[Evan Smith]

Since the HANS prevents overextending the neck and head in an impact where your body goes forward (in most cases), why does the headrest in the seat matter?

As for seats, the stock seat in my Mustang, a vehicle built in the 1990s, has slop in it and I would be safer in a properly designed racing seat.

Most of the non-racing aftermarket replacement seats are not held to the same factory crash standards and would likely be no safer than a stock seat, even an old one. In fact they could be worse, despite being seemingly sturdy. Most stock seats have lots of bracing in the back area, in order to hold up in a crash, or severe back injury will result. I have actually spoken with Ford vehicle engineers about this in the past. There are, however, lots of good aftermarket drag racing and road racing seats on the market. A solution could be to run a factory seat from a later-model vehicle. Then you don't have to worry (as much) about a weight issue. Surely, a seat from a 2010 Camaro, Mustang or Dodge will be plenty safe.

I started wearing gloves when the pants rule was put in place. I felt that I should apply logic because ironically, you don't need fire protection on what to me is the two most important areas of your body—your face and hands. In the case of a fire, I want to protect my face (I wear a full face with shield down) and my hands. Most of us need our hands to make a living, so why wear a jacket, pants, helmet, and no gloves? I just made it part of my routine and it's no big deal. It took me about 10 runs to get comfortable with them. I also have an on-board fire system.

I agree with Greg in that perhaps we should look at seats because many cars are old and have potentially worn-out seats, tracks, hardware, etc., but those seriously interested in safety should also follow Dave's advise and first get everything allowed to protect yourself.


Evan