Neck Brace

Why a Neck Brace Belongs in Every Racer's Safety Kit

Whether you're pinning it through motocross whoops, hustling a go-kart around a tight circuit, or strapped into a race car, the neck is one of the most vulnerable parts of the body in a crash. A neck brace — also called a neck collar or neck support — is engineered to limit extreme movement of the cervical spine during impacts, helping to reduce the risk of hyperflexion, hyperextension, lateral bending, and axial compression injuries. It is one of the most straightforward yet consequential pieces of safety gear any motorsport participant can wear.

Neck braces come in two broad categories: foam-core collars, which cushion and support the head while reducing fatigue over long stints, and rigid or semi-rigid race collars, which use molded shells and energy-absorbing cores to actively deflect impact forces away from the spine. Choosing the right style depends on your discipline, the rules of your racing series, and the level of protection you're targeting.

What to Look for When Shopping Neck Braces

• Fit & Sizing: Adult and youth sizes differ significantly. A properly fitted brace should sit comfortably between the helmet and the shoulders without restricting normal head movement.
• Certifications: Look for SFI ratings (such as SFI 3.3/1) on braces intended for sanctioned competition — many series require certified equipment.
• Entry System: Front-entry and rear-entry designs each have their advocates; front-entry systems are popular for their ease of use, especially in full gear.
• Material: High-density foam cores absorb and dissipate energy, while hard outer shells redirect forces. Fire-retardant Nomex covers add an extra layer of protection for closed-cockpit racing.
• Compatibility: Make sure the brace integrates cleanly with your chest protector, roost guard, or racing suit so it stays securely positioned under load.

Top Neck Brace Brands

EVS is one of the most recognized names in off-road and motocross protection. EVS offers a tiered lineup of race collars — including the R2, R3, and R4 — covering youth riders, trail enthusiasts, and serious racers alike. The EVS R4, for example, prizes comfort, mobility, and value while delivering protection against hyperflexion, hyperextension, and lateral hyperflexion, with features like an easy front-entry system and a fully adjustable strap sizing system. EVS was founded in 1985 by motocross riders who wanted better protective gear, and their first product — the AMX-5 knee brace — became the foundation for one of the most comprehensive protection lineups in the sport.

K1 RaceGear approaches neck protection from a karting and circuit-racing perspective, making their braces a staple in the paddock for karters of all experience levels. K1 RaceGear carbon-look neck braces are designed to provide driver comfort and safety, featuring an anatomically designed rear helmet support and a stain-resistant, waterproof exterior material. A neck brace can prevent severe injury in the event of an accident, and any amount of bracing can help prevent over-extension of the neck, which in turn helps prevent breakage that can lead to paralysis.

Simpson Racing Equipment is a legendary name in motorsport safety, and their neck braces reflect that heritage. Simpson produces a neck brace suitable for any type of competition, from drag racing to off-road; the core of the 360-degree wraparound design is high-density "compression spring" foam that cushions the head and neck, while the fire-retardant Nomex cover is removable for easy cleaning. Simpson's neck brace support collars carry SFI 3.3 certification, offering verified protection for sanctioned competition.

No matter your discipline — motocross, karting, circuit racing, or off-road — a neck brace is a smart investment in long-term riding health. Browse the full selection below and find the right fit for your helmet, your gear, and your riding style.