HANS® - No smoke and mirrors, just the #1 performance in laboratory crash testing and actual race crash results.

I race on a short track with relatively low speeds. Do I need a HANS®?

Studies show serious head and neck injuries happen at impact speeds as low as 35mph. On short tracks with tight turns it is easy to be "Q-balled" almost straight into the wall at similar or higher speeds.

What type of shoulder belts work best with a HANS®?

As the inventors, developers and only marketers of HANS® devices worldwide, we recommend any 3" belts for use with HANS® devices. Based upon better stretch and aging characteristics, we prefer that drivers use polyester belts. However, both nylon and polyester work fine with HANS® devices.

My belts sometimes slip off the device. What's wrong?

Properly mounted belts do not slip off the device. If your shoulder belts will not stay securely over the device when you are firmly belted in chances are that you do not have the shoulder belt mounts properly located in your chassis. Please review the section of the owner's manual concerning shoulder belt mounting.

Do I need a different HANS® for each helmet?

No. As long as each helmet is fitted with the proper anchors, you can use one HANS® with multiple helmets.

When should I replace my HANS® device?

Snell recommends replacing competition helmets every five years. HANS® devices are made with similar materials and resins. They are also exposed to similar environments. Snell's five-year rule for helmets is only a guideline, but it is one we think users should consider when reviewing the integrity of a HANS® device. Auto racing is dangerous, and the consequences of auto racing accidents can be violent and permanent. As a result, only HANS® devices that are in top condition should be worn in competition. The form of racing in which a user competes may also dictate the timeframe for replacing a HANS® device, especially if a user competes in open cockpit environments. Even the best materials deteriorate over time. Further, we recommend a user replaces their HANS® device if it is involved in an accident or shows any signs of structural damage. If in doubt about the integrity of a HANS® device, it should be replaced.

I can touch my chin to my chest with the device on. Is this a problem?

No. The HANS® tethers offer a great deal of mobility while still reducing the chance of injury. In an actual impact, the HANS® will remain stationary with respect to the shoulder belts, while your body slides forward until the tethers straighten. (Your head will not swing down towards your chest). The slack in the tethers is taken up before the belts restrain the torso, the HANS®, and the head together.

Can I share a HANS®?

Provided that you are of similar physical size and shape to your partner, chances are good that you can share a device. Both of you will need to have HANS® anchors installed on your helmets.

Can I wear a "horse collar" foam pad with a HANS®?

Yes. Note testing has shown a horse collar adds weight to the helmet and the head that must be carried by the neck. This increases the chance of injury. Wear one for comfort, not safety related reasons.

Do I need a special helmet?

No. The helmet anchors fit any SNELL approved racing helmet.

I have an unusual racecar. Do you make a device that will fit?

The HANS® device can be worn in virtually any vehicle (not just cars) that uses two shoulder belts as part of the driver restraint harness. The driver must also be wearing a helmet with HANS® anchors on it.

How do I care for my HANS® device?

HANS® devices should be kept clean and dry. Extreme hot or cold environments should be avoided. They should be kept away from petroleum products or other corrosives as these can have unexpected results on even the strongest composite materials and resins. To protect them, HANS® devices should be stored out of direct sunlight or in a bag. They may be cleaned with soapy warm water.

How much does a HANS® device weigh?

Depending on the specific model, HANS® devices weigh about a pound plus padding and tethers.

What if my HANS® device is in an impact?

Like all driver safety equipment, HANS® devices should always be inspected after an accident. In a simple self-inspection, users should look for signs of de-lamination or surface cracking and exposed composite material under the finish. However, even the most thorough visual inspection and strength testing can fail to detect damage. This is one of the reasons that we do not resell used devices, and we do not recommend that anyone buy a used device. If in doubt about the integrity of a HANS® device, it should be replaced.

What is the difference between the Economy and Professional models?

The only functional difference between these models is weight. The Professional model is 100% carbon fiber to reduce weight by as much as possible.

When I put the device on, it rubs against my neck. Is that normal?

Yes, so long as this only occurs when putting on the device. This is a compromise to allow the driver to have greater clearance for steering and other arm movement.

Can I buy parts and support for my older HANS® device?

For most devices, yes. However we no longer support the original Model 1 HANS® device.