NASCAR Harnesses With HANS Devices: Everything You Need to Know
At GSM Performance, we’re committed to ensuring our customers have the knowledge and equipment they need to stay safe and competitive in motorsport. A common question we encounter is how NASCAR harnesses can be used with HANS (Head and Neck Support) devices and whether this setup is suitable for specific motorsport events. In this blog post, we’ll explore how this combination works, its safety benefits, and the types of drivers and events where it’s essential.
How Do NASCAR Harnesses Work with HANS Devices?
A NASCAR harness, typically a 5-point or 6-point FIA-approved harness, is designed to secure a driver firmly in their seat during high-speed racing. When paired with a HANS device, the setup provides an additional layer of safety by reducing the risk of head and neck injuries during frontal impacts.
Key Features of the Setup:
- 2-Inch Shoulder Straps: NASCAR harnesses used with HANS devices typically feature 2-inch-wide shoulder straps. These narrower straps fit perfectly over the HANS device’s shoulder guides, ensuring a secure and even load distribution during impacts.
- HANS-Specific Design: The HANS device integrates seamlessly with the harness, using its tethers to anchor the driver’s helmet to the device. This prevents excessive head movement and reduces the strain on the neck in a crash.
- High-Strength Buckles and Adjusters: These ensure the harness stays tightly secured, even under extreme loads.
This setup is ideal for professional motorsport disciplines where high-speed collisions are a significant risk, as it ensures maximum safety for the driver.
How Safe Is This Setup?
The combination of a NASCAR harness and a HANS device is one of the safest options available for competitive motorsport. Both pieces of equipment are rigorously tested and approved by motorsport governing bodies like the FIA and SFI.
Safety Benefits:
- Head and Neck Protection: The HANS device minimizes the forward motion of the head during a frontal collision, reducing the risk of serious neck and spinal injuries.
- Load Distribution: The 2-inch shoulder straps evenly distribute impact forces across the HANS device, preventing localized pressure on the driver’s shoulders.
- Driver Stability: The NASCAR harness holds the driver securely in place, reducing lateral and forward movement during high-speed maneuvers or crashes.
Who Needs a NASCAR Harness with a HANS Device?
This setup is essential for drivers participating in high-speed or high-risk motorsport events where safety is a top priority. It’s particularly suited for:
- Stock Car Racing: Drivers in disciplines like NASCAR often face intense speeds and close-quarters racing, making this setup indispensable.
- Endurance Racing: Events like the Daytona 500 or 24 Hours of Le Mans require extended periods of focus and protection.
- Circuit Racing: Tracks with high-speed straights and sharp corners benefit from the added safety and stability of this harness-HANS combination.
- Rallying: Drivers in rally events, especially on unpredictable terrain, can benefit from the stability and head/neck protection this setup provides.
Explore Our 50mm NASCAR Harness Range
At GSM Performance, we offer a dedicated range of 50mm NASCAR harnesses specifically designed for use with HANS devices. These harnesses are the ideal choice for drivers looking to combine maximum safety with professional-grade performance. Featuring 2-inch (50mm) shoulder straps, these belts fit perfectly over the shoulder slots of a HANS device, ensuring a secure and comfortable setup that delivers superior protection during high-speed impacts.
Key Features of 50mm Harnesses:
- HANS Compatibility: The 50mm-wide shoulder straps are designed to fit seamlessly over the guides of a HANS device, preventing slippage and distributing forces evenly during collisions.
- Multiple Variations: Available in 4-point, 5-point, and 6-point configurations, allowing you to select the best option for your specific motorsport needs.
- FIA Approval: Each harness meets FIA 8853-2016 standards, making them suitable for use in professional motorsport events.
- Durable Construction: High-strength webbing and premium hardware ensure long-lasting performance, even under the most demanding conditions.
- Customizable Fit: Adjustable straps allow for a tailored fit, ensuring both safety and comfort during races.
Whether you’re competing in NASCAR, endurance racing, or track days, a 50mm harness paired with a HANS device provides the ultimate combination of safety and control.
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Explore Our 75mm NASCAR Harness Range
At GSM Performance, we also stock a range of 75mm NASCAR harnesses, perfect for drivers who require wider straps for added support and durability. These harnesses are ideal for motorsport enthusiasts looking for maximum security during high-speed racing events. While not directly compatible with HANS devices (which are designed for 50mm shoulder straps), 75mm harnesses excel in providing increased surface area for load distribution, making them a popular choice in non-HANS setups or for certain motorsport disciplines.
Key Features of 75mm Harnesses:
- Wide Shoulder Straps: The 75mm (3-inch) shoulder straps offer additional comfort and support, distributing impact forces over a larger area.
- Multiple Configurations: Available in 4-point, 5-point, and 6-point setups, these harnesses provide versatility for various motorsport applications.
- FIA Approved: All 75mm harnesses meet FIA 8853-2016 standards, ensuring they meet the highest safety requirements for competitive racing.
- High-Durability Webbing: Built with robust materials to withstand extreme forces during impacts, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Adjustable Fit: Easily adjustable straps allow for a secure and comfortable fit for drivers of all sizes.
Perfect for Non-HANS Setups
While HANS devices require 50mm shoulder straps for proper functionality, 75mm harnesses are an excellent choice for non-HANS applications or drivers who prioritize added comfort and support. These harnesses are commonly used in racing disciplines like NASCAR, touring cars, and endurance events.
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Explore Our 75mm FHR-Only NASCAR Harness Collection
At GSM Performance, we also offer a specialized range of 75mm FHR (Frontal Head Restraint)-only NASCAR harnesses, designed for drivers who use FHR devices, including HANS. These harnesses combine the benefits of 75mm-wide lap belts for superior stability and 50mm shoulder straps specifically engineered for FHR compatibility. This configuration provides the best of both worlds: the support of wider lap belts and the precise fit required for FHR systems.
Key Features of 75mm FHR-Only Harnesses:
- HANS-Compatible Shoulder Straps: The 50mm shoulder straps are perfectly designed to fit into the FHR device’s shoulder guides, ensuring a secure and reliable connection during impacts.
- 75mm Lap Belts: The 3-inch-wide lap belts provide excellent load distribution across the hips, ensuring comfort and safety during high-speed racing.
- FIA Approved: Fully compliant with FIA 8853-2016 standards, making them suitable for use in professional motorsport events.
- High-Strength Construction: Crafted from durable materials, these harnesses are designed to withstand extreme forces while maintaining driver security.
- Multiple Configurations: Available in 5-point and 6-point setups, ensuring flexibility for various racing disciplines.
Perfect for FHR Users
These 75mm FHR-only harnesses are ideal for drivers who use HANS devices but still require the additional stability of wider lap belts. This setup is commonly used in endurance racing, touring cars, and professional circuit racing, where safety, comfort, and precision are essential.
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Motorsport Events Where This Setup is Used
A NASCAR harness with a HANS device is used across various motorsport disciplines, particularly in high-speed and professional events. These include:
- NASCAR Cup Series: The combination is a standard requirement for drivers due to the extreme speeds and risk of impacts.
- FIA GT and Endurance Events: These events demand maximum driver safety for prolonged periods of racing.
- Touring Cars: High-speed collisions and frequent cornering in touring car races make this setup invaluable.
- Track Days: Even amateur drivers participating in high-speed track events can benefit from the enhanced safety of this configuration.
How to Set Up a NASCAR Harness with a HANS Device
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Final Thoughts
Combining a NASCAR harness with a HANS device is one of the safest and most effective setups for drivers in high-speed motorsport events. By securing the driver firmly in their seat and minimizing head and neck movement during collisions, this setup provides peace of mind for both professionals and enthusiasts alike.
At GSM Performance, we stock a wide range of FIA-approved harnesses, HANS devices, and accessories to help you achieve the safest setup for your needs. Visit our showroom or shop online to find the right equipment for your next race.