Unlocking Safety: The Advantages of the Simpson Hybrid S Head and Neck Restraint

Arguably the most remarkable safety innovation since the full-face helmet, A head and neck restraint device is mandatory for all racers and HIGHLY recommended for HPDE/track day drivers. It reduces the risk of basilar skull fracture and muscle stretching during intense deceleration, the primary cause of death in motorsports racing. ⁠

The Simpson Hybrid S is the only head and neck restraint option that is FIA and SFI-approved for competition use with racing harnesses and is also compatible with standard 3-point DOT seatbelts found in street vehicles. Unlike other HANS (Head and Neck Support) and Frontal Head Restraint (FHR) devices, which require full racing harnesses, the Hybrid S is the ultimate safety choice for both track day enthusiasts and instructors.

Many high-performance driving students start their journey without a fully prepped racecar outfitted with seats and harnesses. Track day amateurs and driving instructors must rely on the stock 3-point DOT seatbelts found in street cars. The Hybrid S is the only option for track day drivers who want the protection of a Head and Neck Restraint but do not want to install race seats, harnesses, and roll protection in their dual-use street/track car.

To properly utilize any other head and neck restraint system available, you'll need a racing harness, a seat that works with harnesses, and something to attach the harnesses to, ideally, a harness bar welded into a roll bar or cage. If you drive with an instructor, you'll also need all those things for the passenger side.

The Hybrid S is a popular safety essential for HPDE/track day instructors, who bravely leap into modern high-horsepower cars while guiding novice drivers. After all, the goal is to keep instructors safe while helping students progress through the HPDE ranks and eventually into racing! Many experienced track day enthusiasts become instructors to offset the cost of their track day passion and help manage their consumable budget.

Because the versatility of the Hybrid S accommodates both seatbelts found in street vehicles and racing harnesses, it's also an excellent option for students beginning their track day journey with plans to upgrade their car's safety gear with the addition of a roll bar/cage and seats and harnesses over time. As the student progresses through the HPDE ranks, they can continue using the same FHR- from their first track day in a stock car to a full racecar sporting complete safety gear.

Not only is the Hybrid S a practical Frontal Head Restraint option, but many drivers find it less intrusive than the traditional HANS device. Neck safety is right up there with head safety, and if you've invested in your helmet, the priority of upgrading your neck safety should be right up there, too. Once strapping in with your Hybrid S becomes part of your routine, you won't even know it's there. The Hybrid S goes on over your arms and has a buckle attachment at the front. The lightweight carbon fiber composition of the device is low profile and quickly becomes part of your gear-up routine to get on track.

Although the Hybrid S is priced at roughly $1200 which may seem steep compared to other FHR options that can be found for around $500, it offers significant value. The peace of mind that comes with owning just one versatile FHR device- suitable for both stock street cars and fully prepper racecars makes all the difference! You'll be able to strap into full racecars or stock street cars and know you're safety game is on point. Stay safe and have a blast