Which Harnesses Have Lap Belt Load Spreaders?
When it comes to motorsport harnesses, safety and comfort are top priorities. While all harnesses are designed to keep you secure, not all of them provide the same level of comfort, particularly in the lap belt area. This is where lap belt load spreaders come into play. These clever additions help distribute the forces exerted on the body during high-speed driving or sudden deceleration, reducing pressure points and enhancing overall comfort. But which harnesses offer these load spreaders?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down which harnesses feature lap belt load spreaders, their benefits, and why they could make all the difference in your driving experience.
What Are Lap Belt Load Spreaders?
Before diving into specific harnesses, let’s explain what lap belt load spreaders are. Simply put, these are additional padded reinforcements built into the lap belts of a racing harness. Their purpose is to distribute the load more evenly across the waist, reducing the risk of bruising or discomfort during high G-force moments, such as crashes or intense cornering.
Harnesses equipped with load spreaders are especially beneficial for endurance racers or drivers who spend extended periods strapped into their harnesses. They allow for greater comfort without compromising safety.
Benefits of Lap Belt Load Spreaders
- Improved Comfort: The main benefit of lap belt load spreaders is their ability to reduce pressure on your hips and waist. This makes long races or intense driving sessions more comfortable.
- Enhanced Safety: By spreading the load over a wider area, these spreaders help minimize localized forces on the body during a crash, potentially reducing injury.
- Optimal for Endurance Racing: If you’re involved in endurance races, having a more comfortable harness can reduce driver fatigue and help maintain focus.
Harnesses With Lap Belt Load Spreaders
Now, let’s get to the core of the guide: which harnesses feature these useful load spreaders? Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top harnesses available on the market that come with built-in lap belt load spreaders.
Sparco 4 Point Club Racer Harness
Sparco’s 4 Point Club Racer Harness is an excellent option for both entry-level racers and experienced drivers looking for a well-rounded harness. The integrated lap belt load spreaders enhance comfort, especially during long stints behind the wheel, making this harness ideal for track days and club racing events.
- Key Features: FIA-approved, 4-point configuration, padded lap belt load spreaders, lightweight and durable.
TRS Clubman Clip-In 3 Point Harness Belt
The TRS Clubman Clip-In 3 Point Harness is a popular choice for casual racers and track day enthusiasts. While it features a slightly simpler 3-point design, it still incorporates lap belt load spreaders to increase comfort during driving. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want both affordability and comfort in their harness setup.
- Key Features: 3-point harness, lap belt load spreaders, easy clip-in design for quick installation, perfect for track days and club-level motorsport.
QMS 4 Point FIA Harness Belt
The QMS 4 Point FIA Harness is another high-quality option that includes lap belt load spreaders to improve comfort. Designed to meet rigorous FIA standards, this harness offers exceptional safety without sacrificing driver comfort. The load spreaders ensure an even distribution of pressure across the waist, which is perfect for demanding race conditions.
- Key Features: FIA-approved, 4-point harness, built-in lap belt load spreaders, adjustable straps for a custom fit.
Sabelt 4 Point Bolt-In Harness
The Sabelt 4 Point Bolt-In Harness is a premium option, offering top-tier comfort and safety features. With lap belt load spreaders integrated into the design, this harness provides excellent support for the driver, ensuring minimal discomfort during intense racing conditions. The bolt-in design ensures a secure fit, making this harness a popular choice for both professional and club racers.
- Key Features: FIA-approved, 4-point harness, padded lap belt load spreaders, bolt-in mounting for added security and durability.
- From £172.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
- From £125.00 Excl. VAT Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
How to Choose the Right Harness with Lap Belt Load Spreaders
When selecting a harness with lap belt load spreaders, consider the following factors:Â
- Racing Type: If you’re involved in endurance racing or long-distance events, lap belt load spreaders are a must for comfort over extended periods.
- Fit and Adjustability: Ensure the harness offers adjustable features to suit your body type and driving position.
- Certification: Always choose a harness that meets the safety standards required for your form of racing, such as FIA or SFI approval.
TRS Harness Range at GSM Performance: With and Without Lap Belt Pads
At GSM Performance, we’re proud to offer a wide range of TRS harnesses, catering to drivers of all levels, from amateurs to professionals. TRS is renowned for its exceptional safety standards and craftsmanship, and their harnesses provide great performance in various motorsport disciplines. One of the key features to consider when selecting a TRS harness is whether or not it comes with lap belt pads—a similar concept to load spreaders, offering extra padding and comfort where the lap belt applies pressure.
Below, we’ve outlined the TRS harness models available at GSM Performance and highlighted which models come with lap pads and which do not.
Harnesses with lap pad:
- Pro 6-point harnesses
- Clubman 4 point
- Clubman 3 point
- International 6 point
Harnesses without lap pad:
- Bolt in 3 point
- Bolt in 4 point
- Caterham and Westfield 3 point
- Caterham and Westfield 4 point
- International quick adjuster 6-point harness
- International Porsche quick adjuster 6-point harness
- Nascar 4 point 50mm
- Nascar 5 point 50mm
- Nascar 6 point 50mm
Final Thoughts
Lap belt load spreaders might seem like a small feature, but they can have a significant impact on both comfort and safety. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a weekend track warrior, harnesses equipped with these load spreaders can make all the difference in your driving experience.
At GSM Performance, we offer a wide range of motorsport harnesses with lap belt load spreaders from industry-leading brands. Browse our selection today, and don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team if you need expert advice on finding the right harness for your needs.