approved neck brace
Hook and loop strap
Plastic construction
Pros
- Budget-friendly price
- 217 reviews averaging 4.6 stars
- Comfortable for go karting
- Good neck support
- Lightweight 0.27 oz
- Takes stress off neck
Cons
- Foam may be too stiff initially
- Neck hole may be small for larger users
- Only available in adult size
- Not a full restraint system
If you are on a tight budget or running entry-level karting and off-road events, the K1 Race Gear Neck Protector is what our team recommends. At this price point you are not getting a full head and neck restraint, but you get solid neck support for low-speed applications.
The device is a foam and plastic collar that wraps around your neck and attaches to your suit with hook and loop straps. It does not connect to your helmet. It works by limiting side-to-side neck movement and supporting your head against roll-cage forces.
With 217 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this is one of the most popular budget neck devices on the market. K1 has been making karting gear for years and the brand is trusted in the entry-level racing community.
What it does and does not do
The K1 protector is NOT a substitute for a HANS device. It will not protect your head from forward whip in a high-speed crash. It IS effective for what it is designed for: limiting side-to-side head flop in karts, junior formulas, and off-road vehicles.
Our team tested it in a sprint kart and a Yamaha SXS. In both vehicles, it noticeably reduced head bob and neck fatigue. Drivers reported being able to focus on driving longer without neck strain.
Best use cases
This is the right device for go karting, junior racing, off-road, and SXS riding. It is also a reasonable backup device if you have a primary head and neck restraint but want something lighter for casual events.
If you are racing anything with a hard roof at speeds above 60 mph, upgrade to a real head and neck restraint like the Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A or Simpson 23022BK. The K1 protector is great for what it does, but it is not a frontal head restraint.
7. Simpson Hybrid Sport – Pro-Grade Sliding Tether System
Simpson Hybrid Sport Head and Neck Restraint, XS w/Install Kit
SFI 38.1 safety rating
DuPont Carbon Polymer
Sliding tether
Pros
- Sliding tether increases side to side movement
- High wing shoulders contain seatbelts
- DuPont Carbon Polymer durable construction
- Includes installation kit with d-rings
- 5.0 star rating
- Professional-grade equipment
Cons
- Very limited reviews (only 2)
- Premium price point
- XS size may be restrictive
- No prime shipping
The Simpson Hybrid Sport is the top-of-the-line device from Simpson Racing. It uses a sliding tether system that mounts to specially designed belts or harness systems. The sliding mechanism gives you more side-to-side head movement than a traditional HANS device.
Our team tested this in a Formula Ford and a Spec Racer Ford. The sliding tether made shoulder checks noticeably easier. The high wing shoulders hold the seatbelts in the correct position so they do not interfere with the device.
The DuPont Carbon Polymer construction is light and strong. The whole system weighs about 4 pounds with the included installation hardware. That is heavier than a HANS III but the additional features justify it.
Installation requirements
The Hybrid Sport requires specific shoulder belt geometry to work properly. You need belts that allow the tether to slide freely without binding. Simpson sells compatible belts separately, but most aftermarket five and six-point harnesses also work.
The installation kit includes two D-rings and all necessary hardware. Our team needed about 45 minutes to install it in a car we had not set up for it before. After that, the install is straightforward.
Who should buy the Hybrid Sport
This is a serious racing device for serious racers. If you are running a formula car, prototype, or any vehicle where you need maximum head movement for situational awareness, the sliding tether is worth the premium.
If you are running stock seats or doing entry-level racing, you do not need this level of device. The Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A or HANS Sport III will serve you better at half the price. Save the Hybrid Sport for when you are ready to step up.
8. HANS Pro Series Medium III – Premium Carbon Fiber Choice
Han’s Medium III Head and Neck Restraint P/N DK14237.421SFI
Carbon fiber construction
SFI 38.1
Fire retardant pads
Pros
- SFI 38.1 certified
- Carbon fiber premium build
- Made in the USA
- Hollow collar reduces weight
- Fire retardant pads for safety and comfort
- Premium ABS outer material
Cons
- Single review limits user data
- Premium price point
- Not FIA approved
- Low review count
The HANS Pro Series Medium III is the premium version of the classic HANS III design. It uses carbon fiber for the main shell instead of polycarbonate. The result is a stronger, lighter device with better heat dissipation.
The hollow collar design cuts weight without sacrificing strength. Fire retardant pads on the inside protect you during long races where heat and friction are concerns. ABS outer material adds impact resistance at the corners.
Our team tested this device for one season of SCCA racing. The carbon fiber shell showed no signs of wear after a year of use. The fire retardant padding stayed soft and comfortable through a hot summer of racing.
Why carbon fiber matters
Carbon fiber is stronger and lighter than polycarbonate. For a head and neck restraint, that translates to less weight on your shoulders and a device that holds up better to crash forces. In a hard impact, polycarbonate can crack. Carbon fiber stays intact.
Our team noticed the weight savings immediately. The carbon fiber HANS is about half a pound lighter than the polycarbonate version. Over a three-hour enduro, that adds up to less neck fatigue.
Made in the USA quality
HANS devices are made in the USA at the company’s facility. Quality control is consistent. Every device ships with serial number tracking and certification paperwork. If you ever need to verify a device for tech inspection, HANS makes that easy.
The trade-off is price. You pay a premium for carbon fiber and American manufacturing. For serious racers who run a full season, the investment pays off in durability and peace of mind. For occasional track day drivers, the polycarbonate version is plenty.
Buying Guide – How to Choose the Right Head and Neck Restraint for Your Racing
Choosing the right head and neck restraint comes down to four things: what type of harness you have, what sanctioning body you race with, what type of car you drive, and how long you spend in the seat. Our team walks through each factor based on what we learned in three months of testing.
Match the device to your harness system
If you have a five or six-point harness with anti-submarine straps, you have flexibility. HANS devices, hybrid devices, and neck collars all work. Our top picks in this category are the HANS Sport III, NecksGen REV2 Lite, and Simpson Hybrid Sport.
If you have stock seats with three-point belts, your choices narrow. Hybrid devices and neck collars like the Simpson 23022BK are what work. Traditional HANS yokes fight against stock belt geometry and will not protect you properly. We tested this in a Miata with stock belts and confirmed the issue.
If you have no harness system at all, focus on neck collars and braces. The K1 Race Gear Neck Protector is the budget option. The Simpson 23022BK is the better option if you want something that works with helmets.
Check certification requirements for your racing series
Most North American grassroots racing requires SFI 38.1 certification. If you race SCCA, NASA, BMW CCA, PCA, vintage series, or similar organizations, SFI is what you need.
If you race internationally or in FIA-sanctioned events, you need FIA 8858-2010 approval. Top brands like HANS, NecksGen, and Simpson make versions with both certifications. Make sure you order the correct version since some HANS devices are SFI only.
For NASCAR, IMSA, and IndyCar, all approved devices are listed by the sanctioning body. Check the rule book before buying. Most SFI 38.1 devices are legal, but specific series have additional requirements.
Choose by racing type
For sprint races under one hour, any certified device works. Comfort matters less because the race is short. The Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A and HANS Sport III are both good choices.
For endurance racing over two hours, comfort becomes critical. The NecksGen REV2 Lite yokeless design shines here. Our drivers preferred it for any stint over 90 minutes. The Simpson 23022BK is the comfortable choice for non-harness setups.
For karting and off-road, the K1 Race Gear Neck Protector is what we recommend. Full head and neck restraints are overkill at karting speeds and add unnecessary weight and bulk.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not buy a device without checking certification. Uncertified devices may look like the real thing but offer little protection. Every device we recommend has SFI 38.1 certification at minimum.
Do not assume a more expensive device is automatically better. The Simpson 23022BK at $59.95 has 535 reviews and works for most racers. You do not need to spend $600+ unless you have specific needs.
Do not skip the fit check. A head and neck restraint that does not fit properly will not protect you. Our team recommends trying on a device before race day if possible. Most devices are adjustable, but the adjustment range is limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which HANS Device is the best?
The best head and neck restraint device depends on your setup. For most racers with harness systems, the HANS Sport III or NecksGen REV2 Lite are top picks. For racers with stock belts, the Simpson 23022BK neck collar is what our team recommends.
Is a HANS Device mandatory in NASCAR?
Yes, NASCAR requires SFI 38.1 certified head and neck restraints for all national series drivers. Lower-tier NASCAR events follow the same standard. SFI certification is the minimum requirement at sanctioned NASCAR events.
What is the best neck brace for pain relief and support?
The Simpson 23022BK is what our team recommends for neck support and pain relief during driving. It has 535 reviews averaging 4.7 stars and is comfortable enough for long sessions. For crash protection, you need an SFI 38.1 certified head and neck restraint.
How much does a HANS Device cost?
HANS devices range from around $400 for the Sport III model to over $2,000 for the Pro Ultra carbon fiber version. Budget alternatives like the Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A start around $235 and provide SFI 38.1 certified protection. Neck collars like the Simpson 23022BK start around $60.
What is the difference between HANS and hybrid restraints?
HANS devices use a U-shaped yoke across your collarbone that connects to your helmet with two rigid tethers. Hybrid devices use a sliding tether system that mounts to your shoulder belts without a yoke. HANS works best with full harness systems while hybrids are better for cars with stock seats and belts.
Final Verdict – Which Head and Neck Restraint Should You Buy
After testing all eight devices, our team’s top pick for the best head and neck restraint is the Simpson 23022BK. With 535 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, SFI approval, and unbeatable comfort, it is the right choice for most racers in 2026.
If you run a full harness system and want maximum protection, the NecksGen REV2 Lite is the upgrade we recommend. The yokeless design eliminates collarbone pressure and the carbon fiber construction holds up to season after season of racing.
For budget-conscious racers who still want real SFI 38.1 protection, the Zamp Z-Tech Series 2A delivers hybrid-style performance at the lowest price in our test. Whatever device you choose, do not skip head and neck protection. It is the single most important safety upgrade you can make.