How to choose a HANS device
A Frontal Head Restraint (FHR) is compulsory in almost every FIA governed car discipline. It holds the head in place in a frontal impact and cuts the risk of cervical fracture and muscle strain.
Homologation and safety
A frontal head restraint is compulsory for driver and co-driver alike. There are two homologations, neither of which expires:
- FIA 8858-2002: only compatible with helmets that have HANS anchors homologated to FIA 8858-2002 (FIA 8858-2002 and FIA 8860-2004 helmets).
- FIA 8858-2010: only compatible with helmets with FIA 8858-2010 anchors (FIA 8858-2010 and FIA 8860-2010 helmets or newer).
Every device has to carry a visible homologation label to be valid in competition.
HANS or Hybrid?
Whatever the brand, weight remains the most important criterion: a heavy device presses on the shoulders and tires you over a race.
The HANS rests on the shoulders and attaches to the helmet through tethers and clips, the anchors.
The HYBRID (Simpson) rests on the shoulders and also wraps around the torso, which gives more freedom of movement and feels less restrictive. The Quick Release lets you detach the helmet quickly while the device stays in place.
How to measure
For HANS: measure the neck circumference with a tape measure and compare with the chart below.
For HYBRID: measure the chest circumference, with the tape passed under the arms.
Take the measurements in race conditions, wearing your fireproof underwear and FIA suit, so they are as accurate as possible. The second thing that matters is the seat angle in your car, the angle between your torso and the vertical. HANS devices are sold by angle, usually 20 or 30 degrees.
Size charts
HANS device
| Neck circumference | Size |
|---|---|
| under 38 cm (15") | S |
| 38 - 45.5 cm (15 - 18") | M |
| over 45.5 cm (18") | L |
HYBRID device
| Chest circumference (cm) | Size |
|---|---|
| 81 - 91 | XS |
| 91 - 102 | S |
| 102 - 112 | M |
| 112 - 122 | L |
| 122 - 132 | XL |
For comfort and convenience we suggest the dedicated accessories: shoulder pads, tether kits, Quick Release systems, HANS anchors and belt guides. We also suggest FIA homologated harnesses in 3"/2" width, made to suit the width of a HANS device.
Frequently asked questions
Is a HANS device required in competition?
Yes. A Frontal Head Restraint (FHR) is compulsory in almost every FIA governed car discipline, for driver and co-driver alike.
Which HANS size do I need?
By neck circumference: under 38 cm is size S, 38 to 45.5 cm is M, over 45.5 cm is L. For the Hybrid system you measure the chest instead.
What is the difference between HANS and the Hybrid system?
The classic HANS rests on the shoulders and attaches to the helmet with tethers; the Hybrid system (Simpson) also wraps around the torso, gives more freedom of movement and has a Quick Release.