Hans V Simpson Hybrid

[rpgk]

Hello all,

I was just wondering if anyone had any definitive views on which of the two head and neck restraints are better.

I have been reading through the various threads on here and most comment that Hans is only forward/back protection whilst Simpsons also protects against lateral movement. There was some suggestion that the hans was better for frontal impact though.

Appreciate monies play a part but was just looking for general consensus, if you were to purchase a head and neck system would it be hans or Simpson?

Thanks in advance

[jeffw]

I've had both, going from a HANS adjustable to a Simpson Hybrid. The Simpson has the same front restraint as the HANS plus the side restraint. I don't have the side protection that F1 drivers have with limited side to side helmet movement. HANS works brilliantly in that situation as it does in other single seaters with side helmet restraints or cars with side restraints in the seats but not so well if there is no side restraint.

My Simpson is much more comfortable to wear, adapts to any angle and doesn't catch getting in and out of the car. Side restraints and the comfort made it an easy decision for me to change.

[bazzat]

I was looking at getting a hans over the winter but this looks a better option.
For me to fit the hans I need to move the two seat belt positions so they are more central to my neck, but this looks like its not important due to its design, would I be right in this assumption?

[jeffw]

I've not moved my Harness positions.

[JTRacelogic]

I swapped from a normal Hans to a Simpson hybrid and I find it much more comfortable in the car and easier to get the belts to slip into place. It is tricky putting it on and taking it off which is the only downside I have found. It also seems to offer better lateral protection, so feels more reassuring.

[bazzat]

Hi Jeff, but would your current harness positions be ideal for a HANS?

[jeffw]

The harness position worked for both

[rpgk]

Thank you Jeff - think it will be a Simpson for me as I too have no side protection. Thanks for response.

[JamesHayward]

I've got a Simpson Hybrid and will never go back to a HANS now. You are always aware that you are wearing a HANS, no so much uncomfortable but there is a small level of discomfort letting you know it's there. The Simpson Hybrid is actually comfortable to wear. Sat in the drivers seat the only tell tale signs that I'm wearing it are the restricted head movement. As it's worn you don't have to take it on and off when not in the car either.

I'd highly, highly recommend one to anyone.

[Keithyboy]

I disagree totally about the Hans - I often forget I'm wearing it as I try to take off my helmet after a race and I don't notice it all whilst driving either

[rpgk]

I find the hans uncomfortable, but that's probably because I wear belts so tight - I can feel it digging in to my collar bone even with the padding and my hmm natural padding!!
Will definitely give the Simpson a go, primarily as I want the lateral protection.