Customer Question: "Can I Use a HANS Device With a Four-Point FIA Harness?"
At GSM Performance, safety is at the core of every motorsport recommendation we make. A question we often hear from our customers is whether it’s possible to use a HANS (Head and Neck Support) device with a four-point FIA harness. On the surface, it might seem like these two components should work together seamlessly, but the answer is more nuanced.
The short answer is yes, you can technically use a four-point FIA harness with a HANS device. However, we don’t recommend this setup as this pairing is far from ideal due to design mismatches between the two systems. A four-point harness uses 3-inch wide shoulder straps, while HANS devices are specifically designed for 2-inch webbing on the shoulder straps. This discrepancy can lead to issues with slippage, discomfort, and even reduced safety in the event of a crash. Ensuring your harness and HANS device work harmoniously is critical to achieving optimal protection on the track. Let’s break this down further to clarify why proper compatibility is essential and what solutions are available.
Why a Four-Point FIA Harness Is Not Ideal for a HANS Device
Four-point FIA harnesses are designed with shoulder straps that are 3 inches wide, providing excellent surface area for securing the driver in high-performance settings. However, this width creates an issue when paired with a HANS device.
HANS devices are engineered with guides and strap holders designed specifically for 2-inch shoulder webbing. These narrower straps allow the webbing to roll over the HANS device and sit securely in place. When using a 3-inch strap, the webbing doesn’t fit neatly into these guides. Instead, it rests awkwardly over the top, increasing the likelihood of slippage and reducing the overall comfort and effectiveness of the safety system.
Although it is technically possible to use a four-point harness with a HANS device, it is far from ideal. Misalignment and slippage could compromise the intended function of both the harness and the HANS device, potentially leading to discomfort or reduced protection in the event of an impact.
What Is the Correct Harness for a HANS Device?
For a HANS device to function as intended, it needs to be paired with a HANS-specific harness. These harnesses are exclusively available in 6-point configurations and feature shoulder straps that taper from 3 inches to 2 inches. This tapering design ensures a perfect fit over the HANS device’s strap holders, allowing the webbing to roll smoothly into position without slippage.
Additionally, HANS-specific harnesses provide added security by distributing forces more evenly across the body in the event of a collision. The 6-point configuration secures the harness at the hips and between the legs, reducing upward movement of the lap belt and keeping the driver firmly in position.
How Does a HANS Device Work With a Harness?
A HANS device is a vital piece of safety equipment that protects the head and neck by reducing forward movement during a collision. The device is anchored by the shoulder straps of an FIA-approved harness, which exert controlled pressure to keep it securely in place.
When paired with a HANS-specific harness, the 2-inch webbing sits perfectly within the HANS device guides. This ensures that the device remains aligned during an impact, enabling it to absorb and redirect the forces that would otherwise be transmitted to the neck and spine. The result is a significantly reduced risk of serious injury in high-speed crashes.
A HANS device and a correctly paired harness work together seamlessly, offering a level of safety that far exceeds what is achievable with mismatched components.
Recommended HANS-Suitable FIA Racing Harnesses
For those investing in a HANS device, selecting the correct FIA-approved racing harness is crucial. To ensure maximum safety, comfort, and compatibility, we recommend harnesses specifically designed for use with HANS devices. These options feature shoulder straps that taper from 3 inches to 2 inches, making them the perfect fit for your HANS device. Here are some of the top HANS-compatible harnesses we offer at GSM Performance:
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From £163.43 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
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From £209.09 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
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From £209.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Our Top Three Choices:
For those seeking the best in safety and compatibility with HANS devices, we’ve highlighted our top three HANS-compatible harnesses. These options are ideal for professional racers and track day enthusiasts alike, offering premium features and seamless integration with HANS systems. Each of these harnesses has been carefully selected to meet the needs of our customers and provide the best possible compatibility with HANS devices. If you have questions about which harness is right for your setup, GSM Performance is always here to help.
1. TRS Magnum 6 Point FIA HANS Harness Belt
The TRS Magnum 6-point harness is a popular choice among racers who demand high performance and reliability. Designed with HANS compatibility in mind, its shoulder straps taper from 3 inches to 2 inches, ensuring a snug fit over the HANS device. The Magnum also features lightweight adjusters and aircraft-grade hardware, making it both durable and easy to adjust. This harness is perfect for drivers looking for professional-grade safety without breaking the bank.
2. Sparco Pro Racer 6 Point Steel FHR Harness
The Sparco Pro Racer harness is built for serious motorsport applications, delivering exceptional quality and performance. Its 6-point configuration provides maximum support, and the tapered shoulder straps ensure precise compatibility with HANS devices. With robust steel adjusters and FIA homologation, the Pro Racer is a trusted choice for professional drivers who prioritize safety and dependability.
3. Schroth Profi 2×2 HANS/FHR Harness Belt
Schroth’s Profi 2×2 harness is renowned for its innovative design and premium materials. The 2-inch HANS-specific shoulder straps ensure optimal performance when paired with a HANS device, reducing the risk of slippage or discomfort. With features like easy adjustability and compatibility with a wide range of seat setups, this harness is a standout option for those seeking top-tier performance.
Conclusion
To answer the question: While it is technically possible to use a four-point FIA harness with a HANS device, it is not recommended. The 3-inch shoulder straps are incompatible with the HANS device’s 2-inch strap guides, leading to discomfort, misalignment, and potential slippage. For optimal safety and performance, we strongly advise using a HANS-specific harness with 6-point anchoring and tapered shoulder straps.
If you have questions about selecting the right harness for your setup, our team at GSM Performance is here to help. With our expertise in motorsport safety, we’ll guide you toward the best solutions to keep you safe and secure on the track.