NecksGen Head and Neck Restraints: Model Comparison, Features, and Pricing

Head and neck restraints (HNRs) are vital safety equipment in motorsports, protecting drivers from severe injuries like basilar skull fractures during high-impact crashes. NecksGen, a USA-based manufacturer, offers a range of SFI 38.1-certified HNRs designed for comfort, lightweight construction, and versatility. Here we'll explore the differences between NecksGen’s primary models—REV, REV2 Lite, REV2 Carbon, and REV X Carbon—highlighting their features, pricing, and reasons to choose one over another.

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Overview of NecksGen Models

NecksGen’s HNRs stand out for their yokeless design, which eliminates pressure on the chest and collarbone, and their Tension Neutralizing Tether (TNT) system, which distributes impact forces across four load paths for enhanced protection. All models are SFI 38.1 certified, require recertification every five years, include quick-release helmet hardware and free UPS ground shipping (within the contiguous U.S.). Below, we compare the main models based on design, features, sizing, and pricing.

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1. NecksGen REV

Main Features

• Design: The revolutionary NecksGen model with a yokeless, low-profile structure made from carbon fiber composite (Dupont material). It slips on from behind the neck, resting on the shoulders with padding for comfort.
• Tether System: Fixed-length tether, requiring a slack test (2.0 inches of slack is ideal) to ensure proper fit. A free tether length adjustment is available if needed.
• Protection: Offers frontal, lateral, and angular impact protection via the TNT system, which distributes forces through four load paths on a sliding tether.
• Sizing: Available in Small (2-inch belts only), Medium (2- or 3-inch belts), and Large (2- or 3-inch belts). Neck width measurements: Small (up to 4.5 inches), Medium (4.5–6 inches), Large (6–7 inches).
• Weight: Approximately 1.5 lbs (varies by size).
• Additional Features:
  • Winglets to secure harness belts during impacts.
  • Shoulder and collarbone padding for comfort.
  • Emergency pull tags on helmet hardware for quick disconnect.
  • Low rear profile minimizes helmet and seat interference, ideal for cramped cockpits (e.g., dragsters).

Pricing

• Starts at $399.00 (price varies by size and belt width).

Why Choose the REV?

• Budget-Friendly: The REV is NecksGen’s most affordable model, ideal for racers on a budget who still want SFI 38.1-certified protection.
• Versatility: Works in any racecar and seat angle due to its yokeless design, making it suitable for drivers who race in multiple vehicles (e.g., SCCA road racing, drag racing).
• Comfort: Preferred by some drivers (including many female racers) for its strapless design and good range of head motion.
• Best For: Entry-level racers, budget-conscious drivers, or those prioritizing ease of use and comfort over advanced features and device weight.

Drawbacks

• Fixed tether length requires a slack test, which may need replacement tether.
• Heavier than newer models like the REV2 Lite or REV2 Carbon.
• Lacks adjustable tether and advanced belt retention features found in higher-end models.

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2. NecksGen REV2 Lite

Main Features

• Design: An upgraded version of the REV, constructed from lightweight carbon composite material. Maintains the yokeless, low-profile design for easy cockpit entry/exit.
• Tether System: Adjustable tether system allows drivers to customize slack and range of motion without needing replacements, simplifying setup.
• Protection: Same SFI 38.1-certified protection as the REV, with enhanced stability during multiple impacts due to upgraded features.
• Sizing: Available in Medium (3-inch belts, necks 4.5–6 inches) and Large (3-inch belts, necks 5.5–6.5 inches). A Youth Small version (2-inch belts) is also available for junior racers.
• Weight: Approximately 1.2 lbs (550 grams), significantly lighter than the REV.
• Additional Features:
  • Rubber grip friction pads in belt channels to lock the device in place during impacts and keep your posture stable.
  • Higher belt guides for improved harness retention in multi-impact scenarios.
  • Upgraded shoulder padding for enhanced comfort.
    

Pricing

• Starts at $499.00 (price varies by size).

Why Choose the REV2 Lite?

• Lightweight Comfort: At 1.2 lbs, it’s one of the lightest HNRs available, reducing fatigue during long races.
• Enhanced Features: The adjustable tether, rubber grip pads, and higher belt guides make it more stable and user-friendly than the REV.
• Youth Option: The Youth Small size caters to junior racers (e.g., quarter midgets, junior dragsters), making it ideal for young drivers.
• Best For: Racers seeking a balance between affordability and advanced features, youth racers, or those prioritizing weight savings and stability.

Drawbacks

• More expensive than the REV.
• Not as light as the REV2 Carbon or REV X Carbon.
• Limited to 3-inch belts in adult sizes (no 2-inch belt option for Medium/Large).

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3. NecksGen REV2 Carbon

Main Features

• Design: Premium model with a high-modulus carbon fiber construction for maximum strength and minimal weight. Retains the yokeless, low-profile design.
• Tether System: Adjustable tether system for quick slack and motion range adjustments, similar to the REV2 Lite.
• Protection: SFI 38.1 certified, offering the same frontal, lateral, and angular protection as other models, with superior material strength.
• Sizing: Available in Medium (2- or 3-inch belts, necks 4.5–6 inches) and Large (3-inch belts, necks 6–7 inches).
• Weight: Less than 1 lb (Medium 2-inch version), the lightest in NecksGen’s lineup.
• Additional Features:
  • Same rubber grip pads and higher belt guides as the REV2 Lite for enhanced stability.
    
  • Minimal interference with helmets and seats, ideal for reclined seating positions.

Pricing

• $699.00 (fixed price for all sizes).

Why Choose the REV2 Carbon?

• Ultra-Lightweight: The lightest HNR in NecksGen’s standard lineup, ideal for professional drivers where every ounce matters (e.g., NHRA, Formula racing).
• Premium Build: High-modulus carbon fiber offers top-tier durability and safety.
• Versatility: Adjustable tether and yokeless design make it adaptable to any racecar or seat angle.
• Best For: Professional or competitive racers, weight-conscious drivers, or those seeking the best combination of lightweight design and premium features.

Drawbacks

• Highest price point among standard models.
• No Youth size option.
• Overkill for casual or entry-level racers who don’t need the weight savings.

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4. NecksGen REV X Carbon

Main Features

• Design: The newest and most advanced model, featuring a hollow-core, high-modulus carbon fiber structure for unmatched weight reduction. 
• Tether System: Adjustable tether system, similar to the REV2 Lite and REV2 Carbon, for customizable slack and motion range.
• Protection: SFI 38.1 certified, with the same TNT system for comprehensive impact protection.
• Sizing: A Medium / Large option fits most adult drivers (3-inch or 2-inch belts are fine). Also an XL+ size option uses the same carbon structure as the M/L, but has a roomier harness system for larger chest sizes.
• Weight: 1.8 lbs.
• Additional Features:
  • Enhanced belt guides and rubber grip pads, similar to REV2 models.
  • Premium padding and new tether keepers.
  • Optimized for professional racing with minimal cockpit interference.

Pricing

• $699.00 

Why Choose the REV X Carbon?

• Cutting-Edge Technology: The hollow-core carbon fiber design makes it the lightest and most advanced HNR in NecksGen’s lineup, appealing to elite racers.
• Professional Grade: Tailored for high-level motorsports (e.g., NHRA Top Fuel, SCCA road racing) where weight and performance are critical.
• Future-Proof: As the newest model, it incorporates the latest advancements in HNR technology.
• Best For: Drivers and Navigators who want to keep their HNR / FHR tightly strapped to their body making ingress/egress less clumsy.

Drawbacks

• Likely the most expensive model.
• Limited availability (pre-order only as of June 2025).
• Specific sizing and weight details are not yet fully confirmed.

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Key Differences and Decision Factors

Feature	REV	REV2 Lite	REV2 Carbon	REV X Carbon
Price (Starting)	$399.00	$499.00	$699.00	$699.00
Weight	~1.5 lbs	~1.2 lbs	~1 lb	~1.8 lb
Material	Carbon  composite	Carbon composite	High-modulus carbon fiber	Hollow-core carbon fiber
Tether	Fixed-length	Adjustable	Adjustable	Adjustable
Sizing Options	Small, Medium, Large	Youth Small, Medium, Large	Medium, Large	M/L, XL+
Belt Width	2" or 3" (varies by size)	2" (Youth), 3" (adult)	2" or 3" (Medium), 3" (Large)	2" or 3"
Youth Option	No	Yes	No	No
Recertification	Every 5 Years or use $150 trade-in discount	Every 5 Years or use $150 trade-in discount	Every 5 Years or use $150 trade-in discount	Every 5 Years or use $150 trade-in discount

Why Choose One Over Another?

1. Budget and Experience Level:

   • REV: Best for beginners or budget-conscious racers who need reliable protection without advanced features. Ideal for casual racers or those new to motorsports.
   • REV2 Lite: A middle-ground option for racers who want lightweight design and modern features without breaking the bank. Great for semi-competitive drivers or youth racers.
   • REV2 Carbon: Suited for competitive racers who prioritize weight savings and premium materials but don’t need the latest technology.
   • REV X Carbon: Perfect for professional racers or those seeking the absolute best in comfort, performance, and innovation, keeping the device tightly in place.

2. Weight Sensitivity:

   • Weight differences (1.5 lbs vs. <1 lb) are significant in professional racing, where every ounce affects performance. The REV2 Carbon is ideal for weight-conscious drivers, while the REV is sufficient for casual racers.

3. Racing Discipline:

   • Drag Racing/Compact Cockpits: The REV and REV2 Lite’s low profiles excel in tight spaces (e.g., dragsters, land-speed cars).
   • Road Racing/Circuit: The REV2 Carbon and REV X Carbon’s lightweight designs and adjustable tethers suit long races with varied seat angles (e.g., SCCA, NASA).
   • Junior Racing: The REV or REV2 Lite Small 2" are the only options for young drivers in quarter midgets or junior dragsters.

4. Comfort and Fit:

   • All models offer good head range of motion, but the REV2 Lite, REV2 Carbon, and REV X Carbon have adjustable tethers for better customization. The yokeless design benefits drivers with reclined seats or female racers seeking less chest pressure.

5. Future Investment:

   • The REV X Carbon is the most future-proof due to its advanced materials and design. 

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Additional Considerations

• Sizing: Measure your neck width (just above the collar) to choose the correct size. NecksGen provides a free tether adjustment if the slack test fails to fit you when the device is new.
• Helmet Compatibility: All models use NecksGen-specific anchors but fit pre-drilled HANS-compatible helmet holes. 
• Recertification: Devices must be recertified every five years. NecksGen offers a $150 trade-in discount for old devices.
• Availability: All devices are available now, but check NecksGen’s website for updates. Other models are widely available at retailers like PCI, Summit Racing, Rugged Radios, and Wine Country Motor Sports.

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Conclusion

NecksGen’s head and neck restraints cater to a wide range of racers, from budget-conscious beginners to elite professionals. The REV ($399.00+) is the most affordable, offering solid protection for casual racers. The REV2 Lite ($499.00+) balances cost, weight, and features, with a youth option for junior drivers. The REV2 Carbon ($699.00) is a premium choice for competitive racers seeking ultra-lightweight performance. The REV X Carbon ($699.00) is the top-tier model for professionals who demand the latest technology.

Choose based on your budget, racing discipline, and weight preferences. For most amateur racers, the REV or REV2 Lite will suffice, while pros should consider the REV2 Carbon or REV X Carbon. Always ensure proper fit and helmet compatibility for maximum safety.

For more details or to purchase, visit NecksGen’s official website or authorized retailers like Summit Racing or Rugged Radios. Stay safe on the track!

Sources:

• NecksGen Inc. (necksgen.com)
• Summit Racing (summitracing.com)
• Rugged Radios (ruggedradios.com)
• Wine Country Motor Sports (winecountrymotorsports.com)
• NASA Speed News Magazine (nasaspeed.news)